A guide to Verona's traffic for getting around by car
Romantic and elegant, famous for the story of Romeo and Juliet, Verona is much more than a simple literary backdrop. Here Roman history, medieval architecture, Renaissance atmospheres and nature just steps from the centre all come together. Perfect for an on-the-road itinerary, it is an ideal destination to combine culture, green landscapes and lakeside views in a single trip without long distances.
However, those who choose to reach it by car must deal with a historic centre with strict traffic regulations, often narrow streets and heavy tourist flows, especially on spring and summer weekends and during events such as the Opera at the Arena or the famous Christmas Market. To enjoy the city of love without stress, here is everything you need to know about traffic, ZTL zones and free parking in Verona.
ZTL in Verona: access, hours and rules to know
The heart of the city is protected by a ZTL that covers much of the historic centre, particularly the area between the Arena, Piazza Erbe, Via Mazzini and the San Zeno district. Access to Verona’s ZTL is regulated by electronic gates active at different times and is allowed only to residents, authorised vehicles and those with a temporary permit, for example to reach a hotel.
Entering without authorisation results in certain fines: checks are punctual and widespread. In addition, some streets are inaccessible even for loading and unloading or due to technical restrictions, and many sections are one-way or pedestrian-only. During cultural events, marathons and concerts at the Arena, some areas may be subject to further restrictions and diversions, so it is always useful to check updates on the City of Verona website before your visit.
Parking in Verona: options in the centre and alternatives
Finding free parking in Verona can be challenging, especially on weekends and during the event season. To avoid wasted time and fines, it is best to opt for paid parking facilities or leave your car a bit farther out and reach the centre on foot or by public transport. Among the most convenient car parks near the centre are:
• Arena Car Park (under Piazza Cittadella), the most central and practical for visiting the Arena and Via Mazzini
• Cittadella Car Park, near the city walls, convenient for reaching the centre on foot
• Saba Isolo Car Park, on the opposite bank of the Adige, ideal for reaching Piazza Erbe with a 10-minute walk
• Piazza Corrubbio Car Park (San Zeno), perfect for visiting the district and then continuing towards the old town
Spaces are often in high demand, and during events (opera premieres, concerts, Verona Marathon, Christmas markets) they may fill up quickly.
For those looking for more affordable alternatives, park-and-ride facilities are available just outside the centre, in the areas of Porta Palio, Porta Vescovo and the Bentegodi Stadium. From there, you can reach the centre with frequent buses or on foot with a 15–20 minute walk.
Visiting Verona by car is possible, provided you plan well. By parking outside the walls and getting around on foot, by public transport or by bicycle, you can fully enjoy the city, its romantic views and its atmosphere without stress.
Once you leave the wheel behind, Verona reveals itself for what it truly is: a place to savour slowly, step by step through history, art and beauty. You can then pick up your car again – your own or one rented from a Verona car hire service – and continue your journey towards nearby areas or other Veneto cities.
