2 Weeks in Amalfi Coast, Rome and Venice Itinerary Help
Jul 5th, 2018, 02:40 PM
#22
For heaven's sake. Give it up! I do not need you bugging me about going somewhere. Despite over 15 years of significant travel I still have quite a list of places with a higher priority than Florence. If you don't that's fine too.
Jul 5th, 2018, 03:18 PM
#24
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Two really bad ideas proposed here: 1) going to the Cinque Terre in August, and 2) staying in a large American chain hotel anywhere in Italy.
As for Florence, I have probably been there at least 8 times, most of them on business, but not the kind of go-to-conferences business, and it just never grabbed me. The Duomo, gorgeous, a lot of the architecture, inspiring, David? I don't get it. The Uffizi? Not my favorite kind of museum. The Ponte Vecchio? Tawdry. I guess I get wowed by things a lot simpler in Europe these days. I just don't have a newbie's experience anymore, so I guess I shouldn't dismiss it, but Firenze never bowled me over.
Hot and crowded, expensive, just not to my personal taste.No one can dismiss the kind of artistic heritage the Florence has to offer, but it's not the kind of artistic heritage that appeals to me personally. I can't look at more than half a dozen pieces of religious art, no matter how masterful, without wanting to run. I have no desire to return when there is so much more of Europe to explore that has more appeal to me.
As for Florence, I have probably been there at least 8 times, most of them on business, but not the kind of go-to-conferences business, and it just never grabbed me. The Duomo, gorgeous, a lot of the architecture, inspiring, David? I don't get it. The Uffizi? Not my favorite kind of museum. The Ponte Vecchio? Tawdry. I guess I get wowed by things a lot simpler in Europe these days. I just don't have a newbie's experience anymore, so I guess I shouldn't dismiss it, but Firenze never bowled me over.
Hot and crowded, expensive, just not to my personal taste.No one can dismiss the kind of artistic heritage the Florence has to offer, but it's not the kind of artistic heritage that appeals to me personally. I can't look at more than half a dozen pieces of religious art, no matter how masterful, without wanting to run. I have no desire to return when there is so much more of Europe to explore that has more appeal to me.
Jul 5th, 2018, 08:22 PM
#25
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We've been to Italy many times... and just returned from a trip with rome/naples/sorrento/amalfi itinerary. People have spoken to many possibilities, so I will speak to some hotels. Found some new budget favorites. I'm all about the view. And the budget. And the breakfast (we like to have a protein-filled breakfast and skip a meal until dinner, when it works for us.)
In naples, we stayed at B&B Palazzo Ruffo di Bagnara and absolutely loved it. Ask for a room looking over Pz Dante (get in early, as I believe there are only 2). The room was lovely and roomy & clean with high ceilings. (I think we were in room 14... it was huge with a couch and small table and tiny balcony). The owner was tons of help. It's literally across the street from the subway stop that goes directly to the train.
In Sorrento, we stayed at Settimo Cielo. It is about a 15 minute walk from the center of town, up a gentle slope along the coast. In Sorrento, many water-view hotels overlook the busy highway... but this one is perched on the cliffside. I don't believe you'll find a view like this for less money and it's a lovely family-run hotel. Small rooms, a pool, and pretty view from the breakfast room. Breakfast was great. Stunning, stunning views from bed! We also had a large balcony with a small table. I believe that they showed sold out for all venues and on their own web site. I wrote to them at the hotel and asked to be on the waiting list (with our dates) and they immediately wrote back saying that they did have a view room. Some have complained about a damp smell there, due to being on the cliffside, but we didn't have that problem in our room.
One of our favorites of the month was in Amalfi... though it was actually a 10-15 minute easy walk from Amalfi, in the tiny town of Atrani. Family run, the owner is an absolute doll and made us feel like family. He tailored our breakfast, as we requested lots of protein... so he brought lots of delicious fresh salami and cheese each morning... along with fresh cherries and some truly great croissants, etc. The view from both the bed and the balcony is breathtaking and the room was not fancy, but super comfortable. We were worried about getting there, and the owner helped us out... and it ended up that it was very easy. Bus to Amalfi N and S is a 2 minute walk. There is a nice small swimmable beach just below the cliffside rooms. The price was great for Amalfi-- and amazing for the view.
