Romeo and Juliet Tour Verona: All the Top Locations

‘Romeo and Juliet’, Shakespeare’s timeless tale, it’s a story of forbidden love and tragic destiny, that continues to draw people from around the globe to many of its iconic landmarks. Written in the late 16th century, it remains a literary masterpiece thanks to its universal themes, relatable characters, and poignant exploration of the human condition. Below we’ll walk you through the perfect Romeo and Juliet Verona itinerary, allowing you to get lost in the realm of passionate love.

Verona is the city that served as a backdrop for Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare’s iconic love story. Known for its charming piazzas and hidden courtyards, Verona creates a romantic atmosphere that perfectly complements the narrative of Romeo and Juliet.

Juliet’s house: romeo and juliet balcony in verona

Situated on Via Cappello, Juliet’s House is conveniently located near other sights and attractions, just a short walk away from the Piazza delle Erbe. It’s also easily accessible by bus with the closest stop being Stradone San Fermo. Although Juliet’s House is a beloved tourist attraction, it doesn’t have any connection to the story. It’s believed to have belonged to the Cappello family, whose daughter was also called Juliet. The house itself is a medieval structure which was made into a Shakespeare museum by Antonio Avena, well-known restorer from Verona. His purpose was to celebrate the legend making his city popular, in fact he was also the one adding the famous balcony overlooking the beautiful courtyard.
At the centre of the courtyard, you will also find the bronze statue of Juliet, which is a copy of the original by Nereo Constantini from 1969. It was replaced due to deterioration, since it is a tradition to touch the right breast for good luck (Don’t forget to do it!). If you’re excited to learn more about the cultural and literary significance of this site, inside you can visit a small museum showcasing artefacts and exhibits linked to the classic tale of love. You can also leave a love letter or a message addressed to Juliet, many people affix it to the entrance gate or tuck it into the cracks of the walls! However, since this has become a popular practice of expressing hopes, dreams, and romantic sentiments, there is now a letterbox in the courtyard dedicated to these messages!

Romeo’s house

Another important step on your Romeo and Juliet’s tour in Verona is Romeo’s House. It’s located on Via delle Arche Scaligere, close to the famous Scala Family Tombs. Although it’s less visited than Juliet’s House, it offers a unique look at Verona’s medieval past. The significance of his house is heightened by the fact that Romeo was banished from Verona as a consequence of killing Tybalt, Juleit’s cousin, in a duel. This adds to the drama and tragedy of the story, serving as a pivotal moment in the intense feud between the Montagues and the Capulets. Visiting Romeo’s House will enable you to experience the emotional turmoil of the narrative and understand the gravity of his exile from his beloved city.
You can easily get there by walking from Piazza delle Erbe. For those using public transportation, there are a few bus routes near the historic centre. It’s a private palace, which is said to have been owned by the Montecchini family. The only part which can be visited by the public is on the ground floor with the Al Duca tavern, where you can try some delicious local dishes. Moreover, since you will be in Italy’s largest wine region, it can also be a great idea to learn more about the best Venetian wines and how to pair them for the ultimate experience in Verona. At the Signorvino la Torre wine bar you can taste some of the best local wines, which you can also purchase at the wine shop.

Apart from the respective homes of the two characters, there are several other key places, which you may want to add to your list.

Verona Cathedral

One of the city’s most important religious landmarks is the Verona Cathedral, associated with one of the play’s most devastating moments: the scene where Romeo learns of Juliet’s supposed death. This magnificent cathedral is an example of Romanesque architecture with Gothic elements, dating back to the 12th century.

San Francesco al Corso Church and Juliet’s tomb

San Francesco al Corso Church and Juliet’s tomb are also deeply intertwined with the tale of Romeo and Juliet. Juliet’s tomb is believed to be located in the underground crypt of the church. It is a simple, empty sarcophagus, which has become a symbol of eternal love and tragedy. This site is also associated with the secret marriage that took place between the two star-crossed lovers. Although the church is now deconsecrated, it remains significant from an artistic perspective, as it houses the G.B. Cavalcaselle Fresco Museum of Verona, showcasing a remarkable collection of frescoes.

Romeo and Juliet’s castles

In addition to Romeo and Juliet’s house in Verona, you can also visit a few castles, which are often linked to the families of Montagues and Capulets.
● The first one is the Castle of the Villa, also known as Romeo’s Castle, and is situated in Montecchio Maggiore. It’s a medieval fortress, renowned for its imposing stone walls.
● The second one is the Castle of Bellaguardia, or Juliet’s Castle, perched atop a hill in Montecchio Maggiore, overlooking the surrounding countryside.
While there are no direct mentions of these two castles in Shakespeare’s play, their association with the families adds to the romantic mystique of this legendary love story.

For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the romance of a Verona Romeo and Juliet itinerary, staying at Hotel Veronesi la Torre can be an excellent choice. To enhance your experience, consider exploring the romance packages on offer, allowing you to plan your dream getaway with your other half, whether you’re on your honeymoon or simply looking for a relaxing escape. Additionally, make your stay unforgettable by extending your holiday to enjoy Verona’s other attractions. Find out what to see in Verona in 1 day, if you don’t have much time, but want to make the most of it.