It may be known as the home of Romeo and Juliet, but Verona is much more than that. The picturesque city of northern Italy is ideal for a two day getaway full of Italian flair.
Most people know it as the city of lovers. That’s because Shakespeare chose this picturesque city of northern Italy to unfold the story of Romeo and Juliet. However, Verona is not only for those in love. Built on the banks of the Adige (Αδίγη) River, a short distance from Venice, this captivating medieval city of Italyenchants visitors with its historic center (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), its colorful medieval houses,its splendid monuments and its Italian finesse. Two days are just right to see the main sights, stroll the city, lose yourself in its alleys and soak up its atmosphere.
Verona: Top attractions
The Arena
The Roman Arena, «Veronas Colosseum», is one of the first sights you should see in the city. This Roman amphitheater from 30 AD stands on the lovely Piazza Bra, Veronas largest square, and is quite impressive and very well preserved. In fact, it is still used today for concerts, while in the summer months it hosts the Arena di Verona Festival, one of the most important opera festivals in the world.
Casa di Giulietta
You cant visit the home of Romeo and Juliet and not see up close the famous Casa di Giulietta. The House of Juliet is the citys most famous attraction, which millions of tourists visit every year to photograph it, touch Juliets statue (they say it brings luck) and leave love notes on the courtyard walls. The 13th-century house with the famous balcony (which is in fact a later addition for tourist purposes) operates as a museum and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Entry to the courtyard is free, but to enter the house the ticket costs €12.
Piazza delle Erbe
The most famous square in Verona and the heart of the city. Piazza delle Erbe hosts one of Italys most famous open-air markets, many cafés, as well as impressive buildings such as the baroque Palazzo Maffei. The fountain with the statue of Madona Verona is the jewel of the square.
Torre dei Lamberti
The 84 m tall Lamberti Tower began construction in the 12th century, was completed in 1463 and today offers panoramic views across the entire city. You can climb the368 steps of the tower or take the elevator to reach the top.
Castelvecchio
Built on the banks of the Adige River, Castelvecchio will transport you to the Middle Ages and the Scaliger dynasty. Walk across its imposing red bridge and, if youre an art lover, visit the museum, which hosts superb Renaissance paintings and many collections of sculptures, frescoes, jewelry and antiques.
Castel San Pietro
For the most beautiful view of the city from above, visit the hill of the castle San Pietro. As you climb you will make a first stop at the Teatro Romano, the citys ancient theater. At the top of the hill, the most enchanting panorama of Verona awaits you. You can go up easily by funicular.
Giardino Giusti
A lovely stroll you can take in Verona is through the famous gardens of Palazzo Giusti.The Renaissance gardens were laid out in the late 16th century with geometrically aligned beds, sculptures and ponds and are among the loveliest in Italy.
Stops for coffee, aperitivo and food
- The Trattoria dal Taio serves tasty dishes, meats and handmade pasta in a very atmospheric setting.The La bottega della Gina is renowned for its fresh pasta. Its worth trying them! The Osteria Al Ducaandthe Osteria a la Carega are a few more good places for food, also favored by locals.
- For espresso, make a stop at the small and distinctive Caffe Borsari.
- Youll find the most delicious gelato in the city at the Gelateria Ponte Pietra.
- The historic Caffe Monte Baldo andTerrazza Bar al Ponte with its wonderful view of the river are two good choices for an aperitivo.
