Piazza delle Erbe sits on the site of Verona's Roman forum and remains the beating heart of the old town, still its main square for markets and social life. This long, elegant piazza is framed by frescoed medieval palaces, towers and a historic fountain, and buzzes all day with tourists, outdoor cafés and market stalls.
The 'Madonna Verona' fountain at the center — the fountain was built in 1368 by Cansignorio della Scala, and the statue crowning it is a Roman sculpture from around 380 AD that symbolizes the city.
Torre dei Lamberti — climb 289 steps or take the paid elevator to a panoramic terrace over the old town's red-tiled rooftops (verify current hours and fees).
The Baroque Palazzo Maffei, adorned with statues of Greek gods, faced by a marble column bearing the Lion of St. Mark, symbol of the Venetian Republic.
The frescoed Mazzanti Houses, the former town hall and the Judges' Hall (Casa dei Giudici) enclose the square with layered medieval architecture.
A daily market (Monday–Saturday) with stalls of fruit and vegetables, souvenirs and clothing that give the square its lively working atmosphere (confirm days/hours locally).
Good to know
SafetyThis is a well-known pickpocket hotspot due to dense crowds and market stalls. Wear bags in front, keep zippers closed, and guard wallets and phones in back pockets.
CautionRestaurants and cafés directly on the square are tourist-priced. Before sitting, ask for the printed menu (menù) with prices and confirm whether a coperto (cover charge) applies. If an item says 'market price,' ask the exact amount before ordering.
CautionThe coperto is a legitimate Italian practice (usually €1.50–3 per person), but some places add an unlisted 'terrace fee' or inflated cover. Ask for an itemized receipt (ricevuta) and check every line before paying.
SafetyThe square's old cobblestones can be slippery and uneven. Wear comfortable shoes and take care with luggage or strollers.
MannersWhen photographing the tower, fountain or façades, avoid blocking vendors' stalls and other visitors, and don't handle market goods you don't intend to buy.
SeasonOn summer afternoons the square offers little shade and gets hot and crowded. Early morning is best for photos and late afternoon for atmosphere, with market energy peaking at midday.
Practical info
Plan 45–90 minutes for the square alone, or 2–3 hours with Torre dei Lamberti and café time. The piazza is free to enter; the tower is ticketed (roughly €6 adults, ~€4.50 students/seniors, under-8 free; typically closed Dec 25 — verify latest). For cheaper eats, head to pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) and bakeries in the side streets off the square.
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