Discovering Verona’s lively center, Piazza delle Erbe was an amazing A Day trip to piazza delle erbe filled with historical significance and energetic vibe. 

My senses were overwhelmed as I walked about the busy area by a combination of colorful market booths and ancient structures. Comprising paintings and sculptures, the old Roman forum whispered stories of a colorful history.

Wandering among residents and visitors, I came across charming stores and cafes each with their own gems. Spending my day in Piazza delle Erbe was a wonderful cultural immersion into Verona that left me with precious recollections and a want to go again.

Table of Contents

The Entire Day Trip Plan to piazza delle erbe

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

9:00 AM – Arrive in Verona

Start your day early by arriving in Verona, either by train or car. The city’s historic charm greets you as soon as you step off the train or park your car.

9:30 AM – Breakfast at a Local Cafe

Head to a nearby cafe for a traditional Italian breakfast of cappuccino and a freshly baked pastry. Enjoy your meal while soaking in the morning ambiance of Verona.

10:00 AM – Walk to Piazza delle Erbe

Take a leisurely stroll to Piazza delle Erbe. The walk itself is a treat, as you pass by stunning architecture and charming streets.

Mid-Morning: Immersing in History

10:30 AM – Explore the Piazza

Arrive at Piazza delle Erbe and take your time to explore. Admire the ancient Roman forum, the colorful market stalls, and the beautiful frescoes on the surrounding buildings.

11:00 AM – Visit Torre dei Lamberti

Climb the Torre dei Lamberti for a panoramic view of Verona. The climb is worth it for the breathtaking vistas of the city and surrounding countryside.

Noon: Cultural Discovery

12:00 PM – Visit Casa di Giulietta

Walk to Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta) and see the famous balcony. Although it can be crowded, it’s a must-visit for its connection to Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.”

1:00 PM – Lunch at a Local Trattoria

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby trattoria. Savor traditional Veronese dishes like Risotto all’Amarone or Bigoli with duck ragu.

Afternoon: Leisure and Shopping

2:30 PM – Return to Piazza delle Erbe

Return to Piazza delle Erbe and spend some time browsing the market stalls. You can find everything from fresh produce to souvenirs.

3:30 PM – Visit Palazzo Maffei

Explore the elegant Palazzo Maffei, a baroque palace with stunning interiors and fascinating art collections.

Late Afternoon: Relaxation and Reflection

4:30 PM – Gelato Break

Treat yourself to a delicious gelato from one of the many nearby gelaterias. Sit by the fountain in Piazza delle Erbe and enjoy your sweet treat.

5:00 PM – Leisurely Walk

Take a leisurely walk along the Adige River, reflecting on the day’s experiences. The riverbank offers a serene setting to unwind.

Evening: Farewell to Verona

6:00 PM – Aperitivo

Stop at a local bar for aperitivo, a pre-dinner drink with small snacks. It’s a lovely way to end your day in Verona, savoring the last moments of this enchanting city.

7:00 PM – Departure

Head back to the train station or your car, with memories of a day well spent in Piazza delle Erbe and the vibrant city of Verona.

Attractive Spots to Visit at piazza delle erbe / Places to Enjoy at piazza delle erbe

Torre dei Lamberti

  • Why Visit: This medieval tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of Verona and the surrounding countryside. Climb the 84-meter tower for an unforgettable perspective of the city.
  • Highlights: The clock, the views from the top, and the climb itself.

Palazzo Maffei

  • Why Visit: A stunning example of Baroque architecture, this elegant palace is adorned with beautiful sculptures and intricate details. It also houses an impressive art collection.
  • Highlights: The facade, the interior rooms, and the art exhibits.

Fountain of Madonna Verona (Fontana di Madonna Verona)

  • Why Visit: This beautiful fountain, dating back to Roman times, is a central feature of the square. The statue of Madonna Verona has become a symbol of the city.
  • Highlights: The historical significance, the architecture, and its central location.

Casa dei Mercanti (House of Merchants)

  • Why Visit: This historic building was once the hub of commercial activities in Verona. It now stands as a testament to the city’s rich mercantile history.
  • Highlights: The Gothic architecture, historical context, and detailed facade.

