The city started as a Roman settlement around 89 BC due to its strategic positioning near a busy Alpine pass and the important River Adige. Today it has become the second largest city in the Veneto. It was under the one hundred and twenty seven year rule of the Scaligeri family that the city became cultured in art and literature, and Dante spent much time here. Nevertheless, Verona has always been some what overshadowed by the once super power Venice, but in terms of what it has to offer, the city is able to stand alone. It’s relaxed and laid back atmosphere makes it a pleasurable place to stay and it is because of this that Julius Caesar chose Verona for his vacations! Opera is the most enjoyable way the Veronese wish to pass their summer evenings, and the arena holds spectacular concerts where former Romans would have enjoyed gladiatorial games. The streets are exceptionally clean and safe and the prices are very reasonable considering it is one of the most affluent cities in the country. Although Verona is often seen as a day trip city it really is the hidden gem of the Veneto and makes a refreshing change of pace from other destinations in the area.
General Descriptions
Places:
1. Roman Arena
This Roman arena dates from the first century AD and remains unusually well preserved. Its pink marble looks remarkable and during the opera season visitors can enjoy one of the outside concerts that are frequently housed here. During the day entrance is permited for those wanting to admire the view of the city from the topmost forty four tiers, the interior itself can seat up to 30,000 people.
2. Casa di Giulietta
Juliets house sums up the romantic side of Verona, where visitors can go and gaze up at Shakespeares heroines balcony. It is here that legend has it she called down to her Romeo and the bronze statue of her outside the house must be rubbed on the right breast for good luck in love. Love notes are scribbled over the walls of the tiny courtyard and make an interesting perusal. The suposed tomb of Juliet can also be found in the city.
3. Torre dei Lamberti
This twelfth century tower boasts spectacular views of the city and is ajoined to the Palazzo della Ragione where a lift will transport you up some 275 feet.
4. Castelvecchio
The Castelvecchio Museum of Art is the best in the city. The bulding itself is of historical interest dating back to 1355, but inside features well known paintings by Giovanni Bellini, Veronese and Giovan Francesco Caroto. There are also a range of esqusite frescoes and jewlery to be admired.
5. Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore
Along the river bank visitors will find the Basilica di San Zeno Maggoire which is the finest church in the city and dedicated to Veronas patron Saint. The interior has a beautiful gothic ceiling, but the main attraction is the Madonna col Bambino tra Angeli e Santi by Andrea Mantegna that sits at the alter.
Stay, Eat, Watch The World
Where to stay:
1. Accademia Hotel
The historic building that houses the hotel dates back to the sixteenth century and it is ideally located for exploring all the main attractions of the city. Being close to the via Mazzini means all the main shops are easily acccessible.
(reasonable)
2. Hotel Torcolo
Hotel has a private and personal atmosphere and is very close to the Roman amphitheatre. All the rooms are non smoking and there is an optional breakfast.
(budget)
3. Corte Castelletto
There is an oportunity to rent bycles and use the an outdoor swimming pool at this traditional hotel. Rooms are simple but sufficient and the location is good.
(budget)
4. Ca’ dell’ Orto
This residence offers apartments as opposed to rooms and over looks the Adige river. Each apartment sleeps up to five, making it the ideal chioce for families.
(reasonable)
5. Hotel Leopardi
The modern Hotel Leopardi is two kilimoteres outside of the city and the rooms are spacisous and clean. They are also sound proof, and non smoking is available on request.
(reasonable)
6. Byblos Art Hotel Villa Amista
This hotel has a wide range of leaisure facilities such as an indoor and outdoor pool and sauna. The building itself is in the style of an Italian villa and houses many art works by regionally renowned artists.
(lush)
7. Maxim Hotel
All the rooms at this resiedence have wirelss internet access and are fuctional but
comfortable. The in house resturant serves a complimentary breakfast and Mediteranian cuisine.
(reasonable)
8. Residence Hotel Corte Ongaro
This hotel is situated in central Verona near the exhibition area. Rooms can sleep up to three people and most have balconys.
(reasonable)
9. Verona Hotel
Verrona Hotel has the perfect location for exploring the city and is close to the amphitheatre. The rooms are very up to date with modern facilities which and the staff are helpful.
(reasonable)
10. Soave Hotel
This three start hotel is close to the train station and the highway. It offers many facilities like an in house restaurant and fitness centre. The rooms are bright and modern.
(reasonable)
Where to eat:
The Veronese are keen on horse meat or cavallo, and brased horse meat is a local speciality still today.
Pasta is also a very popular dish in the city, Pizzocheri is a buckwheat pasta with cheese and sage and is deffinately worth a taste.