Set against a backdrop of Roman ruins, Shakespearean romance, and rolling vineyards, Verona may be best known as the home of Romeo and Juliet, but for football fans, it’s also a perfect launchpad for a weekend of groundhopping across Serie A, B, C, and D.
Compact, walkable, and steeped in history, Verona is home to two top-tier clubs and sits within reach of some of northern Italy’s most passionate and historic football grounds — all easily accessible by train or car.
With its beautiful piazzas, easy transport links, and rich footballing culture, Verona offers a uniquely balanced weekend: soak in the culture by day, take in a match by night — or double up with a midday lower-league clash and a primetime Serie A showdown.
Whether you’re looking for full-throttle ultras or a lazy afternoon behind a goalpost with a sandwich and a beer, Verona is your ticket to a raw, rewarding calcio weekend.
Groundhopping options from Verona
Serie A
- Hellas Verona – Based at the iconic Stadio Marc’Antonio Bentegodi, Hellas is known for its ultras and historic 1985 Scudetto.
- Hellas vs. Chievo (historically) – Once the Derby della Scala, though Chievo now play in Serie D after financial collapse.
- Cremonese – 90 minutes away, stylish football and loyal fans.
Serie B
- Modena or Reggiana – Both reachable by train for a full day out.
- Padova – Traditional rivals of Vicenza and Verona, known for their core ultras.
Serie C
- Vicenza – One of Serie C’s biggest clubs, historic and well-supported. 40 minutes by train.
- Triestina (Trieste) – Coastal charm and a historic club, if you’re up for a longer day trip.
- Mantova – Great local football experiences with deep community roots.
Serie D
- Virtus Verona – The “other” team in town with strong community links and a left-wing supporter culture. A must for any hipster groundhopper.
- Trento – Great local football experiences with deep community roots.
Previously Brescia was another as it’s just over an hour by train and it was the home of passionate tifosi and a strong youth tradition – but sadly they went bankrupt in the summer.
Cultural things to do in and around Verona
- Arena di Verona – A Roman amphitheatre still used for opera and concerts.
- Casa di Giulietta – Tourist-heavy, but a must for romantics.
- Ponte Pietra & Castel San Pietro – For beautiful views over the city.
- Day trips – Lake Garda, Mantua, or even Venice can be done in a few hours.
Verona’s UNESCO-listed centre is compact and walkable — perfect for exploring between fixtures.
What local food should you try?
- Risotto all’Amarone – Creamy risotto made with Verona’s famous red wine.
- Pastissada de Caval – A horse meat stew, traditionally Veronese (not for everyone!).
- Polenta e Funghi – Classic mountain food, hearty and rustic.
- Pandoro – Especially around Christmas, Verona’s sweet answer to Milan’s Panettone.
- Pair it with local wines like Valpolicella, Soave, or Bardolino.
Flights to Verona from the UK and Ireland
Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN) — also known as Valerio Catullo Airport — is well connected for weekend travel.
From the UK:
- London Gatwick, Stansted, Heathrow, Luton – Ryanair, easyJet, British Airways
- Manchester – Jet2 and Ryanair
- Birmingham, Bristol – Seasonal Ryanair flights
From Ireland:
- Dublin – Ryanair (seasonal)
Getting from Verona Airport to the city centre
- Aerobus Shuttle – Runs every 20 minutes from the airport to Verona Porta Nuova train station. Journey time: ~15 minutes. Cost: ~€6.
- Taxi – Around €25–30 to the centre.
- Car hire – Ideal if you plan to groundhop beyond regional rail links.
From Porta Nuova station, you’re well-connected to Lake Garda towns, Milan, Venice, Modena, and beyond.
Conclusion: Verona — Where calcio meets culture
Whether you’re craving a roaring Serie A atmosphere at the Bentegodi or a quiet terrace in the suburbs of Vicenza, Verona offers the perfect blend of football and authenticity.
Compact yet well-connected, steeped in history yet alive with passion, Verona is ideal for anyone who wants to experience Italian football across the levels without compromising on culture or cuisine.
With great food, passionate fans, and easy day trips to some of Italy’s most storied clubs, a groundhopping weekend based in Verona is more than a football trip — it’s a rich, immersive dive into the beating heart of Italian life.
