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Audrey Hepburn…50 years later!

An exciting tribute to Audrey Hepburn in this unique exhibition in Rome.
The event takes place in one of the most beautiful museums of the city: Ara Pacis! hurry up book your private apartment, you have only until the 4th of December!

Clipped from en.arapacis.it

26 October - 4 December 2011

Audrey in Roma

Type: Photography

The exhibition pays tribute to Audrey Hepburn and her support of UNICEF’s programmes: unpublished photos, videos and personal items belonging to one of the icons of our time.

On the occasion of 50th anniversary of Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and simultaneously with the International Film Festival of Rome, for the first time the City of Rome celebrates Audrey Hepburn, with an exhibition that is a tribute to the great movie star in “her” Rome with the aim of raising funds to combat child malnutrition, a mission Audrey dedicated part of her life. Part of the admission fee will be donated to UNICEF.
The exhibition hosted at the Museum of Ara Pacis presents images, videos and personal items of the three different “lives” lived in Rome by the actress: movie star, mother and ambassador. In 25 years, Audrey shared with Rome crucial moments of her career, from Roman Holiday and War and Peace to The Nun’s Story, but in Rome she enjoyed many years of family life in close contact with the city and its inhabitants.
A selection of unpublished shots from the Reporters Associati, Photomasi, Istituto Luce e Kobal Collection archives - capture Audrey Hepburn in everyday moments in the city. Captions, texts and graphics will illustrate the personal relationship between Audrey and Rome. An exclusive video will also reveal moments of her private life, accompanied by some clothes and accessories, designed by Givenchy, Valentino, and many others.
Part of the exhibition will be dedicated to Audrey’s commitment to UNICEF, with shots documenting her travels among children in Bangladesh, Vietnam, Somalia, Sudan, Ethiopia and Latin America.

Opening hours

Tuesday-Sunday: 9.00 am - 7.00 pm;
Last admission 1 hour before closing time;
Closed: Monday.

Entrance ticket

Adults: € 10,00;
Read more at en.arapacis.it

Top things to consider when booking a Vacation Rental Apartment

Here are some tips about key points to pay attention when booking a private apartment

Clipped from www.flipkey.com

Top 8 Things to Consider When Booking a Vacation Rental

Vacation Rentals are a great alternative to hotels and resorts when you’re looking for a place to stay on your next vacation. They’re typically less expensive, more personal, more private, more spacious, and boast all the comforts of home. But even though the benefits are many, there are several things to take into consideration before booking a vacation rental.

1.)

Book Early.

In January and February, summer rental bookings begin – especially for waterfront properties. Many regular vacationers book a year in advance, so take that into consideration when making your summer vacation plans. It’s never too early to start looking.

2.) Explore Your Options. First you pick a vacation destination, and then you find a place to stay. When searching for a vacation rental home – comparison shop! Be sure to keep your options open – considering many different rental properties gives you a variety of places to choose from, as well as a variety of prices and available amenities. Looking at comparable properties will give you a good idea of what you can expect from a particular area.

3.) Consider Off-Peak Vacations. The most popular vacation months are typically July and August, so naturally booking a vacation rental during these months will be most expensive. If you plan a trip for late May or early June, you can avoid most of the peak-season fees. And if you can wait until after Labor Day, you’ve got the chance to save up to HALF off your rental price!

4.) Be Your Own Planner. Using a booking agent can tack on a fee of up to 10% on top of the cost of a rental, so use websites like FlipKey to do it yourself, quickly and easily.

5.) Read Guest Reviews. This one is a no-brainer to us here at FlipKey, because reviews are paramount to our property listing experience. But there’s a good reason for that – only past guests can tell you what a rental property is REALLY like – the good, the bad and the ugly! In addition to looking at photos and chatting with the owners, it’s the most surefire way to guarantee that you’re picking a good place to stay.

6.) Ask Questions. Whether booking a property that you’ll stay in for two days or two weeks, you want to make sure that you’ll have all the amenities you want and need available to you. And the only way you’ll know is if you ask. More is better in this case, and owners will be happy to provide information and photos to anyone seriously considering their rental home.
Read more at www.flipkey.com

More on best iphone travel apps for Rome Italy

Some additional interesting resources to get the most out of your iPhone on your trip to Rome.

Clipped from blog.iphonetrip.com

iPhone travel apps: traveling in Italy: Rome and Vatican

The next one in the series of articles on “5 most useful iPhone travel apps” is … ITALY !

Italy… the land of artists, emperors, gladiator fights… And here we are, technologically advanced… exploring the ancient history and enjoying modern comfort and convenience of getting around with iPhone travel apps.

1. Rick Steves’ Ancient Rome Tour

It’s your personal interactive multimedia guide to ancient Rome. The audio player allows you listen to detailed explanations on the sections of the tour and tour sights. Some of the sights are accompanied by video.
This comprehensive Rome history tour guide is enhanced with useful information on nearby hotels and restaurants. If you tap the info tab of any sight, hotel or restaurant, you get more details on costs, address, phone numbers, etc.

This app costs $2.99 and is available at the Apple Store

2. Rome Metro

This is a very helpful iPhone app if you want to use metro services in Rome. This app will show you what metro station is the closest to you. It will also provide information on the best route to your destination. The Roma Metro app allows you save your preferred routes and itineraries in your iPhone, rearrange and visualize them.

This app is available in English, Italian and Spanich, costs $2.99 and is available for download from the Apple Store

3. Rome 2Go

This iPhone Rome travel app includes offline searchable and zoomable map. Rome 2Go provides in-depth information about places of interest, historical facts, trivia and more. With this App you can search for and read articles about Rome. Rome2Go offers over 500 articles! This level of richness and in depth coverage of the whole city is unique to Rome2Go.
This App concentrates on Rome history, geography and landmarks and has very little information about restaurants, night life, clubs or events.

This app costs $0.99 and is available for download from the Apple Store

4. Top 10 Rome

This iPhone app got high ranking from the users. It’s a guide to top 10 everything in Rome. It allows you to browse the most fascinating ancient sites, churches and historical buildings, provides information on greatest Roman artists, romantic spots, piazzas and fountains, most fun places for children and the best hotels, shops and restaurants to suit every budget.
It includes: maps, images, descriptions and guides, large scale maps covering Central Rome and the Historic Center, separate maps for Bus routes around Rome, over 50 area-maps indicating various points of interest. The app has a built-in keyword based search that allows you to find everything you need in the guide. You can add and re-order bookmarks to help you keep track of the places you’re planning to visit.
The app also contains currency converter, lots of useful web links and more!

The app costs $7.99 and is available for download from the Apple Store

5. Vatican Museums Tour

This app is a full comprehensive tour guide for Vatican Museums: history, art pieces’ description and story of creation, and much more.

Selected Features:

Interactive maps

Easy navigation menu

Suggested route

Photo gallery with over 200 high quality images

120 minutes of high content audio, soundtrack, and FX

This app got only 5-stars reviews at the Apple App store.

This app costs $4.99 and is available for download from the Apple Store.

***
Read more at blog.iphonetrip.com

How to book the cheapest flight to Rome

There is an impressive number of sites to choose from if you want to book the best and cheapest flights to Italy (or to any destination), but how do you sort through the many different options and airlines?

Our favourite site, and now iPhone and iPad app, is Hipmunk http://www.hipmunk.com/

Hipmunk is a flight ticket search engine that displays results in a user-friendly chart of departure and arrival times, ticket prices, stopovers, and flight duration.

Play with your options and set your most important parameters…until you find the perfect match for your flight to Rome!

Looking forward to welcome you!

Clipped from mashable.com

What do you hate most about air travel? Is it the costs? The brutal flight durations and multiple layovers? Having to leave your house at the crack of dawn or arriving at your destination in the dead of night?

Whatever you hate most, Hipmunk will help you filter out so you can quickly see, select and purchase the best flights.

Once you tell Hipmunk when and where you’d like to go and on which airline, if any, you prefer to fly, the app sorts out available flights and filters them by multiple factors. You can see flights organized by price, number of stops, total duration, and departure and arrival times. Or, you can click the “agony” tab to see the creme-de-la-creme of flights — the ones that score best on all factors.

The interface is quick, simple and intuitive. The app replaced an hour’s worth of back-and-forth navigation and research within a few clicks; we were able to find a great flight that met our needs and purchase it through a partner travel site (currently, just Orbitz).

You can also run multiple searches using tabs that run inside the browser window. If you have a frequent flyer number, you can use that during the checkout process. If you run into trouble, you can IM live with a Hipmunk rep from within the app.

See more at mashable.com

How Much In Advance Should I Book For Rome?

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To book early or late; that is the question when Rome is the travel destination of choice. The simple truth is both options have their potential ups and downs. Some people will simply be more comfortable with one choice or another.

If a Roman vacation is on the horizon, it does pay to fully explore the potential benefits and pitfalls of both choices.

What To Expect From Booking Early

It is not at all uncommon that travelers who plan a trip to Rome choose to do so weeks or even months in advance. This option can increase the excitement and anticipation. It can also save vacationers the worries that come along with last-minute travel.

If planning ahead and booking early is desired, these are the cons to anticipate with doing so:

More planning time – Those who secure rooms and travel accommodations well in advance are often able to spend more time researching and planning out an itinerary for their stay in Rome. This can enable travelers to better see the sights and take in the destinations they truly want to see. The more research time allotted also enables travelers a better opportunity to uncover destinations they might not even have known they wanted to see, too.
Greater likelihood of securing desired accommodations – Considering the fact that Rome is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, it does make sense to book rooms well in advance. After all, high tourist seasons, special events and other goings on in the city can leave all the better hotels booked solid.
Potential for cost savings – In many cases, vacationers will find that early booking leads to discounts. The better planned out a schedule is, too, the more likely is that savings can be enjoyed.

While booking early does have its share of pros, it can come with a few cons, too. Here are a few to really consider:

Emergencies – Plan too far in advance and it’s possible the desired time for the trip just won’t pan out personally. With this in mind, it’s not a bad idea to consider trip insurance – if it’s available – or fully refundable tickets for travel.
Changes of heart – When a trip is planned out a month or two in advance, would-be visitors may find they discover different places they’ve wished they booked at. After all, when a trip to Rome is on tap, chances are a lot of Web surfing is going to go into the pre-trip period. Visitors may pay for rooms and then find a hotel that puts them closer to what they want to see, for example. Keep in mind it might be better to only put down the minimum deposit in advance on rooms for this very reason.

What Last-Minute Bookers Can Expect

While those who book in advance really have the time to plan things out, there is something to be said for a little spontaneity. When flexibility on dates and travel times is available, travelers can enjoy such potential perks as:

Last-minute discounts – It’s not uncommon for hotels and airlines to offer deals to those who fill last-minute bookings. As long as space is available, the savings can be rather significant. Keep in mind, however, that last-minute bookers don’t always get tickets on a flight or rooms at a hotel. Therein lies the risk.
The ability to wing it – Thanks to years of hearing about Rome and studying it in school, most travelers know the main sights they want to see. The Forum, Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum and so on are all givens for first-time visitors. Beyond that, however, most people are pretty flexible. Last-minute travelers have the ability to enjoy a potentially more relaxing trip since they won’t have the luxury of time to plan out every single minute of their trip. This can actually be an advantage for some since it enables more fluidity and spontaneity with a trip.

While last-minute sojourns to Rome can be very enjoyable, visitors who select this route need to be prepared for potential disappointments. They may find they simply cannot arrange for travel and accommodations without more notice. It’s also possible that those “last-minute” discounts might not apply because of special goings on in this ancient capital city.

Special Considerations

Visitors who have Rome on their mind and love doing things at the last minute do need to be aware of some potential times of year to avoid. High seasons such as spring, Christmas, New Year and Easter bring a lot of visitors to this city. When travel is planned around these times, it’s almost always better to book well in advance. Visitors who don’t will find the city is almost fully booked at these times of year.

A Roman vacation is often a once-in-a-lifetime experience. While both early and last-minute bookings offer their own advantages, making arrangements well in advance can remove a lot of the worries and concerns. Plus, it’s just nice to have time to really plan things out so nothing is missed.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Rome?

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While there is literally no time of the year that isn’t perfect for a tour of Rome, some travelers will find certain seasons more appealing than others. Visitors here will also discover Rome offers a distinctly different experience for travelers with each passing season.

Here’s a look at what to expect in Rome at different times of the year:

Summertime In Rome

With its stunning Mediterranean climate, Rome is a great place to visit in the summer months. While highs can climb into the upper 80s, lows hover in the 50s and 60s throughout the summer. This means a trip to Rome during the peak of summertime weather will still provide more outdoor comfort than a holiday in Florida or other tropical destinations.

While not everyone will enjoy the warmer summer months, there are many compelling reasons to book a trip to this amazing city during this season. Summer is an ideal time for those looking for lower hotel rates and less hustle and bustle. August is a particularly slow time in Rome as many locals take their vacations and head to the hills outside of the city to enjoy slightly cooler temperatures.

Beyond typical sightseeing, there are many things to do in the summer in Rome including:

Taking in the Villa Celimontana Jazz Festival – This annual event takes place on the grounds of a 16th century villa each summer. It attracts both national and international jazz musicians.
Cinema Island Festival – This annual event takes place in downtown Rome near the Tiber River. Each year from mid-June to September, movies are held in the open air during this festival.
Teatro dell’Opera – Visitors to Rome during the summer months can also take in live theatrical performances at the Caracalla baths. Ballets, plays and orchestral performances are all scheduled at this time of year.
Beaches – Rome finds itself located near a number of beaches that are well worth taking in. Summer is the perfect time to indulge.

Autumn Offers Many Possibilities

Autumn weather is considered nearly postcard perfect in Rome. The highs range between 70s in early fall and drop to the 60s or so as the season moves forward. The lows stay around the 50s throughout the season.

As the leaves change colors and the temperatures become cool and comfortable, Rome does fill up with holidaymakers. Still, this is considered an amazing season to visit for a variety of reasons. Aside from the usual tourist destinations, fall brings with it these special attractions:

The Roma Jazz Festival – This annual event takes place in October and has been a fixture in the city since 1876.
Festival Romics – The annual comics and cartoon festival is set for October. It pulls in visitors from all over the world interested in this distinctly modern form of art.
Roma Europa Festival – Featuring music, art, dance and theatrical performances, the festival runs from September through October. It draws artists from all over the continent and is a major attraction for holidaymakers who make their way to Rome in the autumn months.

Winter Brings Its Own Blend Of Activities

The winter months can bring with them colder temperatures, but thanks to the Mediterranean climate, freezes are not typically an issue. Visitors during this time of year can anticipate highs in the 50s and lows in the 30s.

While the late fall and early winter are also considered Rome’s rainy months, vacationers here can anticipate plenty of things to do including:

The Classical Music and Art Festival – This relatively new festival takes place in the winter months and is considered a must-visit for those with a love for the arts. Performances and displays are held at architecturally significant locations throughout the city.
Plaza Novana Christmas Market – This market runs from late November through early January every year. It features a variety of activities and vendor booths. Plus, Santa Claus makes an appearance during the season
Christmas trees – Although not a traditional Italian feature, Romans have recently embraced the idea of putting up Christmas trees. In fact, the city has taken to placing towering, lighted trees outside of the Colosseum, creating quite a sight indeed
The Vatican – A trip to Rome during the winter months wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Vatican City. This historic home of the papacy plays host to a number of events including a world-famous Christmas mass.

What To Expect When Spring Is In The Air

Rome in the springtime is a sight to behold. With temperatures in the high 50s to low 70s, this time of year is considered by many to be one of the best to visit this ancient city. As is the case in a Mediterranean climate, visitors should be prepared for just about anything during the springtime. While days can be warm and sunny, evenings can bring rather nippy temperatures from time to time.

Vacationers that select spring for their trips to Rome will find the city is ready to greet them with a number of special events. Some of the major attractions this time of year include:

Festa della Primavera – The annual Spring festival is celebrated in April. During this time of year, the Spanish Steps are decorated to embrace the season and concerts are held in honor of the season.
Accademia Filarmonica Roma – Regular concerts are held at this venue during the months of April and May.
Easter – The days leading up to and beyond Easter are considered amazing for visitors to this historic city. St. Peter’s Square plays host to an Easter outdoor mass, concerts are held throughout the city and the Castel Sant’Angelo plays host to celebrations.

Holidaymakers who adore ancient sites, the hustle and bustle of a modern city and pageantry that doesn’t stop will find there is no bad time to visit Rome. Each season does, however, bring with it a distinct set of possibilities.

Top Iphone&Ipad Apps About Rome

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With an iPhone or an iPad, you can access information on the go wherever you are in Rome. From restaurant recommendations to audio guides that give you information on the history and culture, and maps to help you find the nearest train station or restaurant, getting around the city will get so much easier. There are several iPhone apps that may be useful to you. Here is a look at some informative and fun options.

Tripadvisor

If you have used Tripadvisor online to help plan your travel or read reviews about accommodation, restaurants and attractions, then this free app for the iPhone or iPad is a must have. Besides giving you listings of restaurants and things to do, you can access reviews from other travellers. If you are wandering around in Trastevere looking for a place to have dinner, setting your location on the app would automatically show the restaurants closest to you. You can then read the latest reviews for each of them before making a choice.

