bobthenavigator

Look at Casa Howard !

loislane17

Looks like you've honed down the trip to something doable--remember the mantra of most of the folks on these boards-We will go back!
Check out the train schedules that best suit you at www.trenitalia.it Unless you somehow get stuck on an "espresso," one of the slower trains, you shouldn't take 7 hours! Look for a Eurostar train, the slight bit more paid often (but not always!) means an hour to two hours saved. I tend to do most by IC, but on the major tourist paths, it's nice having the comfort of a Eurostar reservation!
You're doing the boradbrush highlights, and believe me, unless you have 3-4 weeks, or this is your 2-3 trip, you do want to see those highlights-plus you're going at a time when the whether should be great (getting cooler north). Don't imagine that you are leaving crowds behind, though. It will still be crowded--not anywhere as bad as the summer, but you'll have lots of folks to share Italy with, including Italians!
I'd love to rec. some of my fave restaurants in these places; you can reach me at [email protected] and I'll give you a listing of ones we found and enjoyed!

juliekenney

Do you think we should skip Venice and go to Lake Como area instead? This is definitely an option.

USAEngland

We'll be in Rome mid September and have researched hotels extensively. Our second choice was the Inn at the Spanish Steps- new, small, charming and at the location you are looking for. Listed as 'best newcomer' by Fodors. Room rates are $399-$672. ([email protected])However, we decided we wanted to stay near Ancient Rome and Piazza Navona so selected the Albergo Del Senato. (albergodelsenato.it-saw lots of great reviews on venere.com, other sites and it is right across from the Pantheon)

juliekenney

Thank you so much for your recommendation. This looks like a great option.

juliekenney

After a long hard decision we have decided to cute out Lake Como once and for all. Just too much traveling in 14 days. I think we are going to add a day to Geneo with the family and a day either to Venice or Florence. Thanks everyone for all of their help. Do you think this is the best thing to do?

juliekenney

You will never imagine...I had to change my dates due to a deal I got at work. But, my our new flight schedule is so much better. Here are our new plans.

arriveept 17 to Rome at 3:45 pm
Stay in Rome for three nights
Sept 20-23: Florence for three nights
Sept. 23-26: Staying with relatives in Genoa for three nights
Sept 26-28: Lake Como for two nights
Sept 28-Oct 1: Venice for three nights

This itinerary is so much better! Thanks so much everyone!

Mary_Fran

The last itinerary looks great! Congrats for your open mind and openness to suggestions.

juliekenney

It works out so much better. At least three nights in every place with the exception of Lake Como where we will spend two nights. Thanks again!