Verona: Your Next City Break
Amidst the unsettling years of the pandemic, Andy and I were eager to escape and celebrate New Year's 2022 somewhere where we could travel. We knew it wouldn’t be a conventional New Year's Eve, as the whole of Europe had varying levels of rules, regulations, and restrictions. We settled on going to Italy and planned to split our five days between Verona and Venice. I am a huge fan of covering two places on a short trip, as it always creates the feeling of having been away for longer. Plus, they’re an easy train ride from each other, so it made sense. We both felt that Verona had just as much beauty as its iconic neighbour Venice, with the added bonus of feeling far less tourist-packed, a fraction of the crowds, and fewer trinket sellers. Read this post to get a flavour for what this enchanting part of Italy has to offer, and save it for when you decide to book your flights!
Fresh Truffle Hunting: The Experience of a Lifetime
The highlight of our trip was an experience we booked via Airbnb Experience: wild truffle hunting in the hills of Verona. We set off super early with Claudio and his dog Aika, to hike up into the serene hills just outside of Verona. The morning air was crisp and fresh, filled with the scent of pine and earth. We spent the day learning about the local varieties, understanding how best to search for and find precious fresh truffles (Aika was our expert guide here!), and leisurely strolling through the quaint, stunning Italian countryside. The rolling hills, dotted with vineyards and olive groves, provided a stunning backdrop for our adventure.
The highlight was our lunch stop-off at one of those places you could only dream about finding your way to. This hidden gem of a restaurant was small, packed with locals, and situated in the middle of nowhere. The chef prepared us a delicious meal of fresh pasta with olive oil, and we hand grated the fresh truffles we had literally just harvested. Each bite was incredible, the earthy richness of the truffles perfectly complementing the simplicity of the fresh handmade pasta. We then had a traditional regional rabbit stew, also piled high with fresh truffle, and a glass of local red wine to wash it down. The flavours were so pure and intense, a true testament to the region's culinary heritage. I will savour this travel moment for the rest of my life; it was a real pinch-me moment where I felt so fortunate to be able to experience the slow Italian countryside life like a local.
What to Do in Verona
Verona is a city full of history, culture, and charm. Here are some must-do activities to add to your itinerary:
Visit the Arena di Verona: This ancient Roman amphitheater, built in the first century, is one of the best-preserved in the world. It still hosts operas and concerts, and is situated in the centre. It’s unbelievably impressive and absolutely worth a wander around.
Explore Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta): Every Veronese list will have this included, as Verona is the place Shakespeare based the infamous novel, so a trip to Verona wouldn't be complete without visiting the supposed home of Shakespeare's Juliet. However, this is the only part of Verona that was brimming full of tourists at all hours of the day, so don’t plan too long here and instead I’d opt for some of the picturesque streets mentioned below.
Stroll through Piazza delle Erbe: This vibrant square is the heart of Verona's social life. Surrounded by beautiful buildings, cafes, and market stalls, it's the perfect place to soak up the city's atmosphere.
Climb Torre dei Lamberti: For the best views of Verona, climb to the top of this medieval tower. The 360-degree panorama of the city and its surroundings is simply breathtaking. As you gaze over the red-tiled rooftops and the winding Adige River, you'll understand why this city has inspired so many poets and artists.
Walk along the Adige River: Take a stroll along the riverbanks, crossing the iconic Ponte Pietra, a beautiful Roman bridge that offers views of the city.
Where to Eat and Drink in Verona
Verona's culinary scene was fascinating - I always love how wherever you travel to in Italy, the local delicacies differ depending on region and city. Verona is known for: gnocci, risotto al amarone (risotto cooked in a delightful local red wine variety), bigoli (a pasta similar to spaghetti but more thick and rough to hold sauce better!), and soft, creamy polenta. We also tried a local delicacy called Pastissada de Caval - a hearty stew made with horse meat.. It’s super traditional, dating back to ancient times. The meat is slow-cooked with red wine, onions, and various spices, resulting in a tender meaty dish that's usually served with polenta. Don’t miss these spots!
Caffe Carducci: This family-run café is perfect for morning coffee or a spritz before lunch. It's been run by four generations of the same family, offering a true taste of local life. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the cheerful chatter of the locals is the best vibe!
Antica Bottega del Vino: An amazing wine cellar and restaurant known for its extensive wine list and delicious Italian dishes.
La Taverna da Via Stella: This traditional, busy Italian restaurant is always buzzing with locals. Be sure to book a table in advance. The menu features hearty Veronese specialties like risotto all'Amarone and horse meat stew.
Ristorante Torcolo: For a classic Veronese dining experience, this restaurant offers traditional dishes in a cozy setting. The walls adorned with vintage photos and the friendly service make you feel right at home.
Re Teodorico: A cocktail bar that, despite being touristy, offers spectacular views over Verona. It's an ideal spot for an evening drink.
La Tradision: Known for its good vibes, this place is perfect for a coffee or a spritz in the early evening. The eclectic decor and relaxed atmosphere make it a great spot to unwind.
Cantina de La Reina: A charming spot to enjoy a glass of local wine. The cosy, intimate setting and excellent selection of wines make it a hidden gem.
Pizzeria da Salvatore: For the best pizza in town, head here. Nearby, Osteria ai Portegheti is a great stop for a pre-dinner drink. The thin, crispy crust and fresh toppings at this pizzeria are sure to satisfy your cravings!
The Most Picturesque Streets in Verona
Verona's streets are a photographer's dream, each corner revealing a new, enchanting view. Here are some of the most picturesque streets to explore:
Via Mazzini: This pedestrian street is the main shopping artery of Verona, lined with elegant boutiques and cafes.
Via Sottoriva: With its medieval arches and cobblestone paths, this street is bursting with old-world charm… the covered walkways and quaint shops genuinely transport you back in time.
Piazza dei Signori: Known for its stunning architecture and statues, this square is surrounded by some of Verona's most important buildings.
Corso Porta Borsari: A historic street that leads you through ancient Roman gates and is dotted with stylish shops and eateries.
Verona is a gem of a European city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and great food. Whether you're wandering its picturesque streets or enjoying a meal in a cozy trattoria, Verona has a way of making you feel like a part of its rich tapestry. The city’s enchanting ambiance, welcoming locals, and stunning landscapes ensure that it will forever hold a special place in our hearts.
We're already dreaming of our next visit.
