Misscityhopper

The more well-known cities of Venice, Florence, and Rome frequently eclipse Verona, a city in the Veneto region of northern Italy. However, it possesses a unique charm that makes it a destination worth visiting. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a romantic allure immortalised by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Verona offers visitors a culturally enriching and visually stunning experience.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Verona is renowned for its well-preserved mediaeval architecture, Roman ruins, and vibrant cultural scene. The historic centre showcases a blend of eras, from the ancient Roman Empire to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. The city’s atmosphere, infused with romance, history, and art, makes it an ideal day trip for travellers based in Milan.

One of the most compelling reasons to visit Verona is its association with Romeo and Juliet. The city proudly embraces its Shakespearean connection, with Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta) being a major attraction. While the tale of the star-crossed lovers is fictional, the setting in Verona is real and steeped in romance. Beyond its literary fame, Verona is home to one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world, the Arena di Verona, which is still in use today for operas and concerts. The city’s piazzas, such as Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza Bra, are vibrant with local life, offering delightful cafes, markets, and restaurants where visitors can savour Veronese cuisine and wine.

Our visit on March 9th coincided with International Women’s Day, making the experience even more special. Many attractions in Italy offered free or reduced admission to women on this day, celebrating their contributions and significance in society. This day trip promised not only cultural enrichment but also pleasant surprises.

We started with an early departure from Milan, catching a high-speed train from Milano Centrale, which took about 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach Verona. Upon arrival, we grabbed a quick breakfast at a nearby cafe, setting the tone for a day of exploration. Our first stop was the Arena di Verona and Piazza Bra, where the ancient Roman amphitheatre and lively square provided a perfect introduction to the city’s rich history and culture. 

Next, we visited Juliet’s House, a 14th-century building that inspired Shakespeare’s famous tale. Although many attractions in Italy offered free entry for women on International Women’s Day, Juliet’s House was an exception, but the small fee was well worth the experience. We then made our way to Piazza delle Erbe, Verona’s oldest square, bustling with vendors selling fresh produce, souvenirs, and local delicacies.

For lunch, we indulged in Verona’s rich culinary traditions, enjoying dishes like risotto all’Amarone and pastissada de caval, paired with local wines like Valpolicella or Soave. After lunch, we strolled to Castelvecchio and crossed the Ponte Scaligero, where we soaked in stunning views of the Adige River and reflected on Verona’s mediaeval history.

As the afternoon continued, we visited Giardino Giusti, one of Italy’s most beautiful Renaissance gardens, where we found a peaceful retreat with panoramic views of the city. Since it was International Women’s Day, we were delighted to find free entry to the gardens. Before catching our evening train back to Milan, we spent some time shopping along Via Mazzini, Verona’s main shopping street, picking up a few souvenirs to remember our day.

Our day trip from Milan to Verona on March 9th, International Women’s Day, offered a perfect blend of culture, history, and relaxation. The city’s compact size made it simple to explore on foot, and its rich history and romantic atmosphere ensured that there was something for everyone. Whether we were admiring ancient Roman architecture, immersing in Shakespearean romance, or savouring local cuisine, Verona promised a memorable experience, made even more special by the events and promotions celebrating the day.