I'm female, late 40's (precludes discos) and have to take 3 extra weeks holiday this year (joy of joy!) Was thinking of touring Italy but don't want to drive. Any ideas on itinerary, hotels, rail service etc. Is there anything unusual I truly shouldn't miss? I hate touring by coach and prefer being independent.

Oh, how we envy you...three weeks in Italy. Since you don't want a coach tour (smart decision!), you might check into what is called an "independent" tour. Several travel organizations offer them--airlines, American Express, etc. You pay for just airfare, hotel (with breakfast), rail travel between cities and perhaps half-day tours in some of the sites. You pretty much determine your own itinerary at each major site. If you found one for two weeks, you probably can extend at either or both ends of the trip. <BR>Of course, you can make up your own itinerary. Rail service is very convenient in Italy, so you'll have no problem getting around. <BR>What to see? The entire country! As you start your planning keep two things in mind: <BR>1. I won't possibly be able to see everything in three weeks. <BR>2. But that's okay, because I'm going to go back again! <BR>

Michelle: <BR>Better believe you'll go back again. We did. And are. Planning our 3rd trip in 2 years. <BR>You'd probably have no trouble going it on your own, except that it might get a little lonely or boring without a familiar face to chat with as you see things. If you avoid the usual tourist traps and areas, you'll find the true Italy. Warm people who are more than willing to help with advice. Even the language barrier is not significant. If you try, they try and it becomes a fun thing. Besides, most speak at least rudimentary English today. Driving is not so bad as some make out. If you are comfortable and hold your own in the States, you will over there. In my trips, I can honestly say I never saw the typical road rage and mad drivers I see constantly in the states. If you don't want to drive there are lots of "singles" tours for specific age groups where you are a group only for traveling betwen points and hotels, but on your own for the stops. <BR>Go....you'll have a ball!

Hello Michelle, Wow, can I go along? <BR>Do you know when you might be able to <BR>go? Some of my suggestions would be <BR>season dependent. I have travelled Italy <BR>7 times independently---it is the best <BR>way to go. I will contact you by email.

Roughly first three weeks in November. Have been looking at Guide Books - 3 weeks isn't long enough!

It takes about 6 weeks to see most of Italy, but 3 weeks is a good start. <BR>However, Nov. is one of the rain months, <BR>especially in the north. Not the best <BR>time to go, but anytime in Italy is <BR>worth it. You should plan for about <BR>10 days in the Big Three, leaving you <BR>the balance to do other destinations. <BR>High on my list would be: <BR>AMALFI COAST <BR>SIENA <BR>SANTA MARGHERITA/LIGURIAN COAST <BR> <BR>I would fly into Rome and out of either <BR>Milan or Venice. Let me know if you <BR>need specifics.

Hi! Bob--I would like specifics.....I am also traveling and would ask you to help me with info on what makes Siena one of the big 3.........and also, I know what makes Liguria one of the big three, and could you recommend any less expensive places to stay while enjoying it? Thank you......

If I can chime in, Bob, I'm also planning a trip and would love some first-hand info: I think that travel-guide overload is rendering me incapable of making a decision! Also interested in why Siena over the rest of Tuscany and the difference between the Amalfi and Liguran Coast -- I've been planning on doing the Cinque Terre. <BR> <BR>Just so I don't seem lazy, I've done searches on the site, but there's just so much information (especially on Italy, it seems), that it's really hard to distill it.

Although its been several years since I was in Italy, If you've ever driven in Boston, Italy is a snap. In fact, after Boston all of Europe is a snap to drive. <BR>Allow lots of time for Rome. I spent 10 days just there, there is so much to see. <BR>Have a great trip, wish I were going with you. <BR>Art <BR>

Hi Michelle <BR>When I made my trip to Italy I was alone for half of it, did just fine. <BR>I have sightseeing notes for Florence, Siena, and Venice; if you are interested, email me.

Hey Gang, I am sorry to mislead you. Of <BR>course the " Big Three" in Italy refers <BR>to Rome, Florence and Venice. I was <BR>merely suggesting that the other places <BR>would be among my top choices for the <BR>other destinations. It is impossible to <BR>give good advise on trip planning on a <BR>general forum---one size does not fit all. Every itinerary should be customized to the specific scenario: <BR>WHEN---HOW LONG---BUDGET---TRANSPORT <BR>Therefore, what is your scenario? <BR>

I'll say you've got a GLORIOUS problem, Michelle. I'm sure most of us on fodors would love to have the same one! I am enjoying this thread immensely. I am daydreaming that I am taking this long trip too. Keep it up, guys!

Hi Michelle: <BR>A friend and I will be going to Italy for 3 weeks also. We're leaving at the beginning of June. I planned the trip using this forum (mostly), another forum and a guide book. As suggested,I picked rail travel times from raileurope timetables. I'm waiting for official new Italian schedule to come out before I book and reserve space. Going to Bellagio, Lake Como; Venice; Florence (two l/2 day or day trips to Tuscany; Rome; Sorrento and 1 day in Naples to meet with relatives. <BR>In my opinion, this forum is terrific. Everyone is so helpful. Just take the time to research and you should have a great time. Email me if I can help you with anything before I leave. I will be posting my experiences on my return. <BR>Thanks again to everyone! <BR>

You're all immensely kind and Elaine's travel notes are brilliant. Thanks for all your help.