Mazzanti Houses

  • Why Visit: These ancient houses are famous for their colorful frescoes, which depict mythological and historical scenes. They add a vibrant touch to the square’s atmosphere.
  • Highlights: The frescoes, the historical significance, and the visual appeal.

Piazza delle Erbe Market

  • Why Visit: The bustling market is perfect for soaking up local culture. Here, you can find fresh produce, souvenirs, and local delicacies.
  • Highlights: The variety of stalls, the lively atmosphere, and the opportunity to sample local food.

Arco della Costa

  • Why Visit: This distinctive archway, with a whale rib hanging from it, connects Piazza delle Erbe to Piazza dei Signori. It adds a touch of mystery and intrigue to the area.
  • Highlights: The whale rib, the arch’s design, and its connection to local legends.

Domus Mercatorum

  • Why Visit: This historic building was the original seat of the merchants’ guilds. Its medieval architecture offers a glimpse into Verona’s commercial past.
  • Highlights: The Gothic design, historical significance, and its role in Verona’s trade history.

Palazzo del Comune (Town Hall)

  • Why Visit: This impressive building, with its grand facade and clock tower, is a key landmark in the square. It’s a great spot to learn about Verona’s civic history.
  • Highlights: The architecture, the clock tower, and its role in the city’s administration.

Cafe and Restaurants

  • Why Visit: Piazza delle Erbe is surrounded by charming cafes and restaurants. They offer a perfect spot to relax, enjoy a meal or coffee, and people-watch.
  • Highlights: The local cuisine, the ambiance, and the opportunity to savor Verona’s flavors.

Famous Food Around piazza delle erbe

Risotto all’Amarone

  • Description: A creamy risotto made with Amarone wine, giving it a rich and robust flavor.
  • Where to Try: Many local trattorias and restaurants around Piazza delle Erbe serve this classic Veronese dish.

Bigoli with Duck Ragu

  • Description: Thick, tube-shaped pasta served with a savory duck ragu sauce, offering a hearty and satisfying meal.
  • Where to Try: Traditional osterias in the area often feature this dish on their menus.

Torta Russa

  • Description: A unique Veronese cake made with almonds and puff pastry, often enjoyed with a cup of coffee.
  • Where to Try: Local bakeries and cafes near Piazza delle Erbe.

Pandoro

  • Description: A star-shaped sweet bread, typically enjoyed during the Christmas season, but available year-round in some bakeries.
  • Where to Try: Specialty pastry shops in Verona.

Bollito con la Pearà

  • Description: Boiled meats served with pearà sauce, a bread, and pepper-based condiment that’s a traditional Veronese accompaniment.
  • Where to Try: Authentic Veronese restaurants around the square.

Pastissada de Caval

  • Description: A stew made from horse meat, slow-cooked with red wine and spices, offering a taste of local culinary tradition.
  • Where to Try: Select traditional restaurants in the area.

Polenta e Renga

  • Description: A dish featuring polenta served with salted herring, a staple of Veronese cuisine.
  • Where to Try: Traditional eateries and osterias near Piazza delle Erbe.

Sfogliatine di Villafranca

  • Description: Light and crispy puff pastry sweets that are a local favorite.
  • Where to Try: Pastry shops and cafes around the square.

Baci di Giulietta

  • Description: Cookies named after Juliet, featuring a chocolate and hazelnut filling.
  • Where to Try: Many cafes and bakeries in Verona offer these delightful treats.

Aperol Spritz

  • Description: A popular Italian aperitif made with Aperol, prosecco, and a splash of soda, often enjoyed as an aperitivo.
  • Where to Try: Many bars and cafes around Piazza delle Erbe offer this refreshing drink, perfect for people-watching and relaxing.

Breakfast, Launch, and Dinner During a Day Trip to piazza delle erbe

Breakfast

Caffè Borsari

  • Location: Close to Piazza delle Erbe
  • Specialties: Traditional Italian breakfast with cappuccino and fresh pastries like croissants and brioche.
  • Atmosphere: Cozy and charming, perfect for starting your day in Verona.

