Karen

Planning a trip to Italy for April. It looks like we will be there for the Easter weekend. We are planning to spend time in Venice, Umbrian hilltowns and Rome. <BR><BR>I was wondering whether it would be best to be in a big city like Rome or Venice for the Easter period (and whether museums/galleries etc will be open or not) or whether it would be better to spend this time in a hilltown.<BR><BR>Does anybody have any experience of Easter in Italy to share?

Kay

Karen, we spent Easter this year in Venice, arriving back in Rome on Easter Monday. It was busy in both places but not exceptionally so, Venice and Rome are always busy! We didn't notice any places closed but are not into museums and galleries, we'd rather wander, sit in sidewalk cafes and people watch.<BR>The trains seemed busier over this period, I would pre-book at least by a few days and try and get reserved seats. We can recommend Orvieto, in Umbria to visit.<BR>Kay

winner

Karen: I tried posting twice yesterday but my ISP kept cutting me off; anyway--<BR><BR>Many years ago I spent Easter weekend in Rome: it was an unforgetable experience. The Pope was John XXIII and I and many others were fortunate to be in St. Peter's Square for his annual blessing. The square was packed and the Pope gave his greetings and blessings from his balcony, in at least 20 languages. When their language was spoken groups who who understood applauded enthusiasticly. He was much loved and revered and even though the day was overcast and drizzly no one left the square until all were greeted in their own tongue. I shall never forget the feeling of joy and fellowship of that day.<BR><BR>Shops and museums will probably be closed from Holy Thursday through Holy Monday. Personally, I feel Rome is is best seen by walking; squares and piazzas are open, the many fountains will be flowing, and gardens and the Spanish Steps should be full glorious bloom. See Rome by foot and enjoy the incredible history and ambiance. You won't regret Rome at Easter. <BR>

Leslie

Spent Easter week of 2001 in Italy and was in Venice specifically on the Saturday/Sunday of Easter weekend. Rome was crowded with tourists and Italian school kids on tour but the crowds were not oppressive.<BR><BR>Florence was extremely crowded and Venice was wall-to-wall people! On the other hand, we attended a very moving high mass in the Basilica San Marco and our kids got fantastic big chocoloate Easter eggs, all of which was very memorable. If I had to do it over again, I'd either be in Rome or one of the smaller towns, perhaps selecting one for a special festival.

Karen

Thanks for your comments<BR<BR>

Jasmine, Scala Reale Walking Tours

Dear Karen,<BR><BR>Rome over Easter is unparalleled. Yes, shops and some museums will be closed, but the city is better enjoyed in situ. If you can come on Good Friday the Pope conducts the Way of the Cross in the Colosseum in the early afternoon. On Holy Saturday, in the evening, the Pope celebrates the Vigil Mass for Easter in San Giovanni in Laterano, the basilica for which he is bishop. On Easter Sunday, Mass is at St. Peter's Basilica. The final blessing is given from the main balcony of the basilica and greets all pilgrims with Happy Easter in 24 different languages. This is one of two occassions where the Pope gives a special blessing to the pilgrims (the other is Christmas). <BR>It is truly a special time here, regardless of the faith you practice...<BR><BR>Best,<BR><BR>Jasmine<BR>www.sca lareale.org<BR>