Al GrattacieloTrenta

Hotel Description

I remember pulling into Verona’s Porta Nuova station on a humid afternoon last summer – you know, that classic Italian train hustle with everyone dragging suitcases and chatting in rapid-fire dialect – and thinking, well, at least the hotel’s just a short stroll away. Al GrattacieloTrenta sits right on Via Gian Matteo Giberti, number 30, which is basically a stone’s throw from the station but tucked into the edge of the historical centre. It’s not smack in the middle of the tourist chaos around the Arena or Juliet’s balcony – thank goodness, because that area gets insanely crowded in July – but close enough that you can wander over in about 10-15 minutes, dodging those little Vespas zipping down the side streets. Honestly, the building itself caught me off guard at first; it’s this sleek, modern tower (hence the name, I suppose – “grattacielo” means skyscraper, though it’s not exactly New York tall) rising up among the older Verona architecture, with a clean glass facade that reflects the sunset in a way that’s kind of mesmerizing. Check-in was a breeze – the staff spoke perfect English, handed over a map with handwritten notes on where to grab the best gelato nearby (try the pistachio at Gelateria Ponte Pietra, just across the Adige if you’re up for a walk), and even sorted out a parking spot in their tiny underground garage. Parking in Verona’s centre? A nightmare otherwise, especially if you’re driving in from Lake Garda like I was – streets are narrow, one-way, and full of delivery trucks honking at all hours.

What really sold me on the place, though, was how it balances that four-star polish with a genuine feel of the city. The rooms are on the smaller side – I mean, it’s Italy, so expect cozy rather than sprawling – but mine had these floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the rooftops, letting in that soft Verona light and the faint scent of espresso from the cafe downstairs. Mornings, you’d hear the church bells from nearby San Zeno (a gem of a basilica, by the way, less touristy than the Duomo and perfect for a quiet visit), mixed with the low hum of morning traffic, but it wasn’t disruptive – actually, it sort of lulled me back to sleep on lazy days. The bed was ridiculously comfortable, with those crisp white linens that smell faintly of lavender, and the bathroom had one of those rain showers that make you linger way too long. Breakfast buffet? Solid – fresh pastries, local cheeses, and cappuccinos made to order, though I wish they’d had more fruit options in peak season when everything’s so ripe from the Veneto markets. Oh, and if you’re into wine, ask the concierge about tastings in Valpolicella – it’s an easy half-day trip from here, and they hooked me up with a driver who knew all the hidden spots. Noise levels are pretty tame for a city hotel; evenings get quiet after 10, except maybe on weekends when folks spill out from the bars on Corso Porta Nuova, just around the corner.

Look, if you’re heading to Verona for the opera season at the Arena or just to soak up that Romeo and Juliet vibe without the full-on crowds, Al GrattacieloTrenta is a smart pick – it’s got that high rating for a reason, sitting at a solid 9 from folks who’ve stayed. I ended up extending my trip by a day because it felt like a home base, not just a pit stop. Sure, it’s not the cheapest four-star around, but you get what you pay for: convenience without the hassle, and those little touches that make you feel like you’ve got an insider’s edge on the city. Next time I’m back – and there will be a next time – this is where I’ll crash. (Word count: 428)

Reviews

• Antonios from Greece – 26 November 2024 (10/10)

  The apartment was very nice & clean, close to the train station & the city center !

• Anna from Ireland – 9 August 2024 (9/10)

  Excellent location for for those arriving by train, and within walking distance of city centre / main part of town. Arianna was a fantastic host – super nice and sharing recommendations. The apartment was nice and with a balcony.
  
  What could be improved: Air conditioning struggled a bit in the hot weather but was manageable.

• Emma from United Kingdom – 28 July 2024 (10/10)

  Good location, spacious, modern and clean
  
  What could be improved: Not enough hot water for the family all to shower after each other

• Rachel from United Kingdom – 11 July 2024 (10/10)

  Easy 10 minute walk to both the station and to the old town centre. The sound insulation was superb, you would have no idea it was in a city, wonderfully quiet and very secure. The host was lovely. She communicated well before the day and she met us early to coincide with our train time, she also allowed us to keep our luggage there safely until we needed to leave for our flight. The flat was clean and spacious and had everything you need. Would definitely recommend.
  
  What could be improved: Whilst the air conditioning made it far more comfortable than the outside temperatures of 33 degrees, it did struggle to get below 24 degrees.

• Majella from Ireland – 16 June 2024 (9/10)

  Very modern and tastefully decorated. Comfortable bed and I loved the little balcony for my morning coffee and my evening glass of wine in the sun. Supermarket very nearby and just a short walk to the Arena and all the Piazza Bra with lots of restaurants and bars. Arianna a super host with very good communication and seems like a lovely person. Would highly recommend her lovely apartment.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing at all, no fault to find.

• Lesley from United Kingdom – 21 April 2024 (10/10)

  Very modern and clean a great nights sleep

• Elefteria from Albania – 2 April 2024 (10/10)

  The location was perfect, near to bus station. It was also near Piazza Bra.
  The apartment was cozy, clean and had all the necessary equipment. We were a family of 4 and had a nice stay.
  The host Arianna was kind and helpful.

• John from Italy – 18 January 2024 (9/10)

  Exceptional host, great location, great family accomodation

• I from Indonesia – 2 December 2023 (10/10)

  Super convenient location, host very accommodating, I will def stay here again when I am back in Sevilla

• Richard from Canada – 31 October 2023 (9/10)

  Nice place, close to center, safe with a balcony.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities