Verona
The city of Romeo and Juliet, with a Roman arena that hosts the world's most magical opera season.
About Verona
Verona is one of northern Italy's most beautiful cities, a place where Roman ruins, medieval palaces, and Renaissance gardens coexist along the banks of the Adige River. The Roman Arena—Italy's best-preserved amphitheatre after the Colosseum—hosts an annual summer opera festival that's one of the world's great cultural experiences: Aida with real elephants, under the stars, in a 2,000-year-old arena. Beyond Shakespeare's fictional lovers (Juliet's Balcony is a tourist trap, but the city's romantic atmosphere is real), Verona offers a stunning Romanesque cathedral complex, the Castelvecchio bridge, and excellent restaurants serving horse-meat pastissada, bigoli pasta, and Amarone wine from the Valpolicella hills just outside town.
Best Time to Visit
June to September for the Arena opera season. April to October for pleasant city exploring. The Vinitaly wine fair in April is the world's largest. Christmas brings atmospheric markets in Piazza dei Signori.
Local Tips
- See opera in the Arena.
The summer opera season in a 2,000-year-old amphitheatre is unforgettable. A local will tell you to buy the cheap stone seats (bring a cushion), arrive early for the candle-lighting at dusk, and skip the interval to keep your spot.
- Tour the Valpolicella wineries.
The hills north of Verona produce Amarone—one of Italy's most powerful and prestigious reds. A local knows the family cantinas in Fumane and Sant'Ambrogio where tastings include rare vintages and a lesson in the appassimento drying process.
- Cross the Ponte Pietra at sunset.
Verona's oldest bridge, dating to the Roman era, offers the best views of the city and the river. A local will time a walk across for sunset and end at the Castel San Pietro viewpoint above for a panoramic aperitivo.
(the local lens)
Meet the Local Experts
Your on-the-ground insiders . The ones who know the enduring favourites, the quiet corners and what’s worth your time.
Chiara
Bari, Lecce +7
5.0(4 reviews)I am a local tour guide with over twenty years of experience in Venice and it’s lagoon. As a native of the area and a resident nearby, I have a deep and authentic connection with this extraordinary land, which I know not only historically and artistically, but also in its most authentic and everyday aspects. I love sharing Venice’s natural beauty, artistic and cultural heritage, centuries-old traditions, and the unique identity that makes the lagoon a place like no other. Over the years, I have gained extensive experience that allows me to offer personalized itineraries, combining great masterpieces with lesser-known gems, offering an authentic and engaging experience. I also pay great attention to food and wine, guiding guests to discover the typical flavours and culinary traditions of Venice. My goal is for you to experience Venice not just as a tourist destination, but as an emotional, cultural, and sensorial experience, leaving you with an indelible memory of this unique city.
Rosa
Florence, Pisa +13
5.0(1 review)Hi, I’m Rosa - your local Italy travel planner based in Florence. I'm 26 and I live in Florence, in the heart of Tuscany. Italy is not just where I live, it's what I love sharing with others. Over the years, I've explored many cities like Bologna, Milan, Venice, Rome Naples, Sicily, Sardinia, Puglia and many more. Each region has its own flow, flavors and traditions, and understanding these differeces is what makes a trip truly special. I help travelers experience Italy beyond the typical tourist path. From selecting the perfect area to stay, to reccomending authentic restaurants, wineries and hidden villages. I desing trips that feel personal and deeply Italian. If you want to experience Italy with local insight and thoughtful planning, I’ll help you create a journey you’ll never forget.
Dina
Bolzano, Florence +13
5.0(1 review)Ciao a tutti! I am your local guide and travel designer right here in Florence! and there is nothing that I love more than hunting for those hidden gems off the beaten path. When I travel I plan for unforgettable spots, happy experiences and food that leaves a lasting memory. Pick me as your travel designer! I promise the best food, culture, history and wine. I focus entirely on your interest to make this trip yours. Let's personalized your journey and create your unforgettable travel.
Kristine
Trento, Bolzano +6
5.0(5 reviews)I’m Kristine from Love Your Italy, and I will help you plan your dream trip to the Dolomites and Northern Italy. Having lived in Northern Italy and explored the region extensively, I design trips that flow naturally, feel beautifully paced, and let you fully enjoy the area. Whether you’re dreaming of mountain hikes, lakeside towns, or a slower journey through northern cities, I help you plan with clarity, confidence, and a sense of excitement. Book here to plan your Italy trip with confidence.