Rome2go

For getting information about each historic site, the Rome2go app is a good investment. It has around 500 articles on various topics such as best places to visit, history and people. The nicest part of this app is the map of the city and Metro, which can be accessed offline. This will ensure that you are not dependent on Wi-Fi access. Using GPS, the app identifies your location and shows the nearest Metro station or place of interest along with a brief description of it. This app is well worth $1.99 just for its street search function that lets you find even the smallest street. If you are interested in the history behind the monuments in the ‘Eternal City’, this app will give you an introduction to each.

Italy Guides: Vatican Museums

With your own guide to the Vatican in your hand, you won’t need to pay for an audio guide at the museums or have to leave your passport as security until you return the equipment. In addition, you can save precious time if you are in Rome for just a few days by seeing the most important attractions. The Italy Guide Vatican Museums app will take you through the 200 years of history and art inside the Vatican through an audio tour and an interactive map that lets you find the main attractions in each room. There is a free version that includes a guide to the birth of the Vatican, the Raphael Rooms, Michelangelo’s Last Judgement at the Sistine Chapel and the Belvedere Torso. The full version, which costs $6.99, additionally offers a higher quality display of the images of the Vatican and a complete guide to the Sistine Chapel among other things.

Smarthistory Travel: Rome a first look

There are so many pieces of art all over Rome that it is quite common to walk past one without knowing its significance. By downloading this app for $4.99 you can have a personal art historian give you a guided tour through the streets of Rome. The app lets you explore Ancient, Renaissance and Baroque art in the city or the works of famous artists such as Caravaggio, Raphael, Bernini and Michelangelo. It comes with an offline map as well as an online map that lets you find directions to a place of interest from your current location. You can also use the text search function to find information on an artist or attraction. If you are an art lover, this app is something that will help you enjoy Rome more than you expected.

When in Rome

If you are looking to do what the locals do, this app gives you the best that Rome has to offer in terms of places to eat, shopping or views. The information is compiled from the point of view of Romans (as opposed to tourists or guide books). When you want to have the best pizza in Rome, tapping on this app will bring up a recommendation offline. You don’t need to access Wi-Fi unless you are trying to find directions to the place from your current location. For $4.99 this app gives you insiders’ tips and secrets that guidebooks won’t tell you so that you can really live like the Romans.

Aperitivo

Everyone likes happy hours, whether they are on a budget or not. Apertivo is a free app that lists the various pubs and bars that have happy hours. It also lists the timings and prices. You can use the map to find the distances from your location to decide which one to visit.

Free Rome

For travellers on a budget, this app which costs just $0.99, lists 80 places in Rome that don’t have entry fees, including 19 museums. You can click on a place of interest on the list to open up Google maps and get the address of its location, the telephone number and brief information about it. That way, you can see a lot of Rome without having to pay your way through.

Besides these apps, most travel guide book publishers have apps for Rome. These include Rick Steves, Lonely Planet, Frommer’s, DK and others. While some of these like Frommer’s and Lonely Planet are complete guides, others such as Rick Steves offer apps that are specific to a particular attraction such as the St. Peter’s Basilica. DK has a Top Ten app that lists the ten best things to do in each category, whether it is attractions, tours, restaurants or shopping.

You will also come across many more apps when you browse through the travel section of the iTunes store. Many of them are free. If you are in Rome for a while, then you may have the time to test out various free apps to see how good they are. Otherwise, you can stick to apps that suit an area of interest such as art, history or food and read user reviews to get a preview of the pros and cons of using a particular app. A point to look for is whether there is an interactive map which works offline so that you won’t have to pay additional charges for browsing.

Internet And Wi-Fi In Rome

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Sooner or later there will come a time when you want to access the Internet while you are in Rome. It could be to check your email account for messages from family and friends, to get information about the opening hours of a historical site or to do an online check in for your flight. If you are travelling with your laptop or handheld device, while your room may have the option to access the Internet, this could be chargeable. Free Wi-Fi networks can be accessed from several sites in the historical centre. Besides this, there are Internet cafes all over the city that will let you use their computers for a small fee. It is best to be aware of all the options, the procedures and the approximate charges, so you can minimise the costs involved in accessing the Internet.

Free Public Wi-Fi

If your laptop or a mobile device has a wireless card, you can use it to access the free public Wi-Fi service that is offered at several hotspots around the city provided by Roma Wireless. Most of the hotspots are in the historic centre of the city, and this is beneficial to tourists. Popular tourist spots such as Villa Borghese, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, Circus Maximus, Pantheon, Piazza de Pietra, Campo de’ Fiori and the Spanish Steps, as well as several other sites have free public Wi-Fi, but you may find the signal weak at some places.

All you have to do to access the Internet with your laptop, tablet PC or PDA is to open the Internet browser. Automatically, the Roma Wireless authentication page will open up. If you are a new user, you will have to complete the registration, which has no charges. During registration, you will be asked to provide a valid Italian cell phone number (you can get this by buying an Italian SIM) and will have to use the phone to make a free call to a specified number for verification of your number’s validity. Once this is done, the system will log you in. After the initial registration process, all you have to do is log in each time to access the Wi-Fi network.

Wireless Hotspots at Bars and Cafes

If your laptop or handheld device is wireless enabled, then you can browse at leisure while sipping on an Italian espresso at a bar or café. Some of them charge nominal rates but nowadays, more and more cafes and bars are offering free Wi-Fi access to customers. You might need to get a password to log in and would probably need to show an identity proof. Keep in mind that there may be no power points where you can plug it in, so make sure that your device is fully charged. For getting a list of free Wi-Fi cafés you can use an app on your phone. This will bring up a map with the various hotspots. Clicking on one will display the address of the location.

Wi-Fi access through mobile phones and USB modems

Getting a wireless data plan for your iPhone, Android or smart phone, will allow you to access the Internet from anywhere in the city. Similarly, if you are carrying your laptop or tablet, one of the best options for getting high speed Internet access is through using a USB modem that you can plug in. You can buy a wireless data plan or a USB modem from any store selling phones or electronic appliances. This will let you browse the Internet from your room or a café at your convenience.

Get a prepaid modem for a fixed number of hours if you plan to use the Internet only for about an hour a day. If you have a lot of data to be sent or received and may need to use more than an hour a day, then getting a plan with a data usage limit might be a better option. Plan ahead if you are going to use your phone with a wireless data plan and get your phone unlocked before leaving your home country.

Internet at Airports

Business class lounges of most airlines offer free Wi-Fi access to passengers. If you don’t have your own laptop, then the Executive Centre at the airport will let you use a computer to access the web for a small fee. You will be able to access Wi-Fi at either hourly or daily rates by buying an account from a service provider's kiosk at the airport. Tariffs usually start from around €6.50 for one hour and €12.90 for one day. There are other packages available depending on the number of days you plan to stay in Rome or Italy.

Internet in Hotels

These days both business travellers and tourists prefer to stay at a place that offers Wi-Fi or at least cable Internet. Due to this, many hotels, B&Bs and apartments in Rome offer in-room access to Wi-Fi or the Internet. While some of these are free, others may have a tariff for every hour used. When you book your accommodation, check on the Internet facilities and rates. Larger hotels may also have business centres or computers in the lobby where you can access the Internet if you are not travelling with your laptop.

Cyber cafes

If you don’t want to be burdened with bringing your laptop to Rome, cyber cafés are the best bet. There are many of them all over Rome, especially outside the main stations and shopping areas. Some Laundromats also have terminals where you can use the Internet while you wait for a wash cycle to finish. Find a cyber cafe with many terminals so that you can browse at leisure without people queuing up. You can expect to pay anything from €1 to €3 per hour for surfing the web. If you find a place that is extremely crowded, it might be a good idea to return at off peak hours.

While Rome has free public Wi-Fi as well as hotspots at hotels, bars and cafes, the connectivity may not always be as good as you expect. The best option for accessing the Internet if you have a laptop or a smart phone would be to get a wireless data plan or a USB modem that lets you use the services from wherever you are and at a convenient time. If you do not have your own devices, then use cyber cafes or public computers in your hotel for keeping in touch with your friends and family or surfing the web for information.

Using A Mobile Phone In Italy

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Gone are the days when you had to roam the streets looking for a pay phone and then queue up to make a call to your family. Mobiles phones have made life easier for tourists, and if you are travelling to Italy, the country has excellent cellular service that allows you to make calls at affordable rates

Using a mobile phone, you have the convenience of calling from anywhere at any time, whether it is from your room or on board a train. It is also extremely useful in case you need to call while you are on the go. You can make a dinner reservation at a restaurant while you are exploring the city or have your tour operator contact you, in case there is an unexpected rescheduling of your sightseeing tour. In addition, it can save precious time in case of an emergency. In case you have misplaced or lost your credit card, you can immediately call your bank with a request to block the card.

However, before you set off on your trip, you should find out whether your mobile phone will work in Italy and if so, how much it will cost. If you can’t take your own phone, there are options available to rent or buy. Here is a guide to getting a mobile to make calls at reasonable rates.

Find out if your mobile phone will work in Italy

Italian cellular service providers use the GSM standard. If you are travelling from the USA or Canada, although you may have a GSM phone, the band may differ. Your phone should be tri band and be able to receive cellular transmission at both 900 and 1800 MHz frequencies. You can contact your mobile service provider to find out if your existing phone can be enabled for use in Italy.

If your phone can be used in Italy, make sure that you get it unlocked by your service provider before you leave. All cell phones come unlocked from the manufacturer, but service providers lock them to a particular frequency. If you don’t get your phone unlocked, you will not be able to use a local SIM from an Italian cellular provider to make calls at cheaper rates.

Rent a phone from your existing cellular provider

In case your phone is unsuitable for use in Italy, your service provider can rent a phone to you with a SIM for Italy. Although this will let you use your existing number and make it easy for people to contact you, keep in mind that you will be charged for both incoming and outgoing calls. The call charges per minute may vary. This is a viable option if you are going to be in Rome only for a couple of days. Otherwise, getting an Italian SIM card would be a much cheaper option.

Rent a phone before you leave your home location

If your cell phone does not meet the band requirements of Italian cellular providers, you have the option of renting a handset before you leave on your holiday. You will find kiosks at international airports from where you can rent handsets at the cost of $15-$20 per week. In addition, you will be charged per minute for every call received or made. There may also be minimum charges that are applicable on a daily or weekly basis irrespective of whether you use the service or not.

Italy uses the 900 MHz GSM frequency so if your cell phone does not meet those specifications, you can rent an unlocked phone along with a SIM for Italy before you leave. This will give you access to free incoming calls. Outgoing calls will also cost only as much as $0.40 per minute. You can further save on costs by making a short call back home to your family or friends and getting them to call you back. Several companies offer online cell phone rentals where you can get a cell phone as well as a SIM for Italy and other countries if you plan to travel to more than one country.

Buy a GSM phone and use an Italian SIM

The final option is to buy a new GSM phone that can be used in Italy and buy a local SIM once you are there. Since the phone comes unlocked from the manufacturer, you don’t have to worry about it not working in Italy. There are two types of phones that you can buy. World phones are those that you can use all over the world as they work on multiple frequencies. Alternatively, a cheaper option is buying a phone that works only in Europe.

You can either buy a phone before you leave home or buy one once you reach Italy. Once you get a phone, all you have to do is insert a local SIM card to make and receive calls at the same rate that Italians do. The best part is that these cards are prepaid so you do not have to worry about getting big bills once you are back from your holiday. The call charges will be adjusted against the prepaid credit.

Using cell phones in Italy can help you stay in touch with people. If you are travelling with a partner or group, it provides a convenient way to stay in touch and find out where you should meet for lunch or to let them know if you are lost in the maze of streets. Depending on how long you will be staying in Italy, you can decide whether you want to use your existing phone, rent or buy one. Whichever option you choose, getting a local SIM from Italy will get you the lowest call charges.

International Calls To And From Rome

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While dialing local numbers in Rome does not involve punching in the country codes or area codes, knowing the number to prefix for the area or county code of the destination you are calling can help.

Dialling Rome from your home destination

Just as you would you dial any other international destination, if you are calling from a landline, you will have to prefix the numbers ‘00’. From a mobile phone, you can either dial + or 00 as these phones are configured to recognize + as 00 automatically. So, you can dial either option followed by the country code for Italy, ‘39’, and then the area code for Rome, ‘06’, followed by the local telephone number. For instance, if you were dialing Rome Fiumicino airport, you would have to dial as follows:

IDD Country code Area code Telephone number

From landline 00 39 06 65951

From mobile phone + 39 06 65951

Dialling another city or country from Rome

You may be travelling on to London from Rome or may need to call your bank in the North America about a credit card problem. Either way, you need to know the procedure for dialing out. If you need to call the London Heathrow airport for information services, you would have to dial the appropriate country code followed by the area code and phone number.

IDD UK Country code Area code Telephone number

From landline 00 8 44 3351801

From mobile phone + 8 44 3351801

Dialing a number in Rome

With the addition of country codes and area codes, it can get confusing when you dial a local number from Rome. In general, if you find a prefix of either 00 or + in the number that you want to dial, these can be ignored as they are the IDD code for dialing from an international location. Similarly, the digits 39 (country code) and 06 (area code for Rome) can be omitted. For instance, if you want to find out the timings of the Vatican Museums, your guidebook may list the phone number as +39-06-69883333. This is fine if you are dialing from outside Italy, or dialing from a mobile phone which intelligently recognizes and eliminates the country and area codes. For making local calls from a land phone or phone booth in Rome, you would have to omit the country code (00) and just punch in the telephone number (069883333).

Using Payphones in Rome

Travelling with your mobile phone can work out expensive as most mobile service providers charge higher rates for international usage. Similarly, using phones in hotels can be run up a huge amount in bills. The rates will be slightly higher as they might include a service charge. The cheapest way to make phone calls in Rome is by using pay phones.

You can use either coins or cards to operate payphones in Rome. A local call costs approximately €0.10. You can either use coins or buy a telephone card. These cards are available at tobacconists (known as Tabacchi’s) or newsstands in denominations starting from €1. You will need to break off a corner of the card before inserting it into the slot and also remember to retrieve it once your call is complete. Some phones allow you to swipe your credit card to make calls (mostly in airports). Most payphones have digital displays that inform you of the available balance in your card as soon as you insert it. This enables you to keep track of your telephone costs and not have to worry about a huge bill in the mail when you return from your vacation.

Using Internet telephony

Using software such as Skype or Vonage is the cheapest way to call internationally. All you need to do is set up an account and top up your credit balance using Paypal or a credit card.

Similarly, if you have free Wi-Fi access while you are in Rome, using Skype on your laptop or handheld device to call your home computer can be absolutely free. You can also set up Skype to Go on your handheld and store numbers that you will call frequently when you are on vacation. Using free Wi-Fi, you can call these numbers for free.

Remember to top up your Skype account before you leave your home country as you may not be able to add credit once you are in Italy.

Most travellers will need to make calls while they are in Rome. While local calls don’t cost much, calling other countries, especially transatlantic ones can prove to be expensive. Rather than getting a fat bill for making long distance calls from your room or even from your mobile phone, it is best to plan ahead so you can use phone cards or programs such as Skype when you need to call abroad. This way, you can keep track of the amount of credit left in your card or account and won’t have to worry about keeping track of your phone bills during your vacation.

Money In Rome

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Making sense of the Euro

As a member of the European Union, Italy uses the Euro as its currency. The Italian lira is no longer in circulation. While you may have reserved and paid in advance for your hotel room, tour package and air tickets using your local currency, you will need euros to meet daily expenses such as eating out, shopping and travelling around the city.

Making a budget of how much money you will need and deciding how you will carry it can make your holiday less stressful. There are several options from international credit cards, travellers cheques, prepaid cards and of course cash. Each of these forms of currency comes with advantages and disadvantages. So rather than putting all your eggs in one basket, it would be wiser to spread your money across various options to ensure that you are not stranded. While most mid-range hotels and shops accept cards, you will need still cash to buy a gelato from a street vendor or to pay for a taxi.

Cash

If you are travelling from America, your dollars can be changed into Euros at most places in Rome, including hotels and shops. However, the exchange rate may vary from one establishment to another. Before you leave home, get acquainted with the latest exchange rate, or if you have access to the internet in Rome, check the daily exchange rate at websites such asxe.com oroanda.com so you are aware of the approximate conversion and don’t get cheated.

In Rome, banks and post offices are the best places to get your currency exchanged, with post offices offering slightly better rates of the two. You usually have to pay only a fixed fee as commission (around €5) irrespective of the amount you convert. You may notice several private exchange bureaus in Rome with signs that say they do not charge commission. However, if you compare the rates, they will be much higher than bank rates. Most banks remain open for business from 8.30am to 1.30 pm and once again from 3.00pm to 4.00pm except on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.

Credit Cards

Most hotels, shops and restaurants in Rome accept international credit cards.
You can also use your credit card to get cash advances from an ATM (look for the sign saying Bancomat) that has the same symbol as your card (Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus, VPlus, BankMate, etc.). Make sure that you memorize the pin number of your card and if you are not sure which systems your credit card is compatible with it is advisable to contact the card issuing bank before you leave for Rome. In addition, check on your available limit and maintain a low balance of outstanding dues. This will save you from embarrassing situations such as using your card to pay a bill at a restaurant only to have it declined for exceeding the limit.

Most credit card companies restrict cash advances to protect themselves from unauthorized usage, especially for transactions made away from home. Before you leave on your holiday, call your bank to inform them that you will be travelling to Italy.

