Italy trip questions
Apr 18th, 2009, 06:20 PM
#61
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Thanks, any other recommendations for a scenic town to stay overnight anywhere betweem Rome and Bologna?
If we do decide on Siena, what is there to do for the day /evening? Any 'must visit' spots for scenic vistas?
If we do decide on Siena, what is there to do for the day /evening? Any 'must visit' spots for scenic vistas?
Apr 19th, 2009, 04:30 AM
#63
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This is a good list of top things to do in Florence. If you aren't inspired after reading it, you probably aren't interested in what that city has to offer
http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...op-10-list.cfm
http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...op-10-list.cfm
Apr 19th, 2009, 07:23 AM
#64
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Jetsetj, no we have not, this is our first trip to Italy though the family traveling with us has been before.(And please feel free to call me e/c, I am taken aback every time I see myself being called ex-con!!!)
Vttraveler, thanks for the link, the view of the city from Piazzale Michelangelo was what interested me the most so I guess we are looking for a more scenic place rather than one with museums and architecture since Rome will expose us to a good amount of both. Not to put down Florence at all, I am sure it is amazing, just looking for something different for that overnight stop.
Somehow I seem more inclined towards Bologna than Florence if I had to choose a city, though I cannot explain why. Can we make a detour & visit a hill town in Tuscany & then overnight in Bologna? Or should we stay with Siena? I don't know why the rest of the 10 days are all planned & I cannot seem to decide on this one overnight! Please keep the suggestions coming. Thanks!
Vttraveler, thanks for the link, the view of the city from Piazzale Michelangelo was what interested me the most so I guess we are looking for a more scenic place rather than one with museums and architecture since Rome will expose us to a good amount of both. Not to put down Florence at all, I am sure it is amazing, just looking for something different for that overnight stop.
Somehow I seem more inclined towards Bologna than Florence if I had to choose a city, though I cannot explain why. Can we make a detour & visit a hill town in Tuscany & then overnight in Bologna? Or should we stay with Siena? I don't know why the rest of the 10 days are all planned & I cannot seem to decide on this one overnight! Please keep the suggestions coming. Thanks!
Apr 19th, 2009, 07:49 AM
#65
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e/c
sorry about ex-con, it was late and it didnt click..
seeing David in Florence was a must for me, so I expect it to be for others.
It could possibly be one of the most incredible pieces of art you will ever see in your life.
sorry about ex-con, it was late and it didnt click..
seeing David in Florence was a must for me, so I expect it to be for others.
It could possibly be one of the most incredible pieces of art you will ever see in your life.
Apr 19th, 2009, 08:14 AM
#66
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Hi e
I think it is a fine idea to stay in Bologna. I've been to both a couple times, and next time I go back, I'm heading for Bologna. No need to worry about picking it over Florence if you like food.
Siena IS a scenic hill town in Tuscany -- you could defininitely stop there and enjoy it for an afternoon, stay over, then travel on to Bologna the next day. Another idea would be San Gimingano (smaller, even more scenic), or something like Castellini in Chianto (v. small, but surrounded by stunning hills). You could plan a leisurly driviing tour through Tuscany with lunch overlooking a spectacular view. Maybe you shouldn't plan this night at all and just go with what moves you at the time.
I think it is a fine idea to stay in Bologna. I've been to both a couple times, and next time I go back, I'm heading for Bologna. No need to worry about picking it over Florence if you like food.
Siena IS a scenic hill town in Tuscany -- you could defininitely stop there and enjoy it for an afternoon, stay over, then travel on to Bologna the next day. Another idea would be San Gimingano (smaller, even more scenic), or something like Castellini in Chianto (v. small, but surrounded by stunning hills). You could plan a leisurly driviing tour through Tuscany with lunch overlooking a spectacular view. Maybe you shouldn't plan this night at all and just go with what moves you at the time.
Apr 20th, 2009, 10:42 AM
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There's no reason you have to visit Rome, Florence & Venice all in one trip - we never have! I like your idea of stopping in Siena for a visit or an afternoon, then on to Bologna. I LOVE Bologna; it's one of my favorite Italian cities. A very real-people sort of place, not so touristy, with great markets and a good main piazza for sitting in cafes and people-watching. And great food.
Keep in mind that Bologna is a big city for conventions (though I don't know if that's true for the month you'll be there). Before you committ, check out your lodging options. Also, I've found that hotels in Bologna tend to be more expensive than some other places. So lodging prices and availability may make your decision for you. Also, Bologna is a larger city, and driving in and out is not so easy, so just be prepared for a little hassle.