Just a few of our real successes this trip. Highly recommend all three. Ask if you have any questions.
In naples, we stayed at B&B Palazzo Ruffo di Bagnara and absolutely loved it. Ask for a room looking over Pz Dante (get in early, as I believe there are only 2). The room was lovely and roomy & clean with high ceilings. (I think we were in room 14... it was huge with a couch and small table and tiny balcony). The owner was tons of help. It's literally across the street from the subway stop that goes directly to the train.
In Sorrento, we stayed at Settimo Cielo. It is about a 15 minute walk from the center of town, up a gentle slope along the coast. In Sorrento, many water-view hotels overlook the busy highway... but this one is perched on the cliffside. I don't believe you'll find a view like this for less money and it's a lovely family-run hotel. Small rooms, a pool, and pretty view from the breakfast room. Breakfast was great. Stunning, stunning views from bed! We also had a large balcony with a small table. I believe that they showed sold out for all venues and on their own web site. I wrote to them at the hotel and asked to be on the waiting list (with our dates) and they immediately wrote back saying that they did have a view room. Some have complained about a damp smell there, due to being on the cliffside, but we didn't have that problem in our room.
One of our favorites of the month was in Amalfi... though it was actually a 10-15 minute easy walk from Amalfi, in the tiny town of Atrani. Family run, the owner is an absolute doll and made us feel like family. He tailored our breakfast, as we requested lots of protein... so he brought lots of delicious fresh salami and cheese each morning... along with fresh cherries and some truly great croissants, etc. The view from both the bed and the balcony is breathtaking and the room was not fancy, but super comfortable. We were worried about getting there, and the owner helped us out... and it ended up that it was very easy. Bus to Amalfi N and S is a 2 minute walk. There is a nice small swimmable beach just below the cliffside rooms. The price was great for Amalfi-- and amazing for the view.
Just a few of our real successes this trip. Highly recommend all three. Ask if you have any questions.
Jul 5th, 2018, 08:25 PM
#26
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We've been to Italy many times... and just returned from a trip with rome/naples/sorrento/amalfi itinerary. People have spoken to many possibilities, so I will speak to some hotels. Found some new budget favorites. I'm all about the view. And the budget. And the breakfast (we like to have a protein-filled breakfast and skip a meal until dinner, when it works for us.)
In naples, we stayed at B&B Palazzo Ruffo di Bagnara and absolutely loved it. Ask for a room looking over Pz Dante (get in early, as I believe there are only 2). The room was lovely and roomy & clean with high ceilings. (I think we were in room 14... it was huge with a couch and small table and tiny balcony). The owner was tons of help. It's literally across the street from the subway stop that goes directly to the train.
In Sorrento, we stayed at Settimo Cielo. It is about a 15 minute walk from the center of town, up a gentle slope along the coast. In Sorrento, many water-view hotels overlook the busy highway... but this one is perched on the cliffside. I don't believe you'll find a view like this for less money and it's a lovely family-run hotel. Small rooms, a pool, and pretty view from the breakfast room. Breakfast was great. Stunning, stunning views from bed! We also had a large balcony with a small table. I believe that they showed sold out for all venues and on their own web site. I wrote to them at the hotel and asked to be on the waiting list (with our dates) and they immediately wrote back saying that they did have a view room. Some have complained about a damp smell there, due to being on the cliffside, but we didn't have that problem in our room.
One of our favorites of the month was in Amalfi... though it was actually a 10-15 minute easy walk from Amalfi, in the tiny town of Atrani. Family run, the owner is an absolute doll and made us feel like family. He tailored our breakfast, as we requested lots of protein... so he brought lots of delicious fresh salami and cheese each morning... along with fresh cherries and some truly great croissants, etc. The view from both the bed and the balcony is breathtaking and the room was not fancy, but super comfortable. We were worried about getting there, and the owner helped us out... and it ended up that it was very easy. Bus to Amalfi N and S is a 2 minute walk. There is a nice small swimmable beach just below the cliffside rooms. The price was great for Amalfi-- and amazing for the view.
