Verona

Verona is a stunning historic city famous as the setting of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet and home to a remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater. Its old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Things to do

• Visit the Arena di Verona — Attend a summer opera performance for an unforgettable experience.
• See Juliet's House — Leave a love note on the courtyard wall, a beloved local tradition.
• Walk Ponte Pietra — This Roman bridge offers beautiful views of the Adige River.
• Explore Piazza delle Erbe — The main square is lined with cafes and a colorful daily market.
• Visit Castelvecchio Museum — A medieval castle housing an excellent collection of Veronese art.
• Teatro Romano — Ancient Roman theatre on the hillside with great city views and a small archaeological museum.
• Giardino Giusti — Renaissance garden with cypress alleys, fountains, and a hilltop panorama over Verona.
• Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore — Stunning Romanesque church housing Mantegna's famous altarpiece and ornate bronze doors.
• Lamberti Tower — Climb the medieval tower in Piazza delle Erbe for the best rooftop view of the city.
• Enoteca wine tasting — Join a local Valpolicella or Amarone wine tasting session at one of Verona's many enotecas.

Food to try

• Risotto all'Amarone — Rich risotto cooked with the prestigious local Amarone red wine.
• Bollito misto — Mixed boiled meats served with traditional pearl onion and mostarda sauces.
• Pandoro — The iconic star-shaped sweet bread originating from Verona, eaten at Christmas.
• Pearà — A peppery bread sauce traditionally served alongside bollito misto.

Local customs & good to know

• Opera etiquette at the Arena — Bring a cushion to rent or buy for the ancient stone seats during performances.
• Respect Juliet's House — The courtyard can be crowded; be mindful and spend limited time at the bronze statue.
• Aperitivo culture — Join locals for an aperitivo (pre-dinner drink) at a bar in Piazza delle Erbe around 6–7pm.