Keep in mind that Bologna is a big city for conventions (though I don't know if that's true for the month you'll be there). Before you committ, check out your lodging options. Also, I've found that hotels in Bologna tend to be more expensive than some other places. So lodging prices and availability may make your decision for you. Also, Bologna is a larger city, and driving in and out is not so easy, so just be prepared for a little hassle.
May 20th, 2009, 08:02 PM
#68
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Hi all, one week to go for our trip so thought I would post an update. We have the GPS with Europe maps - Garmin Nuvi 275, have ordered 2 phones from Verizon & have taken 2 unlocked phones to buy SIM/TIM cards locally, bought a new 220V flat iron which I cannot do without! Have booked Rome Shuttle from the airport for us, my son will take the train to Trastavere. The train station is in the airport right? If we take his luggage with us, can he walk to the Monte di Pieta apt from there or should he stick with taking the #8 tram?
We have bought the tickets for the Vatican for the adults, as per an email from the Vatican, we can buy the tickets with student ID's there without standing in line when we pick up out tickets. We get to Rome Friday morning, have kept that day open, maybe visit the Pantheon & Spanish Steps in the evening. On Saturday we have 1pm reservations for the Vatican, Sunday wander around Trastavere & 3pm reservations for the Borghese, Monday -ancient Rome.
We are planning to take the bus to Siena on Tuesday, overnight in Siena, & take the train to Venice on Wednesday.
Have booked a water taxi for 80 euros for 8 people from the train station.
I have not booked a hotel or the bus to Siena since I would like some flexibility there.
I have not made any advance reservations for sights in Venice, are any necessary?
After 3 nights in Venice at Corte 1321, take the train to Milan, change to the train to Varenna-Esino, then take the ferry to Bellagio.
On the way back to Milan, I would like to take the hydrofoil to Como & then take the train from there, is that more complicated? We are currently booked at the Best Western near MXP so will take the train to the airport & then call them for the free shuttle. We plan to get there in the evening, is it worth going to Milan Central to store our bags to spend the evening in the city?
i did think about making a reservation for the Last Supper but am not sure if we will make it in time. Don't want to be tense or rushing.
I have never rented an apt on vacation before, is there anything in particular I need to remember to take? Risab, if you read this, let me know since you have stayed in the same apt.
Any and all tips, suggestions, opinions are welcome, I am finally more excited than confused! Thanks!
We have bought the tickets for the Vatican for the adults, as per an email from the Vatican, we can buy the tickets with student ID's there without standing in line when we pick up out tickets. We get to Rome Friday morning, have kept that day open, maybe visit the Pantheon & Spanish Steps in the evening. On Saturday we have 1pm reservations for the Vatican, Sunday wander around Trastavere & 3pm reservations for the Borghese, Monday -ancient Rome.
We are planning to take the bus to Siena on Tuesday, overnight in Siena, & take the train to Venice on Wednesday.
Have booked a water taxi for 80 euros for 8 people from the train station.
I have not booked a hotel or the bus to Siena since I would like some flexibility there.
I have not made any advance reservations for sights in Venice, are any necessary?
After 3 nights in Venice at Corte 1321, take the train to Milan, change to the train to Varenna-Esino, then take the ferry to Bellagio.
On the way back to Milan, I would like to take the hydrofoil to Como & then take the train from there, is that more complicated? We are currently booked at the Best Western near MXP so will take the train to the airport & then call them for the free shuttle. We plan to get there in the evening, is it worth going to Milan Central to store our bags to spend the evening in the city?
i did think about making a reservation for the Last Supper but am not sure if we will make it in time. Don't want to be tense or rushing.
I have never rented an apt on vacation before, is there anything in particular I need to remember to take? Risab, if you read this, let me know since you have stayed in the same apt.
Any and all tips, suggestions, opinions are welcome, I am finally more excited than confused! Thanks!
May 21st, 2009, 02:16 AM
#69
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Re the train for your son from the airport to the apartment: the station is right at the airport and well-marked. He wants the local F1 train which leaves from the track opposite the Leonardo Express. He should take the #8 tram from the Trastevere station to the apartment. It is too far to walk. He has to buy a ticket for the tram in advance and needs to date stamp the ticket at the machine on the tram when he gets on.
May 21st, 2009, 05:21 AM
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Re the apartment rental, think in advance about questions to ask so you can pull out a list when you get there. I didn't do that, and I wish I had because I was frazzled and stressed and couldn't think straight when we got to our rental this past winter. Some are: detailed walking instructions to nearest grocery store and pharmacy; how the washing machine works; how the stove works; what do you do with your trash and recyclables if you need to throw them out before you leave; what do you do if you have a problem in the middle of the night, like a water leak; how to the outside door locks work; how do you buzz someone into the apartment. Be sure to try the door keys before the owner/agent leaves.