Just a few of our real successes this trip. Highly recommend all three. Ask if you have any questions.
In naples, we stayed at B&B Palazzo Ruffo di Bagnara and absolutely loved it. Ask for a room looking over Pz Dante (get in early, as I believe there are only 2). The room was lovely and roomy & clean with high ceilings. (I think we were in room 14... it was huge with a couch and small table and tiny balcony). The owner was tons of help. It's literally across the street from the subway stop that goes directly to the train.
In Sorrento, we stayed at Settimo Cielo. It is about a 15 minute walk from the center of town, up a gentle slope along the coast. In Sorrento, many water-view hotels overlook the busy highway... but this one is perched on the cliffside. I don't believe you'll find a view like this for less money and it's a lovely family-run hotel. Small rooms, a pool, and pretty view from the breakfast room. Breakfast was great. Stunning, stunning views from bed! We also had a large balcony with a small table. I believe that they showed sold out for all venues and on their own web site. I wrote to them at the hotel and asked to be on the waiting list (with our dates) and they immediately wrote back saying that they did have a view room. Some have complained about a damp smell there, due to being on the cliffside, but we didn't have that problem in our room.
One of our favorites of the month was in Amalfi... though it was actually a 10-15 minute easy walk from Amalfi, in the tiny town of Atrani. Family run, the owner is an absolute doll and made us feel like family. He tailored our breakfast, as we requested lots of protein... so he brought lots of delicious fresh salami and cheese each morning... along with fresh cherries and some truly great croissants, etc. The view from both the bed and the balcony is breathtaking and the room was not fancy, but super comfortable. We were worried about getting there, and the owner helped us out... and it ended up that it was very easy. Bus to Amalfi N and S is a 2 minute walk. There is a nice small swimmable beach just below the cliffside rooms. The price was great for Amalfi-- and amazing for the view.
Just a few of our real successes this trip. Highly recommend all three. Ask if you have any questions.
Jul 6th, 2018, 03:56 AM
#27
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This thread reminded me why these forums can get really annoying. Some people don’t seem to comprehend that each of us have our own opinions and experiences.
First, I didn’t recommend staying at an American chain hotel. Each of us can afford our travels in different ways. For our family of 5, we had free nights at this hotel so we decided to use them. The hotel was gorgeous, on top of a cliff overlooking Sorrento with amazing breakfast spreads, gorgeous infinity pool and great amenities. If that’s not for you and you prefer smaller boutiques then that’s your choice. However, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with a chain hotel for those of us who may want the added amenities or simply have free nights so they can afford a trip to the Amalfi Coast.
Secondly, the OP said they are traveling late August and starting in Paris. I assume that means they’d be in Italy in September. It’s up to them of course but the “massive crowds” argument to deter someone from seeing something they want is really pathetic IMO. We don’t all get to make repeated visits to the same country. And, there are ways to avoid the crowds or at least to manage them. We’ve always traveled to Europe in high season and found ways to manage them.
Last, but not least, a first-time trip to Italy without a stop in Florence is just wrong IMO. We visited in 2012 and like someone mentioned you can certainly explore far removed from the crowds.
First, I didn’t recommend staying at an American chain hotel. Each of us can afford our travels in different ways. For our family of 5, we had free nights at this hotel so we decided to use them. The hotel was gorgeous, on top of a cliff overlooking Sorrento with amazing breakfast spreads, gorgeous infinity pool and great amenities. If that’s not for you and you prefer smaller boutiques then that’s your choice. However, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with a chain hotel for those of us who may want the added amenities or simply have free nights so they can afford a trip to the Amalfi Coast.
Secondly, the OP said they are traveling late August and starting in Paris. I assume that means they’d be in Italy in September. It’s up to them of course but the “massive crowds” argument to deter someone from seeing something they want is really pathetic IMO. We don’t all get to make repeated visits to the same country. And, there are ways to avoid the crowds or at least to manage them. We’ve always traveled to Europe in high season and found ways to manage them.
Last, but not least, a first-time trip to Italy without a stop in Florence is just wrong IMO. We visited in 2012 and like someone mentioned you can certainly explore far removed from the crowds.
