In the city of Romeo and Juliet

The City of Love and Ancient Stone Arena

It is here, among the red brick walls and Renaissance palaces, that Shakespeare set the drama of Romeo and Juliet. Although the author himself never visited Verona, it is this story that today draws crowds of tourists to the city.

The most famous stop is, of course, Casa di Giulietta — a medieval townhouse with a charming courtyard. Couples line up daily under Juliet's balcony, and it is tradition to rub the bronze breast of Juliet's statue for good luck in love. The place is a bit touristy, but hard to skip — if only for a fun photo.

A little further away stands the majestic Arena di Verona — a Roman amphitheater older than the famous Colosseum. For centuries it hosted gladiator fights, today on summer evenings it resounds with open-air opera. Even if you don't plan to attend a performance, it's well worth stepping inside or taking a walk around it.

The Most Beautiful Squares and Castle Above the City

The heart of Verona is Piazza delle Erbe — once a Roman forum, now a bustling market and meeting spot. Surrounding it are colorful townhouses, arcades, and palaces with the coats of arms of ancient families. Nearby, the more elegant Piazza dei Signori invites you for a relaxed coffee in the shadow of statues and loggias.

You also can't miss Castelvecchio — a 14th-century castle with a massive red bridge (Ponte Scaligero), now one of Verona's symbols. The castle today houses an art museum, but even a walk through its courtyard and the walls overlooking the Adige River is impressive.

For those wanting a panoramic view of Verona, a climb up to Castel San Pietro is highly recommended. The former fortress now stands abandoned, but the view from the terrace over the old town rooftops, the bends of the river, and the distant Alps is among the best in the city. You can reach it on foot (steep but worth it!) or by taking the funicular.

Exploring the City of Romeo and Juliet by Camper

Verona is also a great destination for camper travelers. Instead of struggling with parking in the center, the best option is to stay at the well-regarded Parking Camper Service Porta Palio — full services (electricity, water, waste disposal) for about 10 euros per day.

From there, it's just a 15-minute walk or a few minutes by bike to the old town. The spot is quiet, well-rated, and very popular among camper enthusiasts from across Europe.

When to Go, What to Eat, How to Plan

Verona is at its best in spring or autumn — that's when you can avoid the crowds and the heat. Summer can be hot, but the evening concerts in the Arena easily make up for a day in the sun.

You won't have to look far for good food. As is typical in Italy, you can find excellent thin-crust pizza almost anywhere, but it's worth visiting Osteria Sottoriva — a local spot under the arcades serving simple Italian dishes. And for dessert, a must-try is the ice cream from Gelateria La Romana — it is almost legendary in Verona.

Verona in a Nutshell — Practical Summary

Getting there: by car (from Poland, Germany, Czech Republic — approx. 8–12 hours), by plane to Verona or nearby Milan/Venice + train.

Accommodation: city center (apartments), San Zeno district, for campers — Parking Camper Service Porta Palio.

Main sights: Arena di Verona, Casa di Giulietta, Piazza delle Erbe, Castelvecchio, Castel San Pietro hill.

How to explore: on foot, by bike; the city is compact.

When to go: best in spring/autumn.

Where to eat: Osteria Sottoriva, Gelateria La Romana.

Verona is a city perfectly suited for a weekend getaway. In two days you can easily explore its main sights, soak up the atmosphere of old Italy, and understand why Shakespeare chose this place for his greatest love story.

And who knows — perhaps after touching Juliet's breast, fortune will smile on your love life too…