Most famous as the hometown of Shakespeare’s tragic couple Romeo and Juliet, Verona isn’t typically one of the first cities in Italy that tourists visit, but it’s definitely worth a trip. Located in the region of Veneto, Verona is about 75 minutes from Venice and Milan via high-speed train. It’s also within striking distance of Lake Garda, making it a great stop on a trip through northern Italy. 

Founded by an ancient tribe, Verona became a Roman colony in 89 B.C.E., and you can still see traces of the ancient civilization (the city is even called "little Rome"). In fact, the Arena of Verona is the world’s third largest surviving Roman amphitheater, and every summer it hosts the city’s renowned opera festival.