Sipping my cappuccino in this cozy café, I'm still trying to wrap my head around my trip to Verona. I mean, Italy has always been on my bucket list, but for some reason, I hadn't given Verona much thought. Somehow, it felt like a pit stop between Venice and Milan. The best things to do in Verona? I had no idea. Spoiler alert: I came back surprised, with my heart a little fuller.
This spot? Total surprise.
Okay, so let me just start with the absolute gem I stumbled upon: Antica Bottega del Vino. I've heard of Italy being all about food and wine, but I didn't quite expect to find myself in a wine cellar that looked like it belonged in a movie. I was wandering around after a wildly unplanned morning and—honestly—hungry for something more than just a tourist trap.
I walked in, and the atmosphere was just . . . rich. The kind of place that feels so authentic, it practically oozes history. The waiters seemed like characters straight out of a classic film, animated and full of stories. And the wine? I still can't find the words. It was a local Valpolicella, silky smooth, and I couldn't tell you how much I ended up drinking, but I do remember asking the waiter what makes it so special. I thought he might just give me the usual spiel, but instead, he took the time to tell me about the vineyard's family history and how they've been doing this for generations. I hung on every word; I mean, who wouldn't want to hear about love, age-old passion, and, well, wine?
The afternoon that changed my whole mood
So, imagine my surprise when I found myself sitting next to a young couple who seemed to radiate happiness. After a few awkward glances, we struck up a conversation. It turns out they were both artists on a little tour of Europe, and suddenly, I found myself wrapped up in their world. They mentioned an art exhibit nearby, something unscheduled that they'd just heard about, and I could almost feel the universal urge to follow my whims kicking in.
“Want to join?” they asked, and before I could think too much about it, I was saying yes. I can't lie; my introverted self felt a flicker of doubt. I mean, who goes off gallivanting with strangers, right? But something told me this could be one of those “you won't regret it” moments.
Arriving at the exhibit, it turned out to be nestled in an old Palazzo. The artwork was striking, a mix of contemporary pieces strewn across rooms layered with history and ornate architecture. There was this one piece—a multimedia installation about love and longing—that stirred something deep within me. It was overwhelming in the best possible way. I glanced at my newfound friends, and we all said the same thing without uttering a word: this was magic.
I almost missed this, no thanks to my bad sense of direction
By the way, can we take a moment to discuss my terrible sense of direction? It has become a running joke among friends, and in Verona, I managed to make it worse. I wanted to see Juliet's Balcony, which, sure, is pretty cliché, but how could I resist? It was like an obligation of sorts, right?
So, off I went, confident that using my phone would be sufficient. Ten minutes later, I found myself completely lost, standing in front of an old pizza shop where the owner was enthusiastically gesturing for me to try one of his specialties. My hunger pangs were louder than my navigation skills, so I ended up ordering a slice. You wouldn't believe how life-changing a slice of Margherita can be when you weren't even looking for it. Fresh basil, gooey mozzarella, and that perfect crust? I barely noticed I was still lost until I took a moment to just breathe and relish in the ambiance.
Eventually, I asked the pizza guy for directions. He chuckled and pointed me in the right direction, but with a few extra recommendations for gelato. I didn't mind the detour at all.
The most unforgettable meal
Speaking of unforgettable, let me tell you about dinner at Osteria Le Vecete. Now, this was one of those places I just happened upon while wandering through the cobbled streets. I love the way food can anchor you. The atmosphere—dim, warm, and inviting—made you want to stay forever. My waiter, bless him, had the kind of energy that pulls you right into the moment. He recommended the risotto al tastasal—a pork-filled rice dish—I mean, how could I say no?
Every bite was like home; it wrapped itself around me, and I just couldn't stop eating even when I was full. Who can resist something so good? We started chatting about the local customs, and I felt the warmth of the Italian people. They aren't just serving food; they're sharing a piece of their heart.
Looking back, I think that meal was the highlight of my trip; it represented everything Verona felt like—unexpected, warm, and so very, very alive.
Reflecting on it all
And here I am. I keep replaying the moments in my head, how laughter with strangers over a simple meal turned into valuable memories. It's a funny dance we do, isn't it? Stepping out of our comfort zones, wandering into the unknown, all for that little spark of connection. I think—no, I know—I'll carry these moments with me forever. I found myself in places I didn't even plan to go, all thanks to wrong turns and last-minute decisions.
So, if you ever consider the best things to do in Verona, I'd say just let the city take you where it may. It might just surprise you. I've still got half a cappuccino left, and I feel like that's the best way to wrap up a day full of wanderlust. Just trying to savor every sip.
