I'm not to keen on going to Florence. But, now the question is Venice or Rome?

I vote for Rome. So much to see and do - sights, museums plus the Vatican. You can't go wrong.

Is Rome as beautiful as Venice though? I really want a unique Italian experience.

Since you've never BEEN to Italy, any experience you have is going to be "unique."

Comparing the beauty of Rome and Venice is, IMO, like comparing the shopping in Milan and Rome. Like the beauty these things exist in BOTH places and what seems beautiful to you could seem dreary to others.

I recall the poster who once declared that the Via Veneto is "not the real Rome." Well, it sure as Hell isn't Cleveland.

Unique? WITHIN Italy? I'd have to say Venice and why don't you do what a LOT of first-timers do: spend the time and money to sample the so-called "big three" of Venice, Florence, and Rome. No, it won't be Tuscany and no it won't be Lake Como but if it is cities you want and a variety of them, I'd do with those for a first visit.

And as one poster on this thread loves to say, "It's the obvious choice."

I only want to go to one city in Italy

I think that I've decided to go to Milan and Bellagio at Lake Como

Just got back to this thread and I didn't realize you wanted to visit Bellagio as well. Enjoy! I would have voted for Venice because in my very humble opinion it is magical. Not everyone shares that feeling. DH and I returned there and to Rome as often as possible.

As for zeppole's comment:

"Be aware that at least one person in this thread is deliberately trying to mislead you."

This is such an uncalled for statement, zepp and the kind of thing that detracts from your very good information.

Venice is lovely. I found Milan disappointing and wouldn't go back. I am anxiously awaiting my first trip to Rome, this Fall. I already know we won't even come close to seeing it all!