Verona lies in the region of Veneto and the second largest city of the region after Venice. Located on the River Adige at the foothills of the Lessini Mountains, this city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and preserves many of its monuments dating back to the 1st century BC.  Join us in this comprehensive guide as we explore the city of love, opera, architecture and history. A holiday in Verona is an excellent option for any traveller looking to discover the beauty of Italy and it is only a short journey from Verona to lake Garda.

‘In fair Verona, where we lay our scene’

Fair Verona, the city of love, has enchanted visitors for centuries and is the perfect destination for romantics and lovers of literature. Following in the footsteps of Shakespeare's ill-fated lovers, Romeo and Juliet, you can explore the enchanting streets and historic sites that inspired one of the greatest love stories ever told. Let’s explore some of the best things to do in Verona:

Juliet's House: ‘Heaven is here, where Juliet lives’

Located not far from the Piazza delle Erbe, this medieval palace is a must-visit while visiting Verona, and a reference point for lovers everywhere. Visit the famous marble balcony and leave a message of love on the courtyard walls. Admire the bronze statue of Juliet and touch her right breast to ensure you have good fortune in love. Buona fortuna!

Romeo's House: ‘Wherefore art though Romeo?’

Although not open to the public, this beautiful Renaissance building can be admired from the outside. On the façade is an inscription dedicated to the star-crossed lovers.  Let your romantic imagination soar as you imagine the life of the young Montague.

Juliet's Tomb: ‘Oh happy dagger, This is thy sheath’

Visit the Church of San Francesco al Corso, which is home to the Capuchin monastery, where according to legend, is where Juliet’s tomb lies. While you are there you can also visit the Museum of Frescoes, home to many wonderful artworks.

Piazza delle Erbe: a bustling centre of commerce

Stroll through this historic market square, once the centre of Verona's political and social life, and admire the beautiful architecture that surrounds it. Filled with cafes, set in sumptuous buildings including the Palazzo Maffei. Just off the square is the Arco della Costa, where a whale’s rib hangs imposingly above the arch.

Piazza dei Signori: ‘Piazza Dante’

Also known as Piazza Dante, it is surrounded by historical buildings and monuments that tell the story of the city. Admire the Loggia del Consiglio and the Palace of the Scaligeri family, among other impressive buildings. A perfect location for a romantic stroll with a gelato.

Arena di Verona: spectacles and gladiators

The Arena is one of Verona's most important monuments and one of the largest amphitheatres in Italy, well worth a visit while in Verona. It also hosts the annual Summer Opera festival, a fantastic event if you are in the area at the time.

Roman Theatre and Archaeological Museum:  expression and history

Built at the end of the 1st century BC, this Roman theatre is well worth a wonder around, and they even host all manner of shows during the summer months. While in the museum, you can enjoy an extensive collection of sculptures, mosaics, tombs, and utensils from ancient Verona.

Church of San Zeno Maggiore:

A wonderful example of Romanesque architecture, this church is considered one of the most beautiful in Verona. The warm colours of the façade are due to the use of tufa and bricks, and its splendid rose window in the centre of the building adds to its romantic charm. What better setting for the marriage of Romeo and Juliet?

Giardino Giusti: enjoy a romantic walk

Just across the Adige River in the Veronetta district is where you will find these most beautiful Italian gardens. Enjoy a romantic stroll through these Renaissance gardens, with panoramic views over the city. A place that has inspired poets, writers and lovers for centuries, this is the perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the spectacular classical gardens with mazes and sculptures dotted throughout.

Shopping and Gastronomy:

Saunter along the bustling Via Mazzini, a narrow and cobbled street that connects the two main piazzas of the city. Lined with excellent boutique shops, cafes and gelaterie.  Stop by a pastry shop and pick up a fritole or sit down to a hot steaming bowl of gnocchi.

As you can see the city of Verona has much to offer, from romantic walks through Italian gardens to museums full of frescoes. An exploration of this city will have you discovering impressively maintained medieval architecture, colourful churches and romantic bridges. Not to mention, delicious cuisine and fantastic souvenir shopping. All this and more are what makes visiting Verona a wonderful choice for any traveller. If you're traveling in Italy through Rome Fiumicino Airport, there are train connections available from Fiumicino Airport's railway station, allowing you to easily reach Verona with convenient transfers.