Bursting with history, Shakespearean sights and music-filled piazzas, holidays to Verona serve up generous helpings of culture – and spaghetti.

Star-crossed lovers

Juliet's balcony is the top Shakespearean attraction in this Renaissance city in south-west Veneto, but Montagues and Capulets alike will find photo-worthy spots everywhere they turn, too. Take a break from sightseeing in a lively square, or hit the back streets to dine on the classic pizza and pasta that Italy's known for.

Mystical melodies

Opera under the stars – it doesn't get much more romantic than that. Grab a vineyard-fresh wine and soak up the sounds at the Roman amphitheatre in Piazza Bra. Belt out your own tune from the viewing platform at the top of Torre dei Lamberti tower, where you'll get the best views of the city.

Spooky history

Much like the scenes in Shakespeare's play, Verona's got a bloody past – the city was ruled by the brutal Scaligeri family for much of the 13th and 14th centuries. You can visit their elaborate Gothic tombs – the Arche Scaligeri – outside Santa Maria Antica Church. To dive deeper into Verona's history, check out the Civic Archaeological Museum at the Roman Theatre.

Out and about

Here are some ideas of things to do when staying in Verona:

• Guided walking tours
• Open-air concerts
• Castle
• Museum
• Local museum
• Cultural museum
• Art gallery
• Bike hire
• Historical churches

At a Glance

  • Soak up the romance from Juliet's balcony
  • Watch an open-air opera at the amphitheatre
  • Take in the view at the top of Torre dei Lamberti tower

TOP THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN VERONA

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NIGHTLIFE

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