Resting on the Serpentine River Adige and back dropped by green hills with laden orchards, Verona is a magical blend of ancient history, inspirational music, sacred art and world-renowned gastronomy exemplified by classical wines.

The city welcomes visitors with wide esplanades paved in russet marble, which stroll to courtly piazzas graced with artistic buildings. A host of impressive churches, including San Maggiore, protest a piety that appears to be contradicted by the luxuriant opulence of Piazza Bra, Piazza dei Signori and piazza Erbe close to which Shakespeare set his tragic love story, Romeo and Juliet.

Verona’VERONAs Roman amphitheatre possesses miraculous acoustic properties, which welcome an unrivalled opera festival, featuring the works of master composers interpreted by a star-studded cast.

The population of VERONA also enjoys a sumptuous social life conducted in cafes, wine bars and restaurants. Café Dante, established in 1865, on Piazza dei Signori is a hotbed of intellectual fervour whose patrons first decided to stage operatic events in the city’s Roman Arena.

To glimpse decorative divas indulging in their second most cherished passion, at least one visit to Ristorante II Cenacolo, via Teatro Filarmonico, should be attempted. Its walls are prepared with complimentry letters praising its cuisine written by Jose Carreras, Luciano Pavarotti and Kiri Te Kanawa.

Another equally famous establishment is Ristorante 12 Apostoli, Corticella San Marco. Plates sing with pescatrice alle mandorle (monkfish in almond sauce) and bowls of tortellini with white truffle shavings. Hosts of other attractions include the stylish boutiques on Via Mazzini, the Giusti Gardens, the Gothic tombs of Arche Scaligere and Juliet’s balcony.

ITALY TAILOR MADE FOR YOU

Everyone wants something different from their holiday and Citalia’s personal service and flexible approach helps clients get exactly what they desire. Their dedicated and Knowledgeable Advisors are on-hand to give you the very best advice. Using their specialist knowledge of Italy, they will recommend the best transport, timings, routes, properties and even excursions to ensure you get the best use of your time away.

THE SIGHTS

Piazza Bra` & Arena

Natural History Museum

Archaeological Museum

Juliet’s balcony

Giusti Gardens

Gothic tomb of Arche Scaligere

Gallery of Modern Art

Piazza dei Signori

San Zeno Maggiore

For a truly unforgettable experience, spend an evening at the finest outdoor theatre in Italy. VERONA’s renowned 1^st century Roman Arena is the venue for a breathtaking season of opera which runs each year from the end of June until early September.