3. Local cuisine
Although not internationally renowned for its gastronomy, like every Italian city, Verona offers its own selection of delicious, unique, local dishes. For example, its speciality bigoli pasta alongside horse and donkey meat dishes, are both considered regional delicacieHowever, not to worry if these don’t take your fancy, Verona offers many popular pizza, pasta, fish and meat trattorie, such as the grape-vine roofed Caffé Duomo and renowned Pizzeria da Salvatore. Dopo cena, take an evening stroll through the winding streets and visit a few of the independent bars hidden down cobbled streets, that will tempt you in with their lively atmosphere and warm décor.
4. Location
Another reason to visit Verona is for its location. If you plan to visit Northern Italy for more than a few days, Verona is the perfect base. Within ten minutes by i treni Frecciarossa you can reach the famously picturesque Lago di Garda and it will only take an hour to reach other tourist hotspots such as Venice and Milan, just to mention a few. At the end of your busy day of travelling, you can sit back and enjoy a Hugo (local aperativo blend of elderflower cordial, mint, sparkling water and Prosecco) or a traditional Spritz in Castel San Pietro whilst watching the sun set behind Verona’s extraordinary skyline.
5. Beauty
Finally, if I haven’t yet convinced you, the sheer beauty of Verona will astound you. Its café-lined banks of the river Adige and colourful, intricate architecture encompassing museums, castles, gardens and cathedrals, will give you a real sense of authentic Italian life and history, without the bustling crowds and higher prices of other Italian cities. There is a reason the whole city has been awarded the title of a UNESCO world heritage site; walking through its streets is like walking into a postcard.
So, the next time you plan a well-earned escape to this beautiful country, don’t forget about Veneto’s underrated treasure, it may just surprise you
VIAGGI
Saffron Bowtell