Il balcone di Giulietta

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling upon Il Balcone di Giulietta almost by accident last summer – well, not really by accident, since I’d booked it ahead, but you know how those narrow alleys in Verona’s historical center can feel like a maze if you’re not paying attention. Tucked away on Vicolo Leoni, just a stone’s throw from Via Cappello where all the tourists flock to that famous Juliet’s balcony (yeah, the one from Romeo and Juliet, though locals will tell you it’s mostly a romantic gimmick), this place has that authentic old-world vibe without trying too hard. I arrived in the late afternoon, dodging a few Vespas and gelato-wielding crowds, and honestly, finding parking was a bit of a hassle – the center’s pedestrian-only in spots, so I ended up at a garage on Via Pallone, about a 10-minute walk away. But once I pushed open the door, the cool stone lobby with its exposed brick and faint scent of espresso from the nearby café just melted away the travel fatigue. It’s a 4-star spot, sure, but it feels more like a cozy boutique hideaway than some flashy chain – the kind where the owner might chat with you about the best spots for aperitivo.

What really won me over were the rooms – mine had this little balcony overlooking the vicolo, and at dusk, with the church bells from Santa Anastasia ringing softly in the distance, it was pure magic. (Pro tip: if you’re a light sleeper, ask for a room facing inward; the street can get lively with evening strollers until around 10 PM, especially in high season from June to August.) The bed was ridiculously comfortable, with those crisp linens that smell like they’ve been line-dried in the Italian sun, and the bathroom had one of those rain showers that make you linger longer than necessary. Breakfast was a highlight too – not your massive buffet, but a thoughtful spread of fresh cornetti, local cheeses, and cappuccinos made to order, served in a sunny courtyard that buzzes with birdsong in the mornings. The staff? Super friendly, like that one guy at check-in who tipped me off about skipping the tourist traps and heading to Osteria del Bugiardo on Via Sottoriva for authentic Veronese risotto instead. Oh, and it’s rated a solid 9.3 for a reason – everything’s spotless, Wi-Fi’s reliable (even for streaming), and there’s a small lounge with books on Verona’s history if you want to geek out. One minor gripe: no elevator, so if you’ve got heavy bags, pack light or ask for help; those stairs are charming but steep.

Look, if you’re heading to Verona for the opera at the Arena (which is literally a 5-minute walk away, past Piazza delle Erbe with its market stalls selling everything from herbs to handmade jewelry), this hotel’s a no-brainer. It’s not the cheapest – rooms can run you 150-250 euros a night depending on the season – but for the location and that intimate feel, it’s worth it. I mean, waking up to the hum of the city coming alive, grabbing a quick espresso downstairs, and stepping out into history? That’s the kind of trip that sticks with you. Just book early if you’re coming during the Vinitaly wine fair in spring; the place fills up fast. Honestly, I’d go back in a heartbeat – it’s like staying in a love letter to Verona itself.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $210. Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Perfect location for exploring Verona. – Susan from Australia – 24 May 2025 (9/10)

  Great location with walking access to many sights. Host was flexible about our late arrival and waited for us. Apartment was very comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: No living room/lounge but there was space in the kitchen and the 2 bedrooms were large.

• Superb – Alexandr from Moldova – 28 March 2025 (9/10)

  A cosy appartment in the center of the old city, pretty close to the sightseengs and the bus stop to the railway station. Very quite and comfortable.

• Exceptional – Manojlo from Serbia – 20 January 2025 (10/10)

  Everything was perfect
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Clean and comfortable – Anni from Australia – 16 January 2025 (10/10)

  It was a wonderful place to stay. Close to everything. The apartment was clean and comfortable. We used both bedrooms, so found hanging out reflecting on our day in the kitchen lots of fun. I locked our keys in the apartment, but our host graciously saved us (apparently we weren't the first). Having a washing machine was really helpful as we were travelling.
  
  What could be improved: A second set of keys would have helped – especially when we wanted to split up and weren't sure when we'd be back.

• Surprisingly peaceful spot in a busy area and great value for money for a comfy stay. – Monique from Malta – 2 January 2025 (9/10)

  The location was excellent, right at the edge of old town. Very comfortable and clean apartment with all that we needed. Pietro was great ☺️
  
  What could be improved: All was good but the shower door which was a bit broken and water leaked out.

• Home away from home. – Abad from Philippines – 22 November 2024 (9/10)

  It was such a sweet stay, everything you need is already there.
  
  What could be improved: We could use some more chairs but that's not so important.

• The host is very attentive, there are informations about good restaurants and others, the apartment is big, everything w – Andrea from Brazil – 4 July 2023 (10/10)

  The apartment is very central, close to the river and spectacular views, as well as restaurants and shops.

• The staff/ Host was very nice. The apartament very spacious, with clean towels, plenty of storage. They also had cof – Ioana from United Kingdom – 22 March 2023 (9/10)

  It was Close to the Town centre and could visit Verona easily just by walking.
  
  What could be improved: It was cold. We had the heaters on but did not heat the rooms properly. We felt cold esspecially during the night. But they had extra blankets and these helped us a lot.

• Superb – Dmitri from France – 28 February 2023 (9/10)

  All was perfect! Really nice stay in Verona right in the center.

• Very good – Chloe from Austria – 25 January 2023 (8/10)

  Very good location
  
  What could be improved: Central was turned off at night, but there was heating from air conditioner.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities