Getting Around Verona: Ultimate Guide to Traveling Like a Local

Forget the map, ditch the car (most of the time!), and explore Verona like a seasoned visitor or local resident. Every city and country has its quirks on local transportation options, so our goal is for this guide to give you all the information you need on how to get around Verona!

From budget-friendly buses to breezy bike rentals, discover the best options for every traveler and every journey. Plus, we’ll unveil insider tips and tricks to help you avoid tourist traps and navigate like a pro. And remember, when you’re travelling and exploring, the fastest way doesn’t necessarily mean the best way. I know as an American, I’m always in a rush to get everywhere. But sometimes, it’s nice to slow down and enjoy la dolce vita at your own pace.

For women-specific transportation and safety options in Verona, make sure to check out this article.

Uber and Lyft: Ride Sharing options in Verona

Let’s kick this guide off with the information you’re most likely looking for: Is Uber available in Verona? Or is Lyft available in Verona? Well… 50% of them are! While apps like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized transportation in many parts of the world, they were conspicuously absent from Verona’s streets for a long time. This is all due to Italy’s strict regulations aimed at protecting the traditional taxi industry.

However, as of February 21, 2024, Uber now operates inside of Verona city limits!

Italy’s Regulations Against Lyft & Uber

Italy’s government is famous for bureaucracy, and being slow moving to get with the times. In Italy, ride-hailing services must operate with licensed, professional drivers. Thankfully, Uber has finally found a way to enter a few major cities in Italy, like Milan, Rome, and now Verona. Meanwhile, Lyft hasn’t even bothered entering the Italian market. That being said, while Uber is available in Verona, we do still prefer the Freenow app we get into below!

Freenow: Taxis With a Tech Twist – Why It’s Popular in Verona and Europe

Great news though! There’s a great Uber/Lyft alternative called Freenow, formerly known as MyTaxi, as a reliable option for getting around Verona. Similar to Uber, Freenow allows users to book rides through an app, use GPS to set their pickup location, put in their drop-off for accurate pricing, and get last minute rides or schedule them in advance. We’ve used Freenow all over Italy, and it’s effectively just a European Uber (it started in Germany). With a large fleet of licensed taxis, Freenow ensures prompt service and transparent pricing.

One of the standout features of Freenow is its integration with traditional taxi services, providing travelers with access to a network of experienced local drivers who are familiar with the city’s streets and traffic patterns.

We’re going to put the Freenow download links here for iPhone, and for Android phones. We don’t get anything from it, we just think that this is an app and service that anyone getting around in Verona (or Europe at large), needs on their phone.

Freenow vs Taxis in Verona

• Freenow: Generally cheaper than regular taxis, especially for shorter journeys. Offers various fare estimates depending on demand. Plus the ability to see that your driver is staying on route, and track his arrival time and your ETA.
• Regular Taxis: Available throughout the city, especially at train stations and major squares. Fares are fixed according to a meter and may be higher than Freenow, particularly during peak hours. And of course, some taxi drivers like to “take the scenic route” and run up a fare when they know that someone is new to the city and doesn’t know their way around.

Getting Around Verona on Public Transit

Verona’s public transportation system, operated by ATV (Azienda Trasporti Verona), offers a convenient and affordable way to get around. Buses cover the entire city and connect you to the suburbs. Tickets can be purchased at newsstands, tobacco shops, and vending machines at bus stops. Download the “ATV Mobile” app for real-time bus information and route planning. Verona has a very robust and reliable public transit system that we’ve always been very happy with. Many residents almost exclusively use public transportation to get around Verona, so save some money on taxis and mingle with some locals!

Insider Tip: Consider the Verona Card, offering unlimited travel on public transportation, free entry to major attractions, and discounts on various services. Absolutely worth it if you’re going to be here for a couple days.

Biking: Exploring Verona on Two Wheels

Embrace the Italian joie de vivre and hop on a bike! Verona boasts a well-developed bike-sharing program called “Verona Bike” with numerous stations throughout the city. Rent a classic bike or opt for an e-bike for those challenging hills. Cruise along the Adige River, cycle through the Giardini Arsenale park, or explore the outskirts, returning the bike at any convenient station.

Plus, what could be more romantic than a bike ride through the City of Love at sunset with your partner?

Walking: Unveiling the Hidden Gems

For the budget-conscious and romantics at heart, walking is the quintessential way to experience Verona. The historic center is relatively compact, allowing you to meander at your own pace, soaking in the architectural details and vibrant atmosphere. Lose yourself in the winding streets, stumble upon hidden piazzas bursting with life, and discover charming cafes tucked away from the main squares. Remember, comfortable shoes are your best allies! One of my favorite parts of Verona is how walkable it is, and it’s such a beautiful city full of so much rich history that taking a walk through it’s streets is one of my favorite ways to pass the time.

Bonus Tip: Download the “Verona Walkabout” app for self-guided walking tours that unveil the city’s hidden gems and historical anecdotes. You can spend a whole day sightseeing for free!

Beyond the City: Getting around outside of Verona

Venturing beyond Verona’s city walls? There’s plenty of great options for transport in the Veneto region! Regional trains connect you to charming towns like Lake Garda’s Sirmione or the medieval gem of Vicenza. Buses offer affordable connections to further destinations, while car rentals provide ultimate flexibility for exploring hidden wineries and picturesque villages.

Pro Tip: Purchase a “Veneto Unico” travel card for unlimited travel on regional trains and buses throughout the Veneto region. It’s worth noting too that this isn’t specific to the Veneto region. You can find region specific cards like this in every region of Italy!

Getting Lost: Not such a bad thing in Verona

Verona is one of the most beautiful and storied cities on earth. It’s definitely tempting to get a FreeNow ride from point to point so you can maximize the time you can spend at every destination. And I get it, I’m guilty of doing the same thing myself. But so much of Verona’s charm comes from walking around the city, taking the time to stop into that local shop you would have just driven by, or walking down a side street you wouldn’t have seen. I encourage everyone to take some extra time to just take things a little more slowly. Have an authentic experience, give yourself a chance to get lost in Verona’s beautiful streets, and enjoy the journey!