Thanks everyone - as you saw from my crazy posting, we are going straight to Florence once we arrive in Rome. So 3 nights there, then 3 in Venice, 3in CT and final night in Rome. My question is this: for our last night in Rome should we just stay at an airport hotel (our flight to US is at 11am or so) or is it fairly easy to get back to the airport the morning of. I just didn't want to have a crazy time getting there. We will arrive from CT Sat and then sightsee half the day and then go back to the hotel (either in Rome or by airport in Rome)

Thanks for everyone's advice - you guys are great.

I think that staying in the city proper is fine. If I remember correctly, the Leonardo Express starts running shortly before 7. When I had to make a similar decision, I stayed near Termini. I don't think that you gain much by staying near the airport (I think that I may have asked here and was told the choices were limited).

Presumably three hours to check in is plenty. You can also take a taxi.

I took a taxi to the airport for a 10:30 departure. I left at 7 and got the airport at 7:30. 3 hours was a long wait since there were really no lines. The taxi was 37 euro. The train is 9,50 euro so if there are two of you, take a taxi and save the stress and trouble.

Hi Melissa,

I also suggest staying in Rome and taking a cab to the airport - about 40E.

In my opinion, you can see Venice in a day. I'd add the extra time on at the end to see Rome. Also it's nice to start your trip home in a relaxed state.
Just an opinion.

chacun a son gout.

I wouldn't give up a minute in Venice for a week in Rome.

You can "see" any city in a day. But most take longer to actually experience. I wonder what people would omit when they recommend that others spend only one day in Venice, or Rome, or Florence, or Paris, etc.?

Hey guys- that itinerary is set at this point, but thanks for the extra advice. I already switched/added hotels, so i need to make due with 3nights in Florence, 3 in Venice, 3 in CT and 1 in Rome...we'll just have to come back one day. If I'm bored in Venice, I'll just relax there - I'm not big on "traditional sightseeing" anyways. Rather just hang out, people-watch and eat lots of good food!
I will definitely post when I return, if not before then with more questions

I hate to see you giving up much of Rome, but think you have made a good decision based on your interests. Your trip sounds much less hectic and much more fun now. Enjoy!