So here's my request. My wife and I are fortunate that a friend of a friend will be lending us their Rome apartment for 10 days in mid-September. This will be our 3rd trip to Italy (we've spent quality time in Florence, Tuscany, Umbria, Venice). We plan on spending 5 days before we head to Rome - where do we spend those first 5 days: the Lake district; Amalfi coast; Sicily, elsewhere?....recommendations are greatly appreciated.
2 - Also, insight into recommended day trips while we have the Rome base

Mille grazie!

Amalfi coast or Sicily would be my choice

HI Richard,

You shouldn't need or want day trip out of Rome during your 5 days. So much to see and do! However, there are a couple good trips within a hour, Orvieto and Tivoli, both are wonderful.

I would go to the Lakes because they won't be as crowded as the Amalfi Coast mid-Sept.

Buon viaggio!

Dayle, FYI the 5 days is B4 we get to Rome; the planned day trips are while we are spending 10 days in Rome

Ah, then I would highly recommend both! But an overnight in Orvieto is much better than just a day trip.

Sounds like a wonderful trip. Lucky you!

I second the lakes, if only because it's such a contrast to Rome and its surrounds.

And I'd be sure to visit Ostia Antica while in Rome.