DIMORA DEL FILOSOFO

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling upon Dimora del Filosofo almost by accident last spring, right after I’d spent a morning wandering the cobbled lanes of Verona’s historical center – you know, that maze around Piazza delle Erbe where the market stalls spill over with fresh cherries and those ridiculously good local cheeses. The hotel’s tucked away on Via Abramo Massalongo, this quiet little side street off the main drag, and honestly, it’s a godsend if you’re trying to avoid the tourist crush near Juliet’s House. I mean, it’s just a five-minute stroll to the Arena di Verona, but far enough that you don’t hear the opera crowds spilling out at night. Pulling up in my rental car was a bit of a hassle – parking in the centro storico is always a nightmare, with those narrow alleys and ZTL zones that fine you if you’re not careful – but the staff sorted it out with a nearby garage spot for like 20 euros a day. Check-in was this warm, unhurried affair; the owner, this chatty guy named Marco (or was it Matteo? Anyway, super friendly), handed over an old-fashioned key and pointed out the best gelato spot two blocks away on Via Cappello. The building itself feels like stepping into one of those Renaissance palazzos – exposed brick walls that are cool to the touch, and a faint scent of aged wood mixed with whatever lavender soap they use in the rooms.

What really sold me on the place, though – and this is coming from someone who’s stayed in way too many overpriced boutique spots – is how it balances that historic charm with stuff that actually makes your trip easier. My room was on the second floor (no elevator, fair warning if you’re hauling luggage), with these massive wooden beams overhead and a view straight onto a tiny courtyard where birds chirp at dawn. It’s not huge, sort of cozy in that European way where you have to maneuver around the bed to get to the bathroom, but the bed? Oh man, plush as anything, with linens that smell freshly laundered. Breakfast is served in this sunny communal area downstairs – think homemade croissants, prosciutto from the region, and coffee that’s strong enough to wake the dead – and it’s included, which is a nice touch when Verona’s cafes can get pricey. I spent an afternoon just lounging there after hiking up to Castel San Pietro for those killer views over the Adige River; the hotel’s Wi-Fi is spot-on, too, no buffering while I streamed a bit of Netflix to unwind. Noise-wise, it’s blissfully quiet after dark, especially mid-week in shoulder season like April – though weekends might pick up with folks heading to the nearby bars on Via Mazzini. One minor gripe: the shower’s a tad compact, but hey, it’s a 4-star in a centuries-old building, so you forgive it.

All in all, if you’re plotting a Verona getaway – maybe catching an opera in summer or just meandering during the quieter fall months when the leaves turn – Dimora del Filosofo is the kind of spot that feels like a local secret. With that 9.9 rating, it’s no wonder; it’s not flashy, but it’s authentic, you know? I’d book it again in a heartbeat, especially if you want to wake up to church bells from the Duomo echoing faintly in the distance, grab a quick espresso, and dive right into the heart of things without the hassle. Just remember to pack light and double-check those parking permits – trust me, it’ll save you a headache.

Reviews

• Russell from United Kingdom – 21 May 2024 (10/10)

  Well furnished, very clean and excellent location

• Janette from United Kingdom – 10 October 2024 (10/10)

  An excellent alternative to hotels. Our friends staying at Due Torri 5star preferred to join us here. Position was perfect. Balcony such a plus. All so tastefully decorated. It also smelt good. Renata and Gioncarlls who greeted us were so welcoming.
  
  What could be improved: There weren’t any slippers although the booking.com blurb said that there was. Stone floors so would have been good but socks sufficed.

• Edward from United Kingdom – 20 September 2024 (10/10)

  Wonderful property – unbelievable terrace with views of the city and so uniquely decorated. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend to family and friends.

• Timothy from United Kingdom – 10 September 2024 (10/10)

  Beautiful property in a fantastic location, easy walking to all major sites and lots of good restaurants close by.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

• Rachel from United Kingdom – 14 August 2024 (10/10)

  Beautiful split level apartment within a few minutes walk of main attractions inc Piazza Erbe, casa Di Guiliette, cable car, cathedral etc. Ideal location near to coffee shop and pasta bar. Mini market 5 mins walk away. Very secure and safe area near Basilica di Anastasia.
  Large roof terrace was a bonus in the city centre. Very well furnished. Hosts very friendly and welcoming..everything you need for a short stay is there. Both bed and sofa bed very comfy. Nice and quiet despite being close to centre.
  
  What could be improved: Stairs to upper level a bit steep so may not be suitable for very young children, but not a problem for us at all.

• Kevin from United Kingdom – 1 July 2024 (10/10)

  We loved this place! The location is perfect in the heart of the old town close to many iconic sights and attractions. The view from the roof terrace over red tiled roof tops and bell towers is stunning! The interior is beautifully decorated and oozes character. We could not have hoped for a better place to stay in Verona.

• Jean-jacques from Switzerland – 7 April 2024 (10/10)

  Location, terrace on the rooftop, bubbles in the fridge, and above all the library

• Annette from Italy – 25 March 2024 (10/10)

  This charming little apartment in the heart of Verona is a find. Spotlessly clean, close to everything, and beautifully decorated. We couldn't believe our luck as we sipped our gift prosecco on the terrace, watching the sunset and hearing the bells from the nearby Duomo. The kitchen is well-stocked, and there's an amazing fresh pasta shop nearby. The bed is comfy and the bathroom is spacious and clean. Our host was very helpful, and a really, really LOVELY person. I can't say enough great things about this gem…STAY HERE!
  
  What could be improved: NOT a complaint, but here's a bit of advice for travelers…call the phone number they send to arrange key pickup. We tried to do everything through Priceline but it created a little confusion. Just call them…they're amazing!

• Krzysztof from Poland – 24 February 2024 (10/10)

  Perfect Hosts
  Amazing flat and accomodation
  Outstanding location

• Andrzej from Austria – 1 March 2025 (10/10)

  Zentrale & ruhige Lage. Geschmackvoll & gemütlich eingerichtet, wunderschöne Terrasse.
  Sehr nette Begrüßung von Renata & Giancarlo.

SURROUNDINGS

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