May 21st, 2009, 06:26 AM
#71
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Here's Slow Travels tips for traveling/renting in Italy: www.slowtrav.com/italy/instructions/index.htm. We always make an immediate trip to a grocery store for food for breakfast and toilet paper. The site above has information about shopping in Italian grocery stores: weighing your own fruit after you bag it (wearing plastic gloves!) and labeling it, getting a shopping cart, etc. This site also has a link to grocery stores in Rome and even a list of store names; I remember it took us a while to figure out Co-op was a supermarket.
May 21st, 2009, 09:48 PM
#72
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Hi,
Artsbabe is exactly right. And when you get there you are so exhausted from your trip and getting to your place that you will not be entirely yourself. We also rented an apartment and we were warned not to turn on too many things on the electric. We had the iron and hardly other appliances and flipped a circuit. Fortunately we found the box in our unit and turned it back on. We also did not think to ask about the oven part of the stove (turned out it did not work). Or, if there is a door to a balcony, try it to see if you can get it open; you may be surprised, it might need a separate key or something.
I forget now from your post, but if you do rent a car, where to park it. You may also ask if there's a taxi stand nearby.
Enjoy your trip and we look forward to living vicariously through your report afterward!
Artsbabe is exactly right. And when you get there you are so exhausted from your trip and getting to your place that you will not be entirely yourself. We also rented an apartment and we were warned not to turn on too many things on the electric. We had the iron and hardly other appliances and flipped a circuit. Fortunately we found the box in our unit and turned it back on. We also did not think to ask about the oven part of the stove (turned out it did not work). Or, if there is a door to a balcony, try it to see if you can get it open; you may be surprised, it might need a separate key or something.
I forget now from your post, but if you do rent a car, where to park it. You may also ask if there's a taxi stand nearby.
Enjoy your trip and we look forward to living vicariously through your report afterward!
May 22nd, 2009, 12:43 PM
#73
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I've driven all over Italy many times...several in the large 9 passenger van. The van is actually easier than the smaller cars, but is harder when you need to find a parking space.
Keep in mind that driving in Italy is not an orderly or logical operation as it is in the states. Signs are confusing and sometimes contradictory. Parking is next to impossible. Don't expect to drive right into town and find your destination...many streets are one-way, pedestrian only, or just completely devoid of any signage at all.
Your easiest driving will be on the freeways...most of which are toll roads...so keep lots of change in your car(s). Do stop at the Autogrills...they're fabulous.
In short, add plenty of extra time for getting lost and finding parking.
I don't like to book train tickets in advance...plans change, and tickets are easy enough to buy when you get there. I've found the tickets to be cheaper just buying them at the station.
Not sure why you want the bus instead of the train. The seats are more comfortable in the trains, and the ride is much smoother.
I'd either skip driving on this trip, or stay longer in Tuscany and rent a car once you get there, just for driving in Tuscany. I'd forget hassling with cell phones and train reservations. Relax, enjoy what you see, don't push & rush. You really don't need to have every little detail covered.
I've finally learned after many years of traveling that the two best things you can do are:
Hire a limo service from your arrival airport to your hotel. They will be there holding a sign with your name on it. They will get you out of the airport faster. And they will get you to your hotel quickly and directly.
Schedule returning flights late in the day, and spend that last evening in the city you are departing from. You can sleep in, and you won't be in a rush to get to the airport.
Don't worry too much...you'll have a great trip.
Keep in mind that driving in Italy is not an orderly or logical operation as it is in the states. Signs are confusing and sometimes contradictory. Parking is next to impossible. Don't expect to drive right into town and find your destination...many streets are one-way, pedestrian only, or just completely devoid of any signage at all.
Your easiest driving will be on the freeways...most of which are toll roads...so keep lots of change in your car(s). Do stop at the Autogrills...they're fabulous.
In short, add plenty of extra time for getting lost and finding parking.
I don't like to book train tickets in advance...plans change, and tickets are easy enough to buy when you get there. I've found the tickets to be cheaper just buying them at the station.
Not sure why you want the bus instead of the train. The seats are more comfortable in the trains, and the ride is much smoother.
I'd either skip driving on this trip, or stay longer in Tuscany and rent a car once you get there, just for driving in Tuscany. I'd forget hassling with cell phones and train reservations. Relax, enjoy what you see, don't push & rush. You really don't need to have every little detail covered.
I've finally learned after many years of traveling that the two best things you can do are:
Hire a limo service from your arrival airport to your hotel. They will be there holding a sign with your name on it. They will get you out of the airport faster. And they will get you to your hotel quickly and directly.