Debit cards or ATM cards

As with credit cards, you can use your bank ATM card or a debit card linked to your bank account to withdraw money from an ATM or Bancomat. Look for a Bancomat that has a corresponding sign to the one on your card and then withdraw money just as you would do at your local bank ATM. Most ATMs in Rome accept cards with MasterCard, Cirrus, Visa and Maestro. Remember to have your pin number handy or memorized.

Although your account back at home may be in dollars or pounds, the bank converts it at the best daily rate and dispenses euros to you at the ATM. The advantage of withdrawing directly from your account is that you won’t be charged a commission as is the case with a credit card. However, most banks have a daily limit for ATM transactions using your debit card or ATM card. Familiarize yourself with the limit so that you are prepared for a contingency.

ATMs can be found all over Rome, including at airports. However, you may sometimes face a situation where the machine is empty and hence cannot dispense your cash. In such cases, try your luck at another one. Alternatively, use the internet to find ATMs closest to your area by logging into the websites of the card company such asVisa,MasterCard andAmerican Express and entering the city, address or pin code to get a complete list of compatible ATMs in the area. Click on an ATM to get the address. MasterCard ATMs usually work with Cirrus and Maestro cards.

Traveller’s cheques

With plastic having become a commonly accepted currency the world over, traveller’s cheques are not as widely used as they once were.American Express, Visa and MasterCard issue Euro travellers’ cheques that can be easily converted in Rome at banks or exchange bureaus (known as Cambio in Italian). A disadvantage of traveller’s cheques is that they are inconvenient to use compared to cards as you will need to carry around your passport for identification.

By taking a few precautions, you can be assured that your trip to Rome will go on without any hitches. It will help to make a note of the helpline numbers of your bank where you can phone and report the loss of your card or inform them that you are in Rome in case your card is rejected without an explanation. Remember to keep a record of your card numbers and traveller’s cheques in a safe place so that you can access it easily if required. It is best to carry both cash and credit cards so that you have a backup plan in case one doesn’t work.

Power Adapters And Converters In Italy

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Common appliances that tourists like to carry include hair dryers, irons, razors and chargers for cameras, iPods, iPads and other gadgets. However, it is important to keep in mind that the electric supply in Italy differs from other countries, especially the US, in terms of voltage and frequency. Using hardware that is incompatible with your appliances may not only damage them but also prove dangerous.

While in US homes, electricity is supplied at 110-120 volts and 60 Hz, in Italy it is 220 volts at 50 Hz. This means that your appliance gets double the voltage if it is plugged in without a proper converter or transformer. If you research travel forums to find out what types of plugs are used in Italy, chances are that you will come across stories of hair dryers catching fire or chargers damaging mobile phones.

This is because a device made for the US can only withstand voltage power up to 120 volts. By planning ahead, you can purchase the required converters and transformers before you leave for Rome.

What do you need to have your appliances work in Rome

Here is a guide to help you decide on what type of hardware you would need to use your appliances without disruptions.

Find out what your accommodation comes with - When you reserve an accommodation check if hair dryers and/or irons are included or on request. Finding out what you can access will save you the trouble of buying electrical hardware and also help you travel lighter.
Decide what you are taking - First make a checklist of the appliances that you plan to travel with. This is important as smaller appliances such as iPods and chargers require only a 50 watt transformer, but if you plug in appliances with a heating element (such as hair dryers or irons) into the same one, it can burn out as these appliances draw power at 1000 to 1600 Watts.
Check the voltage and frequency requirements - Knowing the voltage and frequency of your appliance will help decide whether you can make do with a universal adapter or would need to invest in a convertor or a transformer. Look at the manufacturer’s label at the bottom or reverse side of the appliance to find the range of Voltage and supply that the appliance requires. This will help determine whether it is a multi-voltage, dual voltage or single voltage appliance. The details below can help you easily identify which category your appliance falls under.

Multi-voltage Appliance: INPUT: 100V-240V, AC: 50/60 Hz

Dual voltage Appliance:INPUT: 110/120V – 220/240V, AC: 50-60 Hz

Single voltage Appliance:INPUT: 120 V(or single number), AC: 60 Hz

Both multi-voltage and dual voltage appliances can be used in most countries across the world, including Italy, by plugging them into an adapter. Some dual voltage appliances are smart and switch to the required voltage by themselves. Others may have a switch that you need to turn up or down.

Find out the Wattage - It is important to know the wattage of your appliance to get a converter that is compatible with it. Some appliances have the wattage listed on the manufacturer’s label. If you don’t find it, then the simple formula of Voltage x Amps will help you calculate it. Depending on the appliances that you plan to take, you may require more than one converter. A hair dryer would require a higher wattage than a battery charger and hence a different converter. Using the wrong converter for an appliance could damage the gadget and put your life at risk.

Depending on the type of appliance and the wattage requirement, you can choose between adapters, converters and transformers. This list of hardware can help you decide what you need to buy before your trip.

Adapters

If your American appliance meets the 220V and 50 Hz requirement, then all you need to do is plug in an adapter with the continental prongs into the socket in your Rome hotel. If you have a dual voltage appliance that has a switch to change between voltages, remember to flip the switch. For a grounded three pin American plug, you will need a special grounded adapter.

You may find one of three types of sockets in your accommodation in Rome: C-plug socket, Schuko (or F-plug) socket and a L-plug socket. If you find that your universal adapter does not fit into the socket, you will have to buy a compatible socket from a local hardware store.

Power strips

You may have an iPod with downloaded audio guides, a phone charger, a camera battery charger and a razor, all of which need to be charged overnight. Rather than carrying separate adapters for each, travelling with a power strip with a suitable adapter to plug it into is a good idea.

Transformers

These are best suited for electronic appliances. If you have an American gizmo that does not meet the voltage and supply requirements in Italy, a transformer with wattage compatible to your gadget can be used to convert Italian electricity power and supply to meet the requirements. All your electronics devices such as laptops, iPods, smart phones, iPads and mp3 players that do not meet Italian power and supply standards can be charged using a transformer.

Converters

This hardware is essential for electric appliances with a heating element. It works by cutting down the electrical energy and converting it to meet the American specifications. Avoid using low wattage items on a convertor as they can get fried. These devices are also highly unpredictable, and you may be better off buying a multi-voltage appliance for your trip.

Safety is a key concern for most travellers and having the right hardware for your electric and electronic devices can make the difference between a great holiday and a disastrous one. When you are packing for your trip, make sure your checklist includes adapters, transformers and other hardware that will allow you to use your gizmos without hindrances. It is advisable to buy universal adapters, transformers and converters before you leave the US as the ones on sale in Italy may not be suited to American gadgets. Most of these can be ordered online or bought from a home store.

Map Of Rome

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As a tourist, the sheer volume of Rome’s monuments and attractions can be overwhelming, especially if you are travelling on your own. Walking through the streets, you may turn the corner to see a beautiful old church and wonder which one it is or find yourself in a street with a dead end and want to retrace your steps. You may want to find the nearest metro station to go back to your hotel and ask a passer-by for help only to discover a language barrier. This is when keeping a good map of the city handy at all times can make your trip run smoother.

If you have a printed guide book, it will contain a small map of the city as well as each area. However, these maps are extremely basic and focus mainly on the important sights. If you plan to explore the city’s streets on your own, it is worth investing in a detailed street map. A good one may set you back a few dollars, but it will be well worth it as you can look at it as an investment for future visits to Rome.

There are several different types of maps of Rome that you will come across once you start searching for a suitable one. Some can be downloaded and printed off the internet. Others are interactive and can be accessed on your phone or mobile device. Then of course there are printed maps with an alphabetical index or references to help you find a particular street or monument. Here is a guide to the best maps of Rome and where you can find them.

Printed maps

Almost all hotels in Rome hand out printed maps to tourists. You can also get maps at no cost from the tourist information centers. Charta Roma, the official map of the city is the most common one that you will find in Rome. This is a free map with attractions and streets on one side and a map of the metro on the reverse. It is not as detailed as other maps that can be bought but is good enough if you aren’t going to stray too far from your hotel.

There are several other options for good laminated street maps of Rome that have even the smallest streets marked out. The best rated among these are from Mapeasy, Michelin, Streetwise, Rough Guide, Insight Fleximaps and Maps by Borch. These can be ordered online at Amazon.com or bought from a book store. New copies cost roughly $6-$8 while you can find used ones for about half the price.

Printable maps

Another option is to download maps that you can print out and carry with you. Printing out sections from Google Maps will work if you restrict your walks to a few areas. However, for getting around the entire city and using the metro and subway, choosing a good printable map of the city centre as well as the subway and metro system is advisable. Some Rome city maps that you can download and print for free are from takeoff guides.com and planetware.com. These maps are basic and, unless you are so rushed that you can’t stop at a tourist information desk, you will be better off picking up a free foldable map in Rome.

There are other printable maps that are more detailed, but at the end of the day, you need to keep in mind that printable maps unlike the laminated versions, have the disadvantage of tearing easily and wearing out around the folds. So you will be wise to spend your money on a printed map or an interactive one.

Interactive maps

With technology advancing to make it easier to access information, online interactive maps are the trendiest and the most convenient way to access street maps of Rome. These maps work best to help you with planning your travel as you can decide on the sights you want to see, plot out the route and print customized maps. The zoom feature lets you view the exact location of sights or get directions to the nearest metro station. They can also be used on the go if you are travelling with a portable device such as a smart phone, mp3player, iPod or iPad.

The easiest option is to access Google Maps on your phone to find the location of any important sight as well as get directions for getting there from your hotel. Other traveller friendly interactive maps include one from Yahoo Travel that helps you find attractions, hotels and restaurants easily. The websites of Lonely Planet and Frommer’s have interactive maps that let you explore hotels, restaurants, nightlife, shopping and attractions. If you are near the Trevi Fountain and are looking for a restaurant where you can have lunch, ticking the restaurants option at the bottom of the map will show you all the options in the area. Similarly, if you want to visit an attraction but are not sure about the closing time, clicking on it on the map can get you the details of the hours of operation as well as a link to its review to help you decide whether it’s worth your while.

While interactive maps are extremely convenient to use as you walk around, remember that they are dependent on internet connectivity and Wi-Fi access. You can either carry a printed copy along with your itinerary or have a backup in the form of a map book.

Summary

Ultimately, you have to decide what sort of a map you are comfortable with. If you are sticking to the main tourist attractions and plan to use the metro to get around, a simple map with the attractions on one side and the metro route on the other will suffice. However, if you plan to explore the labyrinth of streets in Rome or are looking for attractions that are off the beaten track, use an interactive map to check if you can locate what you are looking for. Else, it might be best to invest in a detailed printed version that you buy online or from a bookstore.

Top Online Guides And Resources About Rome

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The Internet is an excellent source of information when you are planning your vacation to Rome. Besides popular online travel forums where you can read reviews about hotels and tours or get questions answered by fellow travellers who have been to Rome, there are websites that offer tourist information about the city, traveller photographs and even audio and video guides.

So if you don’t want to carry a guide book around, you have several options. Of course, sometimes there is too much information and contradicting reviews on forums, but in general if the majority of reviewers give a good rating to a hotel or a sight, it can be taken as a sign of its quality. Some of the popular online guides and resources are listed below.

Travel Forums

There are several online forums that can be helpful when planning a trip to Rome. While printed guidebooks can give you basic information and a background on the city’s history and culture, quite often things change between the two or three years that it takes for the newer edition to be printed. For instance, a popular sight may be closed for renovation or new hotels, B&Bs or tours may open.

Online forums such asTripadvisor.com provide information on almost anything you need to know from where to get the best gelato to when to book to get the cheapest airfares or whether the Roman Forum is worth a visit. You can also see travellers’ photos and videos that give you a more realistic impression of the city compared to books, magazines or TV shows that use professional photography. The best part is that you get feedback from people who share stories and experiences of their trip to Rome. The Tripadvisor forum also has destination experts who know everything there is to know about the city and can advise you just as a friend would.

Other popular online forums worth checking out are Virtualtourist.com, Fodor’sTravel Talk Forum, and Lonely Planet’sThorn Tree Forum.

Web Guides

As an alternative to guidebooks, web guides have the advantage of being more personal and current. They are presented in a magazine format and are usually compiled by travel experts or insiders who have made the city their second home or travelled there frequently. They know exactly what tourists look for. With links to accommodation listings, sightseeing recommendations, transport options and other useful information, they are a good resource for information on the recent reviews of hotels and restaurants in the city as well as current deals.

MSN TravelInsider’s Guide to Rome is an excellent web guide to browse through while planning your trip.

Online Editions of Guidebooks

Online versions of printed guidebooks are available by DK Travel (Eye Witness),Fodor’s,Frommer’s,Rick Steves and Lonely Planet. Like the printed versions they provide useful information for planning your trip and are convenient for browsing. However, they are dependent on the Internet or Wi-Fi connections and cannot be accessed on the go if there isn’t connectivity within a range. Although these guides are also not as detailed as the printed guide books, they make up for it by providing links to more current articles about Rome covering topics such as best streets, unexplored places and reviews of the popular places to eat.

Lonely planet also offers the option of buying downloadable chapters of the printed Rome Guidebook. This is a convenient option if you want to avoid carrying a book around. Once downloaded, you can browse through these chapters on the go without being dependent on Internet connectivity.

Photographs of Rome

Sometimes pictures speak louder than words. Viewing photographs of Rome’s important sights can get you acquainted with all that the city has to offer. In addition, it may increase your anticipation for getting there as soon as possible. There are several websites where you can search for photographs of Rome to get you in the mood for your holiday.

You can log into Flickr.com and enter Rome in the search field to browse through beautiful pictures of the city. Some scenes are captured in natural lighting that realistically portrays the magical quality that you will experience when you see the monuments bathed in golden light at sunrise and sunset.

For looking at pictures of hotel rooms and accommodation, travel websites such asTripadvisor.com have travellers’ contributions in the photos section. You can see the city’s landmarks, events, views and attractions. These photos are especially useful for helping you decide on accommodation as you get to see the inside of the lodging as well as views from the room.

Audio guides

Thanks to technology, it is now possible to travel independently without missing out on information about Rome’s monuments and history. There are several audio guides that can be downloaded onto an iPod or mp3 player. All you have to do is put on your earphones, listen to the dramatic narration and envision the story behind each monument or sight.

ItalyGuides.it has an excellent series of free audio guides. There are separate downloads on Rome’s most important attractions, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Circus Maximus, the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica. Another popular free audio guide is Rick Steves’ Rome Audio Tours that is available as mp3 downloads. These audio tours take you through the important sights as well as interesting areas such as Trastevere and the Jewish Ghetto.

Video guides

Perhaps video and podcasts are the easiest way to plan your trip to Rome. With friendly commentary accompanied by maps and videos, they offer advice on everything you need to know such as when to go, how to get to the city from the airport, where to stay, where to eat and what to see. It includes tips on what type of food to eat, how to order in a restaurant, how to space out your sightseeing trips and what tickets to but to the attractions.Italyguides.it has an informative video guide to Rome available in HDTV format as well as for iPod podcasts.

With these great online resources, the process of planning your vacation in Rome can be almost as much as fun as the actual holiday.

Best Books And Guides About Rome

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Before you set off on your Roman holiday a little research can go a long way. Rome is not known as the largest open air museum for nothing. With several famous monuments, churches, works of art and architectural delights, it can get confusing as to what to see, what to skip and where to stay.

Reading up on the culture, history and tour options can help prioritize what to see and do in the limited time that you have. There are several travel guide books, which can help you decide your itinerary as well as provide details on accommodation, weather, transport, currency and other useful information that will help you plan your trip better. While most guide books are resourceful, they all have their pros and cons.

A point to keep in mind when you buy online is that although the latest edition of a guide book will be more expensive than the previous one, it will also have more up to date listings in terms of hotels, restaurants and tours. If you are travelling with a group and want only a brief introduction to Rome’s history and culture, then an older edition would be good enough.

While the guidebooks will give you all the information that you need, it is a good idea to pick up the booklets or self-guided tour pamphlets at museums as they can sometimes provide a different perspective from the guidebooks.

Browsing through the various options at a local store or taking a peek inside the contents online will give you an idea of which book would suit your needs best. Here is a guide to help you with your search.

Eye Witness Travel – Part of the DK Eye Witness Travel series, this guide to Rome is attractive with separate colour coded sections on each area of interest that makes it easy to access information easily. Beautiful photographs and detailed street maps ensure that you know exactly where you are at all times. The book contains a four day itinerary, including one for a family day out with kids. It can help you take self-guided tours to experience the ancient, medieval, renaissance and cultural aspects of the city. All itineraries have a rough estimate of the costs for two adults, which include the price of a meal at a suggested restaurant in every area that you visit. Besides this there is information on nine guided walks as well as sections on where to stay, restaurants and cafes, shops and markets and a separate section on Children’s Rome. Overall, this is an ideal book for a first time traveller with limited time or a family traveller.
Fodor’s Rome – Ideal for an independent traveller, Fodor’s guide has a detailed section on planning for your trip, transportation, several suggested walking tours and information on the churches, markets, restaurants and hotels. It is a good option if you want to experience the culture and way of life rather than just the sights. Interesting tips on everything from how much to tip at a restaurant to the differences between the types of eating places are included. This will help you blend in by acting less like a tourist and more like a local. There are also listings of tour operators and transport companies, to help you get around easily. For a more concise option that you can carry around with you, Fodor’s Rome’s 25 Best has listings and basic information on the major attractions, as well as convenient fold up maps in colour.
Frommer’s Rome – Although this book has basic information on the attractions, markets, shopping and places to go, it is a good option if you are interested in trying the best that Rome has to offer in terms of restaurants and food. With detailed information on pricing, location, specialities of each restaurant, this is a must have if you want to explore Rome’s cuisine, traditional or otherwise. In addition, there are interesting tips on things to do and places to visit, that you may not find in other guidebooks. The Frommer’s series also has a pocket guide called Rome Day by Day, which has suggested itineraries and concise information on each sight, so you can find your way around the city without a tour guide.
Lonely Planet Rome City Guide – Although this series of guides leans towards providing information to budget travellers, there are enough listings for high end options as well. It has comprehensive information on the city’s history, culture and sights – lots more detail than the other guides. There are also itinerary suggestions on what you can do in Rome in two days or a week. With practical information on planning your trip, getting around and what to avoid, you can get around the city safely and independently. Lonely planet also has another guidebook titled Rome Encounter, which follows a more descriptive magazine style presentation of the city’s best sights. This book has a different feel to a conventional guide book, but lacks the details in terms of maps and listings.
Rick Steves’ Rome – This book may not be as comprehensive as some of the other guidebooks in terms of detailed maps of streets and listings of all sights. However, it is a gem if you are a first time traveller, who wants to see the best of what Rome has to offer in a few days. Detailed information on several walking tours can help you save money on guided tours, as well as discover Rome at your own pace. The series also has a pocket guide version that contains basic information on seven self-guided tours that you can take.

