Thinking about moving to Verona? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Verona.
Verona, the city of love, is a picturesque city in northern Italy. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and the setting of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” Verona has a unique charm that attracts tourists from all over the world. But what is it like to actually live in this romantic city? Let’s delve into the pros and cons of living in Verona.
Pros of Living in Verona, Italy
One of the biggest advantages of living in Verona is its rich cultural heritage. The city is home to numerous historical sites, including the Verona Arena, a Roman amphitheater that hosts concerts and operas, and Juliet’s House, the supposed home of Shakespeare’s Juliet. Living in Verona means having these cultural treasures at your doorstep.
Verona’s location is another significant advantage. Nestled in the Veneto region, it’s just a stone’s throw away from Venice, Milan, and Lake Garda. This makes it an excellent base for exploring northern Italy. The city’s well-connected transport system, including the Verona Porta Nuova railway station and the Verona Villafranca Airport, makes traveling to other parts of Italy and Europe a breeze.
Verona also boasts a high quality of life. The city is clean, safe, and well-maintained, with a low crime rate. The healthcare system is excellent, with several hospitals and clinics, such as the Ospedale Civile Maggiore and the Policlinico Giambattista Rossi, providing top-notch medical services.
Another pro of living in Verona is the food. The city is a gastronomic paradise, offering a variety of local dishes like risotto all’Amarone, pasta e fagioli, and pastissada de caval. There are numerous restaurants, cafes, and gelaterias where you can indulge in these culinary delights. For wine lovers, Verona is a dream come true. The city is surrounded by vineyards and is famous for its Valpolicella and Amarone wines.
Lastly, the people of Verona are warm, friendly, and welcoming. They are proud of their city and are always willing to share their knowledge and love for Verona with newcomers. There are also several expat communities and organizations, such as the International Women’s Club of Verona, where newcomers can meet and socialize with other expats.
Cons of Living in Verona, Italy
Despite its many advantages, living in Verona also has its downsides. One of the main cons is the high cost of living. Rent, utilities, groceries, and dining out can be quite expensive, especially in the city center. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around €700 per month, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant can set you back around €30.
Another downside is the language barrier. While English is taught in schools and is spoken by many young people, the older generation primarily speaks Italian. This can make everyday tasks like shopping, banking, and dealing with bureaucracy challenging for those who don’t speak Italian. However, there are language schools, such as the Lingua IT and the InClasse, where you can learn Italian.
Verona can also be quite crowded, especially during the tourist season. The city’s narrow streets and popular tourist sites can be packed with tourists, making it difficult to navigate the city. This can also lead to long queues at museums, restaurants, and other attractions.
The job market in Verona can be competitive, especially for expats. While there are job opportunities in sectors like tourism, education, and wine production, many jobs require fluency in Italian. Moreover, the salaries in Verona are generally lower than in larger Italian cities like Milan and Rome.
Lastly, while Verona’s healthcare system is excellent, it can also be quite bureaucratic. Navigating the healthcare system can be challenging, especially for expats who are not familiar with the Italian healthcare system. However, there are organizations, such as the Health Assistance Italy, that can help expats navigate the healthcare system.
In conclusion, living in Verona, Italy, has its pros and cons. While the city offers a rich cultural heritage, a high quality of life, and a fantastic location, it also comes with a high cost of living, a language barrier, and a competitive job market. However, with the right preparation and mindset, living in Verona can be a rewarding and enriching experience.
