Verona Opera Break

Fly to Verona, check in to your chosen hotel, then head out into the city. One of the best things to do in Verona is sit square-side, so make a beeline for Verona’s heart, Piazza Bra. Aperitivo, a popular Italian tradition, is enjoyed late afternoon and early evening. Pull up a chair in one of the many restaurants that line the square, sip on an aperitif and people watch. If you enjoy dinner here, you’ll have your first experience of the opera – you should be able to hear the music and singing from tonight’s performance, so listen out! 

Today is for exploring the city. Take a photo at the world-famous Juliet’s balcony, stroll across the Ponte Pietra, and climb the stairs of the Torre dei Lamberti. Stop to rest your feet for a caffè at a coffee shop or two. This evening, you head for the opera. After hearing it from Piazza Bra yesterday, now is your chance to experience what this imposing amphitheatre is all about. This year, the festival is showing (among others) Nabucco, Aida, Rigoletto, Tosca and Madama Butterfly. Performances start at 9pm in June and July, and 8.45pm in August. Ensure you get there in plenty of time and check out our guide to the Verona Opera Festival for advice and tips about where to sit, when to arrive and what to wear. We recommend booking seats in the stalls to make sure you’re comfortable for the long performances.

After a night at the opera, there is another full day to explore Verona. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the beautiful Giusti Gardens and visit the 14^th-century Castelvecchio and the adjoining fortified bridge (even just for the views across the River Adige). Just before the sun sets, head for the Castel San Pietro hill. Cameras at the ready – this spot offers up one of the best panoramic views of the city. Your last evening in Verona can be spent eating al fresco in another one of the city’s charming restaurants.