Hello:

We are flying into Rome on a Saturday and leave the following Sunday. We're looking for suggestions for where to go and what to do in that time. We definitely want to spend at least 2-3 days in Rome and would really like to see Tuscany. Because we don't have much time, we need to plan carefully and pick the most important spots. We don't want to run ourselves ragged either! What matters to us? Must-see sights, good, authentic food, scenery, authentic cultural experiences. Your help is much appreciated!

hi, butterfly,

for us to help you, you neeed to help us!

ie what are the interests of yourself and your companion/s, are you willing to drive, what is your budget, can you do and open jaw flight [ie into one city, out of another] whhen are you travelling???

regards, ann

Hi B,

One week is excellent for visiting Rome.

Take a daytrip to Orvieto.

Visit Ostia Antica, Tivoli and Hadrian's villa.

Look up Rome under "destinations".

Enjoy your visit.

Myself, I'd pick one hotel in Rome for your week, and day-trip a few places you can get to by train from there.

Thanks to all for your replies.

Hi ANN, Okay here goes.
We are interested in experiencing the real culture of Italy ie. authentic food, landscape and ways of living. We would like to see the main "attractions" in Rome but can only handle so many museums, churches and galleries. We're not the "artsy"-type. Also, we're trying to get away from the noise and rush of the city so we'd like to experience the culture of Italy the way Italians do and not get caught up in the tourist trap (a little, yes but not too much). If we go to Sienna (or where ever people think we should go and not miss) we can certainly rent a car. We're not student travellers so we can afford to spend but we're not rich either! Somewhere in the middle. We haven't booked our flights yet so anything is possible.
My partner is relunctant to stay in Rome the whole time. He really wants to experience the beauty of the hillside, as do I.
I hope this helps!

SUZE: If you're suggesting day-tripping, how far is Sienna and what mode of transportation would you recommend? Or, were there other day trips you were thinking of. Perhaps understanding our interests better will help.

Finally, for the Rome "must see" spots, a touring company might be a good idea for us. Does anyone know of any good ones?
Thanks to e/o for their advice. We're extremely grateful.

Hi, butterfly,

I agree with IRA [i usually do] about how you could spend a very nice week in Rome.

But if you want to get out into the countryside as well, there are lots of options. In particular, there are a number of threads about the delights of southern Tuscany that you can look at - search for "montepulciano" for example.

You could return via assisi or orvieto - or use them as bases for your touring.

context Rome get good reviews for their tours of Rome - again try searching for them on this forum.

regards, ann