If your local bookstore is out of stock for the book you need, you can order online through websites such as Amazon.com or directly from the publisher. In addition, if you plan on staying for a few weeks, an Italian phrase book would be useful, especially if you are adventurous enough to venture out on your own.

Most of the publishers mentioned above have Italian phrase books that can supplement the limited vocabulary in the guidebooks.

What To Do For A 1 Week In Rome?

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Having seven full days to explore Rome and really get a feel for this ancient marvel of a city is a dream come true for many. With that in mind, vacationers can do themselves a favor by having at least a rough plan in mind on what to see, when to see it and how to make sure each day of sightseeing goes as smoothly as possible.

What follows is an outline of an itinerary for a seven day vacation in Rome. Keep in mind that it’s important for vacationers to this city to build in some flexibility to their itineraries. This makes it possible to take some time at each stop, spend some time exploring and making sure plenty of rest is obtained each night so the next new day of sightseeing can be greeted with vigor and excitement.

When a trip to Rome is on tap, it is a very good idea to do some advanced planning on what to see and to group each day’s destinations based on the part of the city they are found within. This will make it easier to take in more sights while enabling a single cab or bus trip to facilitate walking tours each day. Buying tickets to major destinations, such as the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum in advance is also wise. Most of Rome’s biggest destinations offer tickets online, so do buy in advance.

Now, what should visitors plan on seeing during a seven-day trip? Here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day One

For many travelers, taking in the famous paintings on the Sistine Chapel’s ceilings are half the reason for traveling to Rome. With that in mind, a day in Vatican City is a great place to start off a seven-day tour.
Start out at St. Peters and then tour the Vatican Museums. Try to buy tickets online in advance to speed up the process of getting in to see these sights. Plan on spending at least four to six hours in the museums alone. Be mindful in the Vatican’s churches that there are dress codes. Visitors are not allowed to enter if they have exposed knees, shoulders or midriff areas.

Day Two

This is the perfect day to take in what very well may be Rome’s most famous ruins at the Colosseum. Start off the morning by taking a cab or bus to Capitoline Hill. Here visitors can take in the museums on the hill and then head to the Forum and the Colosseum. All are within walking distance. Some people prefer starting out at the Colosseum since the lines can get pretty long later in the day. In any case, be sure to buy tickets online ahead of time.
If there’s still time, a trip over to Palatine is not a bad idea. The ruins provide a beautiful spot to relax in the late afternoon before a trip back to a hotel for an evening of enjoying Rome’s famous nightlife.

Day Three

This is a great day to tour near the Tiber and to check out the Mouth of Truth. Just take a cab to this area if it’s not within walking distance of the hotel. From there head over to Aventine Hill and take in such sites as the Clivo di Rocca Saveilli. Another stop worth making is Santa Sabina. The nearby Spagna district is a great place to stop for a bite to eat and to shop, too.

Day Four

No trip to Rome is complete without a stop at the Trevi Fountain. Throw in a coin to ensure a return trip to this breathtaking city. From the fountain, head over to the Pantheon and take in what very well may be Rome’s most well preserved ancient structure. After that, a trip to Campo dei Fiori is a great idea. This open-air market is famed throughout the world. Plus, it’s a great place to stop for lunch or an early dinner and some shopping. If it happens to be evening already, the square does stay hopping after the sun goes down.

Day Five

This is the perfect day to take things a little slower. Head over to the Trastevere neighborhood on the other side of the Tiber. Here visitors can take in a historic and quaint neighborhood and its many churches, including Santa Maria in Trastevere and Santa Cecilia. The Jewish Ghetto and other interesting stops are also nearby.

Day Six

Spend this day exploring some ancient sites at a leisurely pace. The Piazza del Popolo is a great place to check out. At Santa Maria del Popolo visitors can take in original Caravaggios. The Villa Borghese is a great place to enjoy a picnic, too. It’s also possible to rent bikes here for a nice afternoon ride.

The Museo of Galleria Borghese is also a wonderful destination in this area. This gallery is loaded with some masterful works.

Day Seven

Use this seventh and final day to check out the catacombs or take a stroll on the Via Antica. It’s also a splendid day to revisit some sites to get more photos, do some shopping and say goodbye to the city.

The above itinerary is just a basic outline. A seven-day trip to Rome does provide for many other opportunities. A side trip into the countryside around Rome can also be included. So, too, can a full-day trip to the famous ruins of Pompeii. While it will take an entire day to see Pompeii, it’s a side trip well worth considering.

When a full week in Rome is on hand, visitors can take their time and really enjoy the city’s most notable sights. A trip of this length also provides vacationers with the time they need to enjoy a comfortable pace and the ability to take in some stops that are a little more off the beaten path. Visitors should remember, however, to book tickets to bigger attractions in advance to avoid long lines and potential hassles.

What To Do For 4 Or 5 Days In Rome?

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It is often said a person can spend a lifetime in Rome and still not take in all the splendors of this ancient city. Be that as it may, a four or five day visit here can include some incredible sights.

To get the most out of a relatively short stay, vacationers do need to plan things out with care. To help, here are sample itineraries for a four or five day stay.

Day One

For most visitors, the first day in Rome is one that includes transit into the city, checking into a hotel and other necessities. With this in mind, it’s not a bad idea to leave most of this day fluid. Consider it an adjustment day.

Still, if arrival is early enough, it is possible to take in some sights. A trip to the Colosseum, for example, can be a great stop for day one. If a traveler is able to make it here early enough in the day, it is also possible to walk to the Roman Forum and the Pantheon. Should time still be on a vacationer’s side, a walk to the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain can easily cap off day one.

Keep in mind, it might not be possible to really tour all these sites in a single day. It can be fun to check them out with a cursory glance on day one and then plan on going back first thing in the morning to really enjoy them.

Day Two

This is the day to really start exploring the sights in depth. It’s often best to start at the Colosseum since this is one of the biggest attractions in all of Rome. Consider buying a ticket in advance to avoid long lines.

From the Colosseum, head over to the Forum and Palatine Hill. The Pantheon is also worth a closer look.

Once the sights are taken in near the Colosseum, a trip back to your accommodation to unwind might be in order. From there, consider a stop at the Piazza Navona. The monument to Vittorio Emanuele II is also an interesting stop. Here visitors can take an elevator to the top to take in a larger view of the city.

Day Three

A trip to Rome just isn’t complete without a full day or close to it in Vatican City. It’s well worth planning on taking some time to really absorb all this area has to offer.

Start off the day with a trip to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s. Keep in mind, a guided tour of these destinations can take up to six hours. St. Peter’s does have a dress code, so do be mindful of it. Visitors may not have exposed knees, shoulders or midriffs. It’s a good idea to wear a T-shirt and jeans if heading here on day three.

If there’s still time after a tour of the Vatican, there are other nearby attractions worth taking in. They include the Campo dei Fiori, the Tiber River and the Trastevere neighborhood. The Campo, by the way, is an open-air market, which is a great place to shop and stop for a bite to eat.

Day Four

If this is the last day in Rome, there are several options that might be worth considering. First, vacationers may want to check out sites they’ve already seen again to take in what they feel they’ve missed. Second, it can be a great day for a side trip to Pompeii. While this will take up all of day four, it’s a side trip well worth making. After all, outside of Rome, Pompeii might very well be the most famous destination in all of Italy.

Other options for day four include a trip to see the catacombs and other lesser-known museums and churches.

A five-day stay opens the door for a lot more sightseeing or a more relaxed pace during the entire trip. If the plan is to be in the city for five days, consider following the above itinerary for the first four. It is highly recommended that a day trip to Pompeii be included somewhere in the trip.

Other great options for that fifth day in Rome include:

A tour of Capitoline Hill – Here visitors will find some incredible museums and plenty of famous works of art. The hill also provides a great view of the Forum and can provide for some incredible photographs to take home.
Shopping – Set the final day for making purchases to bring home. Visit some of the city’s famous and lesser known squares-
Go back and revisit famous stops – Most of the major tourist destinations in Rome can very easily overwhelm vacationers. If there’s a feeling that a spot wasn’t fully appreciated, consider going back on this fifth and final day.

Visitors who have four to five days in Rome at their disposal will find they can really get a feel for this ancient and amazing city. While the above itineraries provide a basic framework, keep in mind that some flexibility should be built into a plan.

There is so much to see and do in the city that taking the time to walk and explore is never a bad idea.

What To Do For 3 Or 4 Days In Rome?

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Vacationing in Rome doesn’t mean having to sign on to guided tours or having to hire a professional planner to map out an itinerary. This world-famous, ancient city offers so much to see and do that anyone with a willingness to do a little bit of research can easily map out a schedule for sights to see and things to do.

If the idea is to stay in Rome for three or four days, there are some great suggestions for what to do. Here are some ideas for a three-day stay and a four-day excursion.

If a trip will only last for three days, it’s not a bad idea to schedule each day based on the location of the city. That way it’s simply easier to get around and take in as much as possible.

Day One

Since most travelers have their hearts set on seeing the major ancient tourist attractions, it’s not a bad idea to start with these coming out of the gate. If a hotel isn’t located within walking distance to Palatine Hill and the Colosseum, get a shuttle or taxi ride to the area. Most of the day’s attractions will be within easy walking distance.

The best place to start the first-day tour is the Colosseum. Consider buying tickets in advance to avoid long lines and waiting around. It’s possible to buy ticket combinations for the Colosseum, Palatine Hill and the Forum. These are good for two-days. There are also Roma Passes and other options available.

After the Colosseum, the museums of Palatine Hill are close by and worth the stop for those who want to see where emperors once lived.

After Palatine Hill head over to the Roman Forum to take in this ancient complex. This stop can take a fair amount of time, so plan for it by starting out early.

Not too far from the Forum, travelers will find the famous Trevi Fountain. This is a great place to stop for a break and perhaps a late lunch.

The Pantheon is another stop worth making on the first day. This temple to all the gods is considered the best-preserved building from the ancient period. Admission is free here, but the building does close to tourists at 7 p.m.

The area surrounding the Pantheon is home to a number of restaurants. This makes it a great place to stop for dinner before calling it a night.

Day Two

With all the major attractions of ancient Rome out of the way courtesy of day one sightseeing, day two presents the perfect opportunity to explore Capitoline Hill and its nearby neighborhoods. Its best to start off the day at Campo dei Fiori, which is a famous square in the city. The square boasts an open-air market and plenty of vendors, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat for breakfast. It’s also a wonderful place to take in a little shopping.

From the square follow the Tiber to Ponte Sisto. Cross the river in order to take in the Trastevere neighborhood. This part of the city is a little less touristy, but still offers great opportunities to take in awe-inspiring architecture. It is also home to Rome’s very first Catholic church.

Once a tour of Trastevere is complete, head back over to the other side of the Tiber to check out the Jewish Ghetto. This, by the way, is a great place to stop for lunch.
The Capitoline Hill museums are the next place to visit. Here visitors can take in some incredible works of art and architecture. Consider buying a ticket in advance.

After a full day of sightseeing, head back to your accommodation to clean up and unwind. If more adventure is desired, take a cab to the Testaccio District. This is a hopping part of town where night clubs are found in abundance, along with some famous restaurants.

Day Three

After grabbing a little breakfast, head out of the hotel to Via Appia Antica and the Catacombs area. The Via was a major road during the Roman Empire and it’s now a regional park. This part of Rome is also accessible by bus lines 118 or 218 if a taxi isn’t desirable. Once at the park, visitors can walk or rent a bicycle to take in the sights, which include monuments, churches and ancient tombs.

The park also features a number of restaurants. There are some great places to stop for a quick lunch before heading on to the next sights.

The Spanish Steps make a great next stop along the way. This area is great for doing some shopping, too.

In the evening, a trip to Piazza Navona is a great way to cap off the third night. Here visitors will find beautiful fountains and some incredible restaurants.

If a four-day excursion is on tap, just follow the above itinerary for the first three days. On the fourth, consider a full-day within Vatican City or a side trip to Pompeii.

A trip to Pompeii will take some extra planning, but there are many reputable companies that provide guided tours to this famous destination.

Another option for day four is to take a tour of some of the city’s more famous aqueducts or a trip to the nearby countryside.

It doesn’t matter if a trip to Rome will be a relatively short three-to-four day adventure, it’s still possible to take in all the major sights and then some. Just plan things out in advance, book tickets beforehand and enjoy!

Tips For Creating Your Own Itinerary in Rome

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Since a trip to Rome is often a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, it pays to have a plan in place before making landfall in the city. After all, without at least a guideline to follow, it can become all too easy to miss major destinations.

While it’s not necessary to schedule every second of every day, having a decent itinerary can help keep a trip on track. If the idea is to create a personal itinerary, there are some tips that should be kept in mind when doing so.

Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind when crafting a daily schedule for sightseeing and enjoyment while in Rome:

Plan to start each day early – It’s a very good idea to get out of bed early and head straight to the biggest tourist attraction on the day’s agenda. Doing so can ensure that lines are still short and easy access is granted. Some suggest getting up by 6:30 a.m. to make sure a full day of enjoyment can be had.
Research each desired destination in advance – When putting together a daily schedule, it’s vital to know basic details about the desired stops. Pay attention to the days attractions are open, the hours they accept visitors and the costs associated with visiting them. It can also be a good idea to purchase tickets – if they are required – in advance to avoid having to stand in line. To make sure all the desired major sites are worked into an itinerary, be sure to write them all down on a piece of paper.
Research other options – If a trip will be long enough to work in other activities and possible day trips, research these things, too. Taking gladiator lessons, visiting Pompeii, going shopping and so on can all really add to a Roman excursion. If these are desired options, jot them down, research them and find out how much time to allot and what to expect.
Plan destinations based on region or part of city – It’s not a bad idea to try and group stops based on their locations. For example, tour Vatican City-related destinations on the same day. Head to the Forum and other nearby buildings on another day. Also, when doing research, pay attention to distances to destinations from the desired accommodation and plan for transportation. An accommodation in the historical center of Rome is strongly recommended to fully enjoy the city and walk to the top attractions.
Create a daily schedule – Once a good list of possible stops has been created and operational hours, days and costs are researched, it’s time to put it all together. Grab a blank piece of paper and create a calendar of sorts. Create a heading for each day of the week and plug in stops for each day, times to be there and so on. Be sure to leave room for meals, resting and other impromptu stops. Ideally, each day should only include one to three major attractions. Remember to reference the destination research that’s been completed to plan out a day smartly. Try to hit the locations that open the earliest in the morning hours and do pay attention to days that certain attractions might not be open or when they close early.
Schedule the “must-sees” first – When putting together that calendar, be sure to put in major destinations that will personally make or break a trip to Rome first. They don’t all have to be stacked on the first day, but schedule them first and add in other destinations around them.
Be mindful not to over schedule – Rome is an amazing, exciting city with so much to see and do. With this in mind, many people over schedule and plan out every second of their day and night. This can remove room for any spontaneity. It can also tire out travelers pretty quickly. Try to create an itinerary that has some flexibility and doesn’t call for running from one stop to the next at a breakneck speed. Remember, it’s likely some time to enjoy each site is going to be desirable, too.
Don’t forget to research places to eat – It’s also a good idea to research dining options. When creating the calendar, consider grouping stops based on the part of the city they’re in. This will make it a bit easier to find restaurants and research them in advance. Some higher end locations might call for reservations and advanced research will enable travelers to make the proper arrangements.
Get some local insights – Be ready to alter an itinerary somewhat upon arrival in Rome. If possible, work in some spots that locals frequent. It can help to leave a day or an afternoon or two open for suggestions from locals met along the way.

Once an itinerary is created, make a copy or two and put them into baggage. Then start off each day by consulting the schedule and do bring it along to guide stops during the day. Even with a plan in place, be ready for alterations. If a stop is taking longer than expected, but it’s thoroughly engrossing, don’t sweat it. Just enjoy!

How Many Days Should I Spend In Rome?

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A trip to Rome is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many travelers. Considering this, seeing and experiencing as much as possible during a vacation becomes imperative.

But, how long should a trip be planned out for?

