Everyone associates Verona with Romeo and Juliet, but the city has so much more to offer. In fact, thanks to its historic city centre and its architecture, this wonderful metropolis in the Veneto region is a UNESCO World Heritage site. If you have one day to visit this picturesque city, here is a list of things to do in Verona, obviously taking your four-legged friend along with you!
Monuments
Whilst it would take at least three days to truly explore Verona, you can still admire the main attractions in just one day.
1) PIAZZA BRA. At is heart is the immense and majestic Arena, with the 17th-century Gran Guardia Palace on the southern side. Opposite is the Palazzo Barbieri, in full neoclassical style and currently serving as the Town Hall. If you want to do some shopping, stroll along Via Mazzini, the most popular and elegant street in the city. Just bear in mind that our furry friends are not always permitted, so do like Mila who has little Nala in her With Me dog carrier!
2) VERONA ARENA. The symbol of the city, the Verona Arena attracts millions of visitors each year, not only to admire its beauty and history, but also to attend the large-scale events and concerts held within. This Roman amphitheatre, built in the 1st century AD, is one of the world’s grandest. Completely intact, the interior is not open to dogs but simply admiring this monument from the outside is enough to bask in its majesty!
3) PIAZZA DELLE ERBE
Considered as one of the most beautiful squares in Italy, Piazza delle Erbe is built on an ancient Roman forum. It houses several impressive buildings, such as the Palazzo della Ragione, Case Mazzanti, Palazzo Maffei and Casa dei Mercanti. The centre of the square is dominated by the Madonna di Verona fountain, built in the 14th century. The mix of styles renders this piazza one of a kind! There are also stalls where you can buy typical local foods.
4) JULIET’S HOUSE. Walking through a passageway whose walls are entirely covered with declarations of love, you reach a courtyard overlooked by the famous balcony. Here, we find the famous bronze statue of Juliet, with which it is mandatory to take a picture (for good luck)!
Where to Eat
Verona truly is a pet-friendly city. In fact, our four-legged friends are welcome in many bars and restaurants. For a healthy lunch or snack, head to Saos, a trendy eatery close to Piazza Bra, specialising in green and vegetarian dishes, such as fruit centrifuges and tasty salads. There is also a nice forecourt perfect for pooches. If you prefer a burger, stop in at the adjacent Oblò, where dogs are also welcomed with open arms. For those who prefer to savour a fantastic Risotto all’Amarone, the Antica Bottega del Vino is a must. This exclusive historic restaurant may not be cheap but it is perfect when dining with Fido in tow.
Where to enjoy a pre-dinner drink
As in any city in the Veneto region, having an aperitif in Verona is a ritual! Enjoy a Spritz in Piazza Erbe, a favoured meeting point in the city especially during the summer. The Osteria del Bugiardo is a must for the Veronese. Offering quality wines and delicious appetizers, dogs are readily received! One location where you and your dog can go is Caffé Mazzanti, also in Piazza delle Erbe. Buzzing at all hours of the day and night, hundreds of people (and their pooches) hang out at this establishment, its historical location being truly unique!