Pasticceria Cordioli

  • Location: Near Piazza delle Erbe
  • Specialties: Wide variety of pastries, including Torta Russa and sfogliatine. Excellent coffee and freshly squeezed juices.
  • Atmosphere: Friendly and welcoming, a great spot for a leisurely breakfast.

Lunch

Trattoria al Pompiere

  • Location: A short walk from Piazza delle Erbe
  • Specialties: Traditional Veronese dishes like Risotto all’Amarone and Bigoli with duck ragu. Extensive wine list featuring local wines.
  • Atmosphere: Rustic and authentic, with a warm and inviting ambiance.

Osteria del Bugiardo

  • Location: Near Piazza delle Erbe
  • Specialties: Charcuterie boards, local cheeses, and various small plates. Known for its selection of Valpolicella wines.
  • Atmosphere: Lively and bustling, perfect for a relaxed lunch with local flavors.

Dinner

Ristorante Maffei

  • Location: Piazza delle Erbe
  • Specialties: High-end dining with dishes like Pastissada de Caval and Bollito con la Pearà. Impressive selection of Italian wines.
  • Atmosphere: Elegant and refined, ideal for a special dinner.

Antica Bottega del Vino

  • Location: Close to Piazza delle Erbe
  • Specialties: Classic Veronese cuisine with dishes like Polenta e Renga and a wide range of pasta. Extensive wine list.
  • Atmosphere: Historic and atmospheric, with a cozy yet sophisticated setting.

Aperitivo

Caffè Filippini

  • Location: Piazza delle Erbe
  • Specialties: Aperol Spritz and a variety of small snacks like olives, bruschetta, and local cheeses.
  • Atmosphere: Perfect for people-watching and enjoying the lively square.

Bar Re Teodorico

  • Location: Near Piazza delle Erbe
  • Specialties: Prosecco, Aperol Spritz, and a range of light bites. Stunning views of Verona from the terrace.
  • Atmosphere: Relaxed and scenic, a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

Enjoy your culinary journey through Verona, savoring the flavors of the city from morning to night.

Verona Airport to piazza delle erbe/ piazza delle erbe to Verona Airport

By Taxi

  • Duration: Approximately 20-30 minutes
  • Cost: Around €25-€35
  • Convenience: Direct and comfortable, especially with luggage.

By Bus

  • Bus Service: Aerobus (Verona Airport Shuttle)
  • Duration: Approximately 15 minutes to Verona Porta Nuova Train Station
  • Cost: Around €6 per person
  • From Porta Nuova Train Station:
    • Bus: Take a local bus (numbers 11, 12, or 13) to Piazza delle Erbe. The ride takes about 10-15 minutes.
    • Walking: Alternatively, you can walk from Porta Nuova to Piazza delle Erbe, which takes about 20-25 minutes.

By Car

  • Rental: Available at the airport
  • Duration: Approximately 20-30 minutes
  • Parking: Several parking garages near the city center (Parking Cittadella, Parking Arena).

By Private Transfer

  • Service: Pre-booked private car or shuttle
  • Duration: Approximately 20-30 minutes
  • Cost: Varies, typically more expensive than a taxi but offers convenience and comfort.

Step-by-Step Guide (By Bus)

Arrive at Verona Airport (Valerio Catullo Airport)

Follow signs to the Aerobus shuttle service, which departs from the airport terminal.

Take the Aerobus to Verona Porta Nuova Train Station

  • Buses run every 20 minutes.
  • Purchase a ticket from the driver or at the ticket machines in the airport.

From Verona Porta Nuova Train Station

Option 1: Take a Local Bus
  • Catch a local bus (numbers 11, 12, or 13) towards the city center.
  • Get off at the stop closest to Piazza delle Erbe.
Option 2: Walk
  • Exit the train station and head east towards the city center.
  • Follow signs or use a map to walk to Piazza delle Erbe, approximately a 20-25 minute walk.

