First-timers/Need must sees
 

My husband and I are headed to Italy relatively soon for about 6 days. What are some must sees for first-timers? We are on a low-moderate budget but don't want to compromise any sites. Thanks for your help.

The obvious question: Where in Italy are you planning to go? Or is that what you want advice on?

My husband and I are headed to Rome for 6 days.

You should definitely see the coliseum. It's very impressive. Take a walk to the Spanish steps. Go to St. Paul's cathedral.

Yes, the Coloseum, and then the Forum, which is right across the street, is amazing! The Pantheon and the Vatican Museum are also things you should see. The entrance fees are relatively cheap to all of these (the Pantheon is free!).

Rome's Top Ten Sights? <BR> <BR>Saint Peter's, Vatican Museums, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Colosseum, Campidoglio and Museums, Pantheon, <BR> Castel S. Angelo, Spanish Steps (and Square), Trevi Fountain <BR> <BR>That list will cause an argument. Throw in Santa Maria Maggiore, Piazza Navona, Catacombs, Piazza Venezia, San Paolo, and the statue of Moses in San Pietro in Vincoli and almost everyone would agree. <BR> <BR>You can cover those comfortably in six days inlcluding time for 'strolling' and sitting in piazzas having refreshements and people watching. <BR> <BR>You'll find three days worth of half-day excursions to cover these as well as suggestions for a day out of town and many lesser-known sights that are nonetheless exceptionally worthhwhile ... beginning at www.twenj.com/romesights.htm <BR> <BR>By the way, many of these attractions are free, if not most. Admission fees are typically under $10. You won't find your budget challenged by enjoying Rome's magnificent and plentiful attractions. <BR> <BR>Let us know if you have questions about your visit to Rome. <BR> <BR>Rome.Switzerland.Bavaria <BR>www.twenj.com <BR>

I just wanted to add, near the forum you should be able to find a book seller. Look for small books (1/2 sheet of paper size) they look like they were printed in the 60's-70's they have those clear acetate films over pictures of the site with what they believe it have looked like. It's a little cheesy I'll grant, but it really helped in some places where there were a few rocks scattered about.

I want to second Tanyia's recommendation about those books with the acetate sheets. They are not very expensive, and will really give you an idea of what things used to look like in antiquity. It's very hard to visualize a magnificent building when you're looking at a pile of ruins! My girlfriend swears by them. It really helps to bring things back to life.

It's a long time since I've been to Rome, but what has stayed with me all these years are the Vatican, Colosseum, and an afternoon we spent just wandering on our own through the Roman Forum. It's a glorious city, with sight after sight worth seeing, including the fountains and piazzas. Have fun!

As usual, Ed provide a solid foundation for a meaningful Roman experience. Check out his website; we found it extremely useful before our trip. <BR>And, as he says, spend lots of time just soaking up the culture, observing and interacting with the Romans.