Schedule returning flights late in the day, and spend that last evening in the city you are departing from. You can sleep in, and you won't be in a rush to get to the airport.
Don't worry too much...you'll have a great trip.
May 22nd, 2009, 04:22 PM
#74
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EC- You will be SO happy with the Corte 1321 B&B! My daughter and I stayed there in Oct 07 and loved it! It was our favorite hotel on our entire European trip!
All I can add is that your water taxi should take you to the San Silvestro stop. That is the closest to the hotel.
Buon viaggio!!! I'm so jealous!
All I can add is that your water taxi should take you to the San Silvestro stop. That is the closest to the hotel.
Buon viaggio!!! I'm so jealous!
May 22nd, 2009, 07:07 PM
#76
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Thanks for all your suggestions, artsbabe, I had been meaning to make that list of questions but after reading your post, I did it right away.BTW, don't apt rentals come with toilet paper? Not sure about dishwasher,washing machine detergent either.
The reason we are thinking of taking the bus to Siena is because besides being cheaper, the train station is apparently outside the city whereas the bus station is centrally located. Does anyone know if there would be any luggage storage at the Siena bus staion in case we did not want to stay overnight? It's too bad that all the car rental places are closed in Siena on June 2nd, otherwise we would rent a car & head out to Bologna that evening & then to Venice the next day.
I have not booked any train tickets in advance, will check there if the 3 day pass works out better than individual tickets since we will be using the trains on 3 separate days.
Jim, we have hired a limo service from Rome airport & a water taxi in Venice to take us to the hotel.
Vttraveller, thanks for the info for my son. Once he reaches Trastavere station, does he go outside the station for the #8 tram? And where would he buy the ticket for the tram?
Anybody have any input on my questions about travel from Bellagio to Milan?
Thanks all & keep the suggestions/last minute tips coming, I don't know what I would do without the help of everyone here!
The reason we are thinking of taking the bus to Siena is because besides being cheaper, the train station is apparently outside the city whereas the bus station is centrally located. Does anyone know if there would be any luggage storage at the Siena bus staion in case we did not want to stay overnight? It's too bad that all the car rental places are closed in Siena on June 2nd, otherwise we would rent a car & head out to Bologna that evening & then to Venice the next day.
I have not booked any train tickets in advance, will check there if the 3 day pass works out better than individual tickets since we will be using the trains on 3 separate days.
Jim, we have hired a limo service from Rome airport & a water taxi in Venice to take us to the hotel.
Vttraveller, thanks for the info for my son. Once he reaches Trastavere station, does he go outside the station for the #8 tram? And where would he buy the ticket for the tram?
Anybody have any input on my questions about travel from Bellagio to Milan?
Thanks all & keep the suggestions/last minute tips coming, I don't know what I would do without the help of everyone here!
May 22nd, 2009, 07:36 PM
#77
It's not really a bus station in Siena, more like a big parking area for bus pickup and drop off called Piazza Gramsci. There is a tourist info/ticket purchase office underneath the parking area. Look around for ramps down. There is luggage storage down there, but don't know how late they stay open.
May 23rd, 2009, 05:48 AM
#78
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Our rental had toilet paper plus extra rolls in the closet. It also had washing machine detergent and liquid dish soap in the kitchen. We didn't have a dishwasher. We had a dish towel, too. We also had odds and ends like sugar, tea and a few random leftover cans/packages of things from previous renters.
Your son should walk out the front door of the Trastevere train station, and he'll see the tram stop. There is kind of a small plaza/taxi stand/passenger drop-off area, and the tram stop is in the midst of this organized confusion. It, of course, looks like a tram with a track and overhead wires. He can buy tickets at any little news stand/shop.
Your son should walk out the front door of the Trastevere train station, and he'll see the tram stop. There is kind of a small plaza/taxi stand/passenger drop-off area, and the tram stop is in the midst of this organized confusion. It, of course, looks like a tram with a track and overhead wires. He can buy tickets at any little news stand/shop.
May 23rd, 2009, 07:50 AM
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There will be a newstand in the train station. If you are going to be using the buses or trams to get around Rome, he might as well buy more than one, but--yes--he can buy one.
I know that some buses have a machine to buy tickets, but not all, and I don't know about the tram.
Be sure he validates the ticket when he gets on the tram in the little machines. I believe they are bright yellow or some other obvious, bright color, and you stick the ticket in the slot and it time stamps it.
I know that some buses have a machine to buy tickets, but not all, and I don't know about the tram.
Be sure he validates the ticket when he gets on the tram in the little machines. I believe they are bright yellow or some other obvious, bright color, and you stick the ticket in the slot and it time stamps it.