Tips

  • Timing: Plan your journey considering potential traffic during peak hours.
  • Tickets: Ensure you have small change for bus tickets or use mobile apps where available.
  • Navigation: Use a map or GPS for precise directions, especially if walking from the train station.

Local festivals around Around piazza delle erbe

Verona Opera Festival (Arena di Verona)

  • When: June to September
  • Where: Arena di Verona, a short walk from Piazza delle Erbe
  • Description: This world-renowned opera festival features spectacular performances in the ancient Roman amphitheater. Enjoy classics like “Aida,” “Carmen,” and “La Traviata.”
  • Highlights: Open-air opera performances, grand stage designs, and the unique setting of the Arena.

Fiera di Santa Lucia

  • When: Mid-December
  • Where: Piazza Bra and surrounding areas, near Piazza delle Erbe
  • Description: This traditional Christmas market offers a festive atmosphere with stalls selling holiday decorations, gifts, and seasonal treats.
  • Highlights: Holiday shopping, festive decorations, and local Christmas treats.

Tocatì – International Festival of Street Games

  • When: September
  • Where: Various locations throughout Verona, including Piazza delle Erbe
  • Description: This festival celebrates traditional street games from around the world. Streets and squares are filled with games, performances, and workshops.
  • Highlights: Participatory street games, cultural performances, and workshops.

Verona in Love

  • When: February (around Valentine’s Day)
  • Where: Various locations in Verona, including Piazza delle Erbe
  • Description: Celebrating the city’s connection to Romeo and Juliet, this festival features romantic events, concerts, and special tours.
  • Highlights: Romantic atmosphere, themed events, and special Valentine’s Day activities.

Vinitaly and the City

  • When: April
  • Where: Various locations in Verona, including Piazza delle Erbe
  • Description: As an extension of the Vinitaly wine fair, this event brings wine tastings, food pairings, and cultural activities to the city center.
  • Highlights: Wine tastings, food pairings, and cultural events.

Carnival of Verona (Venerdì Gnocolar)

  • When: February or March (the Friday before Lent)
  • Where: Various locations in Verona, including Piazza delle Erbe
  • Description: Known for its colorful parades, traditional masks, and lively celebrations, the Verona Carnival is a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar.
  • Highlights: Parades, traditional costumes, and local food specialties like gnocchi.

Sagra dei Fumetti

  • When: June
  • Where: Various locations in Verona, including Piazza delle Erbe
  • Description: This comic book festival features exhibitions, cosplay, and workshops, attracting fans of all ages.
  • Highlights: Comic book exhibitions, cosplay contests, and artist workshops.

Verona Jazz Festival

  • When: June
  • Where: Various locations in Verona, including Piazza delle Erbe
  • Description: This festival brings jazz performances to various venues across the city, including outdoor concerts in historic squares.
  • Highlights: Jazz performances, outdoor concerts, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Nearby Places to Visit Around piazza delle erbe

Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta)

  • Distance: 5-minute walk
  • Description: Visit the legendary balcony and statue of Juliet, inspired by Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” The house features a small museum dedicated to the famous love story.
  • Highlights: Juliet’s balcony, love letters, and the statue of Juliet.

Piazza dei Signori

  • Distance: 2-minute walk
  • Description: A picturesque square surrounded by historic buildings, including the Palazzo del Podestà and the Loggia del Consiglio. The square is also known as “Piazza Dante” due to the statue of Dante Alighieri.
  • Highlights: Statues, historic buildings, and a quieter atmosphere compared to Piazza delle Erbe.

Scaliger Tombs (Arche Scaligere)

  • Distance: 3-minute walk
  • Description: These Gothic funerary monuments celebrate the Scaliger family, who ruled Verona in the 13th and 14th centuries. The tombs are intricately designed and located in a small courtyard.
  • Highlights: Gothic architecture, historical significance, and intricate tomb designs.

Torre dei Lamberti

  • Distance: 1-minute walk
  • Description: Climb this medieval tower for a panoramic view of Verona. The tower offers a unique perspective of the city’s rooftops and surrounding landscape.
  • Highlights: Panoramic views, the clock, and the climb experience.

