Verona, Italy

Verona is a city that feels like a love letter to Italy itself—equal parts history, beauty, and romance. Best known as the setting of Romeo and Juliet, this enchanting destination along the Adige River is so much more than Shakespeare’s most famous love story. With its well-preserved Roman ruins, stunning piazzas, world-class wines, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Verona is a city that effortlessly blends past and present, offering travelers a taste of authentic Italian life.

Start in the heart of it all at Piazza delle Erbe, one of Italy’s most beautiful squares, where vibrant markets, elegant cafés, and medieval towers create a postcard-perfect scene. Nearby, the Piazza dei Signori—with its striking statues and Renaissance architecture—exudes a quieter, regal charm. But the real showstopper is the Arena di Verona, a Roman amphitheater older than the Colosseum and still in use today. If you’re lucky enough to visit during opera season, experiencing a performance under the stars in this 2,000-year-old arena is something you’ll never forget.

Of course, no visit to Verona is complete without a stop at Juliet’s Balcony. While the connection to Shakespeare may be more legend than fact, standing in the courtyard of Casa di Giulietta still feels undeniably magical. For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, cross the Ponte Pietra and climb up to Castel San Pietro, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the city’s terracotta rooftops and rolling hills beyond.

Verona’s charm extends to its culinary and wine scene as well. This is Valpolicella country, meaning you’re in the perfect place to sip a bold Amarone or a smooth Ripasso alongside classic regional dishes like bigoli pasta with duck ragù or pastissada de caval, a slow-cooked Veronese specialty.

Elegant, romantic, and steeped in history, Verona is a city that invites you to slow down and savor every moment. Whether you come for the ancient ruins, the wine, or simply to wander its charming streets, Verona is a destination that stays with you long after you’ve left.