Verona’s main attractions need no introduction, but the city has much more to offer beyond the majestic Roman amphitheatre, the opera festival, and the Shakespearean heritage. While seeking Juliet’s balcony, visitors are presented with a remarkable collection of squares, streets, churches, towers and bridges which make the city’s historical centre one of the prettiest in Northern Italy.
Exploring Verona’s Medieval centre nestled in a twisting meander of the Adige river is the best way to enjoy the “city of romance”, and we’ve picked out some of the best accommodation options available.
Hotel Torcolo
From £68/ night
Hotel Torcolo is located a mere 5-minute walk from the famous Arena di Verona in the heart of the town’s historic centre. A former tavern and inn taking its name from the grape press that was traditionally used during the harvest, the hotel still displays on its facade a fresco from its early history. Today it offers 19 individually decorated rooms, all equipped with Wi-Fi, double-glazed windows, fridge and safe. The main attractions nearby include Juliet’s House, Piazza delle Erbe and the Scaligeri Tombs, while the airport is just a 15-minute ride away. The hotel also offers a 24-hour front desk.
Hotel Gabbia d’Oro
From £252/ night
Tucked away around the corner from Piazza delle Erbe, this 5-star hotel boasts one of the best locations in Verona. It is housed in a stately 18th-century building, and its rooms range from double to luxury terraced suites. Period furniture, original frescoes and ancient paintings decorate each room as well as the communal areas, which include a winter garden, a library and an outdoor garden inspired by Medieval times. The library also functions as a conference room, making this luxury hotel suited for business and leisure travellers alike.
Hotel Colomba d’Oro
From £110/ night
When the Arena di Verona started hosting opera in 1913, the nearby Hotel Colomba d’Oro became established as the accommodation of choice for fans and artists alike. A later renovation boosted its luxury appeal, and today the hotel is a point of reference in the local hospitality offerings. Marble bathrooms, classic furniture and refined décor give each room an elegant touch, while the comforts include independent air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and minibar. Mosaics and original stone walls in the communal areas bear testimony to the building’s ancient history, which started as a 14th-century monastery.
Hotel Aurora
From £99/ night
Overlooking Piazza delle Erbe, Hotel Aurora witnesses the comings and goings in the most representative square of the city, surrounded by architecture which has stood firm throughout the ages. In good weather, such scenes can serve as a backdrop during guests’ breakfast, which can be served on the terrace. The rooms range from standard doubles to apartments and come with classic décor, private bathroom, parquet floor and a work desk. The hotel services available include 24-hour reception, buffet breakfast and free Wi-Fi.
Antica Porta Leona
From £113/ night
Some of the rooms housed in this 15th-century building are inspired by opera classics such as Tosca, Traviata, Aida and Turandot, which are performed regularly in the Arena located just 5 minutes away. Juliet’s Balcony, Piazza delle Erbe and the Scaligeri Tombs are also in the immediate surroundings, as well as a plethora of shops and restaurants in Verona’s historical centre. But staying in is also a tempting option, as Hotel Antica Porta Leona offers a wellness centre equipped with swimming pool, gym and spa. For those arriving in their own transport, the hotel also provides a valet service.