Juliet's Balcony, Verona
Must-SeeThe most famous balcony in literature — added to a 13th-century house for tourists. Crowded but romantic. The courtyard is free; the balcony €6.
Palazzo Barberini Balcony, Rome
Must-SeeBernini and Borromini's rival designs on the same building — compare the two facades and their balcony treatments.
Noto Baroque Balconies
Must-SeeNoto's baroque palazzi have extraordinary carved balconies — fantastical figures, monsters, and cherubs supporting iron railings. Palazzo Nicolaci is the finest.
Burano Coloured Balconies
Must-SeeEvery house a different colour, every balcony draped with laundry or flowers. The most photogenic balconies in Italy — no grand architecture, just joy.
Positano Terraces
Must-SeeNot formal balconies but terraces cascading down the cliff — bougainvillea, lemon trees, and the sea below. The Amalfi Coast's defining image.
Where to start
Italy has the world's greatest concentration of italian balconies. Use this guide to find the masterpieces — then let yourself be surprised by what you discover on your own.