Shakespeare set a third of his plays in Italy. In fact, the Bard’s fascination with Italy is a constant undercurrent in his work. Experience the northeastern region of Italy called Veneto and three fair cities in which he laid his scenes. Everyone knows about the beauty of Venice, but the regions charms don’t stop there…
Verona
Shakepspeare’s ‘fair Verona‘ is also known as the Capital of Love, where Valentine’s Day is celebrated for a week each year! Lovers from come to see the houses of the Montagues and Capulets leave love letters and stand on Juliet’s famous balcony.
In the summer months, opera lovers descend on the city for the sensational open-air opera festival in the incredible ancient arena.
Padua
Minutes from Venice by train, the historic university town of Padua is also home to the country’s oldest botanic gardens, the ornate Basilica of St. Anthony and Giotto’s amazing frescoes in the Scrovegni Chapel.
To the south, the Euganean Hills are the perfect place to relax from the stresses of vacationing! Famed for their wine, lush green hills and some of the country’s best thermal spas waters, an hour’s drive from Venice, but a world apart.
Bitter and Bubble
Veneto boasts some of Italy’s best wines. In the Verona area, red wines are made from the Valpolicella grape, including the deep-coloured, rich and strong Amarone di Valpolicella, one of Italy’s most expensive wines with an odd name, meaning ‘very bitter’!
Further north, as you head for the Dolomites, stop to taste the fresh, sparkling prosecco which is often said to be Italy’s answer to champagne.
The Dolomites
Italy’s most beautiful mountain range is stunning in both winter and summer. Whether they go for a week or a day to escape the crowds of Venice, our visitors love the fresh air, wide open spaces, incredible views, picturesque towns and scenic lakes, not to mention the wonderful mountain wines and culinary traditions.