Things To Do
in Castelnuovo di Verona
Castelnuovo di Verona is a picturesque hilltop town in the Veneto region, just a short drive from Verona's historic center. Its narrow lanes wind past medieval towers, stone houses, and a castle that overlooks the surrounding vineyards. The town serves as a tranquil base for exploring Valpolicella's wines and the nearby shores of Lake Garda.
Visitors come for scenic walks, wine tasting, and a calmer pace away from the larger crowds of Verona.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Castelnuovo di Verona and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets lined with historic buildings. Stop by a local café for a traditional Italian breakfast of cappuccino and cornetto.
After lunch, visit the stunning Church of San Giovanni Battista, known for its beautiful frescoes. Spend the afternoon exploring the quaint shops and artisanal boutiques that reflect the town's rich culture. Don’t miss the chance to interact with the friendly locals and learn more about their traditions.
As the sun sets, enjoy a romantic dinner at a rustic trattoria, savoring authentic Veronese dishes. Afterward, take a leisurely walk to the town square to soak in the vibrant ambiance filled with laughter and music. Cap off the night with a gelato from a nearby vendor.
Start your day with a visit to the ruins of the Roman Villa di Castelnuovo, where ancient history meets breathtaking views. Take your time exploring the site and imagining the life of Romans in this area. Enjoy a picnic breakfast surrounded by nature.
Head to the nearby town of Verona and visit the famous Arena di Verona, where you can appreciate the grandeur of this ancient amphitheater. Spend your afternoon exploring the charming streets of Verona, visiting Juliet's Balcony and learning about the romantic tale of Romeo and Juliet. Immerse yourself in local life by enjoying lunch at a popular osteria.
Return to Castelnuovo di Verona and unwind at a local wine bar. Sample some of the region's finest wines alongside a plate of local cheeses. Enjoy the evening air while engaging in conversation with fellow travelers and locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🥖Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨1 night in mid-range hotel | $90-180 |
| 🚗Gas for car (1 tank) | $60-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming, quiet base close to Verona and Lake Garda
- Wine-rich region with scenic countryside and friendly locals
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger Italian towns
- Smaller town amenities and fewer direct flight options
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning/Hello
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Un tavolo per due, per favore" - A table for two, please
Places to Visit in Castelnuovo di Verona
Visit one of these nice places.
The hilltop fortress offers dramatic stone walls, a courtyard, and sweeping valley views for sunrise shots.
Historic church with stone exterior and simple interior; great for architectural details.
A lookout along the vineyard slopes offering panoramic views of Valpolicella’s patchwork hills.
Food in Castelnuovo di Verona
Castelnuovo di Verona Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy risotto finished with Amarone wine from Valpolicella, a regional specialty often found in local trattorie.
Must-Try!
A slow-cooked horse meat stew loved in Verona province, usually served with polenta.
Thick pasta strands tossed with a flavorful sausage ragù, a Veneto classic.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town square with fresh produce, cheeses, olive oil, and seasonal specialties.
Street-food stalls near vineyard estates offering simple bites and local antipasti.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite Italian greeting (buongiorno/buonasera) is customary when entering shops.
Meals are leisurely; avoid loud behavior in dining rooms; tipping is modest unless service is included.
Casual but neat, especially in churches and nicer restaurants.
Safety
Tipping in Castelnuovo di Verona
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is usually included; a small extra tip (5-10%) for exceptional service is appreciated but not required.
Cash and cards widely accepted; many places accept contactless payments; keep some cash for markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming vineyards; ideal for outdoor walking and photography without crowds.
Warm to hot days; bring water and sun protection; evenings are pleasant for strolls and wine tasting.
Harvest season in Valpolicella; wine tours and seasonal produce; serene scenery with changing colors.
Cool and quiet; some attractions may have limited hours; cozy restaurants and indoor wine tastings prevail.
Castelnuovo di Verona at Night
Hiking in Castelnuovo di Verona
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle hiking among vineyards with scenic viewpoints and optional winery stops.
Limestone plateau trails in the Lessinia area with panoramic views and forests.
Airports
How to reach Castelnuovo di Verona by plane.
Located about 10-20 miles from the town; well-connected to major Italian cities and some European destinations; transfer by bus, taxi, or rental car.
A smaller international airport serving northern Lombardy and nearby Lake Garda area; reachable by car or bus with transfer to Verona.
A larger hub in Lombardy; about 1.5-2 hours by road/train to Verona region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Italian locals with families and an aging population, plus seasonal visitors and wine-tour tourists.
A noticeable influx during harvest season and holidays; contributes to a dynamic but small-town feel.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local clubs and community leagues.
The rolling hills of Valpolicella and countryside provide excellent cycling routes and events.
Wine tourism activities include vineyard walks and grape harvest events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Castelnuovo di Verona.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy risotti, fresh vegetables, polenta, and cheese-forward plates; ask about meat-free sauces and eggless pasta.