Verona, Italy, Travel Guide

Verona may be best known as the birthplace of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet but is still worth a visit. Verona, located in northern Italy’s Veneto region, is only 90 minutes away from Milan or Venice by high-speed rail. The city is within easy reach of Lake Garda and makes for a good stop when traveling through northern Italy.

Verona, founded by an ancient tribe and colonized by the Romans in 89 B.C.E. you can still find traces of ancient civilization. (The city is so called “Little Rome”). The Arena of Verona, which is the third largest surviving Roman amphitheater in the world, hosts the city’s famous opera festival every summer. Verona became ruled by della Scala after the Roman Empire fell. It was during this time that Romeo Montague met Juliet Capulet and they tragically ended up in Shakespeare’s play. Visitors come from all over the world today to visit the sights that were inspired by this love story.

In Verona I experienced the charm of the cobblestone streets and the Adige river, along with the many restaurants and bars that served local cuisine like Lugana wine, produced near Lake Garda. But for more expert tips, I tapped T+L A-List travel advisor Fulvio De BonisCo-founder and co-founder Imago Artis TravelDomenica maruzzo, born in Verona and raised there, played football in front of Arena when she was a youngster and still lives here.

Best Hotels & Resorts

Hotel Due Torri

When it comes to the Hotel Due TorriThe term “grand dame”, is a slight understatement. It was originally an inn, but in the 1800s it became a leading luxury hotel and the choice of Maria Callas. Maria Callas, the iconic opera singer, always stayed in suites with balconies where she could greet her fans after performing at Arena. The Leading Hotels of the World member is furnished with antiques, artwork and period pieces. Its rooftop restaurant is popular in summer for its grilled meats and fish.

Vista Verona

“I like it a lot” Vista VeronaMaruzzo explains that the building, which opened in the Centro Storico a few decades ago, looks out over the Corticella Leoni archeological wonders. The rooftop terrace allows you to see my city’s wonders from a high vantage point.

Byblos Art Hotel Villa Amistà

This hotel is located just 25 minutes by car from Verona’s center. member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World It is situated in an elegant 16th century villa, with five acres manicured garden. The brightly-colored furnishings and 180 pieces of contemporary and modern art by artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat Ettore sottsass Damien Hirst and others contrast the historic architecture. Relax by the outdoor swimming pool, enjoy the spa and try the tasting menus in the gourmet restaurant.

What to do

Visit the Casa di Giulietta.

The courtyard of Juliet’s House is one of the city’s most photographed—and crowded—spots, but it’s worth going inside to stand at the balcony made famous by Shakespeare. You can find a statue of the literary hero, ceramics dating back to the time when the story was set and artifacts and art inspired by the love story. The bed from Franco Zeffirelli’s 1968 film is also on display.

Watch a performance in the Arena.

The most magnificent testimony of ancient Roman times is the ArenaThe amphitheater is similar to that of the Colosseum and dates to the beginning of the first century C.E. and once used for gladiator fights and wild animal hunts,” De Bonis says of this Città Antica landmark. “Today, over 600,000.00 spectators attend the Arena every summer. This is the largest outdoor season of opera in the world. The amphitheater’s stunning acoustics, and the elaborate set designs of each performance make it an unforgettable experience.

Climb the Tower at the Museo di Castelvecchio.

Maruzzo recommends that you visit the Museo di CastelvecchioA museum located inside a castle fortified in the 14th century to protect the city, displays medieval art and Renaissance art. She says that Carlo Scarpa was responsible for its restoration, which took place at the end 1950s. He created a brilliant plan, and the artworks were chosen to create the impression of a museum as an entire work of art.

Enjoy the view from Castel San Pietro.

It’s not as strenuous as the Adige river stroll, but the climb from the Roman Theater to the top of the hill is worth it. Castel San Pietro Maruzzo says, “Gives you unforgettable views.” You can also take the funicular up to this fortified citadel in the Veronetta neighborhood for just €3 round trip.

Palazzo Maffei is home to a collection of eclectic art.

This hotel is located on the lively Piazza delle Erbe in Verona, built atop an ancient Roman Capitolium. museum A majestic 17th-century Palazzo is given new life. A collection of 600 eclectic works from 2,000 years ago is on display inside. In the exhibition, you can see modern and contemporary works by artists like Magritte, de Chirico or Picasso in conversation with antique furniture and Asian art. You can enjoy a great view of the Piazza from the rooftop terrace.

Best Shopping

San Zeno Antiques Market

Maruzzo points out that you can find antiques in the first Sundays of every month. The outdoor market More than 200 exhibitors come from northern Italy to sell vintage furniture, art, decor and clothing.

Gulp

Corso Sant’Anastasia is a street that’s known for its antiques stores. this little boutique The company sells vases and decorative items made of Murano glass, as well as jewelry.

Rizoma

Maruzzo describes this shop as a hidden jewel, recommending “the creations by Giulia Tosi“, a local designer and artist with a cartoonish, colorful aesthetic.

Best Nightlife

Amaro

“My favorite spot for an aperitivo You can learn more about it here. AmaroMaruzzo explains that this is the same piazza as where he grew. “A well-made Americano is priceless while you see where I used play ball. Also, there’s a cool underground speakeasy!

