By my count, you've now got 3 nights Florence, 3 nights Venice, and 4 nights Rome. That sounds like a very good plan.

As someone already said, Castel Sant'Angelo is near the Vatican, so should be seen the same day.

I think it's a very good idea to train to Florence for your first night, and save Rome till the end, since your airfare dictates RT Rome.

Enjoy your trip there. It is so much fun to visit Italy, especially for the first time.

In Venice, near to the Frari church is Scuola Grande di San Rocco. I highly recommend it. Only takes about an hour or 90 minutes with audio guide.

((H))

Oh Yes, Agree with Maitai to see the Scuola Grande di San Rocco. Amazing from every angle!

Just learned that we will have an extra day in Italy, so here is the latest itinerary. One option would be to combine the activities on 11/10-11/11 and take a day trip to Pompeii or Ostia Antica. Many thanks to all for your suggestions, keep them coming!

10/31 Leave Dallas

11/1 Arrive in Rome, train to Florence. Church of Santa Maria Novella, San Lorenzo market.

11/2 Duomo, Duomo Museum, Bargello, Palazzo Vecchio, Santa Croce Church, Piazzale Michelangelo

11/3 Accademia, Uffizi, Ponte Vecchio, Pitti Palace, Medici Chapels

11/4 Train to Venice. Explore Venice, Rialto Bridge.

11/5 St Mark's Basilica, Doges' Palace, Bridge of Sighs

11/6 Accademia, Frari Church, Scuola Grande di San Rocco

11/7 Train to Rome. Explore Rome (Piazza del Popolo > Spanish Steps > Trevi Fountain). Stay at Campo de Fiori or Trastavere.

11/8 Ancient Rome: Colosseum, Palatine Hill, Forum, Capitoline Museums, Pantheon

11/9 Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, post office (mail postcards from world's smallest country), Santa Maria della Vittoria Church

11/10 National Museum of Rome, Catacombs of Priscilla

11/11 Borghese Park and Gallery (2 hr docent tour), Castel Sant'Angelo

11/12 Depart Rome