hoieunkim

Hi. We (my wife, sister-in-law and I) are planning a five-day trip to Italy and would like to get some advice on almost every aspect from you, experts. <BR><BR>1. We're thinking about visiting three citis: Rome, Venice and Naples (Pompeii). Since we're living in Berlin, we can take a flight to either Rome directly or Venice. My sister-in-law will either join us at Berlin or directly fly into Rome or Venice from Boston. <BR><BR>2. Regarding itinerary, what's going to be a better choice between car and train? <BR><BR>Any response will be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

LJ

Are you thinking of all 3 cities? I couldn't quite tell from your post. In 5 days that could be very difficult. I would tend to limit your visit to just one, though some may suggest that 2 could be covered successfully. Personally, I think you would find 5 days in Rome with a side trip to the catacombs a good start to a trip where one of you will have jet lag to contend with in addition to the fun of catching up with loved ones.

Jo

Don't think there'll be a jet lag problem, LJ, as Hoeiunkim says he and his wife live in Berlin!<BR><BR>Hoeiunkim, it is probably do-able, but dependent on flight schedules. For example, if you can leave Berlin very early on Day 1. If the only flight is later that will obviously cut into your time. Ditto for the return flight. <BR><BR>My suggestion is to fly to Rome, spend three days looking around there, then join a day trip to Naples/Pompeii (I know these are available) - not sure for Venice, but I think it would be easier to fly in and out of Rome, leaving your baggage in the one spot. I wouldn't want to lug my bags around three cities in five days.

Jo

Whoops! Just noticed an in law is coming along too, from Boston, hence LJ's jet lag comment. Would that really be a problem? I thought it would only be an 8 hour flight, as opposed to the 24-26 hour hauls from east coast Australia.

RufusTFirefly

I would spend 5 days in one of the 3 cities, whichever strikes everyone's fancy. There are good daytrips out of any of them should you get tired of their attractions. I really would not do 3 cities, just too little time. Instead of Naples, maybe a couple of days in Sorrento (it's a good base to visit Pompeii, Capri, etc.) and 3 on the Amalfi Coast.<BR><BR>Jet lag from the east coast US depends on the individual. I don't have any problem, but it knocks my wife for a loop.

hoieunkim

Thanks a lot for these wonderful suggestions. I will consult with my wife and will trim down to two cities. ^^

JBX

WHOA ! A very ambitious itinerary for a 5 day visit, no matter where your starting point is. Ideally you should pick one location. But if you're gung-ho, two cities are do-able. Either a Rome/Naples or a Rome/Venice combo. Distance between Rome &amp; Venice is greater; so if you opt for these two cities, your sister-in-law may want to do an open-jaws ticket from Boston --- fly into Rome and out from Venice (or vice verse).<BR><BR>As to traveling between the cities, I'd ride the rails. Eurostar trains are top of the line for Italy (fastest, most reliable). Check schedules online at www.trenitalia.com<BR>