Romeo Bistrot & Cocktail Bar

This moody two story bar and bistro This former convent specializes exclusively in craft cocktails. The upstairs is a particularly atmospheric space, with shelves that are filled with bottles of all sizes and colors.

Caffè Monte Baldo

This quiet, side street location is a great place to stay. historic wine bar Has a huge selection of cicchetti Venetian tapas to be paired with wine in glass or bottle. You can also try something local like the Lugana, a white aromatic wine made on the shores Lake Garda. Or a full-bodied Amarone produced in nearby Valpolicella. You can also order pastas and other dishes.

Terrazza Bar Al Ponte

“This trendy bar Its signature cocktails are famous, as is the stunning view. De Bonis says, “It’s a great place to enjoy sunsets and the Verona skyline.”

Best Restaurants

Trattoria I Masenini

You can also find out more about this by clicking here. sophisticated restaurant Near the Museo di Castelvecchio, you can expect a higher-end experience than your typical trattoria. The interior is warm, welcoming and features wood-beamed walls, chandeliers and checkerboard flooring. Menu combines French and local flavors with an emphasis on grilled fish and meat.

Locanda 4 Cuochi

Maruzzo considers Locanda 4 Cuochi Her favorite restaurant is “always following the seasons and featuring classics which have been modernized, but still remain traditional”. “The risottos at this restaurant are a MUST!”

Antica Bottega del Vino

You can also find out more about this by clicking here. historic wine bar and restaurant The wine list is presented to you by the waiters as a huge leather-bound book. You can enjoy classic Veronese cuisine such as risotto cooked in Amarone or beef cheeks braised slowly in Amarone over mashed potato.

Trattoria Al Pompiere

My favorite restaurant is “My Favorite Restaurant by Far” Trattoria al PompiereDe Bonis recommends signature dishes such as the Veronese risotto. He recommends signature meals such as pastissada de caval Horse meat stew (horse-meat stew) baccalà alla vicentina (salted cod). “The trattoria is a great place to eat, but it’s still affordable compared with some of Verona’s upscale restaurants.” It is a favorite of Imago customers because it provides an authentic dining experience, away from tourist areas.

Pasticceria Flego

Two brothers are running a race. this pasticceria It is known for its modern take on traditional recipes. The bakery makes delicious macarons, cakes, and pastries in all colors of the rainbow. But if you’re looking for a local speciality, try the Torta russaVeronese pastry filled with almonds, amaretti and eggs. Verona is home to a number of shops, one being on busy Corso Porta Borsari.

Explore the Neighborhoods

Città Antica

Verona’s historic center, known as the Città Antica or the Centro Storico, is nestled within a bend in the Adige River and is designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here you will find some of the city’s most famous squares such as Piazza delle Erbe, Piazza Bra and monuments like Casa di Giulietta or the Arena. If it’s your first visit, you’ll probably spend most—if not all—of your time here, strolling the cobblestone streets and soaking up the city’s romantic atmosphere.

I Filippini

Maruzzo says, “The neighborhood in which I was raised, I Filippini is one of few places that has not been impacted by mass tourism. It’s located between the Church of San Fermo, and the Adige river, where an old customs building from the 1700s overlooks the river.” “I love to stroll down the narrow lanes, and I get to see the same views as I have for my entire life.”

Veronetta

The University of Verona is located in this area, which has a vibrant energy and a bohemian feel. You can get there from the Città Antica by crossing the ancient Ponte Pietra. You’ll be able to walk up to the Castel San Pietro or the Roman Theater that dates back to the 1st century B.C.E. from Veronetta.

San Zeno

Just outside the Città Antica, on the western bank of the Adige, this picturesque neighborhood is characterized by green, leafy streets and parks. It is anchored by the Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore. This excellent example of Romanesque-style architecture was named after the city’s patron. On the first Sunday of each month, the antiques fair is held in this area.

The Best Time to Visit

Maruzzo says that the best time to go is in the summer when the lyric opera season at the Arena provides unmissable performances. For a quick escape from the city there are the nearby Lake Garda.”

You can visit the city at a time when it is less crowded, such as in winter or early spring. Verona hosts its annual Easter Festival every year. VinitalyThe largest and most significant wine fair in the world.

How to Get There

Valerio Catullo (VRN) Airport is located 20 minutes from the centre of Rome. It offers flights mainly to destinations in Europe. Venice Marco Polo airport (VCE) lies about 90 minute away. Verona is well-connected to the rest Italy via train.

How to Get Around

Verona’s historic city center is mostly flat. Much of it has also been pedestrianized. This makes it easy to travel by foot or bicycle.

Public Transportation: Azienda Trasporti Verona Buses in the city are operated by ATV. Tickets cost €2 if you buy them on board or €1.50 if you buy them at ticket offices, newsagents, or via the Ticket Bus Verona appThey are valid for 90-minutes.

Taxi: Radio Taxi Verona Taxi company of the city. From Catullo Airport to select destinations in the Centro Storico, there’s a flat rate of €26 on weekdays or €30 on nights and weekends (plus possible surcharges for luggage). The usual calculation of fares is based on the distance and time traveled. Download the itTaxi App to order a taxi on your smartphone