Hidden Verona & Giusti Garden- 3 hour private walking tour

If you’re dreaming of Verona beyond its famous balcony and the bustling streets, this Hidden Verona & Giusti Garden private walking tour offers a fresh perspective. Designed for those who love discovering lesser-known spots and peaceful gardens, this experience takes you off the usual tourist trail to explore Verona’s quiet courtyards, secret gardens, and historic neighborhoods with a local guide.

What immediately appeals is the chance to avoid large crowds and stroll at your own pace, especially in the serene surroundings of the Giusti Garden—a Renaissance masterpiece. Plus, the personalized aspect of having your own guide means you can ask questions freely and get a tailored experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that the entrance fee to the Giusti Garden isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget for that separately. But if you’re someone who appreciates a good mix of history, architecture, and beautiful greenery, this private tour could be just the ticket. It’s particularly suited for visitors who enjoy a more relaxed, in-depth exploration rather than fast-paced sightseeing.

Key Points

• Private and personalized for your group, avoiding the crowded feeling of larger tours
• Focus on lesser-known gardens and hidden courtyards that reveal Verona’s quieter charms
• Flexible pace allows you to spend more time at spots you find most interesting
• Includes expert guidance with opportunities to ask questions about history and architecture
• Not just gardens—a walk through Verona’s historic neighborhoods and iconic sites
• Cost-effective for a small group with a detailed, immersive experience

An Honest Look at the Verona Green Experience

This 3-hour private walking tour is a wonderful way to see Verona through a different lens. Instead of just ticking off the major sights, it emphasizes the city’s lush corners, quiet alleys, and secret gardens. It’s perfect if you’re tired of the crowds or simply want a more relaxed, intimate encounter with Verona’s local charm.

We loved the flexibility of having a private guide. Your guide can tailor the pace, answer all your questions, and point out details you might miss on a standard group tour. Plus, in a city famed for its romantic stories and medieval architecture, seeing the lush gardens and private courtyards adds a layer of tranquility and beauty that’s often overlooked.

However, a small caveat is that the entrance fee to the Giusti Garden isn’t included, which adds a little extra to your budget. Also, the tour’s focus is on gardens, courtyards, and neighborhoods, so if you’re craving a deep dive into Verona’s art or major historical sites, you might want to combine this with other experiences.

Who’s it for? If you’re seeking a peaceful stroll through green spaces, love discovering hidden gems, or have a keen interest in Renaissance gardens, this tour will hit the spot. It’s also a good choice for travelers who want a more personalized experience rather than a large, crowd-packed itinerary.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Piazza Bra

Your tour begins in Piazza Bra, Verona’s lively central square. Here, your guide will point out the gardens of the square and share some quick context about Verona’s historic layout. The initial 10-minute stop is perfect for orienting yourself before heading into the quieter parts of the city.

Cortile Mercato Vecchio e Scala della Ragione

Next, you’ll step into a hidden courtyard that’s often missed by visitors. This quiet spot offers a peek into Verona’s medieval past, with narrow passageways and old stone walls. The 10-minute visit is brief but provides a good sense of the city’s layered history.

Piazza delle Erbe

Moving onto one of Verona’s most famous squares, you’ll explore its hidden courtyard of the wool market. This is a lively, charming area filled with history and local life, but your guide will focus on the quiet corners and lesser-known pathways here. Again, 10 minutes is enough to appreciate the setting without feeling rushed.

Piazza dei Signori and La Scala Family Garden

This area is home to an elegant private garden belonging to the La Scala family. Walking through here, you’ll get a sense of Verona’s aristocratic past. The 15-minute visit is a chance to soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this private green space, away from the crowds.

Giardino Giusti

Arguably the highlight of the tour, the Giusti Garden is a Renaissance Italian garden with cypresses, box hedges, and a labyrinth that invites exploration. You’ll spend about an hour here, strolling through beautifully maintained grounds, enjoying the panoramic views from the villa, and getting a feel for how Renaissance nobility designed their gardens for leisure and spectacle.

Note: The entrance fee isn’t included, so you’ll pay that on the spot. The garden is well worth the extra cost for the serenity and beauty it offers.

Passing by Verona’s Iconic Sites

After the garden, the tour moves past the Arena di Verona, allowing you to get a glimpse of this world-famous amphitheater. Your guide will share insights into its history and importance, though you won’t go inside. This brief 15-minute pass-by helps cement Verona’s reputation as a city of entertainment and ancient architecture.

