Verona isn’t just about Romeo and Juliet—it’s a perfect base for full-day tours that take you beyond the city limits into Italy’s stunning landscapes and historic sites. With its central location in northern Italy, Verona offers easy access to Lake Garda, the Dolomites, and even Venice. These trips are ideal for travelers looking to maximize their time, whether for scenic views, cultural insights, or indulging in local wine and cuisine. We especially love the Pagus Wine Tours for a mix of picturesque boat rides, exclusive wine tastings, and free time in charming Sirmione, as well as the breathtaking full-day Dolomites trip that showcases UNESCO-listed mountains. Both tours deliver authentic experiences that capture Italy’s diversity and beauty.
Quick Overview
Below you’ll find a detailed guide to Verona’s top full-day tours that stand out for their unique experiences:
– Wine, Lake Garda, and Sirmione with Pagus Wine Tours
– Majestic Dolomites adventure into UNESCO World Heritage mountains
– Venice day trip exploring one of Italy’s greatest cities
Each offers something different—whether it’s wine tasting, mountain vistas, or Venetian architecture—and all are designed to make your day in Italy truly memorable. Now, let’s dive into what makes each tour special.
1. Pagus Wine Tours® – Sirmione by boat and Amarone – Full day tour
Starting at number one, this full-day tour in Verona combines scenic boat rides, delicious wine tasting, and free time in Sirmione. The tour kicks off at the Pagus Wine Tours store in Castelvecchio, where you can buy regional wines at cellar prices, a treat for wine lovers. From there, it’s a 30-minute boat ride around Lake Garda to admire Lakeside villas and the Grotte di Catullo, the impressive Roman ruins that overlook the water. The boat trip offers a relaxing way to see the scenic peninsula of Sirmione.
The highlight is visiting a Valpolicella winery for tastings of Amarone and Ripasso wines. The winery visit includes a light lunch paired with local wines, making this an immersive experience. This tour is perfect for those who want a personalized small-group setting and enjoy culinary delights. With consistently high ratings—5.0/5 from 20 reviews—it’s clear that travelers value the intimate atmosphere and quality experiences. Reviewers mention the relaxed pace, knowledgeable guides, and beautiful scenery.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a perfect blend of waterfront beauty, wine tasting, and free time in Sirmione. It’s best for those wanting an elegant, unrushed day with authentic regional flavors.
2. From Verona: Full-day Dolomites Mountains trip
At number two, the Dolomites trip is a must for lovers of mountains and stunning landscapes. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Dolomites are the stars of this 11-hour journey. Starting from Verona, the tour takes you through Val di Fiemme and stops at Lago di Soraga, offering beautiful views and photo opportunities. The highlight is Sass Pordoi, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the peaks and learn about the mountain’s geological history.
You have free time to explore the village of Cavalese and Ortisei, a charming town filled with shops and restaurants. For a small additional fee, you can take the cable car to the summit of Sass Pordoi—a truly unforgettable experience. The guide provides engaging commentary, and reviewers appreciate the breathtaking scenery and well-managed itinerary. Some mention that the trip is long but worth every minute for the spectacular vistas.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers eager to see Europe’s most famous mountain range with ease. It’s perfect if you want a comprehensive, scenic experience with flexibility to explore.
3. Classic Venice Full Day Tour from Lake Garda
Our third pick offers a full-day escape to Venice, one of Italy’s most iconic cities. Departing from Lake Garda, you’ll arrive in Venice by private motorboat—an elegant start to your day. Once in Venice, your guide will take you to St Mark’s Square, where you can admire St Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. The tour includes about two hours of guided sightseeing, followed by an optional 30-minute gondola ride—a quintessential Venetian experience.
Though the tour has fewer reviews, it is valued for convenience and timing, making it suitable for travelers short on time but eager to see Venice’s famous sights. The return journey is smooth, and you’ll have free time to explore or find a cozy spot for lunch. The admission tickets are not included, so plan accordingly. An important note: some travelers mention it’s best for those who are comfortable with short tours and walking.
Bottom Line: Ideal for Venice newcomers or those wanting a guided overview, this tour offers a taste of Venice’s architecture and atmosphere without the hassle of navigating independently.
$107.75 per person
How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in Verona
When selecting a full-day tour, consider your interests and travel style. Are you a wine enthusiast? The Pagus Wine Tours offers an authentic taste of Valpolicella’s wines and lakeside scenery. If you’re outdoors and scenery-driven, the Dolomites trip delivers stunning mountain vistas and a bit of adventure. For city lovers eager for a cultural fix, the Venice tour provides a compact yet rich experience of Italy’s floating city.
Budget and time also matter—while the wine and lake experience is priced at $249.02, the Dolomites are more affordable at $126.41 for 11 hours. The Venice tour is around $107.75 but involves a longer day with walking and sightseeing. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Verona offers a variety of full-day excursions that suit different interests. For a relaxing but immersive experience, Pagus Wine Tours stands out. If mountains and panoramic views appeal, the Dolomites trip delivers unforgettable scenery. And for those craving a cultural adventure in Venice, the full-day city tour is a practical and enjoyable choice.
Each of these tours provides a distinct way to experience Italy’s diverse charm—whether through wine, mountains, or marvelous cities. We recommend booking early, especially in high season, to ensure you get your preferred adventure. Whatever you choose, Verona’s surroundings have something special waiting for you.