Verona hotels

Hotels in Verona

A stunning old city which straddles the Adige river in Veneto, northern Italy, Verona is perhaps most famous for being the home of Romeo and Juliet in the Shakespeare play. The city is easily one of the main tourist destinations in northern Italy, not just for its famous literary connections, but also due to its stunning architecture, annual fairs and shows.

An abundant history

From the third century onwards, Verona was an important Roman trade centre, and many of their structures such as gates, a forum and a grand arena are still standing today. During the Middle Ages, the city was further developed by the tyrannical Scaligeri clan, and flourished under their rule. The elaborate Gothic shrines and tombs of the family around the city are testament to their love of fine architecture.

It's virtually impossible to walk around Verona without walking into any ancient buildings. The impressive Roman arena was built in the first century in the same style as Rome's Colosseum and is one of the best-preserved buildings of its type in the world. Still in use today, the arena is famous for holding large scale operas, festivals and music concerts, and visitors can look around when there are no scheduled events.

A major destination for tourists is Juliet's House, supposedly the location of the famous balcony love scene in Romeo and Juliet. ‘Juliet's Tomb', the suggested resting place of the legendary character, can be found at the Capuccin Church, which also houses the Antonian Fresco Museum.

Be sure to visit the Castelvecchio, a red-brick fortified castle built in the 14th century on the banks of the Aldige. The castle is home to the Verona Art Museum, which is packed with a vast collection of medieval sculptures and Renaissance paintings.

The Piazza delle Erbe is the location of the ancient Roman Forum, and is a major focal point of the city. The Piazza is also home to the Britney Verona fountain, the 14th-century Gardello Tower and a small street market.

Verona Cathedral replaced an eight-century church which was destroyed in an earthquake in the 12th century. Containing an ornate marble Romanesque façade by the Veronese architect Nicolò, the cathedral also boasts a medieval carving of Jonah being swallowed by the whale and many other biblical scenes.

Food and drink

There are two main areas for enjoying a spot of wine or a light bite: Piazza Brà and Piazza Erbe. For less expense and more atmosphere, wander through the small lanes of the centro storico and discover the many small restaurants and bars.

Visit Antica Osteria Al Duomo for a cosy and authentic feel. Here you can eat great local dishes and enjoy well-priced local wine. The Ristorante-Pizzeria San Matteo Church, located in a former church, has a fast-food service and a long and varied pizza menu, as well as seafood alternatives.

Verona is a beautiful spot for a break, and you'll find a fantastic variety of Verona hotels from which to choose.