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2 nights - Florence, Verona, or Bologna?

Posted by (Frisco, Texas, US) on

I am reworking my 5 days in Italy before we depart from Rome on a cruise to Naples, Sicily and Sardinia.

July 31, arrive MXP, staying one night.

8/1
8/2
8/3, staying the night, near Spanish Steps.
8/4 Cruise departs Rome, have to check in by 5 pm

We have been to Milan and Rome multiple times, including a 10 week stay in Rome in 1996, so for this trip we don't want to add another night in either, we'll just enjoy our 24 hours in each.

For the 2 nights between Milan and Rome, considering Florence or Verona. I have been to both once. My husband has not been to Verona. We are leaning toward Florence, because the only time we were there was with a car (what a nightmare), and a 4 year old child.

If we choose Verona we could see an opera at the amphitheater (already checked the calendar). Verona is in the veneto region, so, better wine for me.

I have a splurge budget for these 2 nights. What would you choose?

Posted by
5861 posts

I'd choose Verona--saving Florence for a better (cooler) time of year when you can stay longer. Opera for the win!

Posted by
1977 posts

I would choose Verona, too. We are currently in Italy, flying home tomorrow. So we recently visited Florence and Verona. Florence is very, very crowded. It was frenetic. And there is so much to see in Florence that I would find 2 nights very frustrating.

Verona is much less crowded and smaller so it’s more manageable. It’s a very elegant city. We had a wonderful wine tour in the Valpolicella region just outside of Verona.

Posted by
1105 posts

Verona!!!! For the opera, I suggest looking at the cheaper seats, half way between the stage and the far end of the ampitheater. Facing the stage, book tickets for the right side (avoid some sun). You'll want to buy/rent a cushion because the stones are hot and hard. Realize that people will be sitting in front and behind you so it can get crowded. Where in Italy isn't it crowded? Want more legroom? When you enter the seating area, sit in the first row on the upper part. Want more backside room? Sit in the last row on the lower part.
All that said, the sound is magnificent all over. The view of the stage is clear from every viewpoint. I suggest arriving early because of the crowds and because you'll be sitting where the smart people want to sit (cheaper but excellent). Bring a snack and a drink or buy from the people selling drinks and ice cream before the opera, and during intermission. Oh yes, if you need to use the restroom - go one at a time since you can't be sure your seats (and cushions) will be there when you return.
Hope I didn't confuse you. Opera at the Arena di Verona is so wonderful unique!

Posted by
5437 posts

Verona for all the reasons kmkwoo cited, and the fact that hubby hasn't been.

Posted by
12544 posts

How many more votes for Verona do you need?

This plan looks immensely better than the harrowing mad dash from Verona on the day of the cruise.

Happy travels

Posted by
279 posts

Verona it is! Thanks everyone!
joe23F, thanks for your help, on this topic and the previous one that started it all.

Posted by
279 posts

Robert, thank you for the details you provided, not confusing at all. I got tickets to La Traviata!

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