On a visit to Italy, camping is undoubtedly the best way to immerse yourself in the great outdoors and enjoy the wonderfully scenic Alps. However, with several campsites to be found close to the cities, there is a chance to make the most of the Italian urban culture as well.
In fair Verona, where we lay our scene, you will find a city that has successfully preserved its artistic heritage. The second biggest city in Veneto, Verona embodies a wonderful blend of its ancient Roman past and modern Italy. Camping gives you the opportunity to escape from the hustle and bustle of the cities, making it all the more special when you enter this artistic haven.
Casa di Giulietta
The majority of people visiting Verona recognise it as the home of the most famous star crossed lover’s society has ever known – Romeo and Juliet. Although there is continual debate as to whether their existence was fictitious or not, this has not stopped visitors flocking to the house of Juliet. Wander into the courtyard and you will see Juliet’s balcony, from which you may spread your arms and make your own “wherefore art thou” declarations. The house itself contains a small museum featuring frescoes, ceramics and paintings from the 16th and 17th centuries, all related to Shakespeare’s most famous play. Before you leave, be sure to stop at the largest bronze statue in the courtyard; rubbing the right breast of this statue is purported to bring you luck in all aspects of romance. Whether or not Romeo and Juliet really existed, you will be transported into Shakespeare’s world and an ancient Italy. Camping in this region will feel much more romantic following a visit to Casa di Guilietta.
Arena di Verona
There are plenty of campsites to be found surrounding the beautiful Lake Garda, many of which are no more than half an hour’s drive from Verona. Boasting some of the most breathtaking scenery in Northern Italy, Camping Bella Italia is an example of a comfortable and convenient campsite, situated close enough for you to stay longer in Verona and make the most of the evening entertainment it has to offer. The Arena di Verona is one of the biggest and best preserved amphitheatres remaining from the Roman Empire. With the capacity to seat around 15,000 spectators, it has become a popular venue for both classical and contemporary performances. By day, take a stroll into the arena and imagine yourself as a gladiator, then relax with a picnic on the tiered seating. Before you return to your campsite, you can enjoy an evening performance in the arena. The performance will obviously depend on the timing of your visit. June through to August is the best time to enjoy operas or ballets, as these are then moved indoors during the winter months. Recently, however, the Verona Arena has also hosted popular music bands such as The Who, Elton John and Muse, so be sure to see what is available during your visit.
Valpolicella Valley
To the East of Lake Garda and not far from Verona, the Valpolicella Valley is just one of the many regions famous for its wines in Italy. Camping just outside Verona, you will be struck by the charming countryside and an excursion into the Valley is the perfect way to see more. Colloquially known as the ‘pearl of Verona’, the area is steeped in natural beauty. Head towards San Giorgio a small town perched on the top of a hill in the Western part of Valpolicella and from there you can enjoy walking downwards through the olives and vines. You will also come across fascinating structures such as La Pieve – a picturesque church made entirely from local stone. At some point on your walk you might like to pop into one of the many vineyards along your way and sample the produce of a region that has been in the winemaking business since the middle of the twelfth Century.
The regions surrounding Verona are particularly picturesque areas of Italy. Camping is a fantastic way to enjoy the naturally stunning landscapes and surround yourself with beautiful mountains and lakes. However, venturing into Verona does not mean that you have to lose that tranquil and relaxed feeling, as you may find yourself transported by the traditional art, attractive architecture and charming culture.