While it’s often said that it takes a lifetime to really take in all that Rome has to offer, most visitors will find they can pack in a lot even in a short few days. Keep in mind, however, the longer a traveler is able to stay, the more likely it is the “full Roman” experience can be enjoyed. While taking in lots of tourist destinations is a big part of a trip to Rome, so too is being able to really “feel” what it’s like to be a local. A longer trip will make this goal more attainable.

To get an idea of what can be seen on trips of different lengths, here are some sample itineraries for trips of different lengths:

A 2-Day Sojourn

When all a traveler has is two days, it’s important to really plan out the destinations. Seeing as much as possible and having the time to really enjoy each destination will become vital. Since a traveler will want to see the “highpoints,” starting out early each day will be critical for getting it all done.
Here are some stops to make during a two-day trip:

St. Peter’s Basilica – Fortunately for travelers on a busy time schedule, this famous destination opens its doors at 7 a.m. It can take some time to fully appreciate the beauty, but it’s worth doing so.
The Vatican Museums – Since these are so close to St. Peter’s, it’s a great idea to make this a second destination. Here visitors can wander through a variety of rooms and take in some of the world’s most notable works of art – including Michelangelo’s work on the Sistine Chapel.
The Pantheon – This historic destination was constructed in ancient times as a temple to all of Rome’s gods. It’s considered a must-see and is a spot that travelers with little time can still enjoy.
Plazas and villas – It’s also possible to take in a few other sights in between the major destinations. Piazza Navona, the Galleria Borghese villa and other nearby sights are well worth the stop even for those on a tight time schedule.
The Forum – A trip to Rome just isn’t complete without a stop here. Fortunately, this does fit in well on a two-day trip.
The Colosseum – Perhaps the most famous spot to visit in all of Rome, the famous battleground of gladiators is fairly easy to fit into a two-day trip. After this, visitors can also tours such stops as the Capitoline Museums, the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain and other nearby stops.

A 3-Day Trip
Visitors with three days at their disposal will be able to take in all the major sights and a few that are more off the beaten path. In addition to those listed out in a two-day trip, some stops to consider on a lengthier trip include:

Santa Maria Sopra Minerva – This gothic church features works of art by such masters as Lippi and Michelangelo.
Galleria Borghese – Here visitors can see works of art by Caravaggio, Raphael, Dossi, Bernini and others. With a three-day trip, it’s possible to really stop and take pause to enjoy all the sights a little more fully.
The Column of Marcus Aurelius – This is another famous destination that’s a little easier to work into a slightly longer stay.

What to Do in 5 Days

Travelers who are able to stay five days will find they can take in quite a bit more. Not only will they be able to see all the famous spots listed above, but they will find they can linger a bit longer without feeling so rushed.

Some of the destinations that are worth adding into a longer trip include:

More of Vatican City – Visitors who stay only a few days hit the high points and then leave. Those with an extra day or two can enjoy the full tour of the Vatican museums, which can take up to six hours.
A day trip to Pompeii – This is a favorite for many who choose to vacation in Rome. While it will take visitors outside of the city, Pompeii might be one of the most famous nearby sights to take in.

7 to 14 Days

Tourists who are able to stay a week or more in Rome will find they can enjoy a whole lot more than their counterparts that must leave with more haste. After a few days of hitting all the big tourist destinations, visitors can shed their “tourist” moniker and try to soak up the culture. The longer travelers stay, the more likely it is they will find spots to eat, shop and enjoy that are frequented by locals. When this occurs, a trip really becomes special.

Keep in mind that even a day in Rome is a wondrous experience. The longer a trip can be extended, however, the less visitors will miss and the more treasures they will uncover. Any vacation to Rome really becomes amazing when the typical tourist spots aren’t the only sights taken in.

How To Get To Rome?

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As the old saying goes, all roads lead to Rome. While that’s not quite the truth in this day and age, it is possible to reach this ancient city by a number of very modern means. To get a better handle on what kind of travel options are available to tourists, it helps to explore each more closely.

Flying Into Rome

For most travelers from around the world, a trip to Rome will mean arriving at one of the city’s two major airports - Fiumicino and Ciampino. In fact, most international travelers will find they arrive via Fiumicino, which is the country’s biggest hub.
Also known as Leonardo Da Vinci Airport, Fiumicino serves flights from all over the world. Visitors will find this airport is a busy one no matter the time of year or even the time of day. It features a number of terminals and offers visitors a variety of ways to obtain transit into the city and to their hotel destinations.

Visitors to Rome who travel in from America will find themselves processed at Terminal 3. Americans should look for the Non-EU citizen line at Passport Control. EU citizens do have their own line. Once processing is complete, it’s an easy trip to the luggage claim. It can take some time to gather baggage at this airport, so be patient.

After baggage is picked up, it’s time to figure out how to leave the airport and get to the heart of the city. Fortunately, there are a variety of options here, including shuttles, cabs, buses and more. Taxis are the most recommended, but beware of selecting a cab that isn’t at an official taxi stand. If a cab is unlicensed and unmetered, visitors can get taken for a great deal of cash.

Arriving By Train Or Bus

Vacationers can also get to Rome by train or bus. In either case, it’s likely they’ll find themselves at Roma Termini. This busy station is considered a connection point for the city’s two major metro lines. It also serves as a stop along many bus routes and serves international, national and regional trains, too.

While Roma Termini is the city’s ground transportation hub, it doesn’t mean it’s an easy place for newcomers to navigate. In fact, there are a few things visitors to this station need to be aware of. First, this station is busy – really busy. For first timers it can seem chaotic to say the least.

When leaving Roma Termini, visitors need to be mindful of the same rules for taxis that apply at the airports. Only accept rides from taxis that are licensed and metered – all others are very likely scammers.

Roma Termini is open from 4:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. daily. It serves nearly 500,000 people each and every day, too. This means it’s a good idea to plan on spending some time navigating the station. Fortunately, Roma Termini also features restaurants, stores and other diversions.

If there is a need to purchase tickets from Roma Termini, there are several options. Visitors can in some cases use a train or bus service’s website. They will also find counters within the station itself. Kiosks for self-service purchases are also available. The kiosks tend to be the most recommended method for purchasing tickets.

Getting To Rome By Car

It is perfectly feasible for visitors from other countries to lease cars and drive themselves into Rome. In fact, for some this is a very desirable way to take in more of the sites outside of the city and through the countryside. Keep in mind, however, that driving within Rome itself is not necessarily the best idea. Roman roads are fast-paced and dangerous in many cases. Consider the fact that it’s less dangerous to drive in Los Angeles than Rome and it becomes clear a rental should be parked at a hotel and left for the return trip.

Now, if driving in or to Rome is the plan, there are some rules of the road to keep in mind. Foreigners should be mindful of these things:

Italians drive on the right side of the road. Passing should take place on the left.
Motorists must be at least 18 years old to drive a car.
Seatbelts are mandatory in Italy. This applies to backseat passengers, too, if seatbelts are available in the backseat.
Child safety seats are a must for youngsters.
It is against the law to use a cell phone while driving unless it is a hands-free phone
Motorists should carry their passports and driving license with them at all times.

Visitors who want to make their way to Rome might find that some roads don’t lead to this city. Still, they will discover most major forms of transit make arrival quite easy. Brush up on the transit destination in advance of a trip to make arrival and departure more enjoyable and hassle-free.

Visiting Rome – Planning A Trip To Rome

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This is the first post of a series of articles we are preparing to help our customers plan, book, visit and enjoy Rome.

Please share any comment or suggestion. Thanks!

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It doesn’t matter whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon retreat or a family vacation no one will forget, Rome is a destination that can easily top all others. With its rich historical roots, beautiful countryside, distinct architecture and lively atmosphere, this is a cosmopolitan city that offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

The capital city of Italy has long beckoned to tourists for a variety of very good reasons. Its history, art, cuisine, top attractions and culture combine to make it a destination that’s sure to please.

What Makes Rome So Special?

Rome is a perfect holiday destination for just about anyone of any age or interest. Here are just a few of the reasons it makes such an ideal location for vacation travel:

Its History

Walk through the streets of Rome while on vacation and the paths followed may very well have been tread by some of history’s most colorful and powerful players. From Julius Caesar to Michelangelo, some of the most notable characters in human history once lived and worked within this amazing city.

As the former seat of one of the most powerful empires the world has ever known, Rome has a history that is long and rich. In fact, its history dates back more than 2,500 years. The city served as the capital of not only the Roman Empire, but also the Roman Kingdom and the Roman Republic.

In days gone by, Rome was the city that literally ruled the world. It dominated culturally and militarily during the pre- and post-Christian years. At one point, the empire stretched throughout Europe, into Africa and beyond. Those who visit Rome find themselves in the heart the empire that quite truthfully shaped the world for centuries.

While Rome’s dominance on the world scene has long since waned, its prominence as a tourist destination has never faltered. Those who choose this destination will find themselves awed and humbled at every turn by the ancient architecture, masterful art, alluring history, tempting cuisine and more.

Its Attractions

The number of things to see and do in Rome is nearly limitless. From ancient sites to modern-day theatrical venues, the city offers plenty to see and do. Here is just a sampling of attractions well worth seeing when a visit here:

The Colosseum – Towering over the city, this ancient structure is considered the largest amphitheater built during the Roman Empire. Meant to seat about 60,000 spectators, it was used for political events, gladiator combat and other public spectacles. It was here that lives hung in the balance, waiting for a thumbs up or down from rulers, and Christians were sacrificed to lions. Although in ruins, the Colosseum remains one of the most awe-inspiring attractions in Rome today.
The Pantheon – This ancient temple was constructed as a monument to all of Rome’s gods. With its towering columns and grandiose design, it’s sure to capture the eye and the imagination.
The Sistine Chapel – While the chapel itself is considered an architectural splendor, the paintings and artwork inside have truly made it a famous destination for travelers. Michelangelo’s The Creation of Adam can be seen on the ceiling and many other important works by Botticelli, Perugino and other Renaissance artists are found here.
The statues – It is hard to walk the streets of Rome without running into a famous statue, obelisk or fountain. Visitors will discover the city’s amazing sights include ancient Egyptian obelisks, the Column of Marcus Aurelius, the Trevi Fountain, the Fontana della Barcaccia and many others.
Parco della Musica – This modern-day marvel is a notable music complex just north of Rome. It was unveiled in 2002 and has fast become one of the world’s most notable venues for musical performances.
The Forum – This ancient complex of buildings and meeting places was considered the center of Roman public life for years. The Senate House, many temples, government offices and other important sites are found within the ruins.

The Geography

While Rome is a bustling modern city with more than 2.7 million residents, it does feature beautiful natural sights, as well. The city’s geography not only helped Rome become a powerful capital, but also serves to attract those who enjoy seeing beautiful natural features. Located in central Italy, Rome grew up along the banks of the Tiber river. The city features a hilly landscape, with several of those hills having great historical value themselves. Some of the more notable geographical features include Palatine Hill and Aventine Hill.

The Cuisine

The chefs of Italy have long been known for their amazing culinary creations. From famous pasta dishes to tempting desserts, they have mastered them all. Visitors to this city will find there is no shortage of places to explore the culinary landscape of Rome. Some of the more popular destinations for diners include the Ditirambo, La Tavernaccia and Roma Sparita.

Vacation in Rome and it will quickly become clear that it’s impossible to run out of things to do. With other nearby attractions including Vatican City, the Roman countryside and more so nearby, a trip here is a treat for the senses.

Who Is Rome Right For?

Rome delivers endless opportunities for vacations of all types and for travelers of all tastes. It’s a perfect family destination. Children will adore hearing about the city’s ancient history and seeing the sights. Honeymooners and those on other romantic getaways will find the enduring sites, gourmet cuisine and other attractions lend themselves beautifully to a trip just for two. Rome is also a perfect destination for those traveling with friends. With so much to see and do, it’s impossible to run out of options.

Vacation Rentals vs Hotels

Full Support to this funny (but sadly true) Flipkey campaign!
Minibars are absolutely overpriced!
We are not against hotels but you may incur in many additional costs to make your stay comfortable!
So watch out when doing your vacation and comparing options!

Clipped from www.facebook.com

Reason to Vacation Rental #73 - Because $12.50 for peanuts, a bag of chips and a soda from the hotel mini bar constitutes one of the most overpriced midnight snacks. Ever.

FlipKey’s Photos

Reason to Vacation Rental #73 - Because $12.50 for peanuts, a bag of chips and a soda from the hotel mini bar constitutes one of the most overpriced midnight snacks. Ever.
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Arriving by train - Rome Termini Station

This is an article from Ron and as usual a great one and very valuable!
Rome Termini Station is the central hub of Rome. It is pretty safe but there are a number of scams that is better you are aware of. Moreover getting acquainted with the places and services of the station will help you a lot on your arrival. Read here and everything will come out smooth and easy.

Clipped from www.roninrome.com

Arriving by Train – Roma Termini

If all roads lead to Rome, most segments of the transportation system lead to Roma Termini! You can shop there, eat there, meet there, rent a car there, and leave from there! It’s truly the transportation hub of Rome.

Roma Termini Station runs almost all day… from 4:30 AM until 1:30 AM each day – almost 24 hours! It’s a busy, happening place! Almost 475,000 people pass through Termini EACH DAY – or more than 150 million visitors a year! I’m often through the Station on the metro 2-3 times in a single day.

If you’re arriving into Roma Termini station by train, you’re most likely coming from another city in Italy or the Leonardo Express. For many train, their FINAL destination is Termini. In Italy, tracks are called “Binari.”There are two track “areas “in the Station. The first is the main area and it has 24 tracks. If you’re entering the Station on a train, Binari #24 will be to your far left and track #1 will be to your far right. Conversely, if you’re in the station waiting for a train, the tracks are numbered from left to right, 1 – 24.

There is also a set of “satellite” tracks. These tracks are numbers 25-29 and they are in the second “area” of the station. These tracks are FAR OUT from the station and adjacent to track #24. In the picture above, we are approaching Track 25, at which is parked the Leonardo Express, loading up for it’s next trip back to the Airport. Note the yellow validation box mounted on the pole as you head for the train. If you arrive here you will have a 10-12 minute walk into the main area of the station. If you’re departing from one of these tracks, start hiking now! It’s a haul. If you go to the basement level of the station – one floor down from ground level – there are moving sidewalks that will get you out to the satellite tracks. But on the ground level you’ll have to walk… and walk… and walk. Currently the Leonardo Express, from the airport, is arriving/departing from Track #25. This just changed in 2008. It used to be track #24 which was much easier. Let’s hope they change it back soon!

Pictured above is the ramp, approaching it FROM Tracks 25 through 29. The ramp will be on your left as you head for the station. And then on the lower level you see these walking sidewalks:

And a departure board – if these are hanging from the ceiling, in a hall for example, usually one side is Arrivals and the other Departures.

Upon arrival, grab all your luggage and head down the platform away from the train. In the main area, tracks 1-24, you arrive almost in the heart of the Station. To get to the taxi stand head straight out the front doors which are directly in front of you but you have to walk through the station.

Once you get to the front, the Official Taxi Stand is to your left. You’ll see many taxis lined up! Head for the far left where the queue starts and get in line. You could be approached by taxi drivers standing off to the side who will ask, “Do you need a taxi – no waiting!” Stay in line. Do not get in a non-official taxi. Most are unmetered and illegal. Taxis in Rome are only supposed to accept fares AT Taxi Stands, so stay in line and you’ll be fine. Again, if you have your destination written down (in Italian!) you can show it to the taxi driver. Most parts of Rome are no more than a 10-15 Euro cab ride from Termini… usually it’s much less.

If you plan to ride a bus from Termini, most buses depart from Piazza dei Cinquecento, the square in front of the Station. Again, depart your train, stay on the ground floor, and walk straight out the front doors. Bear to your left and you’ll see many buses lined up. Termini is a major bus stop, the largest in town. As you walk along the “islands” where the buses park look for your bus number. If the bus is there, jump on – but do remember YOU MUST HAVE A BUS TICKET before you get on the bus. Very few (5%????) of the buses have machines to sell tickets on the bus. There are Tabacchi shops in the station and stalls outside where you can buy a bus ticket. We’ll talk about bus and metro riding in another post.

If you’re renting a car – Good Luck, you’re a brave soul to drive in or out of Rome – head to your LEFT once you get off the trains. The Car Rentals counters are in the newer wing of the Terminal, next to the Post Office and the Upim department store. Again, from inside the train station, walk along the tracks following the signs toward Terminal Fiumicino. Look for the yellow sign for the post office (Posta (PT)). Here you will find the major companies – Avis, Hertz, Thrifty, Dollar, Sixt, Europcar, National, Maggiore and some local agencies such as Targarent Travelcar and Tirreno. Once you get your paper work done, you’ll have to walk east (LEFT from the Car Rental Area) along Via Giovanni Giolitti to the parking garage where most of the rental car agencies park. If you’re returning your car, this will be where you’ll drop it off. There are different procedures in the Garage depending on who you are renting from. Welcome to your first driving experience in Rome… Again, good luck – do bring or rent a GPS!

Left Luggage

Many folks are just in Rome for a day and ask where they can store their luggage. Roma Termini is probably the best option. The left luggage and lost property facilities are located in the terminal on the Lower level. They are downstairs form Track #24 and can be accessed via the moving walkway on the basement level of the Ala Termini wing. If you’re walking towards the tracks from the front of the Station, it will be to your right and downstairs. The Left Luggage is open 7 days a week from 6 AM – 12 midnight (06.00 – 24.00). Do know that you need to leave yourself PLENTY OF TIME when you are picking up your luggage as the lines can get very long – especially if an International Train has just come in. You don’t want to be standing in line waiting on your luggage when your train pulls out! The Left Luggage is VERY safe, efficient, and convenient!

