This bustling marketplace -- the palazzi-flanked Square of the Herbs -- sits on the former site of the Roman Forum where chariot races once took place.

The herbs, spices, coffee beans, and bolts of silks and damasks that came through Verona after landing in Venice from faraway Cathay have given way to the fresh and aromatic produce of one of Italy's wealthiest agricultural regions -- offset by the inevitable ever-growing presence of T-shirt and french-fry vendors, as the piazza has become something of a tourist trap.

But the perfume of fennel and vegetables fresh from the earth still assaults your senses in the early morning, mixing with the cacophony of vendors touting plump tomatoes, dozens of different variations of salad greens, and picture-perfect fruits that can't possibly taste as good as they look, but do. Add to this the canary lady, the farmer's son who has brought in a half a dozen puppies to unload, and the furtive pickpocket who can spot a tourist at 50 paces -- and you have one of Italy's loveliest little outdoor markets.

Take a rest on one of the steps leading up to the small, 14th-century fountain in the piazza's center and a Roman statue dubbed The Virgin of Verona.

Hours Open

Air produce and flower market Mon-Sat 8am-7pm  
  
Location

Between Via Mazzini and Corso Porta Borsari

Attraction type

Town center/square/plaza; Flea/street market