7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Verona

Verona, is a city steeped in history and romance, known for its ancient amphitheater and as the setting for Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet." For digital nomads calling this beautiful city home, the surrounding regions offer a plethora of weekend getaway options. From the stunning landscapes of the Italian Alps to the serene waters of Lake Garda, there's something for every type of traveler. And for those looking to venture off the beaten path, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Here are seven weekend getaways from Verona, including both popular and unusual destinations, each offering its own unique charm and adventure.

Lake Garda

Lake Garda is Italy's largest lake and a popular destination for both tourists and locals. With its picturesque towns, such as Sirmione and Riva del Garda, and a range of activities from sailing to hiking, Lake Garda is perfect for a relaxing weekend. The lake's clear waters are ideal for swimming in the summer, and the surrounding wine regions offer excellent tasting opportunities.

How to Get There: Lake Garda is easily accessible from Verona by car or train. The journey can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on which part of the lake you're visiting.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to visit the Grotte di Catullo, the largest Roman villa ruins in northern Italy, located at the tip of the Sirmione peninsula.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at Hotel Lido Palace in Riva del Garda, which boasts a stunning spa and views of the lake.

Where to Eat: La Casa degli Spiriti in Costermano offers a fine dining experience with a panoramic view of the lake, and is known for its exquisite local cuisine.

Venice

The iconic city of Venice, with its winding canals and historic architecture, is a must-visit. Spend your weekend exploring the Doge's Palace, taking a gondola ride, or simply wandering through the maze of alleys and bridges. The city's unique atmosphere is especially enchanting during the evening when the day-trippers have left and the streets are quieter.

How to Get There: Venice is about 1 to 1.5 hours from Verona by train, with frequent services running throughout the day.

Travel Tip: Visit the lesser-known island of Torcello for a quieter experience and to see the beautiful mosaics in the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.

Where to Stay: Hotel Danieli is an iconic hotel offering luxurious accommodations and a rooftop terrace with views of the Grand Canal.

Where to Eat: Osteria alle Testiere is a small, intimate restaurant known for its fresh seafood and Venetian specialties.

The Dolomites

The Dolomites offer some of the most breathtaking mountain landscapes in the world. Ideal for both summer hiking and winter skiing, this UNESCO World Heritage site provides a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The picturesque towns of Val Gardena and Cortina d'Ampezzo are great bases for exploring the area.

How to Get There: The Dolomites can be reached by car or bus from Verona in approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.

Travel Tip: For a unique experience, take the cable car up to the Alpe di Siusi, Europe's largest high-altitude Alpine meadow.

Where to Stay: Adler Dolomiti Spa & Sport Resort in Ortisei offers a luxurious wellness experience with stunning mountain views.

Where to Eat: Try the Michelin-starred Restaurant St. Hubertus in San Cassiano for an unforgettable culinary experience in the mountains.

Bergamo

Bergamo is a charming city divided into two distinct parts: the Città Alta (Upper Town), a medieval hilltop town surrounded by Venetian walls, and the Città Bassa (Lower Town), a more modern area. The Piazza Vecchia, the heart of the Città Alta, is a beautiful spot to enjoy a coffee and soak in the history.

How to Get There: Bergamo is about 1.5 hours from Verona by train or car.

Travel Tip: Take the funicular railway to San Vigilio for stunning views of the Città Alta and the surrounding plains.

Where to Stay: Relais San Lorenzo offers luxury accommodations with a private spa and views of the ancient Piazza Mascheroni.

Where to Eat: Ristorante Lalimentari in the Città Alta is known for its traditional Lombard dishes and cozy atmosphere.

Valpolicella Wine Region

Just a short drive from Verona lies the Valpolicella wine region, famous for its rich Amarone and Ripasso wines. Spend your weekend touring vineyards, tasting exquisite wines, and enjoying the rolling hills and historic villas that characterize the area.

How to Get There: The Valpolicella wine region is best reached by car from Verona, taking about 30 minutes to an hour depending on the specific area you're visiting.

Travel Tip: Visit during the grape harvest in the fall for a more hands-on experience and to see the winemaking process in action.

Where to Stay: Villa Quaranta Tommasi Wine Hotel & Spa offers a relaxing retreat with wine therapy treatments and a traditional Osteria.

Where to Eat: Osteria della Valpolicella is a rustic eatery serving local cuisine and a selection of the region's best wines.

Soave

Soave is a lesser-known gem, a medieval town surrounded by vineyards known for producing the crisp Soave white wine. The town's castle, Castello di Soave, offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Soave's quiet charm makes it a perfect off-the-beaten-path destination for a peaceful weekend.

How to Get There: Soave is about 30 minutes by car from Verona. Public transport options are also available, though less direct.

Travel Tip: Participate in a guided tour of the castle to learn about its history and enjoy the views from its ramparts.

Where to Stay: Hotel Roxy Plaza is located just outside the medieval walls and offers modern comforts with easy access to the town center.

Where to Eat: Locanda ai Capitelli is an intimate spot offering creative dishes paired with local Soave wines.

Monte Baldo

For those seeking an active weekend, Monte Baldo provides a range of outdoor activities. Known as the "Garden of Europe," its rich biodiversity and hiking trails make it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The panoramic cable car ride from Malcesine to the mountain's summit offers stunning views of Lake Garda and the surrounding peaks.

How to Get There: Monte Baldo is best reached by car from Verona in about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Malcesine and then the cable car to the summit.

Travel Tip: For an unforgettable experience, try paragliding from the top of Monte Baldo to see the lake and mountains from a bird's-eye view.

Where to Stay: Hotel Excelsior Bay in Malcesine has a lakeside location and offers a private beach and pool with mountain views.

Where to Eat: Ristorante Al Gondoliere in Malcesine serves fresh fish from Lake Garda and traditional Italian dishes in a picturesque setting.