Verona & Lake Garda Day Trip from Milan with Guide

Summary

Verona’s Roman stones to Lake Garda’s olive air in a single day

You’ll step across ancient stones in Verona, hear stories from your local guide as you explore Juliet’s House and the Roman Arena, then unwind by Lake Garda in Sirmione’s colorful lanes. There’s time for gelato or lunch on your own before wandering lakeside castles — and maybe you’ll leave thinking about that olive-scented breeze long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

We rolled out of Milan while it was still early — I barely finished my coffee before our guide, Lucia, started telling us about Verona. She had this way of mixing history with little stories about her grandmother’s favorite gelato spot (which we’d actually pass later). The bus was quiet for a bit, just the hum of the road and someone unwrapping a croissant behind me. When we finally stepped onto Verona’s old stones, the air felt different — cooler, almost sweet, like rain had just missed us.

Walking through the narrow streets, Lucia pointed out details I’d never have noticed: faded frescoes above doorways, a bakery where locals were already queuing for bread. At the Roman Theater, she let us touch the stone — smooth but still holding warmth from the sun. I tried to imagine operas echoing off those walls. We wound our way to Juliet’s House; honestly, it was more crowded than I expected but there was something funny about everyone craning for a photo under that tiny balcony. I tried saying “Giulietta” like Lucia did but probably butchered it — she laughed anyway.

Piazza Brà was buzzing by midday. Lucia handed out tips for lunch (her vote: tortellini at a place tucked behind the arena), and I wandered off for gelato instead — pistachio so creamy it left my fingers sticky. After that, we drove toward Lake Garda. Sirmione looked unreal: blue water everywhere and olive trees crowding up to old stone walls. The castle there has this moat that smells faintly of lakeweed and sunscreen; kids were tossing pebbles while their parents sipped espresso nearby. It all felt easy somehow, like time slowed down just enough to notice every color on those medieval streets.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Verona and Lake Garda towns

• Visit Roman Theatre in Verona
• Walk medieval streets to Juliet’s House
• See Juliet’s balcony and statue
• Tour ancient Roman Arena
• View Piazza Bra and get lunch tips
• Visit Sirmione’s medieval streets and castle

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Milan to Verona & Lake Garda?

The tour is a full-day trip departing from Milan and includes guided visits in both Verona and Lake Garda.

Is there a walking tour included in Verona?

Yes, there is a 2-hour walking tour with a professional guide in Verona.

Are entrance fees included?

The tour includes guided visits but does not specify entrance fees; check with your provider if concerned.

Is hotel pickup provided?

The tour includes transport by air-conditioned vehicle but does not mention hotel pickup specifically.

Can small children join this day trip?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller and must sit on an adult's lap if needed.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this day trip.

Will we visit Juliet's House in Verona?

Yes, you'll visit Juliet's House and see the famous balcony during your walking tour of Verona.

Is there free time for lunch or shopping?

Your guide will provide tips for lunch or gelato during your visit to Piazza Brà in Verona.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transport from Milan in an air-conditioned vehicle, a two-hour walking tour of historic Verona with a professional guide sharing local insights along the way, plus plenty of free time to explore Sirmione at Lake Garda before heading back in the evening.