Charges
•4,00 € the first 5 hours
•0,60 € per hour from 6th to 12th hour
•0,20 € per hour from 13th hour on
•Contacts: +39 06 474 4777

Roma Termini is an efficient train station. It moves almost half a million folks every day! But it’s probably not the romantic image people have of train stations in Europe. It’s chaotic, but business-like. It’s dirty and grungy, but enthralling! There are two McDonald’s in the station, and one just outside on Via Giolitti, but it also has 100 other stores, restaurants, and a GREAT Conad grocery store.

But you have to be careful here. Like any urban environment: BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS! Some of my experiences… Once I was walking back from dropping off my rental car, headed to the Official Taxi Stand. A taxi driver approached me as I walked back down Via G. Giolitti and offered to take me to my hotel. I’d taken the trip often and knew it would cost me €5-7. The driver said he would take me for €40. Yep, if I had NOT known better I’d been out the money. So always head for the official Taxi Stands…

Also be careful when you are purchasing tickets at the kiosks in Termini. Folks will come up to you and offer to help you buy your ticket – often without you even asking.

That said, Roma Termini is a safe area. The crimes committed are not violent crimes, mostly pick-pocketing and petty theft. Be alert and you’ll be fine. When in doubt just say “NO” forcibly or walk away. I enjoy traveling though Termini and it now feels like a small station!
Read more at www.roninrome.com

Venice Carnival 2011

Some evergreen tips about Venice Carnival from my favourite blogger Martha!

Clipped from goitaly.about.com

Venice Carnival 2011

It’s almost time for Venice’s carnival or carnevale season, a time of costume parties, parades, masquerade balls and entertainment culminating on Shrove Tuesday, 40 days before Easter. 2011 Venice Carnival opens on February 19 with a party in Saint Mark’s Square and ends March 8 with a finale in Saint Mark’s Square that includes a giant group kiss at midnight, entertainment, and fireworks.

Venice is one of the world’s top places to celebrate carnival or mardi gras and going to Venice during carnival season is not to be missed. If you’re going, be sure you book a hotel in advance (see Top-Rated Venice Hotels) or if you want an arranged trip, Palio Tours has a few spots left on their Essence of Carnival Tour. You’ll find more about Venice’s carnival in our Tips for Going to Carnevale in Venice.
Read more at goitaly.about.com

An Italian Icon Is About to Hit the States

I love the new Fiat 500, so cute! but I’m wondering if it isn’t too much of a “mini-mini-car” for the States? what do you think? is there any market for it?

Clipped from www.i-italy.org

An Italian Icon Is About to Hit the States

After a long wait, the new Fiat 500 eventually comes to the US. The heir to the Italian instant classic of the 1970s will be available in 3 versions, and we’ll start to see it on the roads by the end of the month

Turin, 1957. This is where and when the history of one of the most iconic Italian products began: the Fiat 500. What can be described as one of the first city cars was born in response to the demand for an economic vehicle in the years after WWII. Over the time it has become an Italian design icon, a symbol of the Dolce Vita and of the Italian lifestyle that can be summarized with the adjectives “fashionable” and “practical”.

Production of the old 500 was discontinued in 1975, and since then fans have been begging to see it reborn. Their hopes were fulfilled in 2007. After more than 30 years, Fiat gave the public an updated version of its timeless instant classic. The new 500 was created to be true to its origins while simultaneously upgraded with all the tech gizmos we are used to seeing in higher end vehicles. It is a compact, fuel efficient car that behaves equally well in cramped city streets and during a carefree ride through the countryside, stylish enough to have heads turning no matter where it is used.

See more at www.i-italy.org

Tours in Roma

info@thekeytoitaly.com

1 - “Vatican State” walking tour
SKIP THE LINE AT THE VATICAN MUSEUMS AND SISTINE CHAPEL!
NEW! Reserved entrance! Early departure!
VISIT: Vatican Museums, Raphael's rooms, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica and Square.
A fascinating itinerary to the discovery of art, history and religion of the smallest state in the world. Visiting the Vatican Museums early in the morning you will skip the longest line and admire the impressive beauty of the site. We will take care of the reservation skipping the line!

AVAILABLE: Monday - Thursday – Saturday
DEPARTURE TIME: From March 15th to October 30th at 7,45am- From to October 31st to March 26th at 8,15
LENGTH: 3/4 hours
MEETING PLACE: at the bus stop on the side of the entrance gate of the Vatican Museums
(Viale Vaticano n. 100 – Metro Station “Cipro” A line)
PRICE: Eu 54,00 (entrance and reservation fees skipping the line to the Vatican Museums included)

2 - ”Ancient Rome” walking tour
SKIP THE LINE AT THE COLOSSEUM AND ROMAN FORUM!
VISIT: Street of the Imperial Fora and Venice Square, Capitoline hill, Roman Forum, Colosseum
A walk in the heart of Ancient Rome, an area rich of historical memories, where the epic of the great Rome began. From the Colosseum (visit inside) you will walk through the Roman Forum (visit inside), then you will walk up the Capitol Hill, Column of Trajan and Imperial Fora, Venice Square.

AVAILABLE: Monday – Wednesday - Thursday – Saturday
DEPARTURE TIME: From March 15th to October 30th at 3 pm- From October 31st to March 26th at 2 pm
LENGTH: 3 hours
MEETING PLACE: Argiletum Tour Office, Via Madonna dei Monti, 49 (metro station “Cavour” B line)
PRICE: Eu 47,00 (entrance and reservation fees to the Colosseum and Roman Forum included)

3 - “Borghese Gallery” walking tour
One of the most beautiful roman villas of the XVII cent. which belonged to the Borghese family. It houses a precious collection of paintings and sculptures from the Roman to the Baroque time, Caravaggio, Raphael, Titian…

AVAILABLE: Tuesday - Friday
DEPARTURE TIME: 2.30 pm
LENGTH: 3 hours
MEETING PLACE: Ticket Office of the Borghese Gallery
PRICE: Eu 49,00 (English speaking guide, entrance and reservation fees included)

4 - “Baroque Rome & Angel’s Castle” walking tour
VISIT: Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Angel’s Castle
NEW! An enchanting itinerary, into the Rome of Popes, among elegant shops and streets, 18th century buildings and churches more than 2 thousand years old!
From the most beautiful squares and fountains in the world: the Spanish Steps & Trevi Fountain, to the Pantheon, best preserved temple of antiquity and Piazza Navona. Walking in this unique environment of great architectural and artistic beauty deeply rooted in the heart of ancient city, reach Angel’s Castle, mausoleum of Emperor Hadrian, gradually transformed into a fortress, prison and residence for the Popes. Climb then of the famous terrace which offers the best view of Rome at 360°. Here your guide will leave you to wander at your leisure and savour this unique ambience where you can absorb history through the very air.

AVAILABLE: Wednesday – Friday
DEPARTURE TIME: 9.30 am (15 minutes earlier at the meeting point)
LENGTH: 3 hours
MEETING PLACE: Spanish steps, at the bottom of the stairs by the metro station Sign
PRICE: Eu 40,00 (English speaking guide, entrance and reservation fees to Angel’s Castle included)

5 - “Medieval Rome” walking tour
VISIT: Church "Il Gesù", Piazza Mattei, Jewish Ghetto, Portico d'Ottavia, Tiberine Island, S.ta Cecilia, St. Maria in Trastevere
A quiet walk in the most integral medieval district of Rome. This tour is a jump into the past in the areas that developed along the Tiber river, between the Jewish Ghetto and S. Maria in Trastevere. Among characteristic and suggestive side streets, small medieval houses, palaces of the Renaissance, Baroque churches, craftsmen’s and artists workshops.

AVAILABLE: Tuesday, Friday
DEPARTURE TIME: h.9.30 am
LENGTH: 3 hours
MEETING PLACE: Venice Square, at the bottom of the Monument to Victor Emanule II
PRICE: Eu 33,00 (local guide, tax)

6 - ”Underground Rome” walking tour
VISIT: St. Clement's Basilica, Underground Roman Houses, Statue of Moses by Michelangelo
An exclusive off the beaten track walking tour in the Monti district, a travel through time to revive the suggestions of one of the most fascinating areas of the city, hidden under the level of modern Rome.

AVAILABLE: Friday, Saturday
DEPARTURE TIME: h. 3,00 pm
LENGTH: 3 hours
MEETING PLACE: Argiletum Tour Office, Via Madonna dei Monti, 49 (metro station “Cavour” B line)
PRICE: Eu 44,00 (English speaking guide, entrance fees to the Roman Houses and St. Clemente included)

7 - “Rome at sunset with dinner and show” walking tour
VISIT: Imperial Fora, Capitoline Hill, Marcello’s Theatre, Portico d’Ottavia, Jewish Ghetto, dinner and show in a typical Roman restaurant
An unforgettable evening, to the discovery of a city that at sunset has a unique fascination, and Rome is dyed in the heat, and the travertine, the stones and the marbles show themselves in all their beauty.... when then the night comes, the sophisticated lighting systems of its monuments reveal breathtaking corners under an unexpected point of view, a dream...
At the end of the tour dinner and show in a typical Roman restaurant-THEATRE. Folk songs, music and dances for a great entertainment!

AVAILABLE: every evening
DEPARTURE TIME: h 7,00 pm (15 minutes earlier at the meeting point)
LENGTH: 4 hours
MEETING PLACE: Argiletum Tour Office, Via Madonna dei Monti, 49 (metro station “Cavour” ” B line)
PRICE: Eu 106,00 (English speaking guide, dinner with drinks included in a theatre restaurant with show)

8 - “Rome at sunset” walking tour
VISIT: Imperial Fora, Venice Square, Marcello’s Theatre, Portico d’Ottavia, Jewish Ghetto, Trevi fountain
An unforgettable evening, to the discovery of a city that at sunset has a unique fascination, and Rome is dyed in the heat, and the travertine, the stones and the marbles show themselves in all their beauty....
when then the night comes, the sophisticated lighting systems of its monuments reveal breathtaking corners under an unexpected point of view, a dream... The tour will finish by the Trevi Fountain that at night offers an extraordinary emotion reviving the myth of La Dolce Vita!

AVAILABLE: every evening
DEPARTURE TIME: h 7,00 pm (15 minutes earlier at the meeting point)
LENGTH: 2 hours
MEETING PLACE: Argiletum Tour Office, Via Madonna dei Monti, 49 (metro station “Cavour” ” B line)
PRICE: Eu 39,00 (English speaking guide, tax)

9 - “Rome Movie Tours” bus tour
Rome is an immense set used and often reconstructed by the great Italian and international directors. Thinking of Rome in movies it is impossible not to recall the image of Anita Ekberg who bathes with Marcello Mastroianni in the "pagan" waters of the Trevi Fountain in " La Dolce Vita " or the Imperial Rome reproduced in the cruel scenes of “The Gladiator” or the cheery and Romantic Rome of “Roman Holiday” one of the most famous movies of all time, where the city itself is a real character. Joining our bus tour you will discover the never ending fascination of the Eternal town through the never ending fascination of the Eternal Town through the privileged eye of the cine camera.

AVAILABLE: every Sunday from 1st April to 2nd November
DEPARTURE TIME: 9.30 am (15 min. earlier at the meeting point)
LENGTH: 3 hours
MEETING PLACE: Argiletum Tour Office, Via Madonna dei Monti, 49 (metro station “Cavour” line B)
PRICE: Eu. 57,00
Price includes: English speaking guide, transportation by deluxe minibus, tax

10 - “Bicycle Tour”
An alternative way to visit Rome: our ecological bike tour!
Itinerary: Borghese park, Piazza del Popolo, Spanish Steps, Bocca della Verità, Circus Maximus, Pantheon, Colosseum and many more to see!
3 hours of perfect combination of great fun, informative ride and ecological respect of your environment away from the traffic and crowded streets. Rome is a wonderful town to visit by bike: the concentration of monuments and historical sites in a relatively small area, the many alleys, so charming and yet inaccessible to cars, the slow rhythm typical of its inhabitants who enjoy life taking their time, make the bike just perfect to discover the Eternal town. The bike tour runs rain and shine, suitable for all ages as long as you can ride a bike!

AVAILABLE: Every Monday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday - From 1st April to 2nd November
DEPARTURE TIME: 9.30 am (15 minutes earlier at the meeting point)
LENGTH: 3 hours
MEETING PLACE: Villa Borghese, Piazzale delle Arti
PRICE: Eu. 57,00
Price includes: English speaking guide, Bicycle, bike insurance, tax

11 - “Tour in scooter"

Itinerary: Aventine Hill, Caracalla’s Baths, Pyramid, Venice Square, Via Veneto, St. Peter’s, Circus Maximus, Janiculum Hill.

A fascinating itinerary riding a scooter to discover the most enchanting sites of Rome inaccessible by bus. Sweep the traffic and reach hidden corners, get lost in the lanes of old Rome, Trastevere. Aventine hill, Tiber Island, Piazza del Popolo, Republic Square, Villa Borghese, Via Veneto…Enjoy then the best breathtaking views of Rome from the 8th hill, the Janiculum hill. An unforgettable experience to live the town as the Romans do!

AVAILABLE: every day
DEPARTURE TIME: from March 15th to November 1st at 3.00 pm From November 2nd to March 14th at h. 2,00 pm
LENGTH: 3 ore
MEETING PLACE: Argiletum Tour Office, Via Madonna dei Monti, 49 (metro station “Cavour” line B)
PRICE: Eu 250,00
PRICE INCLUDES: English speaking guide, 2 helmets, 1 scooter 125 cc, tax – DRIVING LICENCE REQUIRED

Events in Rome: a short calendar of events month by month

info@thekeytoitaly.com

What’s happening in Rome all year round!… Find out here!

Rome Events and Rome Holidays in January

• Epiphany – “Befana” is a religious holiday held on January 6th. There is an Epiphany Fair held in Piazza Navona with small rides for the children to ride and stands with games to play.

Rome Events and Rome Holidays in February

• Ash Wednesday – Late February Romans celebrate this religious holiday. The Pope walks from the Basilica of Santa Sabina to the Circus Maximus, accompanied by members belonged to the College of Cardinals.

Rome Events and Rome Holidays in March

• Festival of St. Francesca On March 9th Romans go to the Church of Santa Francesca in Piazzale del Colosseo for blessing their cars.
• Maratona della Citta di Roma (Marathon) Athletes run through spectacular landmarks and beautiful churches in Rome. The streets are close to the traffic car. Take advantage to have a walk along “Lungotevere”.

Rome Events and Rome Holidays in April

• Festa della Primavera (Spring Festival) – The area where this colorful special event takes place is Spanish Steps. These amazing steps are decorated with azalea plants and concerts are held on top of the steps in Trinità dei Monti.
• Good Friday – In the evening the Pope leads a Procession of the Cross from the Colosseum garden to the Roman Forum. Take part or simply admire the parade of people following the procession.
• Easter – A memorable outdoor mass takes place in St. Peter’s Square in the morning. There are more than 20,000 seats available for anyone who wants to attend. The Pope blesses the crowd at noon. We do advise to go early for seating.
• Easter Monday – Locals go away to the countryside and spend a relaxing three day weekend ( starting Saturday and ending Monday).
• Live Concerts – All throughout the month of April, the Accademia Filarmonica Romana performs regularly at the Teatro Olimpico. If you are into music, this is ideal for you.

Rome Events and Rome Holidays in May

• Introducing new Vatican Guards – On May 6th 2009 an event will be held. The new Swiss guards take the oath at the Vatican.
• Tennis – In the middle of May the tennis Masters Series start at the Foro Italico.
• Symphony concerts – Throughout May the Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia performs at the Via della Conciliazione, near Castle Sant’Angelo and Vatican St. Peter’s square.

Rome Events and Rome Holidays in June

• Festa della Repubblica – This incredible military parade takes place on Via dei Fori Imperiali between Colosseum and Piazza Venezia. Italy celebrates their Republic day.
• Saint Peter and Paul Day – Solemn masses are held at St. Peter’s Basilica and all over Rome during this holiday.

Rome Events and Rome Holidays in July

• Spoleto Festival – Held in in Spoleto, this festival features top-quality concerts, operas, dances and movies for all tastes.
• Operas and Ballets – During the whole month of July and early August some of the best local Opera singers and dancers perform regularly at Teatro dell’Opera, Piazza Beniamino Gigli. If you are in Rome, do not miss it!
• Noantri Festival – There will be folk music, dances and stands selling goods. Fun activities for the whole family to celebrate the Virgin of the Carmine.

Rome Events and Rome Holidays in August

• Ferragosto (The Assumption) – A very traditional celebration, the mid-summer Roman holiday. Many locals go outside Rome to enjoy the beaches. On this day, you will not see many locals around if you stay in the city.

Rome Events and Rome Holidays in September

• Crafts show – Takes place late September in Via dell’Orso. A must see!

Rome Events and Rome Holidays in November

• All Saints’ Day – Only once a year, this day, all churches will be open to the public for visitors.
• Unity Day – A ceremony takes place at the Tomb of the “Unknown Soldier” in Piazza Venezia.

