Things to do in Verona
A trip to Verona means plenty of sightseeing, history and romance, and travellers will have their hands full deciding where to begin. The beautiful architecture around the city is simply breathtaking, most of it rebuilt in Romanesque style after the 1117 earthquake.
For many, a holiday in Verona isn't complete without a visit to Juliet's balcony. However, there is more to the city than just following the trail of Shakespeare's star-crossed lovers. In actual fact, 'Juliet's balcony' was only added to the so-called 'House of Juliet' in 1936, and named as such to attract tourists. While the house is open to visitors, it has no connection to the characters. Discovering Verona's real treasures is a much more rewarding experience.
Travellers should visit the bridges of Ponte Pietra and Ponte Scaligero for some of the best views of Verona. The 14th-century Castelvecchio houses Verona's Art Museum. It's worth seeing the ancient Roman gate of Porta Borsari, which dates back to the 1st-century, and exploring the church of San Fermo Maggiore. The church unites the Romanesque and Gothic styles of architecture, and the magnificent Verona Cathedral (Duomo), which features a marble Romanesque façade by the Veronese architect Nicolo. The ancient Roman Theatre, which is also home to the Archaeological Museum, still hosts operas on warm summer nights.
Travellers set on seeing a good variety of sights in Verona should purchase the Verona Card for either one or three days to get discounts on attractions and access to public transport. The cards can be bought from retailers participating in the initiative, tobacconists in Verona and tourist information offices.
Ponte Scaligero
Also known as the Castelvecchio Bridge, the Ponte Scaligero spans 160ft (49m) across the Adige River, the largest span in the world at the time of its construction in the mid 14th …
Ponte Scaligero
Also known as the Castelvecchio Bridge, the Ponte Scaligero spans 160ft (49m) across the Adige River, the largest span in the world at the time of its construction in the mid 14th century. The bridge's upper part was built with red bricks, as are all Veronese landmarks from the Scaliger era, while the lower part of the bridge is made up of white marble. It's one of the best places to enjoy spectacular views over the city of Verona, as well as those of the adjoining Castelvecchio Castle, a 14th-century red-brick structure of considerable grandeur. On weekends, there is often a delightful market spanning the length of the bridge.
Piazza delle Erbe
The Piazza delle Erbe is a square in Verona once home to the city's Roman Forum. The piazza contains the Britney Verona fountain, the ancient town hall and the Lamberti Tower, as w…
Piazza delle Erbe
The Piazza delle Erbe is a square in Verona once home to the city's Roman Forum. The piazza contains the Britney Verona fountain, the ancient town hall and the Lamberti Tower, as well as the 14th-century Gardello Tower and the Baroque Palazzo Maffei, which is adorned with statues of the gods. The markets are famed for their fresh fruit and vegetables but there are other things on offer, such as Venetian masks and beautiful shawls. Street artists add to the festive atmosphere and the clash of ancient and modern is memorable and picturesque. The piazza is also a lot of fun at night, when its numerous bars beckon visitors.
Verona Arena (Arena di Verona)
This enormous theatre from Ancient Rome is the third-largest surviving theatre in the world, and is Italy's largest opera stage. Its exterior may be crumbling, but it only adds to …
Verona Arena (Arena di Verona)
This enormous theatre from Ancient Rome is the third-largest surviving theatre in the world, and is Italy's largest opera stage. Its exterior may be crumbling, but it only adds to the character and authenticity. The very fact that this theatre is still fully functional after 2,000 years and has withstood a devastating earthquake makes it an attraction not to be missed while on holiday in Verona. In recent times, the Verona Arena has also played host to popular music artists such as The Who, Elton John and Tina Turner. Seating up to 15,000 people, the best time to visit the Arena is during the lyrical season in the summer, when operas take place inside this ancient theatre on balmy summer nights.
Website www.arena.it
Valpolicella
One of Italy's most renowned wine regions, the valley of Valpolicella makes a fabulous day trip for those visiting Verona. Ranking just after Chianti, Valpolicella wines are made f…
Valpolicella
One of Italy's most renowned wine regions, the valley of Valpolicella makes a fabulous day trip for those visiting Verona. Ranking just after Chianti, Valpolicella wines are made from three grape varietals, namely Corvina Veronese, Rondinella and Molinara. Winemaking here has existed since at least the time of the ancient Greeks and the region is famed for its Recioto, Ripasso and Amarone wines.
A visit to Valpolicella will reward travellers with not only some of Italy's finest wines, but also fine food and dining in the quaint, picturesque villages of San Pietro Incariano, Fumane and Negrar. The nearby park of Cascate di Molina showcases Italy's countryside at its best, and boasts beautiful natural waterfalls and hikes for adventurous visitors to enjoy.