Verona has a wealth of attractions, many of which are based around the Shakespearean classic Romeo and Juliet. The houses of the Capulets and Montagues are by far the most popular sights in the city, despite the Capulet house not being where the real family lived. Other must-sees include the enormous Roman amphitheatre and the clock tower in the main square.

Amphitheatre (Arena di Verona)
The Arena is the largest Roman amphitheatre in northern Italy. It is also one of the largest in Italy, with only the Colosseum and the amphitheatre at Capua being bigger. It was built in the first century AD and was the site for gladiator battles and public executions. Today, however, it is an open-air concert hall used for musical and operatic productions. It is the host of the city’s opera festival every year, as it can sit up to 25,000 people. Phone: +39 45 800 5151

Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore
One of the more popular sights in Verona, this 12th-century Romanesque church boasts a stunning rose window and beautiful relief sculptures. The highlights of the building are the bronze panelled doors and murals which blend together beautifully. The artwork is a combination of Romanesque, Byzantine and Ottoman styles.

Old Castle (Castelvecchio)
This medieval castle was built between 1354 and 1356 by the della Scala family. In 1925, it was converted from a defence fortress to a museum and today is home to some unique artwork by medieval artists as well by Pisanello, Veronese and Tintoretto. There are also medieval weapons and jewellery on display. Phone: +39 45 806 2611; www.comune.verona.it/Castelvecchio/cvsito/english/index1.htm.

Romeo’s and Juliet’s houses (Casa Giulietta and Casa Romeo)
These are the most popular tourist attractions in Verona. Juliet’s house can be found at Via Cappello, 23. However, while the Capulet family did once live in Verona, it is doubtful that they ever lived in the house now designated to them. There is a statue of Juliet in the courtyard and the house has been restored in line with the famous play. Romeo’s house can be found on Arche Scaligere, 4 and this is believed to be the actual house where the Montagues lived. The house is not open to the public, but it is possible to take photos of the outside. Phone: +39 45 803 4303

Tower of the City (Torre di Lamberti)
This hard to miss, aptly named tower is a must-see. It has pride of place in the middle of Piazza delle Erbe and is 84 metres high. It is a renovation of the original 11th century tower which once stood in its place, with renovations having taken place in the 15th century. The original tower wasn’t nearly as tall and did not have a clock. The two bells are the original bells and were once rung every day in order to call the council to meetings and were used to warn residents of fires. Phone: +39 45 803 2726