Rome Events and Rome Holidays in December

• Feast of the Immaculate Conception – Early December, the Pope places flowers at the column of the Virgin in Piazza di Spagnathis religious holiday.
• St. Stephen’s Day – December 26th, many Romans visit nativity scenes, decorated churches with Christmas spirit throughout Rome on this public holiday… very popular day in Rome. An excellent day to visit and look inside all the beautiful churches in Rome.
• New Year’s Eve – December 31st, masses are celebrated in churches all over Rome. There are also many parties and general celebrations in public places, restaurants and also in homes of family and friends.

Pick your month, choose you event and if you are looking for a comfortable rome accommodation check with us...we will make it special!

Weather Average Temperatures in Rome and Venice month by month

info@thekeytoitaly.com

Italy enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate of the Mediterranean coasts. It is very comfortable from March through June, and again from September to October, which are also known as the “beautiful October days” for being sunny and warm days. By August, the temperature during the heat of the day often exceeds 32 °C (90 °F).

Weather Averages for Rome
Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Average High °C (°F)	12 (54)	13 (55)	16 (61)	19 (66)	23 (73)	27 (81)	31 (88)	31 (88)	27 (81)	22 (72)	17 (63)	13 (55)
Average Low °C (°F)	2 (36)	3 (37)	4 (39)	7 (45)	11 (52)	14 (57)	17 (63)	17 (63)	14 (57)	10 (50)	6 (43)	3 (37)
Precipitation mm (inches)	83 (3.27)	76 (2.99)	68 (2.68)	68 (2.68)	48 (1.89)	40 (1.57)	22 (0.87)	35 (1.38)	76 (2.99)	106 (4.17)	119 (4.69)	91 (3.58)
Source: Weather.com

Weather Averages for Venice
Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Average High °C (°F)	6 (43)	8 (46)	12 (54)	16 (61)	21 (70)	24 (75)	27 (81)	27 (81)	23 (73)	18 (64)	11 (52)	7 (45)
Average Low °C (°F)	-1 (30)	1 (34)	3 (37)	8 (46)	12 (54)	16 (61)	18 (64)	17 (63)	14 (57)	9 (48)	4 (39)	0 (32)
Precipitation mm (inches)	58 (2.28)	53 (2.09)	58 (2.28)	63 (2.48)	68 (2.68)	76 (2.99)	63 (2.48)	83 (3.27)	66 (2.6)	68 (2.68)	86 (3.39)	53 (2.09)
Source: Weather.com

Plan in advance, pick your season and book with us one of our unique Rome Apartments for rent or visit Venice staying in a charming Venice Accommodation.

The Key to Italy is a Vacation Rental Agency focused on Rome Accommodation and Venice Acommodation

Visiting Venice for Families: tips and suggestions to first time travelers with Kids

info@thekeytoitaly.com

Venice is the “Floating City” of Italy and has been regarded as the most beautiful city all over the world built by man. With so many philosophers, artists, photographers, painters, and historical icons hailed and hewn from Venice, it’s downright a mysterious feat how a Floating City can contribute and influence these great minds of people who have made names in history and are known to this day. Did you know that Marco Polo, the famous explorer who compiled and named the original “Wonders of the World,” was born and raised in Venice?

All visitors who have been to Venice say that once you’ve gone to Venice, your life will never be the same again and 100% of them recommend everyone to visit this old-fashioned and charming Italian city. Life in Venice is far different from the other bustling Italian cities. For one thing, the major transportation here is not the typical buses or taxis you normally see and ride everyday. Well, for what its worth, Venice is really an exciting place for your whole family to visit, even the small kids can enjoy every minute of your stay here.

Tips for First-Time Venice Travelers

1) Learn some basic Italian language

Although not a requirement since Venice’s major visitor attractions have English speaking citizens, learning a few Italian greetings like Buon giorno (good morning), Bouna sera (good evening), Grazie (thank you) and Ciao (hi or hello) will really make a big difference in your Venetian vacation.

2) Rolling on Wheels

Venice, as mentioned earlier, is far too different from the neighboring cities in Italy and by this we mean you’ll be traveling around the city mostly by floating mode of transportation such as the water buses or vaporetti, water taxis, and the fabled gondolas.

A city with 400 bridges build over 150 canals, a typical Venice travel will have you going up and down these bridges that’s why it is very important to bring suitcases and luggage which can roll on its wheels.

Your kids will definitely enjoy pulling on a small suitcase of their own, perhaps one that carries their toys and clothes for the travel. When you are bringing along a stroller for your trip, make sure that it is light and easy to fold when you’re riding water buses and while going up and down the steps.

3) Traveling Light

When you’re traveling to Venice from another Italian city, it would be best to bring only the things necessary. Traveling light with suitcases on wheels is your best bet to avoid hurling heavy luggage bags into water buses. Well, if you have more bags than you can handle while in Venice, you can check your extra luggage at the train station. They will offer you your own storage locker you can rent at a very affordable price. You can always get your luggage on your trip back home.

4) Getting the cheapest public transportation in Venice for the whole family

Since your whole family is most likely going to ride the water buses every now and then, instead of buying once way tickets why not consider buying the all-day or several days passes for each and every member of your family. If you’re stay is a little longer, we recommend getting the 72-hour passes. These special passes are a lot cheaper than one way tickets.

The vaporetti companies in Venice are also offering huge discounts for small children and students so better ask the ticketing window attendant about specially-marked tickets for your children. You can show them the student IDs of your kids attending school to get these discounted tickets.

5) The Venice Card

The Venice card is a especially intended for visitors who come to the Floating City and you can buy one from neighboring cities in Italy or from the airport or train station upon your arrival to Venice. This card will grant you free access to all museums and casinos for seven days. Aside from this, you can also get free vaporetti services and a boat trip from the airport to your Venice accommodation for free.

The Kids’ Haven on Venice: List of Fun Things to do with the Kids

Piazza San Marco

Well, your Venice trip won’t be complete without a visit to the famous Piazza San Marco or the St. Mark’s Square. A large haven for pigeons, your kids will definitely enjoy running around, chasing after these magnificent birds, as well as feeding them with bread crumbs. While you’re there, take turns with your spouse to watch over the kids while one of you can go in St. Mark’s Basilica to admire its magnificent view from the inside.

You can also take your kids to the Bell Tower of Piazza San Marco. Take an elevator ride to the top of the tower and have your kids use the binocular seeing stands on each side. This is one of the ways to get them psyched about your Venice vacation. After getting a bird’s eye view of the whole city, they will be more inclined to take the long walks with you on the tour.

Ice Cream Walks all over Venice

Walking around the streets of Venice is one way to immerse your self into the Italian culture while admiring the ancient buildings all around. In every turn, you’ll find small shops and coffee stands where you can buy fabulous trinkets for gifts and souvenirs to your friends on your trip back. Most of the time, the small shops here offer the cheapest price when it comes to souvenirs as compared to the main shops in the major tourist areas.

Well, your kids might not be fond of tagging along for the walk but you can lure them in by taking them for “ice cream walks.” In every corner, you’ll find Gelaterias or Ice cream shops selling Gelatos, otherwise known as the Italian version of ice cream.

Vaporetti Rides

The water bus rides are never dull especially for kids. They’d constantly point at something, pull on your shirt, and excitedly scream out “Look Mommy look!!!” Of course, as a parent, you will be more than happy to see your kids smile and have fun while riding the water bus, an amazing experience that they can only get in Venice.

Murano Glass Making tour

Located on one of Venice’s islands named Murano, the Murano glass making industry is a booming commerce and an attraction for tourists as well. Your kids will find it amazing how glasses can be molded and made into different shapes and sizes.

Rialto Bridge and Rialto Marketplace

The Rialto Bridge and marketplace is really worth a visit if you wanted to buy fresh produce from the sea. Kids may not enjoy standing by while you haggle for cheaper prices but they’d definitely have fun going up and down the Rialto Bridge, a magnificent and a beauty on its own right as one of the frequently visited and most photographed bridges in the city.

Gondolini Bridge

If you’re eating out, you should definitely dine in one of the restaurants located near the Gondolini Bridge or perhaps just hang out on the bridge for a few minutes. In here, you will find gondolas and the gondoliers passing by and, if you’re lucky, you can even listen to the gondoliers singing to their passengers.

The Key to Italy has a wide choice of Family Apartments in Venice conveniently located in the historical center and walking distance to all top attractions in Venice. Book with us your family accommodation in Venice, feel free to ask for tips and suggestions and get ready to enjoy a unique and memorable experience for your kids.

Visiting Rome for Families: tips and suggestions to first time travelers with Kids

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All your bags are packed by now and your family can’t wait to see Rome for real. Always remember that Rome is a big city, one that can’t be conquered with one visit alone. Yes, this is the truth, you won’t see everything on your list of must-see attractions in Rome, not unless you wear yourself down and become frustrated on your flight back because of exhaustion. Well, there’s a way to avoid this kind of frustration – just relax and take your time to immerse in Rome’s splendor, there’s always the next Roman trip to look forward to.

Rome has been garnered as the “Eternal City” because it encompasses both ancient and modern civilizations into one big capital city of Italy. Also, Rome is said to have been built on seven hills, so expect a lot of upward and downward walk paths while you’re there.

Some Tips for the First-Time Travelers to Rome:

Choose a good city map of Rome: You can either buy one before your flight to the city or get a free map from the Tourist Information office in Rome. Having a good map allows you to determine how far apart the attractions on your list really are and with this, you can plan your itineraries better for each day of your Roman vacation.
Use Public Transportation: In other places, it’s only natural to be afraid to ride the public transportation without any knowledge about their en route destination. In Rome, you can buy a Rome transportation map from the newsstands and study the routes of the Metro system, otherwise known as the buses of the city. The Metro system is extremely helpful in getting you from point A to point B to point C.
Always bring a water bottle with you: Rome is also famous for their public drinking fountains, not only because they’re free but also because they’re cold and so tasty. You can bring a water bottle with you to refill at any time, especially when you have chosen to visit Rome during summer. The water flowing in from these drinking fountains come from the renowned Roman aqueducts which has always been the ancient water system of the city. Drinking the cold water from these fountains is one way to immerse your self in the ancient Roman civilization.
Wear comfy shoes: As mentioned, there are some hilly parts of Rome that you might encounter on your trip. One way to avoid exhaustion is to wear comfortable shoes, not only for you but for the whole family as well.
Wear appropriate clothing for the season: When visiting Rome, always check which season they’re in during your time of visit, especially when you bring your children with you. Wear comfortable summer clothes when you’re particularly visiting Rome during their summer season. In winter, with the absence of snow, you should still bring along some coats and jackets to shield the bone-chilling temperatures of the city. Don’t forget to gear up with umbrellas because rainfall is particularly unpredictable during winter here.

Visiting Rome with the Kids

You may think at first that bringing your children along for your Roman trip is a bad idea because they cannot appreciate the grandeur of Rome from their own point of view. Nope, this is not the case. In reality, there are a lot of activities you can do with your children in Rome as well as less-crowded places you can visit while you’re there.

But first, let’s talk about some sensible gears you may want to bring along for the trip. One of the things you shouldn’t forget to bring is a portable crib or an umbrella stroller when your children are too young for the long-distance walks you’d have to make while visiting some attractions. An umbrella stroller is very handy especially for small children when riding public transportation since you can just fold them up, put them in the overhead compartment, and just go.

Depending on your children’s ages, interests, and maturity, you can always come up with a mix vacation style formulated for kids and for adults’ enjoyment. Here is a list of some attractions not included in the tourists’ brochure you might want to try out while visiting Rome with your family.

Explore The Children’s Museum of Rome (Il Museo Dei Bambini Di Roma)

Located on via Flaminia 82, The Children’s Museum of Rome is the first museum built for children in Italy. For kids ages 3 to 7, this is like a world of their own because they can observe, touch, and explore the things displayed in the museum, without the usual “hands-off please” or “do not touch” signs in adult-oriented museums. It’s a learning museum and your kids will have a good time exploring and learning at the same time. With four sections in it, they can choose to experience things according to their interests.

Villa Borghese the most beautiful and central park in Rome

Villa Borghese is a park in Rome where you can find most of the child-oriented sights that should be a part of your itinerary. There’s the Cinema dei Piccoli, the world’s smallest cinema which has been recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records. How about the San Carlino Puppet Theater? Children who have seen puppet theaters in classic movies can now see a live puppet play for real. It would be an amazing memory for them to cherish not to mention their gleeful expressions and unexplainable joy of how to say “Thank you Mommy and Daddy!”

To add more to the children’s enthusiasm, Villa Borghese also added a trenino or a small train that rounds and chugs all over the park. In case you didn’t know, the Rome Zoo called Bioparco is also located in Villa Borghese. Children can now enjoy their first Roman vacation when you take them to this fun-filled adventure park.

Time Elevator

Adults are more inclined to visit museums to learn about Roman history but you can’t expect your children to appreciate the same thing as much as you do. But, fear no more, because Rome has an amazing Time Elevator to take you and your family back in time. Found via dei SS. Apostoli 20, the Time Elevator is an interactive new-age technology with movie-like special effects that takes you on a ride to see 3,000 years of Roman history. Now that’s something worth visiting, even for adults like you.

Monster Park at Bomarzo

About an hour away north of Rome is a Monster Park located in Bomarzo. This park is like no other because it features larger-than-life animal and monster sculptures that your family, especially the children, can enjoy. Again, with no restrictions, they can climb on these sculptures, take pictures, and just have fun all afternoon. This is a great getaway for a simple family Roman picnic.

Mouth of the Truth

You have heard of the Bocca della Verita or the Mouth of Truth and you have seen it in some romantic movies too. Well, there’s actually one in New York City and several others in amusement parks all over the world. But since you’re in Rome, why not try the authentic Bocca della Verita.

Play a game with your family and ask them to put one hand inside the mouth of the stone sculpture and ask a few questions. Tell them that if they do not answer truthfully, the mouth will bite off their hand. It’s an old tradition in Rome and fabled to have been used in the ancient times. But since you’re there, you might as well experience the real Bocca della Verita with your whole family.

Trevi Fountain

Trevi Fountain is one of the famous wishing fountains in Rome. Have your family gathered around it and give them some coins to wish upon before throwing it to the fountain.

LunEUR amusement park and rollercoaster

Are your children fond of amusement parks? Well, there’s one thing that could awaken their Roman appreciation. Take them to LunEUR, known as Luna Park in Italian, the only amusement park in the city. Don’t think that thing amusement park is brand new because it is actually one of the oldest in Italy which was built in 1953 but very well mantained and with 750,000 square feet area, you’re whole family’s going to enjoy every attraction in Luna Park.

The Key to Italy has a wide choice of Family Apartments in Rome conveniently located in the historical center and walking distance to all top attractions in Rome. Book with us your family accommodation in Rome, feel free to ask for tips and suggestions and get ready to enjoy a unique and memorable experience for your kids.

How to attend Papal Audiences: when, where, and dress code

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Papal audiences are an unique opportunity for catholic tourists coming to Rome to meet in person the Pope live together with a restricted number of people!

The audiences are held almost every Wednesday of the year with some exceptions and breaks and are held indoor during the winter (October to March) and outdoor in a gated area in front of the basilica when the weather allows it(usually from April to September).

How to attend a Papal Audience?

The Weekly Audience usually begins between 10am and 10.30am depending on the time of year, and the entrance are managed accordingly.

Lines form much earlier however by the gates at the entrance for security checks(controls are similar to airport screening).In order to get a good seat it’s better to arrive between 8:30am and 9am.
The audience lasts about 1 hour and a half, during which time the Pope will give speeches in various languages including English.
At the end of the Audience he will impart the Apostolic Blessing.

How to buy/request tickets for a papal audience?

Tickets are free but you must reserve them in advance by writing or faxing your request (indicating your language, the dates of your visit, the number of people in your party, etc.) to:

Prefecture of the Papal Household Holy See (http://www.vatican.va/various/prefettura/index_en.html)
Phone: 06-69884857
Fax 06-69885863
Mon–Sat 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.
00120 Città del Vaticano

Here is some more information on how to reserve tickets (http://www.vatican.va/various/prefettura/en/biglietti_en.html)

And here (http://www.vatican.va/various/prefettura/en/prefettura-mod-Word_en.doc) you’ll find the Tickets request Form (a microsoft word document) to apply for the Tickets

When can I attend a Papal Audience?

As previously said Papal Audience are held almost every Wednesday with some exceptions, check out the Calendar of the upcoming events presided by the Holy Father ( http://www.vatican.va/various/prefettura/en/udienze_en.html%20for%20the%20exact%20dates ).

How much in advance should I book the Audience?

We recommend booking the Audience at least a 2 weeks in advance. You might be able to reserve tickets also with just a few days notice but due to the high number of requests you might miss the chance if applying last minute.

How and where can I pick up my tickets?

You can pick up the tickets yourself at the Prefecture office entrance, near the porta di bronzo (bronze door) under St. Peter’s right colonnade from 15:00 to 19:30 on the preceding day or on the morning of the audience from 8:00 to 10:30.

Is there a ‘Dress Code’ for the Papal Audience?

Yes, the Vatican dress code requires no shorts or tank tops. Women’s shoulders must be covered.
It’s advisable to dress conservatively even if you are one of hundreds. Women wear dark-colored dresses, with unrevealing necklines and long sleeves, and cover their heads. Men wear conservative business suits. In the reserved section some men will wear formal morning dress, and most women will be in black with gloves and mantillas.

Private Agencies to reserve a Papal Audience

There are a number of companies and associations that offer the service of requesting the tickets on your behalf to the Prefecture of the Papal Household, picking up at the church your tickets on the afternoon before the Audience and delivering your tickets to your accommodation.

