Was all set for beginning of Oct 2008 to see Rome for about 4 days and then swing down to the amalfi coast for about 4 or 5 days and visit Pompeii and the coast but husband finally took an interest in the trip and did an about face with wanting to travel north from Rome to Venice, Padua, Verona etc. Since I am having to scrap all research and start all over again, please help me with an itinerary which would include a day trip from Rome to Pompeii and back to Rome and taking the train to Venice. I am not sure just how to plan after leaving Rome and do not want to make Venice the home base. Any suggestions on other places in the area along with Venice, Verona and Padua and could we make one of these towns a base for travel. We will have about 10 to 12 days.

rose g

Just wondering: Why don't you want to use Venice as a base?

With only 10-12 days, you'll be quite busy seeing Rome, Pompeii, train to Venice, seeing Venice. You could easily make day trips to Padua and/or Verona from Venice.

Thanks for your response. We have heard that with luggage it is not so easy getting to a hotel in Venice and thought it would be easier in Verona or Padua and then go into Venice.

rose g

You need 4 days in Rome and 3 in Venice. So you really only have time for one more destination. I would add Florence instead. Do factor in travel times as well. Rome is not super close to Venice.

Vardon, are there mobility issues? If you can afford a water taxi, you could reduce the physical demands. Otherwise, it's imperative you have luggage on wheels that you can easily lift and carry up and down a few stairs.

I wouldn't stay in Verona or Padua if you intend to spend 2-4 days seeing Venice. All the money spent on train fares travelling back and forth could be spent on the water taxi in Venice instead. (Not that you couldn't have a perfectly lovely time in Padua and Verona for 4 days...)

I only agree with Smartcookie if your trip is for 12 days. If only 10, I'd stick with Rome and Venice (with a day trip or two). You'll lose the better part of one day travelling from Rome to Venice.