Summary
Verona is a popular tourist destination in the Veneto Region of Italy, situated on the Milano-Venice train line, approximately 70 miles west of Venice. A small airport is conveniently located just outside of Verona, and Lake Garda is nearby, offering stunning natural beauty. Additionally, other nearby towns worth exploring are Cremona, Brescia, and Vincenza.
What to See
- Arena di Verona: This magnificent 2000-year-old Roman Arena continues to thrive. The opera stage here is recognized as the largest in the world, hosting captivating performances during the summer months. Therefore, obtaining tickets early is highly recommended. A reliable source for tickets and the performance calendar can be found on Select Italy’s Arena de Verona.
- 2 Bridges (ponti): The Ponte Scaligero offers breathtaking views, while the Ponte Pietra is a historic Roman bridge spanning the Adige River.
- Juliet’s House (Casa de Giulietta): While it’s debated whether Shakespeare ever visited this iconic location, many tourists partake in the tradition of rubbing Juliet’s statue for luck and capturing photographs of her legendary balcony.
- Piazza dei Signori: This central square features a statue of Dante, who spent time in Verona during his lifetime.
- Piazza Delle Erbe: Once the Roman Forum, this charming open-air market is now surrounded by historic buildings adorned with frescoes and sculptures. It’s a great spot to enjoy a budget-friendly meal. For those seeking panoramic views of Verona, a visit to the Lamberti tower, which stands 84 meters tall, is a must.
- Castelvecchio (the Old Castle): Visitors can marvel at beautiful views and an intriguing art collection housed within this historic castle.
Where to Stay
For travelers who prefer classic hotel accommodations, the four-star Hotel Accademia is ideally positioned between Piazza Bra, home to the Arena, and Piazza Delle Erbe, Verona’s marketplace. If you’re arriving by train, the three-star Hotel Verona comes highly recommended.
Keep in mind that securing lodging may pose a challenge during major performances at the arena. Thus, planning ahead is advisable if you know your travel dates. Furthermore, for families and groups of friends, consider a vacation rental house or apartment for a more immersive experience in Verona, particularly for stays of a week or longer.
HomeAway offers a selection of unique properties, including options in Juliet’s Courtyard and a conversion within a 15th-century castle tower. For budget-conscious travelers, over 60 budget hotels and hostels are available on HostelWorld.
What to Eat
Culinary experiences in this part of Italy often feature traditional dishes such as polenta, horse and donkey meat, Pasta e Fasoi (a comforting pasta and beans dish), and stockfish, a dried, salted fish. Consequently, food enthusiasts will find plenty to savor during their visit to Verona.