Verona Cathedral (Duomo di Verona)

  • Distance: 10-minute walk
  • Description: An impressive Romanesque cathedral with stunning frescoes, sculptures, and a peaceful cloister. The cathedral complex includes a baptistery and other historic buildings.
  • Highlights: Frescoes, the cloister, and the cathedral’s architecture.

Castelvecchio and Castelvecchio Museum

  • Distance: 15-minute walk
  • Description: This medieval castle now houses an art museum with collections ranging from medieval to Renaissance art. The castle itself is a fascinating example of military architecture.
  • Highlights: Art collections, the castle architecture, and the bridge (Ponte Scaligero).

Basilica di Sant’Anastasia

  • Distance: 7-minute walk
  • Description: The largest church in Verona, known for its stunning frescoes, intricate carvings, and impressive Gothic architecture.
  • Highlights: Frescoes, the hunchback of Verona (gobbo di Sant’Anastasia), and Gothic architecture.

Ponte Pietra

  • Distance: 12-minute walk
  • Description: A historic Roman arch bridge offering picturesque views of the Adige River and Verona’s skyline. It’s one of the city’s most romantic spots, especially at sunset.
  • Highlights: Scenic views, Roman architecture, and a romantic ambiance.

Giardino Giusti

  • Distance: 15-minute walk
  • Description: A beautiful Renaissance garden featuring manicured lawns, statues, fountains, and a labyrinth. It offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle.
  • Highlights: Garden landscapes, the labyrinth, and panoramic views of Verona.

Roman Theater and Archaeological Museum

  • Distance: 15-minute walk
  • Description: An ancient Roman theater still used for performances today. The adjoining museum houses artifacts from Verona’s Roman past.
  • Highlights: Roman ruins, the museum’s collection, and open-air performances.

Exploring these nearby attractions will give you a deeper appreciation for Verona’s rich history, culture, and stunning architecture.

Schedule of Opening and Closing Time of piazza delle erbe

Piazza delle Erbe in Verona doesn’t have specific opening and closing times since it is a public square and is open 24/7. It is a vibrant area known for its historical significance, lively atmosphere, and market stalls. The market typically operates from early morning to late afternoon, with peak activity around mid-morning. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a variety of cafes, shops, and historic sights to explore​ (Trip.com)​​ (Budget Your Trip)​.

Price for Tickets to Visit piazza delle erbe/ Price for Tickets to piazza delle erbe

Visiting Piazza delle Erbe itself is free of charge. However, there are several nearby attractions for which you might need to purchase tickets. Here’s a guide to the ticket prices for some of the popular sites around Piazza delle Erbe:

Torre dei Lamberti

  • Adults: €8
  • Reduced (students and seniors): €5
  • Children under 8: Free

Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta)

  • Adults: €6
  • Reduced (students and seniors): €4.50
  • Children under 8: Free
  • Combined Ticket (with Juliet’s Tomb): €7

Palazzo della Ragione & Modern Art Gallery (Galleria d’Arte Moderna Achille Forti)

  • Adults: €8
  • Reduced (students and seniors): €5
  • Children under 7: Free
  • Combined Ticket (with Torre dei Lamberti): €10

Verona Cathedral (Duomo di Verona)

  • Adults: €3
  • Reduced (students and seniors): €2
  • Children under 12: Free
  • Combined Ticket (with other churches in Verona): €6

Castelvecchio Museum

  • Adults: €6
  • Reduced (students and seniors): €4.50
  • Children under 7: Free

Basilica di Sant’Anastasia

  • Adults: €3
  • Reduced (students and seniors): €2
  • Children under 12: Free

Giardino Giusti

  • Adults: €10
  • Students (under 18) and seniors: €7
  • Children under 11: Free

Roman Theater and Archaeological Museum

  • Adults: €4.50
  • Reduced (students and seniors): €3
  • Children under 7: Free

Tips for Visiting

  • Verona Card: Consider purchasing a Verona Card, which offers free or reduced entry to many attractions, as well as free use of public transport in Verona.
    • 24-hour Card: €20
    • 48-hour Card: €25

These prices are approximate and can vary slightly, so it’s a good idea to check the official websites of the attractions for the most up-to-date information before your visit.

