Rome accomodation, excursions etc.
 

Hi,
My family will be arriving in Rome and staying for only 3 days. My questions are is this long enough to see everything? Because there is 8 in our family should we look at villa's, B&B or hotels? We do want something central so we can walk. Please recommend. Thanks

It could probably take a lifetime or longer to see everything in Rome. Since you're only spending 3 days I would recommend hiring a guide so you get the most out of your short time there.

Can you recommend a guide?

Hi,
It's up to you in terms of Rome apartments, hotels, etc. I can recommend the Hotel San Carlo in Rome; obviously you will need more than 1 room, but they have good accomodations at a very good price. Given the location (very central in the historic center), I find them to be an excellent value.

For guides, I would recommend Giancarlo Alu. He's been a guide in Rome for 35 years, grew up there, lives there, and is the author of a few different books. You can reach him (dialing from America) at 011.39.349.8405.435. He has voicemail in both Italian and English, so if he can't answer, leave a message for him. He prefers speaking to folks directly instead of voicemail, but he does have an e-mail address.

Buon Viaggio,
BC

I have used a company called Vatican Tours & Beyond. I really thought they were great.
http://www.vaticantoursandbeyond.com

Given the size of your family and the possible variances in what everyone will want to see, I would recommend taking the very easy "Archeobus" that you board at Piazza Venezia for 7,75 euros per person (daily departures from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm). It goes throughout all of Rome, highlighting the famous spots (mostly along the Appian Way). You can get on and off at will, wherever you want, then reboard with the same ticket. BTW, their vans seat 16 people, so ideally, you could have most of the van for your entire family group! Here is their website for further information and details: http://www.romeguide.it/archeobus_ing.htm

For the other famous spots in Rome (Pantheon, Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Vatican, etc) you could target an area then walk and see the sites.

I usually always stay in the very central Campo Dei Fiori district, off Corso Vittorio Emanuele Blvd, and within walking distance to the Roman Forum area ruins, as well as the Pantheon, etc.

My two hotel picks in the Campo Dei Fiori district are the following: Albergo della Lunetta (http://rome-hotels.tripadvisor.com/S...ome_Lazio.html) and the Hotel Campo Dei Fiori (http://rome-hotels.tripadvisor.com/H...ome_Lazio.html). I have stayed in both several times and like them very much. You could inquire about holding 4-6 rooms (for the 8 of you) in advance, they should be able to give you a discount on the cost too.

Hi Huitres,
Thanks for the good info!

Huitres, another big thank you. You go, girl!

You're welcome! cknoll4, have a great time in bella Roma - one of my most favorite cities in Italia.

cknoll4,
Apartments or villas may be the best bet for eight. Check slow trav for reviews http://www.slowtrav.com/italy/review...onforlist=Rome