The season has officially begun, but the best is yet to come! 

With the arrival of summer, Verona shines in a new light. Shining alongside the city is the Arena, its vibrant beating heart, which transforms into an extraordinary stage each year. The 2025 season kicked off on 13th June, with the first notes already resonating among the ancient stones of this two-thousand-year-old amphitheatre. The main events on the programme are, however, still to come. In the coming months, you can look forward to unforgettable evenings of opera, dance and music.

A monument that has been sharing stories for two thousand years

The Arena is not only the largest open-air opera house in the world, but it’s also an integral part of Verona's history and culture. Built around 30 AD, it was originally designed for gladiator games. With a capacity of 31,000 seats originally, it was one of the most impressive amphitheatres in the Roman Empire.

Today, after centuries of transformations and restorations, the Arena continues to enchant visitors. One of the many legends that surrounds this iconic site is that it was constructed by infernal forces in a single night. A nobleman from Verona, who had been unjustly accused, is said to have implored the devil for help to save himself from a harsh sentence. Even those who are sceptical about the legends surrounding the place can still sense its unique energy, which connects the past and present through music. 

Valerio Catullo Airport is just 12 kilometres from the city centre and provides quick connections via taxis and shuttles.

Upcoming events from June onwards

Following a spectacular opening, the Arena Opera Festival 2025 season will showcase beloved titles and visually stunning productions. 

Here are some must-see events:

• Nabucco by Giuseppe Verdi: a famous opera of exile and hope, featuring the iconic “Va, pensiero” chorus in a setting of striking emotional depth.
• Carmen by Bizet: enjoy the timeless production by Franco Zeffirelli, known for its explosive passion.
• La Traviata: set in the Belle Époque, this production promises an evening of elegance and emotional intensity.
• Aida by Verdi: experience the iconic ‘crystal’ version, featuring monumental sets that enhance the drama of the story.

Each performance is enhanced by thoughtfully designed lighting that complements the scenery and creates an unforgettable theatrical atmosphere. The use of both natural and artificial light engages in dialogue with the architecture.

👉 For the full schedule and to buy tickets, visit: arena.it

Things to do before and after the show:

Before:

• Visit Juliet’s House by way of Via Mazzini, famous for its shops.
• Continue your exploration on foot by soaking up the lively atmosphere of Piazza dei Signori and visiting the Scaliger Tombs.

After:

• After the show, take a stroll through the historic centre. Piazza delle Erbe and Ponte Pietra are always a breathtaking sight.
• Alternatively, if you want a break from the centre, just step a little further away to find yourself surrounded by greenery: bastions, gardens and walks along the Adige offer relaxing views, perfect to recharge before continuing your discovery.

Emotions to Take Home

In a fast-paced world, take the time to experience an opera under the stars and a stroll through history and beauty. Verona welcomes you with its timeless elegance. The Arena stands majestic and ready to captivate you.