They arrive with two suitcases, a foldable stroller, and a mental checklist that includes Giardino Giusti, the funicular up to Castel San Pietro, and — inevitably — Gardaland. Most families staying in Verona with young children make the same mistake: they treat these three variables as a single logistical block. They aren't. Veronetta, Gardaland, and the stroller each follow different rules, and understanding that in advance is what separates a successful holiday from a day spent folding and unfolding the pushchair in front of a closed gate.
Veronetta with young children: the neighbourhood that changes the game
Most family tours of Verona start and end in Piazza Bra. Understandable — but there is an entire neighbourhood on the right bank of the Adige that deserves attention, especially when travelling with young children: Veronetta. Giardino Giusti, a hidden gem of Verona located right in the Veronetta neighbourhood, is reached from the historic centre by walking across Ponte Nuovo, with views over the river Adige as a backdrop. It is a walk of roughly 15–18 minutes from the heart of the city, almost entirely flat and largely pedestrianised.
The great advantage for stroller users is that the centre of Verona is very easy to navigate on foot even with a pram, as it is largely pedestrianised. Veronetta is no exception: via XX Settembre — the neighbourhood's main artery — is wide, relatively level, and lined with cafés for a well-earned break. With the youngest children you can venture into the hedge maze of Giardino Giusti and steal a few quiet moments between discoveries.
An insider tip you won't find in any leaflet: the Veronetta neighbourhood is in the middle of a full urban regeneration process. The Ri-Ciak cinema project takes on particular significance in the context of Veronetta, a neighbourhood at the heart of urban renewal, and its reopening represents an important step in strengthening community life, culture, and local presence. For families this means an accessible cultural space, free from the queues and crowds of the classic tourist circuit. Bars, trattorias, shops, craft workshops, and local associations bring the neighbourhood to life with outdoor seating, live music, workshops, and activities designed specifically for children.
Practical stroller note for Veronetta: cobblestones are unavoidable, as they are throughout the historic centre. Bring wide wheels or a stroller with good suspension. In the interactive area of the Children's Museum (another recommended stop, just outside the centre) strollers are not permitted inside — a baby carrier or sling is a better option.
Gardaland from Verona with kids: distances, tickets, and the right time to go
Gardaland is approximately 30 kilometres from Verona , making it a perfect day trip for those staying in the city centre. By car it takes 25–30 minutes via the A4 Milan–Venice motorway, exit Peschiera del Garda. But the most convenient option for families without a car is the train: Gardaland is 2 km from Peschiera del Garda railway station, which is well connected to Verona, and a free shuttle bus runs from the station to the park every 30 minutes. Alternatively, a direct bus service — line 164 — runs from Piazza Bra Arena to Gardaland (approximately 50 minutes, average fare around €2).
For 2026 tickets: the standard price is €56 for adults (aged 10 and over) and €50 for children taller than 90 cm; entry is free for children under 90 cm. Online prices are significantly lower and vary depending on how far in advance you book. The bottom line: buy online at least a few days ahead — the saving is real.
The right time to take young children: avoid August like the plague. The best period to visit Gardaland in 2026 runs from mid-April to late May (after Easter) or in September: you avoid the school-holiday crowds while the park is still in full swing. Midweek days (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) are generally the least busy. The 2026 season runs from 28 March through to 1 November.
One detail that makes a real difference with a stroller: inside Gardaland the main pathways are wide and paved, which makes the pushchair manageable around the fantasy areas and shows. Some attractions require you to leave it at a drop-off point. Arrive at least half an hour before opening: the car park opens an hour before the park itself. If you travel by train, the shuttle from Peschiera is free but is not always suitable for bulkier strollers — check whether your model will fit.
Can I visit Veronetta and Gardaland on the same day?
Not recommended with young children. Gardaland requires a full day to enjoy without rushing. It is better to save Veronetta and Giardino Giusti for a separate morning — perhaps on the day of arrival or departure.
Is a stroller useful in Verona's city centre, or more of a burden?
The city's pedestrian zones make getting around with a pram or pushchair straightforward. It is a real ally in Veronetta and along the riverfront. It becomes an obstacle on the steps leading up to Castel San Pietro: for that climb, with young children the funicular is by far the more practical choice.
Do children under 90 cm get in free at Gardaland?
Yes: children under 90 cm in height enter free at all parks within Gardaland Resort. Bear this in mind when working out your budget for the day.
If you are planning a stay in Verona with children and want the right base — close to the Arena and just steps from the pedestrian heart of the city — the apartments at The Verona Stay in Via Roma 21 (The Verona Stay Arena) are designed with families in mind, offering space, a kitchen, and a central location. Check availability at theveronastay.it.