Verona isn't just about smooching in candlelight, strolling hand in hand and sharing bowls of spaghetti – we wouldn't do that to you. In fact, this city makes a cheap and easy city break, filled with food and drink. Love romance? Yeah, you can get your fill of that too.
CASA DI GIULIETTA
Verona is the setting for that Shakespeare classic Romeo and Juliet, so a visit to Juliet's balcony is one of those things you just have to do. Join the throngs of spotty teens touching up Juliet's breast (it brings luck in love, apparently), before shuffling back out of the courtyard to the Verona Arena – a staggering example of Roman architecture. Wander around Piazza Bra, and if you're visiting over Valentine's Day, the square will be strewn with lanterns and, erm, excitable lovers.
APEROL SPRITZ, BAR SAN ZENO
Two things in Verona cost €2.50: entry into the churches (and there are very many), OR you could go for an Aperol Spritz (a bitter but refreshing concoction of Aperol and Prosecco). We're fond of both. You'll find a spritz in any bar, but our favourite – Bar San Zeno – is a short walk from town. It has a great local vibe (grannies eating ice cream comes as standard) and decent aperitivo (that's tea-time snacks).
PALAZZO VICTORIA
Right in the centre of the action, this boutique hotel comes with its own load of history (underground Roman ruins can be viewed from the lobby and main bar). Inside it'll indulge all your fresco fantasies with original 14th- century artwork in the hallways and suites. The bedrooms are pretty decadent too – vicious jets will pummel you from every angle in the bath, and the views are great. Breakfast is a full-on feast – if you're going to pinch bread rolls from the buffet, this is the place to do it. palazzovictoria.com