Jul 6th, 2018, 04:37 AM
#28
It’s up to them of course but the “massive crowds” argument to deter someone from seeing something they want is really pathetic IMO
a first-time trip to Italy without a stop in Florence is just wrong IMO.
Last edited by thursdaysd; Jul 6th, 2018 at 05:31 AM.
Jul 6th, 2018, 08:07 AM
#29
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Well, after 3 trips to Italy, I haven't made it to Florence and have always been conflicted about it. It seems I am not alone.
I hope the OP will return and regardless will enjoy their trip. They have chosen 3 wonderful destinations in Italy.
I hope the OP will return and regardless will enjoy their trip. They have chosen 3 wonderful destinations in Italy.
Jul 6th, 2018, 08:52 AM
#31
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My opinion and experience is that Florence can be skipped.".>
Opinion yeah but you have no experience in Florence - weird folks bragging about not ever going to some place and saying in their opinon it can be skipped - if that is not an oxymoronic statement what is.
Opinion yeah but you have no experience in Florence - weird folks bragging about not ever going to some place and saying in their opinon it can be skipped - if that is not an oxymoronic statement what is.
Jul 6th, 2018, 09:29 AM
#32
Yes, everyone stay away from Florence. Far, far away. You may never know what you're missing, but it's better that way (for the rest of us). Spend more time in Venice. Nobody goes there anymore so it's less crowded.
TIA.
(lukeandmila, excuse my sarcasm. To the rest, I mean it. Stay away from Florence.)
TIA.
(lukeandmila, excuse my sarcasm. To the rest, I mean it. Stay away from Florence.)
Jul 6th, 2018, 09:37 AM
#33
@PQ - I thought you had quit bugging me. I am not "bragging". How stupid, and rude, to say that. Saying Florence can be skipped means I was perfectly happy with the places I did visit. Plus, I have seen a lot of photos of Florence and read a number of TRs, I think I have pretty good idea of the place. I have lost count of the number of major art museums I have visited, and if I never see another Madonna and Child that will be just fine. If I wanted to visit a major art museum right now (and I have other priorities) I would go back to Amsterdam or St Petersburg. I have seen reproductions of the Baptistry doors in San Francisco, I'll trade you the Ponte Vecchio for the Pulteney Bridge in Bath, and I don't particularly care for the style of the cathedral. We all have different tastes, stop assuming that yours are right for everyone else. It doesn't bother me that you like Florence, why does it bother you that I am uninterested in it?
Jul 6th, 2018, 06:54 PM
#34
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Wow! A million thanks to all for your insights and help. You've given me exactly what I was after and I feel much more at peace with the trip now. I'm going to take some time to digest everything then use everyone's advice to make this trip as efficient and enjoyable as possible! Thanks Fodors!
Jul 6th, 2018, 08:12 PM
#35
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It is OK to visit Italy without visiting Florence.
It is OK to visit the USA without visiting New York.
It is quite possible to decide whether a place attracts, whether you would care to go there, by reading and informing oneself. In evidence of this, your Honour, I offer Las Vegas.
It is OK to visit the USA without visiting New York.
It is quite possible to decide whether a place attracts, whether you would care to go there, by reading and informing oneself. In evidence of this, your Honour, I offer Las Vegas.
Jul 7th, 2018, 08:28 AM
#36
>> weird folks bragging about not ever going to some place and saying in their opinon it can be skipped - if that is not an oxymoronic statement what is.<<
Pal: OK -- let's call a truce and you never again post about places you have never been or never experienced.
Pal: OK -- let's call a truce and you never again post about places you have never been or never experienced.
Jul 7th, 2018, 08:41 AM
#37
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Pal: OK -- let's call a truce and you never again post about places you have never been or never experienced.>
Well since I've never done that and have been to just about every city and place in Europe of touristic interest, many of which I have written detailed articles about for various publications over four decades as a European travel writer, so yes I agree.
Well since I've never done that and have been to just about every city and place in Europe of touristic interest, many of which I have written detailed articles about for various publications over four decades as a European travel writer, so yes I agree.
