Al Centro Storico – City Center

Hotel Description

You know, the first time I stumbled upon Al Centro Storico – City Center, tucked away on that tiny Vicolo Cieco Parigino in Verona’s historical heart, I honestly thought I’d taken a wrong turn. It’s one of those narrow alleys – you know, the kind where the stone walls seem to lean in like they’re whispering secrets from the Renaissance – and suddenly there it is, this unassuming four-star spot that feels more like a well-kept local secret than a hotel. I mean, it’s right in the thick of things, just a five-minute wander from Piazza delle Erbe, where the market buzzes with vendors hawking fresh figs and that sharp pecorino cheese in the mornings. Checking in was a breeze; the front desk guy – Marco, I think his name was – chatted about the best gelato spot on Via Mazzini (avoid the tourist traps, he said, go for the pistachio at Gelateria Savoia instead) while handing over my key. No fuss, no long lines, even though I arrived smack in the middle of summer festival season when Verona’s streets swarm with opera fans heading to the Arena.

What really won me over, though, was how the place balances that old-world charm with stuff that actually makes your stay comfortable – well, mostly. The rooms aren’t massive, sort of cozy in that Italian way where you feel like you’re crashing in a friend’s historic apartment, with exposed wooden beams and these soft, linen sheets that smell faintly of lavender (they must use some local detergent). I had a view over the alley, and mornings started with the distant chime of bells from the Duomo – peaceful, until the delivery scooters zip by around 8 a.m. Breakfast is a highlight; it’s not some massive buffet, but they serve up fresh cornetti and cappuccinos that rival the cafes on Corso Porta Borsari, plus these little jars of apricot jam from nearby orchards. Honestly, it’s rated 8.9 for a reason – the staff knows Verona inside out, tipping you off to quiet spots like the Giardino Giusti gardens when the center gets too crowded. Parking’s a nightmare, though; no garage here, so I parked at the public lot near Castelvecchio and walked – about 10 minutes, but hey, it forces you to soak in the vibe. And if you’re light-sensitive, pack earplugs for those late-night revelers spilling out from bars on Via Stella.

All in all, if you’re after a spot that plants you right in Verona’s soul without the sterile big-chain feel, this is it. It’s perfect for couples chasing that romantic Juliet-and-Romeo fantasy – her balcony is literally a stone’s throw away – or solo travelers who want to wander aimlessly and end up at hidden osterias. Sure, it might not have a pool or gym (who needs that in a city like this?), but the authenticity makes up for it. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially in shoulder season like early fall when the crowds thin and the air smells like roasting chestnuts. Just remember to book ahead; places like this fill up fast.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $149. Apartment with 4 × 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Very good – Tom from Finland – 26 June 2025 (8/10)

  Davide is a great host. Everything was as expected and more some. On the check out day, kids were having some tummy issues and we got to stay 3 hours beyond check-out time for free, which I truly respect. The apartment is big and comfortable. A huge plus for one the most comfy pillows I've came across. I travel for work at least half of the year, so I really know what I'm talking about. AC worked perfectly and is situated in 3 out of 4 rooms. Free tea/coffee was a nice extra. I would definitely stay again next time.

• Amazing apartment close to attractions and amenities – Albert from United Kingdom – 9 May 2025 (10/10)

  The apartment was spacious with many bedrooms and had air conditioning etc. It is located very conveniently within 10 minutes walk of the amphitheatre and 18 minutes walk of main bus station. Excellent local restaurants.
  
  What could be improved: Could not get wifi to work for duration or our stay.

• Better response next time and please fix the WIFI – Linawaty from Indonesia – 2 May 2025 (8/10)

  The apartment is acceptable in terms of value for money and its location, walking distance to the old town.
  
  What could be improved: No wifi, and even though we have communicated to the staff, their response is very slow

• Superb – Nicola from United Kingdom – 8 August 2024 (9/10)

  Great sized apartment with a very comfortable bed and large kitchen. It's a 10 minute walk from the arena which is perfect as it doesn't feel too busy or like you're in a huge city. The set up is exactly like in the pictures, with free toiletries too. Excellent air conditioning too!
  
  What could be improved: The apartment wasn't ready when we got there at check in time but we were able to contact the host and this was rectified within an hour.

• Superb – Gatis from Latvia – 20 November 2023 (9/10)

  Good central location. Nice cozy light room. Clean bathroom and big kitchen. Very good value for this price.

• Hôte exceptionnel, accueil super, et belle prestation immbilière, appartement exceptionnel (très bon – Viry from France – 5 July 2025 (10/10)

  Il n'y en avait pas, en revanche il y avait des capsules, du thé de quoi boire des boissons chaudes le matin
  
  What could be improved: la difficulté de stationnement mais géré par notre hôte qui a assuré (avec un paiement de 40€ en plus)

• Un ottimo appartamento in cui soggiornare a Verona! – Miluci from Italy – 2 July 2025 (10/10)

  Appartamento nuovissimo con tutte le comodità, a due passi dall'Arena di Verona. Le mie amiche ed io abbiamo soggiornato solo una notte (ognuna aveva la sua camera) ma abbiamo apprezzato moltissimo l'ambiente e tutte quelle piccole cose che rendono il soggiorno più piacevole come, ad esempio, la possibilità di farsi un buon caffè grazie alla macchinetta e alle cialde a disposizione dei clienti!
  L'appartamento si trova in una stradina laterale per cui è silenzioso e tranquillo.
  
  What could be improved: All'inizio siamo rimaste un po' "spiazzate" dal fatto che il check-in deve essere fatto online e serve anche per ottenere un codice che permette di recuperare la chiave dell'appartamento da una cassetta di sicurezza che si trova proprio accanto al portone d'ingresso dello stabile poi però è stato tutto facile (anche perché spiegato dai titolari nei minimi dettagli) e, in caso di necessità, si può chiamare l'assistenza che risponde immediatamente.

• Magnífico – F from Spain – 11 June 2025 (10/10)

  Ubicación genial. Apartamento enorme. Camas muy buenas y 2 grandes baños.
  Todo tipo de detalles, tanto en la cocina como en la habitación.
  Cualquier duda o problema resuelto al momento.
  
  What could be improved: Nada destacable. Solo que para aparcar, lo mas cercano que hay es zona de pago.
  Y que es un primer piso sin ascensor.

• Superb – Axel from Spain – 27 May 2025 (9/10)

  Muy céntrico. Buena ubicación entre la estación y el centro en una callejón muy tranquilo. Muy limpio. Muy grande. Las amenidades completas . Toallas y hasta pantuflas. La maquina de café y té genial. Y buena comunicación . Regresaría a gusto
  
  What could be improved: La única pega sería mejorar el colchón.

• Favoloso – Sergio from Italy – 20 May 2025 (10/10)

  Le camere spaziose , accoglienti , ben arredate con tutte le comodità .
  
  What could be improved: Niente

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities