Car Rental Verona - Exploring Verona

It is convenient to explore the other treasures of the Veneto region from Verona. The historically important towns of Padua, Vicenza, Montagnana, Cittadella and Castelfranco are all popular destinations for daytrips and are easily accessible by car.

The largest and most southerly of Italy's great lakes, Lake Garda, is a short distance from Verona and should not be missed. The area boasts Roman ruins and 12th century castles. You can walk in the mountains or wander around the charming Roman spa town of Sirmione, with its cobbled streets, elegant cafés and fairytale castle of Rocca Scaligera.

Although some of the towns around the lake have been a bit overbuilt due to tourism, there are still some lovely little villages along its shores, including Malcesine, where you can ride a high-tech cable car with rotating cabins up to Monte Baldo. At the upper end of the lake is the trendy, upscale Riva del Garda.

Step back in time with a visit to a few of the magnificent world famous Palladian villas that are sprinkled across the plains and rolling countryside around Vicenza and Padua. Villa Rotonda, an elegant domed property in the hills south of Vicenza, was designed by the leading 16th century architect, Palladio.

For medieval architecture, head to Montagnana, southeast of Verona. Alternatively, Soave features ancient town walls, towers and fine palaces. Stop for a leisurely lunch accompanied by a glass of the city’s famous white wine.

Wine connoisseurs know Verona is the hub of a thriving wine-producing region and plays host to VinItaly, the country's major wine fair. Spend some time visiting the many vineyards and tasting some of the renowned Valpolicella wines at San't Ambrogio di Valpolicella, just west of Verona.

Venice is just 80kms east of Verona should definitely be visited, especially during Carnivale. Enjoy the carnival's vibrant atmosphere and be amazed by the elaborate masked processions. If you have time, take a gondola ride down the romantic canals which make this city unforgettable. The chic resort of Venice Lido is 15 minutes by boat from the heart of Venice.

Farther afield, Milan is famed for its designer shopping and stunning Duomo, among other attractions. The metropolis is just 164kms away and well worth the drive.