History of piazza delle erbe

Piazza delle Erbe, located in the historic center of Verona, has a rich history dating back to Roman times. Originally, it was the site of the Roman forum, the heart of public life in ancient Verona. Over the centuries, the square evolved, becoming a central marketplace where locals gathered to trade goods and socialize.

Key Historical Points:

Roman Era: The square was established as the forum, a central place for political and social activities in the Roman city of Verona. It featured important buildings, including temples and public baths.

Medieval Period: During the Middle Ages, Piazza delle Erbe transformed into a bustling marketplace. Medieval buildings and palaces, such as the Mazzanti Houses with their frescoes, were constructed around the square, adding to its architectural splendor.

Renaissance to Modern Era: In the Renaissance period, the square continued to flourish, becoming a cultural and commercial hub. The Lamberti Tower, which dates back to the 12th century, and the Baroque Palazzo Maffei, built in the 17th century, are notable landmarks from this era. The square has maintained its significance through the centuries and is now a popular tourist destination.

Market Traditions: Piazza delle Erbe has been a marketplace for centuries, with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. The traditional market adds to the lively atmosphere of the square, continuing a legacy that dates back to its origins.

Architectural Highlights: The square is surrounded by significant historical buildings, including the Gardello Tower, the Fountain of Madonna Verona, and several palaces. The varied architecture reflects the different periods of the square’s development, from Roman to Gothic to Renaissance styles.

Piazza delle Erbe remains a vibrant area, reflecting the layers of Verona’s rich history and continuing to serve as a central meeting place for both locals and visitors​ (Trip.com)​​ (Budget Your Trip)​.

FAQs

What is Piazza delle Erbe?

Piazza delle Erbe is a historic square in the center of Verona, Italy. It was originally the site of the Roman forum and has been a marketplace for centuries.

Where is Piazza delle Erbe located?

Piazza delle Erbe is located in the historic center of Verona, surrounded by medieval buildings, cafes, and market stalls.

What are the opening hours of Piazza delle Erbe?

As a public square, Piazza delle Erbe is open 24/7. The market typically operates from early morning to late afternoon.

Is there an entry fee to visit Piazza delle Erbe?

No, visiting Piazza delle Erbe is free.

What can you see at Piazza delle Erbe?

Key sights include the Lamberti Tower, the Mazzanti Houses with their frescoes, the Fountain of Madonna Verona, and Palazzo Maffei.

What kind of market is held at Piazza delle Erbe?

The market features stalls selling fresh produce, flowers, souvenirs, and various other goods.

What is the history of Piazza delle Erbe?

It dates back to Roman times as the site of the Roman forum and has evolved into a central marketplace and social hub over the centuries.

Are there any restaurants or cafes in Piazza delle Erbe?

Yes, the square is surrounded by numerous cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine and drinks.

Is Piazza delle Erbe crowded?

The square can be quite busy, especially during peak tourist seasons and market hours.

How do I get to Piazza delle Erbe?

Piazza delle Erbe is easily accessible on foot from many parts of Verona’s historic center. Public transport and taxis are also options.

What is the best time to visit Piazza delle Erbe?

Early morning or late evening are good times to avoid crowds. The square is especially lively during market hours and is beautifully lit at night.

Are there guided tours available for Piazza delle Erbe?

Yes, there are guided tours available that include Piazza delle Erbe as part of their itinerary.

What is the significance of the Lamberti Tower?

The Lamberti Tower is a medieval tower in Piazza delle Erbe that offers panoramic views of Verona from its top.

Can you climb the Lamberti Tower?

Yes, visitors can climb the Lamberti Tower for a fee to enjoy the views of Verona.

Are there any historical buildings in Piazza delle Erbe?

Yes, notable historical buildings include Palazzo Maffei, the Mazzanti Houses, and the Gardello Tower.