Verona has always been situated at a very important crossroads for trade in Italy, both for passages from north to south and east to west, and its origins go back to Roman times. Lovers of Shakespeare will also know that it’s the setting for arguably his most famous play, Romeo and Juliet. Today, it’s one of the less touristy cities in the Veneto and is rich in pink-coloured medieval buildings, sights to see and places to eat and drink. Its position in the region means it’s also the ideal starting point if you’re hiring a car in Verona, and you can head off and explore Treviso and Venice too.
The Roman influence can still be widely seen in Verona, not least at the Arena. This huge monument which sits at the centre of the city was built in the first century AD as a home for gladiatorial games. Even though it was damaged by an earthquake in the 12th century, it is still in use today as one of Europe’s most dramatic open-air opera venues. The city’s main square is Piazza delle Erbe. Formerly the fruit and vegetable market, today it is a buzzing mix of food and antiques stalls. It’s also just round the corner from Casa di Giulietta, the supposed 14th-century home of Shakespeare’s Juliet, but if you’re planning to venture further afield, rent a car in Verona so you can also take in nearby cities.
