General information
Program details
Your day starts early in Venice, from where you’ll be spirited away to Verona in an air-conditioned mini bus, straight to a photo stop at Colle di San Pietro. Enjoy the panoramic views of Verona from above and learn to understand why it was the perfect setting for the world’s greatest romance. Starting our tour from the foot of a castle overlooking the town, you’ll take it all in at once. The towering spires, the castle walls, the river that hugs its curves: Verona is as romantic as it gets.
After some stunning photos from the viewpoint (sure to be the envy of your friends) you’ll take a lovely walk down into the city. Along the way you’ll stop off for a skip the line visit to the ancient Roman amphitheatre, a 1st century marvel that is one of the greatest amphitheatres in Italy and also among the top opera venues in the world. You’ll also see the Verona Duomo from the outside, and pop into the beautiful Basilica of Saint Anastasia.
Then it’s on to Verona’s top attraction: The home of Shakespeare’s Juliet, where, from the outside, you gaze up at the famed balcony where Romeo is said to have done his wooing. There is also a statue of Juliet herself whose breast you can rub for good luck - just make sure Romeo’s not around.
With that box ticked, we’ll take you into the historic center to uncover the real story of the city that served as the colorful backdrop for Shakespeare’s classic. You’ll visit the gorgeous plazas, Piazza Bra and Piazza delle Erbe to see the Palazzo Maffei, the Palazzo Barbieri (Town Hall) and the famous Mazzanti Houses whose facades are decorated with beautiful 16th-century frescoes. You’ll also stop by the Piazza Dante to pay your respects at the statue of Italy’s most famous writer.
Lunch is not included, so you can choose where you want to eat or ask your guide for recommendations. Local specialties include risotto, polenta and even donkey meat!
The afternoon will included a walk along the river past the Casa di Romeo - yes, that Romeo - and two very famous arches, the ancient Roman gates of Porta Borsari and the Arco della Costa, where you’ll learn about one of most bizarre local legends ever (it involves a pure-hearted person and a dangling whale bone).
You’ll also get a chance to pay your respects at the Scaligeri family tombs - incredible examples of gothic architecture that hold the remains of one of Verona’s most important families - gape up at Lamberti tower, and saunter over the iconic Castelvecchio bridge, all before your guide puts you back on the train to Venice.
Our small group tours offer unparalleled access to your expert, English-speaking guide. In their capable company you won’t just see Verona, you’ll walk through the heart of its history and culture to get a deep, personal understanding of what makes it such a special place.
Meeting/pick-up point: We meet in Piazzale Roma by the bridge called "Ponte della Costituzione". If you are standing in Piazzale Roma, facing the bridge, we meet on the right hand side.
Duration: 9hours.
Start/opening time: Meeting Time: 8:45am // Departure Time: 9:00am
End/closing time: 6pm.
Drop-off location: Venice Train Station Santa Lucia.
Dress code: Please remember that churches visited during the tour are holy places, and attire must be appropriate for the visit. Both men and women are asked to wear clothing that covers at least the shoulders and knees. Supplier cannot be held responsible for denied entry due to improper dress.
Languages: English.
Others: Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate guests with mobility impairments, wheelchairs or strollers on this tour.
Comfortable walking shoes recommended.
Italiano