Verona
The city of Romeo and Juliet, with a Roman arena that hosts the world's most magical opera season.
About Verona
Verona is one of northern Italy's most beautiful cities, a place where Roman ruins, medieval palaces, and Renaissance gardens coexist along the banks of the Adige River. The Roman Arena—Italy's best-preserved amphitheatre after the Colosseum—hosts an annual summer opera festival that's one of the world's great cultural experiences: Aida with real elephants, under the stars, in a 2,000-year-old arena. Beyond Shakespeare's fictional lovers (Juliet's Balcony is a tourist trap, but the city's romantic atmosphere is real), Verona offers a stunning Romanesque cathedral complex, the Castelvecchio bridge, and excellent restaurants serving horse-meat pastissada, bigoli pasta, and Amarone wine from the Valpolicella hills just outside town.
Best Time to Visit
June to September for the Arena opera season. April to October for pleasant city exploring. The Vinitaly wine fair in April is the world's largest. Christmas brings atmospheric markets in Piazza dei Signori.
Local Tips
- See opera in the Arena.
The summer opera season in a 2,000-year-old amphitheatre is unforgettable. A local will tell you to buy the cheap stone seats (bring a cushion), arrive early for the candle-lighting at dusk, and skip the interval to keep your spot.
- Tour the Valpolicella wineries.
The hills north of Verona produce Amarone—one of Italy's most powerful and prestigious reds. A local knows the family cantinas in Fumane and Sant'Ambrogio where tastings include rare vintages and a lesson in the appassimento drying process.
- Cross the Ponte Pietra at sunset.
Verona's oldest bridge, dating to the Roman era, offers the best views of the city and the river. A local will time a walk across for sunset and end at the Castel San Pietro viewpoint above for a panoramic aperitivo.
(the local lens)
Meet the Local Experts
Your on-the-ground insiders. The ones who know the enduring favourites, the quiet corners and what’s worth your time.
Loris
Venice, Treviso +13
Hello fellow travellers! I'm Loris, from the Veneto region of Italy, and I've spent the last few years hopping between cities in Europe and Asia, always seeking new challenges and experiences. My latest stop has landed me in Zurich. I have an undeniable love for the outdoors and all things adventure. Whether I'm sailing across the crystal open waters of the Mediterranean Sea, exploring the underwater world through scuba diving, carving up the slopes on a snowboard, or hiking through breathtaking mountain trails in the Dolomites, I'm always seeking that next adrenaline rush. My passion for travel was ignited at a young age. My first trip abroad was to Thailand when I was just 3yo (thanks Dad), and I've been hooked ever since. That exposure sparked a curiosity within me to discover new places and cultures around the globe. For me travelling is more than sightseeing, it's about immersing yourself in the local way of life. I love wandering through bustling markets, inhaling the aromas of exotic spices, and savoring the unique flavors of local cuisine. I'm fascinated by connecting with people from different walks of life, learning about their customs and traditions, and gaining a deeper understanding of their world. So, are you ready to pack your bags and embark on an incredible journey? Let's explore the world together and create lasting memories, one adventure at a time!
Beatrice
Venice, Treviso +4
Hey! I'm Beatrice. I come from Treviso, a little gem just outside Venice. I love trekking in the Dolomites, swimming in mountain lakes, and exploring new places. I work as a travel co-ordinator and I love exploring. Food is definitely my Achilles’ heel, I just can’t resist it! Especially Tiramisù (that was invented in my beautiful city: Treviso). I’m deeply in love with my region, Veneto, and I’m always happy to share it with others (because there’s so much more than just Venice). That said, even in Venice I know some hidden gems that are absolutely worth discovering 😉 Whether it’s uncovering hidden natural spots, planning outdoor adventures, or diving into local traditions, I love creating genuine, memorable experiences that go beyond the usual tourist paths.
Andrea
Latina, Rome +13
I'm Andrea, I have visited over 50 countries around the world. I speak English and Spanish, and traveling has always been my way of truly understanding how places work, not just seeing them. Despite this, Italy remains the place I'm most attached to. I've always lived and worked there, and over the years I've traveled extensively throughout the country: not as a tourist, but by immersing myself in local dynamics, getting to know the people, businesses, and regions firsthand. This is precisely what makes the difference. I've built a solid network of local contacts throughout Italy: entrepreneurs, professionals, and reliable operators, people I've worked with or know directly. These aren't generic suggestions, but real connections. I love Italy because it's incredibly diverse: each area has its own identity, rules, and opportunities. It's a country that can offer so much, but only if you know how to navigate it. I've invested years learning this firsthand, and today I can guide people in a practical, direct, and effective way. In short: I don't just offer advice, but access to a proven local network and concrete knowledge of the area!
Daniela
Venice, Vicenza +2
I’m a Professional Tour Guide based in the Veneto region, and I help travelers design meaningful journeys through Venice and Northern Italy. I know this region not only through study, but through years of living and working here. From the canals of Venice and its lagoon to historic cities, elegant villas, and the landscapes of the Venetian countryside, I help travelers experience the area beyond the usual tourist paths. My goal is to create itineraries that feel natural, well paced, and rich in authentic experiences. I love suggesting special places, local restaurants, scenic routes, and encounters that reveal the true character of the region. If you want to explore Venice and the Veneto with the insight of someone who truly knows the area, I’ll be happy to help you plan your journey.