Arche Scaligere and the Giusti Family’s Heritage

You’ll also visit the Arche Scaligere, the gothic tombs of Verona’s ruling family. Your guide will explain the historical context of the Giusti family’s exile from Florence and their subsequent rise in Verona. This quick 10-minute stop enriches your understanding of local noble families and their influence.

Passing by Ponte Pietra and Exploring Veronetta

The tour continues with a pass by the oldest bridge in town, Ponte Pietra, offering great photo opportunities and a sense of the city’s ancient surroundings. Then, you’ll explore Veronetta, a vibrant district known for its colorful streets, university atmosphere, and historical sites. A 20-minute walk here lets you absorb local life and heritage.

Romantic Wrap-Up: Casa di Giulietta

Finally, although only passing by, your guide will point out Juliet’s House, the setting of Verona’s most famous love story. It’s a quick mention, but it caps off the tour with a nod to Verona’s romantic reputation.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

One of the key pleasures of this experience is its focus on hidden and peaceful corners of Verona. Many travelers find that the garden visits, especially Giardino Giusti, stand out as a peaceful retreat from busy city streets. The garden’s labyrinth, the cypresses, and the views from the villa provide a real sense of tranquility that’s hard to find in other parts of the city.

The private guide’s knowledge adds depth to every stop. The reviews highlight how well Silvia, the guide, knows Verona and makes the experience engaging. As one reviewer put it, “Silvia was very kind and interesting, and we appreciated discovering a hidden and peaceful place in the city.”

The tour is also quite flexible. The total walk is around three hours, which keeps it manageable even for those on a tight schedule or with limited mobility. Plus, you get to enjoy Verona’s outdoor spaces at a comfortable pace, making it suitable for those who prefer a more relaxed sightseeing style.

Price and Value

Costing around $361 for a group of up to 15, this private tour offers personalized attention and the chance to discover Verona’s quieter spots—something that larger group tours might overlook. When you consider the private guide, the exclusive access to gardens, and the tailored experience, it presents quite good value for those who truly want to connect with the city on a more personal level.

While the entrance fee to Giardino Giusti isn’t included, many travelers find it worthwhile given the garden’s beauty and serenity. The overall experience combines history, architecture, and peaceful green spaces, making it a well-rounded choice for lovers of culture and nature alike.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy slow-paced exploration and want to avoid the hustle of large groups. It appeals especially to those interested in gardens, historic neighborhoods, and Renaissance architecture. It’s also suitable for visitors who appreciate personalized attention and direct interaction with a knowledgeable guide.

If you’re traveling with a partner, friends, or a small family group and want a relaxed yet immersive experience, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s less about ticking off major sights and more about savoring intimate moments in Verona’s quieter, greener corners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the walking pace and outdoor focus make it manageable for children who enjoy gardens and open spaces. Keep in mind that some parts, like the labyrinth, might be more engaging for older kids.

Do I need to pay for entrance to the Giusti Garden?
Yes, the entrance fee is not included in the tour price. You’ll pay separately to access the garden, which is well worth it for its beauty and serenity.

How long does the tour last?
The guided part lasts about 3 hours, covering multiple stops, with a significant portion spent at the Giusti Garden. The entire experience is relaxed and manageable within this timeframe.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
While the tour is outdoor and involves walking, specific accessibility details aren’t provided. If you have mobility concerns, it’s best to contact the provider directly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility in case your plans shift.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. If you plan to visit the Giusti Garden, consider bringing some cash for the entrance fee and perhaps a camera for the beautiful views.

Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, the tour runs from March to August 2026, and the garden is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, weather permitting.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Hidden Verona & Giusti Garden private tour offers a peaceful, intimate way to experience Verona’s secret green spaces and historic neighborhoods. Its personalized approach, combined with the beauty of the Renaissance garden, makes it stand out for those who want to see the city’s calmer side.

While it’s not a comprehensive city tour, it’s a perfect choice for travelers craving tranquility, historic charm, and a touch of nature amidst Verona’s medieval streets. If you value quality over quantity and appreciate discovering quiet, beautiful spots, this tour is likely to delight.

Ideal for those who love gardens, history, and a more relaxed pace, this experience provides a memorable peek into Verona’s lesser-known, yet equally charming, treasures.

Disclaimer: Be sure to reserve ahead and check the weather forecast, as the experience is outdoor-dependent. And remember to account for the garden entrance fee separately for a smooth, enjoyable visit.