We are planning a trip in early October to Rome and Florence, flying in and out of Rome (mileage trip so this is what we had to accept). We will be arriving October 3 and flying out on the 14th and have NO CLUE what kind of itinerary to plan. I know we need to book our hotels and Vatican tour. Can you wonderful readers help? I'd like to spend a few days in each city as well as the countryside in-between.

Many thanks.

This is what you do first: get a set of Rome and Florence guidebooks, a notebook, and highlighters. Make two columns: MUST SEE and NICE TO SEE. This will become your draft itinerary. Schedule 4 days in Rome to start up and fit in those four days MUST SEE sites. Do not cramped. If you are left with MUST SEE sites then add days in Rome. Same with Florence.

If MUST SEE sites are not enough to fill the alloted vacation time, expand to other cities; i.e. Venice, Naples, etc....

That's a start. GO.

Hi if,

You can start by looking up the cities under "Destinations".

Train schedules and prices are at www.trenitalia.com
RT is the same as 2 one-way.
You can buy your tickets to Forence when you buy your tickets to Rome TE at FCO.

Enjoy your visit.

First of all, don't be tempted to add another city to this trip. Day-trips are OK, but no changing hotels.

I like Viajero2's planning suggestions, and I'd add maps of each city so that you can see where the sights are located in relation to each other. Note the open and closed days for everything you want to see. Depending on your must-see lists, Sunday or Monday may be the best day to travel between cities.

If you want hotel recommendations, we need to know your budget and whether you have any specific needs or physical limitations.

I meant to add that many here will recommend you take a train to Florence immediately on arriving in Rome. I agree unless your plane arrives very late in the day.

It will also to read trip reports posted on this site and also on tripadvisor.com.

When you have made your list, use the search box to read up on your choices and get further insight as to booking methods. cost, time allocation, etc.

Map out a plan that leaves time to just sit back and enjoy. Our favorite experiences have not necessarily been those on our "must see" list, which I must admit we keep short so as not to let the really good stuff pass us by.

Make a budget and start looking at hotels that fit priorities as well as cost.

For Rome, you can check out my website. I have free downloadable MP3 audio guides, a free downloadable print-it-yourself 3 day tour guidebook, an entire section on official Rome brochures, bus maps and lots more.

Just go under the Library and Touring menu option.

dave

www.passagetoroma.com