Made famous as the setting of William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, Verona boasts a long history that eclipses the star-crossed lovers' tale. Once a Roman colony in the first century BC, the city is packed with well-preserved Classical structures and architecture that have earned it the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be drawn in by the Verona Arena, a Roman amphitheater that still hosts performances today, and stay for the delicious cuisine and wine that can be found on every city street. Romantics are sure to be enchanted by the House of Juliet and the gently rolling hills of the wine country that sits just outside Verona. Fill your itinerary with historic sights to see and charming things to do while taking in the age-old and artistic atmosphere of fair Verona.
Areas & Neighborhoods in Verona
Verona is the third largest municipality in northeast Italy, situated around the curving banks of the Adige River. Along with the many historic attractions within the city itself, the picturesque landscapes that surround Verona are worth exploring.
Historic Verona - The historic district of Verona, home to its most famous Roman remains, is nestled in the bend of the Adige and was originally enclosed by Roman city walls. The district is centered around the Piazza Bra, the largest piazza in the city. Visit the Roman amphitheater of Verona Arena, the Castelvecchio castle, Piazza delle Erbe, and the magnificent Verona Cathedral (Duomo di Verona).
Lake Garda - Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy, and its natural beauty makes it one of the most popular holiday destinations in the country. Hiking and walking paths wind through the emerald-covered mountains that border the lake, showing off the lovely landscapes of Verona's countryside and the charming towns on Garda's shores.
Valpolicella - Valpolicella, the viticultural zone (wine country) of Verona, is famous for its wine production. The area's vintages are typically made from the Corvina Veronese, Rondinella, and Molinara grape varieties, but Valpolicella is also known for its recioto dessert wine and strong Amarone. Explore the region and its historic vineyards on foot or aboard a Vespa for a quintessential Italian experience.
What to See in Verona
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Verona is packed with historic sights dating as far back as the Roman Empire. The Verona Arena, the third largest Roman amphitheater in Italy, was built in the 1st century and is still used to host large-scale operas and concerts. Stroll through the Piazza delle Erbe, the town’s main forum during the Roman Empire, which is now lined by the frescoed Mazzanti Houses and dotted with elaborate statues and fountains. Venture into Verona's religious history with visits to the Verona Cathedral and the Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore, also known as the Romeo and Juliet Church.
Sightseeing in Verona
Verona lives up to its romantic reputation, and visitors can see many of the real-life sites used in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. You can visit the House of Juliet, or Casa di Giulietta, which was once occupied by the Capuleti family and dates back to the 13th century. The house's courtyard features the famous balcony where Juliet was called to by Romeo, as well as a statue of Juliet that's said to bring good luck to couples. The Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore, a Romanesque church that was rebuilt after an earthquake in 1117, is also known as the "Romeo and Juliet Church," as the play's wedding is said to have occurred in the basilica's crypt. Fall in love with the food and wine of Verona, as the city is known for its mouthwatering cheeses and rich meats as well as robust and fruity wines that pair perfectly with any meal. You can also indulge like a local with a spritz, a wine-based cocktail popular in Verona. For a taste of Verona's thriving artistic culture, attend the Arena di Verona Festival, a summer celebration of opera where huge performances are staged in the famous Verona Arena. Verona is also close enough for easy day trips to Milan, Venice, or Lake Garda, making it a convenient and relaxing place to stay.
