Verona

Ultimate Guide to Exploring Verona: A Traveler’s Delight

Overview

Verona, a city in northern Italy’s Veneto region, is famous for being the setting of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” It’s a beautiful destination that offers an enchanting blend of history, art, culture, and gastronomy. This guide will help you navigate your way through this captivating city.

Places to Go

  1. Arena di Verona: An ancient Roman amphitheater still in use today for opera performances. Don’t miss the summer opera festival!
  2. Piazza Bra: The largest piazza in Verona, surrounded by beautiful buildings and the Arena di Verona.
  3. Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta): Famous from Shakespeare’s play, this house is a must-visit. Be sure to check out the Juliet’s Balcony too!
  4. Piazza delle Erbe & Piazza dei Signori: Two picturesque squares filled with historic buildings, cafes, and restaurants.
  5. Castelvecchio: A medieval castle turned museum housing a collection of Veronese art and military history exhibits.
  6. Scaliger Tombs (Tombe delle Scala): Impressive tombs located in the courtyard of Verona’s cathedral, dedicated to the powerful Scaliger family.
  7. Roman Theater (Teatro Romano): Partially excavated ruins dating back to the 1st century BC.
  8. Verona Cathedral (Duomo di Verona): A stunning Gothic cathedral with an intricate facade and bell tower offering panoramic views of the city.
  9. Adige River Promenade: Ideal for a leisurely walk or bike ride, offering beautiful views of the city and Ponte Pietra.

Activities

  1. Opera Performance at Arena di Verona: A truly unique experience not to be missed. Check the schedule for performances.
  2. Bike Rentals: Explore Verona at your own pace with a bike rental. Many companies offer guided tours too!
  3. Wine Tasting: Verona is home to several excellent wineries. Book a wine tasting tour and discover the region’s best wines.
  4. Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare traditional Italian dishes in a hands-on cooking class.
  5. Hot Air Balloon Ride: For an unforgettable experience, take a hot air balloon ride over Verona and its stunning surroundings.

Where to Eat

  1. Trattoria da Burde: Traditional Veronese cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. Don’t miss the pasta dishes!
  2. Osteria Le Botteghe di Orbi: A rustic-chic trattoria offering delicious local dishes and an excellent wine list.
  3. Ristorante Al Pompiero: Seafood lovers will be delighted by this restaurant’s fresh catches of the day.
  4. La Maison de la Truffe: A gourmet restaurant specializing in truffle-infused dishes. Make a reservation for an unforgettable dining experience!

Where to Stay

  1. Hotel Colombera: A charming, family-run hotel located near the city center.
  2. Hotel Al Vittoria: Offering comfortable rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a convenient location close to many attractions.
  3. Palazzo Victoria: A luxury hotel housed in a 15th-century palazzo, boasting beautiful gardens and an excellent restaurant.
  4. B&B La Casa di Giulietta: For those who want to stay near Juliet’s House, this charming B&B offers comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast.

Things to Know

  1. Currency: Euro (€) is the official currency in Italy.
  2. Language: Italian is the primary language spoken in Verona, but English is widely understood among service industry workers.
  3. Public Transportation: Verona’s public transportation system includes buses and trams. Tickets can be purchased at tobacco shops or automated machines at stops.
  4. Tipping: Service charge is usually included in the bill, but it’s customary to leave a small tip (around 5%) if you’re satisfied with the service.
  5. Business Hours: Shops and restaurants typically open from 9 AM to 1 PM, then again from 4 PM to 7:30 PM or 8 PM. Some restaurants may close on Sundays or holidays.
  6. Emergency Numbers: Dial 112 for all emergencies (police, fire department, medical assistance).

Tips

  1. Avoid the Crowds: Plan your visits to popular attractions during off-peak hours or consider purchasing skip-the-line tickets to save time.
  2. Stay Hydrated: Water is essential, especially during summer months. Tap water in Verona is safe to drink.
  3. Respect Local Customs: Be aware of local customs and traditions when visiting churches (shoulders and knees covered) and taking photos (some sites may not allow photography).
  4. Try Gelato: Indulge in a delicious gelato, but beware of tourist traps—seek out smaller, family-run gelaterias for the best treats!
  5. Enjoy Verona’s Beauty: Take your time to explore, savor every moment, and create unforgettable memories in this enchanting city!