Verona, the city of love and timeless Italian beauty
Verona is one of the most beloved cities in Italy, famous as the setting for Shakespeare’s tale of Romeo and Juliet, but also for its extraordinary architectural, cultural, and natural charm. Located between Milan and Venice, along the banks of the Adige River, Verona is a crossroads of Roman history, medieval art, literary romance, and culinary tradition.
A visit to Verona offers intense emotions: from the landmarks of love to the majestic Arena, from historic squares to the rolling hills. It’s a city that enchants couples, families, groups, and solo travelers alike.
The sites of Romeo and Juliet
Verona is world-renowned for the legend of the most famous lovers in literature:
- Juliet’s House: with the iconic balcony and bronze statue in the courtyard;
- Juliet’s Tomb: set in a former convent with a melancholic, evocative atmosphere;
- Romeo’s House: a medieval building on a quiet street in the city center.
These landmarks are a must for those who want to feel the magic of the most famous love story ever told.
The Arena and Roman legacy
Verona’s most iconic monument is the Arena, a grand Roman amphitheater dating back to the 1st century AD, second only to the Colosseum:
- Each summer, it hosts the renowned open-air opera festival;
- It welcomes concerts, events, and international performances;
- Visiting it is like stepping back 2,000 years in history.
Other Roman remains include the Roman Theater, Ponte Pietra, Porta Borsari, and Arco dei Gavi, all beautifully integrated into the city’s fabric.
The squares and historic center
Verona’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a harmonious blend of eras and styles:
- Piazza delle Erbe, the lively heart of the city with its fountain, market stalls, and frescoed buildings;
- Piazza dei Signori, elegant and intimate, surrounded by medieval and Renaissance palaces;
- Lamberti Tower, offering breathtaking views over the city;
- Via Mazzini, the main shopping street, lined with boutiques and historic cafés.
Every corner of the center tells a story; every view is a picture-perfect moment.
Churches and sacred art
Verona is also a city of spirituality and sacred beauty:
- Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore, one of Italy’s Romanesque masterpieces;
- Verona Cathedral, adorned with Renaissance frescoes and artworks;
- Basilica of Santa Anastasia, rich in Gothic decoration and symbolism;
- Church of San Fermo, with a fascinating double-level structure.
Each church is a journey through architecture, devotion, and art.
Hills, wine, and flavors
Verona is surrounded by hills and vineyards that offer postcard landscapes and exceptional products:
- The Valpolicella region, home to Amarone and Ripasso wines, with many wineries open for tours;
- Lake Garda, just a short distance away, with beaches, villages, and outdoor activities;
- Veronese taverns, where you can enjoy dishes like pastissada de caval, risottos, and boiled meats with pearà sauce;
- Markets and wine shops, perfect for discovering local specialties.
The bond between territory, nature, and gastronomy is deep and alive.
Museums and culture
Verona is a culturally rich and dynamic city:
- Castelvecchio Museum, with collections spanning the Middle Ages to the Renaissance;
- Achille Forti Modern Art Gallery, in the heart of the city;
- Archaeological Museum at the Roman Theater;
- Music, theater, and film festivals throughout the year.
The city’s cultural offerings appeal to all kinds of visitors.
How to reach Verona from Hotel La Corte
Verona is located about 1 hour and 10 minutes by car from our hotel. It’s also easily reachable by train, with a departure from Piove di Sacco station and a transfer in Padua.
It’s a perfect destination for a day trip, or a romantic stopover on a journey through Veneto and Lake Garda.