When most people think of Italy, their minds jump to Rome, Venice, or Florence. While these cities are undeniably beautiful, I want to shine a spotlight on a city that often gets overlooked—Verona. I’ve visited several times now, and every trip has only made me love it more. My most recent visit just confirmed what I’ve known all along: Verona is a gem.
A Clean and Calm Escape
One of the first things I noticed about Verona was how clean and well-kept it is. Every time I’ve returned, including my latest trip, I’ve been impressed by how spotless the streets are and how welcoming the city feels. Unlike Italy’s more famous destinations, Verona doesn’t feel packed with tourists. Walking through its streets, you can actually take your time and enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed. It’s the perfect mix of historic charm and modern comfort.
The Arena di Verona: A Step Back in Time
Every visit to Verona has included a stop at the Arena di Verona, and for good reason. This Roman amphitheater is incredibly well-preserved and packed with history. Built in the 1st century AD, it used to host gladiator battles and could hold up to 30,000 people. These days, it’s still used for concerts and operas, which is amazing when you think about how old it is. Standing inside, you can almost hear the echoes of the past—it’s a must-see.
Discovering Verona’s History
On this last trip, I took another guided tour of the city, and it was such a treat to dive even deeper into Verona’s fascinating history. From its Roman roots to its time as a powerful city-state in the Middle Ages, Verona has always been a place of significance. The Scaliger family, who ruled the city during the 13th and 14th centuries, left behind incredible monuments and castles. On this tour, I found myself noticing details I’d overlooked before, which made me appreciate the city even more. It’s no wonder Verona is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A Culinary Delight
Verona’s food scene is another reason I keep coming back. While the city is known for traditional dishes that feature horse and donkey meat (not my thing, personally), there are so many other delicious options to explore. (FYI: If you want to avoid accidentally ordering horse or donkey, look for "cavallo" and "asino" on menus.) I highly recommend trying Risotto all’Amarone, made with the region’s famous Amarone wine. Pair that with some fresh pasta or hearty stews, and you’re in for a treat. Every meal I’ve had in Verona has been memorable, especially when paired with the amazing local wines.
A Wine Lover’s Dream
Speaking of wine, Verona is smack in the middle of one of Italy’s best wine regions. From Valpolicella to Amarone, the wines here are simply incredible. During my latest trip, I did an e-bike tour that started in the city center and took me out to some nearby vineyards. Riding through the countryside, stopping for wine tastings along the way—it was such a fun and unique experience. If you love wine and a bit of adventure, this is a must-do.
A Peek at Juliet’s House
You can’t talk about Verona without mentioning "Romeo and Juliet". Casa di Giulietta, Juliet's house, is a popular spot for visitors, even though it doesn’t actually have anything to do with Shakespeare’s story. Fun fact: Shakespeare never set foot in Verona, and the play wasn’t based on real people. The house is still worth a quick visit, though. Snap a photo and check out the balcony—just know that balconies weren’t even a thing back when the original story was written. The balcony was added later, but it’s become such a symbol of the tale that it’s hard to imagine the story without it.
Perfectly Positioned for Day Trips
Another reason I love Verona is its location. It’s a great base for exploring northern Italy. On past trips, I’ve hopped on the train for a day trip to Venice—just a short ride away—and avoided the crowds and high prices by staying in Verona. For nature lovers, the Dolomites are also within reach, offering stunning mountain views and outdoor adventures. Verona’s location really lets you have the best of both worlds.
Why Verona Stands Out
What makes Verona so special is the balance it offers. It has all the beauty and history of Italy’s big-name cities, but with a much more relaxed vibe. You can explore without feeling overwhelmed, and its central location means you can easily branch out to other amazing destinations.
Ready to uncover Verona's hidden charm? Let me plan your perfect Italian escape—reach out today and start your adventure!
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