Arena Balcony

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling upon the Arena Balcony hotel last summer during Verona’s opera season – you know, when the whole city buzzes with that electric energy from the Arena di Verona just a stone’s throw away. I’d been wandering down Via Mazzini, dodging the afternoon crowds of tourists snapping photos at Juliet’s balcony (which, honestly, is more kitschy than romantic these days), and turned onto Via Leoncino. It’s this quiet little side street tucked in the historical center, lined with those classic ochre buildings that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a Renaissance painting. The hotel itself is unassuming from the outside – no flashy signs, just a discreet entrance at number 46 – but once you push through the door, it’s like a warm hug from an old friend. Check-in was a breeze; the staff, mostly locals who speak that melodic Veronese Italian, sorted me out in minutes, even with my rusty attempts at the language. Oh, and parking? Forget about it if you’re driving – the historical center’s a nightmare for cars, so I ditched mine at the public lot near Porta Nuova station and walked the 15 minutes over. Worth it, though, for avoiding the hassle.

What really sold me on the place was the rooms – I mean, it’s called Arena Balcony for a reason. My suite had this charming little terrace overlooking the rooftops, and on clear evenings, you could hear faint echoes of arias drifting from the Arena, especially during Aida or whatever was playing that week. The decor’s a mix of modern minimalism and old-world touches, like exposed brick walls that smell faintly of aged stone and fresh linens that crinkle just right under your fingers. It’s a solid 4-star spot, nothing over-the-top, but the beds are comfy enough to crash after a day of exploring, and the bathroom’s got that rainfall shower head that makes you linger a bit too long. Breakfast is served in this cozy courtyard – think fresh cornetti, cappuccinos strong enough to wake the dead, and prosciutto that’s sliced paper-thin. Well, sort of a downside: the portions are on the smaller side, so if you’re a big eater, you might need to grab an extra espresso at the café on nearby Piazza Bra. Noise-wise, it’s surprisingly peaceful at night, even with the summer throngs – the thick walls block out most of the street chatter, though you might catch the occasional scooter zipping by in the morning.

All in all, if you’re hitting Verona for the romance or the opera (peak season’s July-August, when it’s packed but magical), this place is a gem – rated around 8.9 for good reason, I’d say. It’s not the cheapest, but you get that authentic feel without the tourist trap vibe of some bigger chains along the Adige River. I left feeling like I’d actually lived a slice of Verona life, balcony views and all. If you’re traveling solo or with a partner, book it – just pack light, as the stairs can be a workout with luggage.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $249. Maisonette – Attic with 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Donald from United States – 16 July 2024 (9/10)

  The location was great, right next to the Arena with views of the opera sets below. Interesting as I am an opera lover. We watched as the crews hoisted up various sets over the top of the arena to put them in place on the stage. What an eye view we had. The small cafe right below us was an added bonus. Inside the apartment was lovely with all needed facilities in a bit of a Bohemian atmosphere and very clean. Would love to come back to see another opera. We saw a new version of Aida which had nothing to do with Egypt but if you closed your eyes, you could still enjoy the music. At the gate for our departure from the airport, we met and had a nice conversation with the lovely wife of the great American tenor who sang the roll of Radames. A lovely end to our stay in Verona. We would like to come back and stay in the same place.
  
  What could be improved: Main door closed on us with key in the room presenting some problems on 2 different occasions. However, the problem was resolved with patience by management. The steps going up were a bit of a problem as we are in our 80's but we managed with help, to carry our heavy bags up and down.

• Abdulhadi from Kuwait – 21 October 2024 (9/10)

  Amazing location and apartment.

• Gabriele from United Kingdom – 20 October 2024 (9/10)

  Amazing location, great view! Apartment has everything what might be needed, the only suggestion would be to leave a block of knives or a sharpener as the fee knives left were not the best quality, overall we really enjoyed our stay. Very clean, be aware that you cannot leave any dirty dish as you might get penalised

• John from United Kingdom – 10 October 2024 (9/10)

  Beautiful location with a balcony overlooking the arena.
  Small but practical cooking area with everything you need and a separate upstairs bedroom with spacious bathroom.
  Highly recommend.

• Katarzyna from Poland – 16 September 2024 (9/10)

  Very clean, nice and conveniently located apartment.

• Tanya from United Kingdom – 3 September 2024 (9/10)

  Amazing location looking over the Arena. Enjoyed watching the opera sets being lifted in and out by crane. Beautiful decoration, really nicely set up appartment. Great coffee!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. Loved it

• Pia from Sweden – 30 June 2024 (9/10)

  The charming atmosphere and all extra small details
  made the stay excellent!
  Perfect location.
  
  What could be improved: Parking was difficult to find and the recommended was quite long away, with luggage. Not expensive anyhow.

• Amie from United Kingdom – 28 June 2024 (9/10)

  Great location.
  Excellent communication from the hosts.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

• Wilding from United Kingdom – 25 May 2024 (8/10)

  Clear instructions to locate the premises and find the key box. Host was good and easy to communicate with
  
  What could be improved: Location great however very noisy due to work, drilling from 8.10am daily! You can hear nearby chatting until late at night. Accommodation will be very warm in the height of summer, air conditioning not great!

• Alessia from Italy – 18 May 2024 (9/10)

  I liked the balcony view and the apartment in general was perfect
  
  What could be improved: Maybe the shower needs some work but that’s it

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities