English 
French Verona is one of Italy’s most enchanting cities, rich in history, culture, and romance. Famous for its well-preserved architecture and its association with Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Verona offers an exceptional quality of life that blends the charm of a smaller city with excellent connectivity and modern amenities.
Life in Verona: What Expats Say
Here are some opinions from expats who have decided to move to this city:
“Been living in Verona for half a year now, after a year or so in Monza and 8 years Hong Kong. Love it here, Verona is a beautiful old city and even though there are quite a bit of tourists here in the summer, it’s not overrun by them like some other Italian cities in high season. I’m into hiking so having hills very closeby and the Dolomites within driving distance is huge plus to me.” – Mark
“I moved here 2 years ago and I love it. The original plan was to live here for a year to use it as a base to explore Italy/Europe but after traveling for almost 2 years, the more I know, the more I like to live here.” – Alan
Pros of Moving to Verona
✅ Rich Cultural and Historical Heritage
Verona is a city where history meets daily life. You can explore Roman ruins, medieval castles, and Renaissance palaces simply by walking through the city center. The Arena di Verona, Castelvecchio, and Piazza delle Erbe are just a few highlights that never cease to amaze.
✅ Great Connectivity
With a central train station and a well-connected airport, Verona makes travel within Italy and Europe effortless. Milan, Bologna, and Venice are all reachable in under two hours, making it an ideal base for frequent travelers.
✅ High-Quality Healthcare
Verona offers good healthcare services, with well-equipped hospitals and a strong network of specialists. While services can be stretched during peak tourist seasons, residents still have access to top-tier medical care.
✅ Pleasant Climate
Verona enjoys warm summers and mild winters, making it comfortable year-round. The nearby Lake Garda provides a perfect summer escape, while the proximity to the Alps allows for easy winter getaways.
✅ Balanced Lifestyle
Unlike Italy’s larger cities, Verona is not overwhelmingly busy, yet it provides all necessary services and entertainment options. Whether you prefer vibrant nightlife or quiet countryside escapes, Verona offers a bit of everything.
✅ Vibrant Expat Community
The city has a welcoming and integrated expat community. There are numerous events, language exchange meetups, and cultural activities that make settling in much easier.
Cons of Moving to Verona
❌ Tourist Crowds
Verona is a major tourist destination, and some areas, like Juliet’s House and Piazza Bra, can feel overrun with visitors. However, the good news is that these crowds are concentrated in specific spots, making it easy for locals to avoid them.
❌ Traffic Congestion
While Verona is well-connected, traffic congestion can be a challenge, especially during rush hours and peak tourist seasons. Parking can also be difficult in the historic center.
❌ “High” Cost of Living
Compared to smaller Italian towns, Verona is relatively expensive, especially in terms of rent and dining out. However, it is still way more affordable than Milan or Rome. Consider that a rent in Verona is tipically 28-42.5% lower than in Rome and Milan. To give to an idea, as of December 2024, the average rent per square meter in Verona was €12.50, compared to Rome’s €17.30 per square meter. This means the average monthly rent for an 81-square-meter apartment would be around €1,013 in Verona, whereas in Rome, the same apartment would cost approximately €1,401 (of course depending on the area).
❌ Seasonal Weather Fluctuations
While Verona’s climate is generally pleasant, occasional summer heatwaves and damp winter months may not suit everyone. However, its proximity to both the mountains and the lake allows for climate-based escapes.
❌ Limited Job Market for Non-Tourism Sectors
Job opportunities in Verona are strong in tourism, hospitality, and retail, but other industries, such as finance or technology, offer fewer options. Remote work is a great solution, and fortunately the city has excellent internet connectivity.
Tips for Enjoying Life in Verona
1. Immerse yourself in the events at the Arena di Verona
If you have the chance, attending an opera or a concert at the Arena is an unforgettable experience. The Opera Festival, in particular, usually runs from June to September, which is the best time to go, as you don’t have to worry about the weather. Trust me, seeing the lights of the Arena contrasting with the dark night sky is priceless. And if you want to feel like a true Veronese, when the concert is over, head to Bottega Del Krapfen. They churn out fresh, handmade krapfens all night long.
2. Take Advantage of Verona’s Location
One of the best things about living in Verona is how easy it is to travel. Whether you want to visit Venice for the weekend, explore Bologna’s culinary scene, or take a quick train to Milan for shopping, Verona is perfectly situated.
3. Use Public Transport Wisely
The city’s public transportation system is efficient but has room for improvement. Buses work well for daily commuting, but walking or biking remains the best way to get around the historic center.
Verona by the Numbers: Key Data
- Quality of Life: 88/100
- Air Quality Rating: 76/100
- Safety: Moderate Earthquake Risk
- Healthcare: The nearest hospital is Civile Maggiore (9 minutes drive away)
- Cost of Living: The housing availability is pretty high. Apartment prices range from €960/m² to €4,215/m² for purchases and from €5.9/m² per month to €13.4/m² per month for rentals.
- Rent: ~€800/month (city centre, one-bedroom), ~€550 (outside the centre)
- Internet Speed: 214 Mbps download
- Transport:
- Airports: Valerio Catullo, Verona (19 min), Montichiari, Brescia (45 min), Orio al Serio, Bergamo (1h)
- Trains: Stazione di Verona Porta Nuova and Porta Vescovo
- Public Transport: Reliable local buses
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering relocating to Italy, Verona is a city that offers a high standard of living without the overwhelming hustle of bigger cities. It’s a place where history, modernity, and a relaxed lifestyle blend seamlessly, making it a truly special place to call home. To learn more about Verona, including details about its services, safety, and other specifics, check out its town profile.
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