I need to book my flight this weekend and just can't decide! I will ending a work trip in Rome in January and want to add a few days at the end. I will be flying into Rome and would like to fly out of a different city and add about 4 days to the end of the trip, but I am torn as to where to go!

I was thinking of 1. Bologna with a day trip to Ravenna and/or Parma 2. Padua with a day trip to Vicenza 3. Verona. I can figure out the day trip specifics later, but I have to pick a base city/area now because it will effect the airport I fly out of (Prices are compatible, so all are options for me.) I've previously been to Venice, and will going to Florence and Siena this trip.

Some things to consider.
It will be winter, so I want to make sure there are enough indoor things to do (meaning as much as I love strolling and sitting as cafes I don't think January is the time for this, so I want to make sure I have "stuff to do&quot. I will be traveling alone.

I am really torn! I am very interested in hearing views on these places.

Hi C,

Take the train to Venice and fly home from VCE or Milan.

I was underwhelmed by Vicenza (but I am not an architecture fan); I loved the mosaics in Ravenna - they are somewhat spread out tho but with a good coat, it should not be too unpleasant. Do the Italians put out the big propane heaters for all year outdoor dining like they do at the cafe's in Paris? Our first trip to Paris was in Feb - we were so surprised that many of the cafes were still set up with outdoor tables.

Sue,
Any chance you could elaborate about what underwhelmed you about Vicenza?

I think I've narrowed it down to Bologna or Verona. I would take at least one day trip, maybe two from each place. From Bologna I think Ravenna and/or Parma from Verona maybe Padua. Not sure about a second. Opinions, ideas, votes? Should I go with Bologna or Verona? Does anyone have experience with the Verona airport?

I love Bologna. To me, it's the perfect-sized small city, with a lot going on and fantastic food.

I have less experience with Verona, just half-day visit. Also a great little city, but I think fewer wonderful restaurants and markets. Also, the university in Bologna keeps things interesting.

There was a recent thread about Bologna that had many good suggestions, including day trips.

I have been in both Bologna and Verona (a few days in each; separate trips) in January. Liked them both very much but might give the edge to Bologna. Both have terrific food, if that is an interest.

You can fly to the US from Bologna with a connection.

For day trips, Parma/Ravenna seems like the choice combination. (But I've not yet been to Ravenna so cannot say for certain).

I am thinking about a trip to ER this January, too!

I read on another board that the weather in Bologna is very foggy and humid in the winter, does anyone know if this is enough to be concerned about? Checking temp. #s doesn't help with this. Would hate to not be able to see anything.

Overall am leaning toward Bologna.

I would expect similar weather in Verona as well, so don't make your decision based on weather alone.