A city so magical the entire place has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site: Verona holidays make it clear the legendary city of love more than lives up to its billing.

After all, it takes a special city to be the centrepiece of one of Shakespeare’s most famous plays, Romeo and Juliet. The labyrinthine city is full of hidden treasures, spots serving unforgettable meals, and artisan stores that you can spend hours in one day and not be able to find the next. The ancient, cobbled streets only add to the wonder of this place, holding onto its 13th century essence, when this regional capital was newly built. Verona tours can help you meander your way through without getting too lost in the past.

However, Verona doesn’t just rely on its past reputation. There’s a healthy cultural scene here that shows how the city is thriving in a new millennium. With that said, there are dozens of great museums and galleries showing off its illustrious past and deep links to the Renaissance. The city also has a bustling nightlife, with throngs gathering in the main squares, especially the Piazza Bra which buzzes throughout the day. Once you visit, it’ll be obvious why the Bard set his most famous love story here.

Like most of Italy the Verona locals are fiercely proud of their food, and one of the best examples of this uses two homegrown favourites: Risotto Amarone. This red-wine, rice-based dish is both filling yet delicate; an excellent meal to end the day with.T hose with a sweet tooth will have to try Torta Russa. Made with rum and almonds, this sugary dish is easily devoured, so make sure you get a big enough box!

Amarone is not just a cooking ingredient, the wine itself is one of the finest in the world. Grab a glass, or two, of this local favourite and you’ll be awed by the complex flavours.