Jeannie

Are we overdosing on ruins here? We have 4 days in Rome, one of which will include a short day-trip to Pompeii. Traveling with my father who is a minister and avid student of history (religious & secular). But also traveling with my 19 year old son. I know it's a long drive to Pompeii, but everyone wants to go & we'd enjoy the ride. Thanks

Dick

Well, I'd say no, but everyone's different. Sounds like a tough combination of traveling companions. My wife and I are history/archaeology buffs and we spent four very long days exclusively in the Forum and on the Palatine Hill and felt rushed - it wouldn't suprise me if your father is the same way. I'm sure others are bored in four hours. Pompeii is a bit different because it's so much more "alive" and for that reason I think will hold your son's interest - you won't do it as a short day trip, however - we went on the train and it was a very, very long day. We spent about five hours actually in Pompeii and wish we'd had five days. I think I'd recommend leaving the Via Appia and catacombs for last - though we loved both - and changing plans accordingly if your son begins to lose interest. Don't forget the Colosseum and Baths of Caracalla, by the way - I think your son might find both somewhat more interesting than the Forum.

Marilyn

Don't miss Herculeneum (sp?) if you can help it. It is smaller than Pompeii but more intact. Marilyn

AttyVette

My dad's a minister too and we are planning on going there. By the way, I have a22 year old daughter and 19 year old son (as well as my mother) who are also going with me to Italy next week.

Jeannie

Thanks for the replies & great info. We'll need to narrow things down, but it's painful. AttyVette, when are you getting back from Rome? I would love to hear how it went since your group is so similar to ours. Thanks again everyone for the help; I search & search on the internet and frequently get the best answers here at Fodors.

Doug Weller

I'd argue for Herculaneum over Pompeii, gives you a better feeling of being in a Roman town. <BR><BR>But you might consider Ostia Antica instead, it is a *lot* closer.<BR><BR>Doug