Verona may not be as popular as other Italian cities like Florence and Venice, but don't be fooled.
This city is often underestimated as an Italian destination.
Verona is magnificent, similar to Venice, but without the canals, the decadence and the large number of tourists.
Verona: article summary
Take a stroll through the historic center
The Centro storico is Verona's historic center. This is where you'll find most of the city's main sights, such as the wide squares, Juliet's house and numerous churches.
Stroll the side streets, have lunch in an open-air café and have fun exploring Verona.
Verona: Bra square
This is Verona's main square. It's a huge open square lined on one side with café terraces. Many people start their visit to Verona in the Piazza Bra, because this square is on the edge of the centro storico.
A perfect starting point, then, if you're heading out on a city tour!
Visit Verona's Arena
The Verona Arena is adjacent to the Piazza Bra. It is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters and is still in use today. You can buy tickets to visit the inside of the arena or, timing permitting, take in a show.
Tickets to visit the inside of the arena cost €10, and opening hours are as follows Tuesday to Sunday, 9 am to 7 pm, with last admission at 6:30 pm.
Opening hours may be reduced when preparations are being made for events.
Admire the view from Torre Dei Lamberti
For one of the best views in town, visit Torre dei Lamberti. The quickest way to the top is via the elevator, but if you want to eat a delicious gelato, climb the steps to the top. You'll find Gelateria all the way.
The tower is open every day of the year except December 25. It is located next to the Piazza delle Erbe.
Join the crowd at Juliette's
Verona is home to Shakespeare's legendary love story, Romeo and Juliet. If you're passing through this town, you'll be lucky enough to see the famous balcony of Juliet's house. Thousands of people flock to this small square every day to see the balcony and have their photo taken with the statue of Juliet.
Just be aware that the balcony was built in the 20th century and is really just a tourist trap.
However, this can be a short but entertaining visit. You can pay to visit the museum and stand on the balcony, if you want the full experience.
Piazzale Castel San Pietro
For another magnificent view, climb the stairs or take the funicular up to Piazzale Castel San Pietro. From here, you can reach one of the best views of Verona.
Just down the hill, near Ponte Pietra, is the Teatro Romano, an ancient Roman theater and archaeological museum that you can visit.
Verona: the Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore
Why is this basilica worth a visit? For one thing, the crypt is the setting for the wedding in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. The basilica has also been recently renovated, and boasts superb frescoes and ornate bronze doors.
The basilica of San Zeno Maggiore is located just outside the city center.This is why you may miss it if your time is limited. But if you like visiting churches, this is perhaps Verona's best.
Verona is a place I'd recommend visiting if you've already cleaned up the streets of Venice. During your stay, you'll be able to take in the beauty of the city and feel like a real person for a moment, in a beautiful, romantic setting.
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