Antica Riva

Antica Riva Overview

First Impressions

Walking down Via Sottoriva, you’ll spot Antica Riva tucked into one of Verona‘s most atmospheric medieval streets. I mean, this isn’t just any location — you’re literally staying in the heart of the old city, where the cobblestones have been worn smooth by centuries of footsteps. The building itself has that weathered Italian charm that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time, though honestly, the modern touches inside show this four-star property knows how to balance history with comfort.

The Medieval Quarter Experience

Here’s what I love about this spot — you’re staying in Città Antica, which is basically Verona’s living museum. The Sottoriva area is this incredible covered street that dates back to medieval times, and you know what? Most tourists just walk through it quickly on their way to Juliet’s balcony. But staying here means you get to experience it in the early morning when the light filters through the arches, or late at night when it’s just you and the ancient stones. The location gets rave reviews from couples, and I totally get why — there’s something undeniably romantic about having this historic neighborhood as your backdrop.

Your Home Base

The room I stayed in was surprisingly spacious for a historic building — these old structures can be tricky to renovate, but they’ve managed to create comfortable spaces without losing the character. You’ll find modern amenities that actually work (always a relief in older Italian hotels), and the windows open onto views that remind you exactly where you are. The beds are proper comfortable, which matters when you’re doing a lot of walking around Verona’s sights.

Getting Around From Here

What’s brilliant about Antica Riva is that you can walk to pretty much everything worth seeing in Verona. The Arena is maybe a five-minute stroll, Piazza delle Erbe is right there, and even the Castelvecchio is an easy walk. I actually found myself coming back to the hotel during the day just because it was so convenient — you can drop off shopping bags, rest your feet, then head back out for dinner. The narrow streets mean you won’t have taxi access right to the door, but honestly, that’s part of the charm of staying in the historic center.

Why Guests Love It

The 8.7 rating really reflects what you get here — it’s not trying to be the fanciest hotel in town, but it delivers exactly what you want from a Verona stay. Recent guests consistently mention the location as the standout feature, and after staying here, I completely understand why. You’re not just visiting Verona’s historic center; you’re actually living in it for a few days. The staff seems to genuinely care about making sure you have a good experience, and there’s something to be said for a place that feels authentic rather than overly polished. If you want to feel like you’re truly experiencing medieval Verona rather than just passing through it, this is your spot.

Exploring Verona offers visitors an unforgettable journey through Italy’s city of love, from its ancient Roman ruins to its Renaissance palaces and world-renowned romantic literature connections.

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