Arena di Verona
One of the best-preserved ancient Roman amphitheaters, hosting open-air opera on summer nights. It was the venue for the closing ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics.
The Verona Arena was built in the 1st century AD, even earlier than the Colosseum in Rome. Its oval seating can hold about 22,000 spectators (about 15,000 for opera performances). Only a small section of the outer ring of pinkish-white limestone survives, but the inner ring is in excellent condition. In 1913, to mark the 100th anniversary of Verdi’s birth, Aida was staged here, and this started the annual “Arena Opera Festival.” The 2026 festival is the 103rd edition, running from about June 12 to September 12. Repertoire often includes Aida, Carmen, Turandot and Madama Butterfly. Stone-step seats are inexpensive, but you should bring your own cushion and arrive early. Performances usually start after 21:00. A tradition is for audiences to light small candles after dark. The closing ceremony of the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics was also held here. Daytime visits are sold as tickets (full price a little over 10 euros, included with the Verona Card). The site is usually closed on Mondays and closes early on performance days. Ticketing methods changed from October 2026, so check the official website. Piazza Bra, in front of the arena, is the city center and has many outdoor restaurants.
Opening hours
About 09:00–19:00, Tuesday to Sunday (closes early on performance days); closed Mondays
Nearby sights
- Via Mazzini
- Porta Borsari & Corso Porta Borsari
- Piazza delle Erbe
- Juliet's House
- Torre dei Lamberti & Piazza dei Signori
- San Fermo Maggiore
- Juliet's Tomb & Fresco Museum
- Scaliger Tombs (Arche Scaligere)