The Best Places for Aperitivo in Verona (From Someone Who Studied Here and Never Left)
TheVoyageCo asked Valeria for her local insights for Verona. This is what she said.
Verona's best aperitivo bars span from a 1935 Valpolicella institution to a rooftop above the Roman Arena. Valeria's five picks: Scapin 1935 for wine and cicchetti with history, La Tradision near the Arena for a relaxed Spritz, Terrazza Arena Sky Lounge for the view, Ostreghetteria Sottoriva 23 for quality Valpolicella near Sant'Anastasia, and Enoteca del Corso for modern wines. Walk between three in one evening. That is how you understand Verona.
The Voyage Co.
I came to Verona to study and I never left. This city makes you stay. When I want to feel happy, I go for aperitivo with friends. These are the places I go, the places where Verona reveals itself to those who take their time.
Valeria studied in Verona at university and discovered the city walking street by street. She fell in love with the views and the atmosphere of this ancient city. The stories, the architecture, the art, and the food that make her want to come back over and over again.
1. Ristorante Scapin 1935: Wine and Cicchetti History
Verona Historic Centre
Scapin from 1935 is famous for wine and cocktails with cicchetti. They have a wide selection of red and white wines from the Valpolicella region. It feels as if the wine itself lives here. The famous part is the variety of small dishes that match the drinks.
When I come here for aperitivo, I feel I am inside Verona's history, because this restaurant carries that history.
2. La Tradision: Relaxed and Traditional
Near the Arena
La Tradision serves aperitivo like Spritz, wine, and cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere. The traditional side dishes that go with the drinks are perfect. It is near the Arena in the historic centre, so the location is special.
When the sun is starting to set and you want to drink and eat something small, this is the perfect place.
3. Terrazza Arena Sky Lounge Bar & Restaurant
Hotel Milano & Spa
From above the Hotel Milano & Spa, the view of Verona and the Arena is spectacular. It is a glamorous spot. The drinks list goes from tradition to new school. The restaurant offers food from traditional Italian to more contemporary.
When I want to feel like I am above the city, watching the Arena light up at night, I come here. It is special.
4. Ostreghetteria Sottoriva 23: Youth and Tradition
Near the Church of Sant'Anastasia
Good-quality wine from the Valpolicella area and traditional food. It is in a historic street near the Church of Sant'Anastasia, so the address itself carries weight. The atmosphere is cool and young.
This is where I see the future of Verona: young people who respect tradition, who understand quality, who stay in the city they grew up in.
5. Enoteca del Corso: The Modern Wine Bar
Verona
This wine bar is more contemporary in design but still respects the wines and traditions of the area. The wine selection is thoughtful. The food is made with care.
This is Verona becoming modern while staying true to itself, which is how I feel about my own love for this city.
Verona doesn't ask much from you. Just that you slow down enough to drink a glass of Valpolicella properly. Pick three of these and visit them in one evening, walk between them, and you'll have understood the city better than the tour buses ever do.
Explore more Verona-specific insights to plan your next trip with locals.
