Verona itinerary — 2 days

A Roman amphitheatre dating from the 1st century AD on Piazza Bra, among the best-preserved ancient arenas in the world. Built of white and pink limestone from Valpolicella, it seated up to 30,000 spectators for gladiatorial games. Since 1913 it has hosted a world-renowned open-air opera festival; by day visitors can explore the tiers and inner vaults.

A twin-arched Roman gate where the ancient Postumia road once entered Verona along its future main street. The name Borsari comes from the guards who collected tolls from travellers. The white limestone facade dates to the 1st century: two archways below, windows with porticoes and pediments above. The gate stands on Corso Porta Borsari, the Roman city's main artery, free to admire in a couple of minutes.

A magnificent late 17th-century Baroque palace presiding over Piazza delle Erbe in Verona, adorned with a rooftop balustrade bearing six statues of Roman deities. Today it houses the Luigi Carlon art collection, presenting over 600 works ranging from Renaissance masters to 20th-century icons like Picasso, de Chirico, and Fontana, plus access to a panoramic rooftop overlooking the piazza.

The charming historic heart of Verona, occupying the site of the ancient Roman forum. Framed by handsome medieval and Renaissance facades, the square features the frescoed Mazzanti Houses, baroque Palazzo Maffei, and the soaring 84-metre Lamberti Tower. At its center stands the 14th-century Madonna Verona fountain, surrounded by lively market stalls selling souvenirs, local fresh produce, and inviting outdoor cafes.

A 13th-century Gothic residence on Via Cappello, once home to the Dal Cappello family who inspired Shakespeare's Capulets. In the cobbled courtyard stands the bronze statue of Juliet — touched by visitors seeking good fortune in love — beneath entrance walls covered in romantic letters. The iconic stone balcony adorns the courtyard facade, while the interior museum displays Renaissance frescoes and props from Zeffirelli's 1968 film.

Verona's most elegant historic square, often called Piazza Dante after the poet's statue (1865) at its centre — Dante spent years of exile here under the Scaligeri lords. Medieval palazzi frame it: the town hall with the Lamberti Tower, the Loggia del Consiglio and the Palazzo del Podestà. Cafés under the old arches keep it the city's living room.

Located in the historic heart of Verona near Piazza delle Erbe, La Bottega della Gina XXL is a beloved artisan fresh pasta eatery. It is renowned for handmade stuffed pasta, particularly fresh tortellini and tortelloni with gourmet fillings ranging from pumpkin and ricotta to wild boar and Amarone-braised beef. Dishes are prepared fresh to order for quick dine-in or takeaway.

Verona's largest Gothic church, built by the Dominicans from 1290 until the end of the 15th century. Inside are columns of red Verona marble, vaults painted with flowing patterns and Pisanello's 1438 fresco of Saint George freeing the princess. At the entrance stand the famous holy-water stoups resting on the backs of stone hunchbacks. Tourists pay for entry, and a combined ticket covers Verona's other three historic churches.