we are on a limited budget and require a weeks accomodation in rome in september we are both in mid 60's so not a backpackers just a clean comfortable room within walking distance of vatican city and or historical sites any suggestions? also what to do and see in the week? cheap eateries? etc or any tips ? and is the rail system easy to use for an aussie from the backblocks?

Go to www.hostelz.com and after finding Rome, scroll to the bottom where they list cheaper hotels.

I took the train from the airport to Central Station downtown. Just check the times on your flights to make sure you don't have a real early morning flight--which is what those budget airlines are known for.

I used www.tripadvisors.com and found our hotel/b&b, called the Locanda Senatorum, located in the perfect area for walking to most sites, check it out. Good luck

You may want to consider convent stays. Many offer rooms wit hprivate baths and breakfast. Here's a thread to get you started:
http://fodors.com/forums/threadselec...p;tid=34951451

thanks everyone Wally have accessed hostel site are the hostels rooms only no showers? wc? shared facilities could not find the cheap hotels all hostels on this site but its plan B thanks Mumof6 trip advisor could not find locanda senatorium only a la locanda which had terrible reviews bed bugs / narrow halls/ tiny room/ dirty/ no towels etc and dont think the husband is very keen on staying in a convent he likes to have a beer or 2 thanks

Convents don't prohibit drinking. In fact, the one I was at served alcohol.

Try http://www.eurocheapo.com/rome/

Convents allow drinking, but many have curfews.

Here's apartments near the Vatican that are not too expensive, however more than hostel prices. You'll save if you prepare your own food. Also be aware that some hostels have a "lock-out" time during the day when they (theoretically) clean and you must vacate the premises, so you might want to check on that if you go the hostel route:

http://www.borgopio2000.it/

Thanks will check out apartments sounds more suitable for us particularly taking into account cost of restaraunt meals etc can anyone suggest one close to the sights

Hi joybelles,

Our trip is in November but through research I found that SleepinItaly has many central appartments that are reasonably priced. I've booked one near the Pantheon.

Also check The Beehive which has hotel rooms, apartments and dorm rooms for low prices. It was one of the cheapest (with good reviews) that I came across.

Here is link on tripadvisor for locanda SENATORUM
http://rome-hotels.tripadvisor.com/H...ome_Lazio.html

spelling is important.

it may very well be cheaper to stay at an apartment. the Rome transit system (metro, bus and tram) is easy to use - just make sure you have proper maps. The multi-day passes are a good buy - I think newstands/tabacchi are the place to get them now.

You might want to check out www.realrome.com They have some very reasonably priced apts in good locations.

I have been to Rome many times, but have never stayed in a convent, for various reasons; but after reading this article, I am much more open to the idea. Give it a look!
http://tinyurl.com/2gzgwo