Explore the Magnificent Cities of Verona and Mantua

Juliet's House is a Gothic-style building from the 1300s with a stone balcony that is said to have inspired Shakespeare's play. You can choose to explore inside or skip it and stroll around the city instead.
Opening Hours: Monday: Closed Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 – 19:00, last admission at 18:30

Piazza delle Erbe is a bustling marketplace surrounded by stunning architecture. Explore one of Italy's most historic and picturesque squares, over 2,000 years old. If you decide to skip Juliet's house, you can spend more time exploring the piazza and all it offers.

Piazza dei Signori is a picturesque square surrounded by notable buildings and cafés. Here you'll find the statue of the Italian writer Dante Alighieri.

The Ponte Pietra bridge has a traditional Roman arch design and offers excellent views. As Renaissance architects drew upon Roman techniques for inspiration for their masterpieces, this is a great spot to see the original methods that inspired them.

Take the funicular to one of the most beautiful panoramic terraces over Verona called Castel San Pietro. You can opt to skip the meal at the restaurant and bring your own snack and enjoy the views.
Open daily 10:00 – 21:00

Stop by for a drink or a light lunch at this hilltop bar and enjoy the views of Verona before you head back to your car and get on the road.
Open daily 12:00 – 24:00

Mantua (Mantova in Italian) was a cultural powerhouse during the 16th century. It is famous for its architectural treasures, elegant palaces, and medieval and Renaissance cityscape. This was the home of the Gonzaga rulers, who left a lasting legacy and beautiful palazzos.

You can stay at any hotel you choose. I recommend staying at Palazzo Bonacolsi, also known as Palazzo Castiglioni. It is a 13th-century Gothic-style aristocratic palace located in the center of the town. The hotel offers onsite parking, so you can start exploring without worrying about your car. If you choose to stay elsewhere, staff can direct you to the nearest parking lot.

Make your way to the Ducal Palace. This Renaissance fortress was once home to the powerful Gonzaga family. Noteworthy rooms include the Camera degli Sposi, Gallery of Mirrors, Hall of Rivers and more. Make sure to look up! Frescoes by Mantegna and Pisanello are a must-see.
Opening Hours: Monday 8:45 – 14:00 Tuesday to Friday: 8:45 – 19:15 Saturday & Sunday: Closed

This 14th-century Gonzaga family fortress is an excellent example of Renaissance architecture. It's surrounded by a moat with three draw bridges and a large tower in each corner.
Opening Hours: Monday: Closed Tuesday to Sunday: 8:45 – 19:15

Piazza Delle Erbe is a picturesque square surrounded by historical buildings. Here you'll find several buildings of great historical value, including Pallazo della Regione (1250) and the oldest church in the city, the Rotonda di San Lorenzo (1082).

Finish your day with a traditional meal at this welcoming eatery with local flavours. Head back to the hotel or stroll around the city after dinner.
Opening Hours: Monday to Wednesday: 12:30 – 14:30, 19:00 – 22:30 Thursday: Closed Friday & Saturday: 12:30 – 14:30, 19:00 – 22:30 Sunday 12:30 – 14:30

Head back to your hotel and get some rest. Tomorrow, the trip will take you to two new Renaissance towns.