Oxford

Ok.. I'm so confused. Hopefully someone can help my wife and I concerning our trip to Italy. First of all we have decided on Italy over France after reading the board.... second of all would you recomend Rome or Florence (or somewhere else)? Our trip will be for eight days leaving us six days in Italy. I understand Florence is not a big and noisy and polluted... is this true? Is the food as good? Should we stay in Rome? We think we are going to go in April... what do you think? Thank you..... any other advice is so much appreciated.

Dayle

If you have never been before, I would suggest 2 days in Florence, maybe one day in one of the hill towns, and 3 days in Rome. Many people complain about Rome (crowded, dirty, crime, etc.) and I thought that's what it would be like. BUT, I loved Rome! It was fabulous and we were there at the end of March. 3 days would barely be enough. Have a wonderful time! <BR>

deepa

Six days is enough to do both Rome and Florence and infact to also do a day trip from Florence to Seina. Do 3 days in Rome (with one reserved for the Vatican and Sistine Chapel, 2 days in Florence and a third day as a day trip to Seina. Have fun!

Jen Z

I agree wholeheartedly with the above two responses. You will be much busier, however, than if you just stuck to one. It's a tough call if you want a more leisurely week. I love both, for different reasons. You could definitely stay busy in Rome for six days, but if you went to Florence you could have your fill of it more quickly and do some day trips to Siena or other smaller towns in the area. Depends what you're after, but I would do both.

Mary-Kay O'Brien

Hi there, I lived and worked in Florence for 6 months and visited Rome regularly. I would say that both cities will entertain you in different ways whether you stay a couple of days or a few weeks. You must make an effort to visit both cities as they are very different not only from a historical and architectural perspective, but also in the 'Italian' experience, different foods, the surrounding countryside and the people themselves. I would spend more time in Florence though as nothing surpasses the views from Fiesole or a stroll in the cyprus hills surrounding Florence. Have a great trip.

Kim

I recently returned from my first trip to Italy, which consisted of 8 days split between Rome and Florence. I would suggest that you spend more time in Rome than Florence. You can see Florence in 2-3 days. Be sure to take time to visit San Miniato al Monte, which is a working monastary across the river from Florence. I ate a picnic lunch overlooking Florence, and it was one of the most beautiful sights I've ever seen. Rome will take longer and you'll constantly be on the move if you want to see everything. Prioritize your "must-see" and you'll have a wonderful time!

Sal

<BR>I've been to both cities 4 times and agree with what everyone is saying. Do both cities. Florence for art and food. Rome for history and a sense of what Italy is all about. The best advice I can give you is to try to book a flight that will arrive in Rome and depart from Florence. Arrive Florence, depart Rome is OK but not as convenient. By doing this you will save a lot of wasted travel time. You have a lot of time before your trip so this should not be a problem. It is well worth the extra cost(if any) to do this.If you want some information on good places to eat or shop, e-mail me and I will be glad to respond. <BR>

Bob

Just returned from Rome. You need to see it. But be aware of the crowds. We were there in August during the time it was not supposed to be crowded because of the heat and vacations. Still was a lot of people. Also use the subway when possible. We were warned a bout the cabs and it is true. They cheat. Also had one of our group pick pocketed from gypsy girl nursing a baby. Watch for these people and show no sympathy when they approach you...they are fast. Bottom line: See Rome and the Vatican. It is not to be missed, but watch out. <BR>

Raleigh

Personally, I'd visit Rome and skip Florence for Venice (nothing against Florence because it has lots to offer also). Venice is like no city you'll ever visit, so try to make it there at least for a couple of days. <BR><P> <BR>Rome has so may things to see and do. We enjoyed it immensely (and I do not like big cities) and had not problems of any kind. <BR><p> <BR>If you do go to Florence DO NOT miss seeing David. We've all seen him in books, but standing before the real thing - all 16 feet of him is amazing.

Mary

I toured Italy with my husband a couple of years ago on our honeymoon. We absolutely LOVED Florence. Rome was nice as well but we were there during Easter week and felt it was a bit too hectic. The Arno is the most beautiful river - the people are friendly & hospitable. We loved the fact that we could walk practically anywhere! Don't miss the ufizzi & the Pitti Palace. If you would like information on inexpensive, fabulous restaurants please feel free to write to me. <BR> <BR>P.S. I do agree with everyone else - you can do both cities but absolutely don't miss Florence. <BR>

Carol

Hi Jeff: <BR> <BR>Once you visit Italy, you'll realize that you must return! Therefore, I say stick to Rome for your first trip. On mine I was to stay in Rome for 5 days, ended up staying for 10. It is a FABULOUS city--the history and the art, the people and the food will knock you out. Just don't go any time near Easter, it's a mad house. Don't miss the Romas ruins, the Vatican museum, St. Peters, Paizza Navona, Trastevere.....you get the idea. Every day is an adventure. Have a wonderful time.