Verona is familiar to any student of English literature as the setting of Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’, though the Bard himself never actually set foot in this fair city. For those of us lucky enough to visit in person, here’s our run down on this fabulous Italian destination.

Verona is situated in the Veneto region, northern Italy, around 2 hours drive from Venice, and is well served by it’s Valerio Catullo airport, just 15 minutes from the centre. The Romans loved the place, and it has a wealth of incredible architecture from the period. Most notable is the Arena, one of the best preserved Roman amphitheatres in Italy. Constructed in the first century AD, the Arena is still a working venue, though you are more likely to catch stunning opera performances these days than gladiatorial combat. With an incredible 44 levels, the Arena can hold up to 22,000 spectators, so it’s a major spectacle in its own right. Do try and catch the city’s famous opera season if that’s your thing, as the Arena provides an unforgettable backdrop.

Piazza delle Erbe is another highlight with Roman connections, having been the site of the forum in antiquity. Nowadays it’s one of Italy’s most picturesque squares, but has that lived in quality that Verona has in spades. A trip to Verona is about experiencing real Italian life, despite the dubious Shakespeare connections you’ll see advertised. Piazza delle Erbe has some magnificent buildings from various historic periods, fountains and statues, and plenty of cafes for sitting out and enjoying an aperitivo. When in Verona, right? It’s also the location for some serious food markets, so if you are planning to cook during your stay then it’s a must.

The Ponte di Castelvecchio is another landmark, originally constructed in the first century AD before finally being destroyed during World War II. Painstakingly reconstructed with original elements, its crenellated walls are hugely evocative, and a stroll across the river gives you an immense sense of history. Verona doesn’t rest entirely on its historical laurels though and is a vibrant cultural centre with a great food scene. Numerous restaurants and bars serve both traditional and forward-thinking Italian cuisine, and the produce of the local Valpolicella vineyards is to be found and enjoyed in abundance. Naturally the best way to find the best spots is to get some info from the locals. Fortunately, Laura and Gian Matteo, owners, and creators of the Butterfly Boutique Rooms, are on hand to advise guests about the hottest tables in town.

With a far-reaching aesthetic vision, Verona natives Laura and Gian have designed and curated the Butterfly Boutique Rooms with a strict Made in Italy ethos. Their aim is to give their guests a true sense of Italian living, complemented by breathtaking comfort, and surrounded by the very best of Italian design. Each of the 5 rooms and 2 suites represents an entire design environment, from the choice of fabrics to the lighting, allowing for an ultimately relaxing visit. Located in a quiet and secluded street, the Butterfly Boutique Rooms is within easy walking distance from the historic city centre and all the main shopping streets, restaurants, and bars, so guests feel truly immersed in the neighbourhood.

We believe the Butterfly Boutique Rooms make the perfect location to enjoy the vibrant and exciting city of Verona by day or night, before retiring to your very own luxurious nest to unwind. Leaving will be difficult, we warn you…