You will be asked for a fee which is usually independent from the number of people in your party and you basically pay for the ticket pick-up and delivery service and not the tickets which are free.

Santa Susanna, home of the American Catholic Church in Rome, offers a means of aquiring tickets to Papal Masses and Papal Audiences by filling out a web form and it’s one of the most trusted organizations.

There are also a number of other private companies that you can easily find on the Internet.

Papal Audiences and the Sunday Angelus

Do not confuse the The Sunday Angelus which is led by the Pope in Saint Peter’s Square at 12 Noon (no tickets are required for this) and the Papal Audience which is for a more restricted number of people.

Papal Blessings

Papal Blessing are a much more restricted opportunity to meet the Pope compared to Papal Audiences but it still does not necessarily mean that you will meet the Pope alone. It’s also in very high demand for weddings,wedding anniversaries and First Communions.

For those who live outside of Rome, it can be pretty difficult and it could take a minimum of 2 months or longer.

You can contact the Papal Office directly for a blessing at:
Apostolic Blessings Office of Papal Charities
Phone +39 06 6988 3135
Fax +39 06 6988 3132

If you are looking to visit Rome and you are looking for a short stay apartment rent in Vatican Area check out our Apartments for rent in Rome.

Top 5 Restaurants in Trastevere

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We have gathered some of the best restaurants in Trastevere area, we think are the most reliable in Rome.Please let us know what do you think about and if you have visited them if you are of the same idea!
Please do not hesitate to suggest some new ones that don’t appear on the list..

1) Dar Poeta

This famous pizzeria is one of the most known in Rome. The dining room gets crowded early so you should make a reservation in advance. Given that the spot is very popular among the romans it fills up in a while. If you arrive there without reserving don’t worry, the neighborhood around it is very lively. After having given your name to a member staff you can have a stroll along Trastevere district while awaiting for your seat. All of the disches are extremly fresh and nicely cooked. The only defect could be find yourself sitting close to other costumers which is pretty annoying if you are looking for intimity.

Vicolo del Bologna, 45/46
Tel. +39 06 5880516
e-mail marco@darpoeta.com

2) Ivo

Have you ever tasted the roman pizza? That one crunchy, made in a thin crust style? This way of cooking pizza is known all over the world. For those who love garlic why don’t try the marinara version? Very simple receipe yet extremly tasted; only tomato juice, chopped garlic, extra virgin olive oil, dry oregano and salt are the ingredients. However the result is extraordinary. Even if it is plenty of room inside it would be better to stay there early to make sure you get a seat. The pizzeria is very busy sometimes due to the low prices, even for beer and wine.

Via di San Francesco a Ripa 158
Tel. +39 06 5817082

3) La Fraschetta

This little restaurant is one of the most adorable in Trastevere area. The menu is very extensive and you can have a lot of choices. Dishes served are large and filling, service is efficient. The waiters can be very helpful to have some pieces of information about the main courses. They will come to take your orders in few minutes and won’t put pressure on you during the meal. Primi are the traditional ones and secondi include valuable meat. Prices for primi range from 8 to 12 euros and for secondi from 8 to 17.

Via S. Francesco a Ripa 134
Tel. +39 06 5816012
e-mail lafraschetta@lafraschetta.com

4) La Cisterna

This quaint place is a characteristic one for musicians singing italian tunes all along the tables as frequently happen in city-centered restaurants. They will perform popular songs creating a pleasent background music without bothering the clients. Apart for this feature, the restaurant is considerable for an important trademark. It is one of the oldest in Rome. Downstairs is still observable a well from the 17th century where roman people used to collect the water. If you ask the proprietor he can bring you to see it. Regarding food the specialities house are lamb and veal which taste tender and flavorful.

Via della cisterna, 13
tel. +39 06 5812543
e-mail prenotazioni@lacisterna.com

5) Carlo Menta Talevi Luigi e Luciano

If you are looking for a place where to not spent too much money this restaurant is ideal for your requirements. For some people it can be very informal with plastic tables and chairs, however the ambiance is stunning. The wine menu is reasonably priced and staff are polite and courteous. Food is value and tasty, typical Italian served in hearty portions. If you are a couple, you can have antipasti, primi, cakes, waters and Montepulciano wine for only 40 euros. For who needs quality food on a budget. Don’t advisable for people willing to have a relaxing ambiance, the atmosphere here can be a little rowdy.

Via Lungaretta 101
Tel. +39 06 5803733

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Come to Rome and enjoy your meal!

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and Venice.

Best Restaurants in Spanish Steps area in Rome

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We have reviewed some of our favourite restaurants in Spanish area.

Please let us know what do you think about and if you have visited them please leave a comment for us and our guests coming to Rome!

Also do not hesitate to suggest some your own favourite ones!

1) Il Margutta RistorArte

Who is continually disillusioned by the shortage of choice on offer in restaurants about vegetarian disches will be not disappointed stepping in Margutta RistorArte. Located in Via Margutta, the street where artists have their studios in Rome, just a bit off the Spanish Steps, this restaurant is specialised in vegan cousine which can be ragarded as a truly art of mixing flavors and textures in the right combinations to create appealing masterpieces. In this place you will be able to choose among many of such creative dishes.

Via Margutta, 118
tel. +39 06 6786033
e-mail staff@ilmargutta.it

2) Alla Rampa

About one block away from the Spanish Steps you will be impressed by the great selection of local Italian food: cheese gnocchi with potatoes and gorgonzola, broccoli and bacon ravioli, spaghetti with mussels and clams are only few examples. Everything is just almost perfect at Alla Rampa, from the service to the prices. It could be your favourite restaurant in Rome, an experience that let every tourist completely satisfied. When coming out from the resturant you will be feel pleased of having been is such fantastic place. The restaurant does not accept credit cards.

Piazza Mignanelli, 18

tel. +39 06 6782621

3) Babette

BabetteThe two ladies who run the place are sweety and passionate. In spring and summer season the main attraction is the charming courtyard where the tables are surrounded by a patio housing elegant shops. Indoors the structure recalls the atmosphere of a French old-dated brasserie. It is ideal for a candlelight dinner without the inconvenience of being upset by the continuous passing of courious people. All the high quality ingredients are used to prepare delicious dishes ranging from simple and homemade ones to that very sophisticated. Always open.

Via Margutta, 1D/3

tel. +39 06 3211559

e-mail babette@babetteristorante.it

4) Edy

You could not be happier about food if you eat here. Edy’s speciality is spaghetti al cartoccio (a silver oil parcel of pasta and seafood). The restaurant serves also tardishonal Italian dishes like spaghetti alla carbonara or sliced roast beef with potatoes. In an area where meals tend to be expensive Edy is a place where it is possible save money and try fresh homemade roman cuisine in a fashionable enviroment. Last but not least the prices are fair and cheap comparative to the more than good sesoning food. The service make you feeling really comfortable.

Vicolo del Babuino, 4

tel. +39 06 36001738

5) Life

If you have been visiting The Spanish Steps and are searching for a nice local restaurant, Life can be your precious find. The pasta courses taste fresh and desserts are delicious. Tagliolini with pachino tomatoes and zucchinies are superb. Pizza is pleasantly light and crispy. Every tourist remains bewildered to find out fish being so fresh in the city center of Rome. Despite being busy the waiters are very quick. Our advice is to eat inside because the outside doesn’t look very inviting and many people are used to walk along the street. Exclusive wine is availbale.

Via della Vite, 29

tel. +39 0669380948

e-mail info@ristorantelife.it

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Recomended Restaurants in the Colosseum Area in Rome

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Here is a short list of our favourite Restaurants in the Colosseum Area in Rome

1) La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali

Very close to the Colosseum and just off Via Cavour, La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali is a nice family runned restaurant with a good value for money. Antipasti are all various and good quality (assorted salami, ham and buffalo mozzarella, Roman roasted pork with garlic bread), you can ask for a selection of starters on one big plate to have a taste of everyone antipasto. Primi are fabulous starting from thin noodles with scampi, tomato and wild mushrooms finishing to rolls of pasta filled with meat and cheese. Pay attention, the products not traceable fresh can be deep-freezed to the origin so it is always highly suggested requiring about which courses are made with fresh and seasoned ingredients.

Via Madonna dei Monti, 16

tel. +39 06 6798643

e-mail info@latavernadeiforiimperiali.com

2) La Carbonara

There are many theories about the origin of the dish. The most famous is related to the name which is thought to derive from the Italian word for charcoal (carbone). Some believe that such main course was first made as a heartly meal for Italian charcoal workers. After much time has gone by this pasta dish is still one of the most required by tourists when in Rome. Which place better than La Carbonara to taste this yummy plate? Food in general is delicious and prices reasonable. Be aware. Do not drink too much wine as the bill can go up easily (18 euros for a bottle of wine).

Via Panisperna, 214

tel. +39 06 4825176

e-mail info@lacarbonara.it

3) Sa Tanca Crostaceria

The restaurant is located near Via Nazionale, one of the main shopping streets, not so difficult to find. It stands out to be the best choice for those who are seafood eaters: tuna tartar, turbot, prawns and scampies sushi, scallops, oysters and many other palatable dishes. The restaurant has expert chefs and offer high-quality fresh products. It is also provided of a lounge area where you can start to have some champagne while relaxing on couches. The prices average can be 50 euros per person, not very expensive compared to the top class standards of the place.

Via Palermo, 57

tel. 06 48913347 – 346 4187030

e-mail info@satancacrostaceria.com

4) Hostaria Perdingianu e Croccoriga

The restaurant is well run by Carmine and Raffaele who both come from Cagliari. They specialize in Sardinian cuisine, but also have a variety of other Italian food. Gnocchi with wild mushroom, clam and parsley, seafood ravioli, ricotta and salad ravioli, fried calamari are some of the tasty dishes offered. The bread served to accompany the courses is pane carasau, large, crisp, flat rounds of bread. Even if you know that roman restaurants can meet with your requests our tip is have a sample of this equally yummy kind of cuisine.

Vicolo dei Serpenti, 8

tel. +39 06 4884713

5) Tema

The place is situated in one of the most ancient districts of Rome, Rione Monti. Its narrow streets and small shops give it an intimate, village-like atmosphere. In such striking setting at this restaurant you can have for lunch or dinner authentic and traditional local food. If you are a little tired of Roman culinary tradition the chefs of Tema cook also refined courses. In fact some elaborated fish dishes are available such as tagliolini with lobster and rhombus with truffle. The total experience can be described as unique. The atmosfphere and the impressive food will make you willing to come back another time.

Via Panisperna, 96 – 98

Tel. +39 06 486484

Each restaurant is an experience in its own, enjoy the excellent Italian food and at the same time live a truly unique experience by renting one of our Vacation Rental Apartments in Rome. All our apartments are located in the very historical center.

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Getting Around, Weather and Major Events in Venice

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Venice, Italy is undoubtedly one of main attractions in Northern Europe. A city on its own right, countless philosophers, writers, artists, and photographers aim to capture its beauty. Your visit to Europe won’t be complete without going to this extraordinary getaway.

Venice has been described as the “City of Water, “City of Masks,” “City of Bridges,” “City of Canals,” “The Floating City,” among other things. The New York Times writer Luigi Barzini described Venice, Italy as the most beautiful city built by man, and it is true!

Getting Around Venice

The city lies over a marshy Venetian lagoon with 117 inhabited small islands. With the water coming in from Adriatic Sea filling its canals, Venice’s main transportation in the olden days is the Gondola. Unlike traditional boats that are being paddled, Gondoliers use a long oar to row the Gondola.

Today, a Gondola ride can be very expensive, which entirely depends on the hourly rate of the licensed Gondoliers. Some of them even provide you with tidbits of Venice’s historical facts during the ride. If you wanted to experience the old cozy romantic ride, then this is something you shouldn’t miss out on.

There are Waterbuses you can ride called vaporetti and motoscafi. These public boats are slightly larger than the Gondola and they can transport more passengers in one haul. With overhead covers, you are shielded from the sun’s rays as you enjoy the ride. These public Waterbuses are powered with motors so they can transport faster than the traditional Gondola.

If you wanted a private yet fast ride, you should go for Water taxis. These are similar to limousine services where you should call in for your ride. But be careful, you should ask the dispatcher how much you should pay because these water taxis do not have meters.

When you wanted to get a nice view of the Grand Canal or cross from one of its point to another, a Traghetto is the perfect choice. This is a Gondola ferry for public transportation and it is a lot cheaper than the traditional Gondola service.

Land taxis are also available but their services are limited to the places that can be reached by land. They can be very useful when you’re mostly staying in on the mainland of Venice though.

Weather in Venice

One of the most fascinating things about Venice is the well-distributed rainfall throughout the year. At an average of only 32 inches, the rainfall here is moderate as compared to other cities of Italy. But still, it would be best if you tuck in an umbrella inside your bag, just in case it starts to rain. The typical thunderstorms are only imminent in some nights of Spring and Autumn.

Summer in Venice is moderately hot and humid. For this, you will need an iced cold drink from one of the cafes in St. Mark’s Square and a matching summer breathable clothes too!

Winter in Venice is particularly wet and cold but it has its own perks to it. Why? Well, you can see the foggy frost forming in the outlines of the old buildings and they seem like a live painting from where you are standing. This is the reason why some painters, artists, and photographers spend their time in the outdoors and capture this immense once-a-year picturesque beauty, even in the cold temperatures of the night.

Annual Events in Venice

One of the major events you shouldn’t miss out on when you visit Venice is the Carnevale. This is when Venetians and some visitors wear costumes and masks in a week-long party in February before Ash Wednesday starts. This is how Venice got its name the “City of Masks.”

Every April 25th, Venetians celebrate Festa di San Marco or the feast day of St. Mark, Venice’s patron saint. On this day, men traditionally give a bunch of roses to their loved ones. Gondoliers also prepare for regatta or race in the lagoon during this feast.

On the month of May, Venice’s calendar of events is filled with numerous regatta events such as Festa della Sparesca, Vongaloga, and Palio delle Quattro Antiche Repubbliche Marinare. In fact, the whole year is filled with more than 100 regattas so expect that whenever you visit, you can witness a regatta or two each month.

The most remarkable event in June to September is Biennale, which is the global largest exhibit of contemporary arts. As you know, Venice has inspired and influenced most of the contemporary arts and is the homeland of some renowned artists and distinct historians.

August marks the Mostra del Cinema di Venezia or the Venice International Film Festival, its own version of Cannes Film Festival, and it is usually held in the famous Palazzo del Cinema. International celebrities and filmmakers flock to Venice during this prestigious event.

In September, the historic Gondola race which started in 1274 is continuously being celebrated through the Regatta Storica. This month is also celebrated with Partita a Scacchi, a human chess game complete with medieval-costumed participants in the square of Marostica.

Venice is hard to describe, if you want to live a truly unique experience pick the season you prefer and enjoy a memorable stay in one of our Venice Apartments for rent. All of our accommodations in Venice are located in the very historical center.

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Gardens in Venice

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Italy attracts huge numbers of visitors each and every year, with between 7-10 million tourists visiting the capital alone each year. Most travel guides will have plenty of information about the popular things to do while you are there but with so much culture, history and beauty to be enjoyed, it’s not uncommon for these guides to miss things out. When reading about Venice, the generic tourist information on offer gives the impression that it is a city of stone and water. Nothing could be further from the truth and actually you can find hundreds of beautiful gardens hidden throughout the city.

Despite the difficult conditions, the gardens are grown locally and Venice is home to some of the most beautiful gardens there are in Italy. Their use of plants, flowers, rocks and water are delightful to those visitors who are lucky enough to stumble across them.

One of the most historical gardens is the The Rizzo Patarol Garden. It is owned and maintained by The Grand Hotel dei Dogi. Originally designed as a botanic garden a few centuries ago the garden started to suffer the expected wear and tear any garden should expect to see. Thankfully in 2002, the garden was beautifully restored and a variety of species of rose, clematis and hydrangea were added to make the garden even more impressive.

Located between the Lagoon and St. Mark's Square are the gardens of Giardinett Reali. They are open to the public and entry is free. Enjoy the stroll along the pebbled paths and sit on one of the many benches to rest your feet. The garden has beautiful flowers and lush greenery and tall trees which can provide shade from the hot sun.

The contemporary gardens of the city should also be at the top of your to do list. Carlo Scarpa's garden was brought to life in the early 1950's and merges through a large glass wall, into the lobby of the Foundation Palazzo in Campo Santa Maria Formosa. It's a magnificent garden and well worth a visit.

For more information on the other activities there are to do in the area, visit Simonseeks.com, a community of travel experts, celebrities and experts giving their tips on their favourite destinations around the world ranging from the top hotels in Venice to the cheapest Hotels in London

When is the Best Time to Visit Rome and major Events?

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Rome has become one of the favorite sets of countless Hollywood movies. Why? Because of its picturesque scenes and attractions as well as its ability to make you fall deeply inlove, not only with the one you’re with but also with the capital of Italy – that is Rome.

Whether you’re going on a family vacation, honeymoon, or simply wanted to unwind and relax, Rome is definitely one of the best choices for a rich cultural experience. Let us take you to this majestic and grandeur hotspot and ease your mind off work.

When is the Best Time to Visit Rome?

Well, to answer this question, one has to determine which season you enjoy best. There are four seasons in Rome and each of them generally represent exciting events and fabulous opportunities for you to experience.

Rome’s proximity to the Mediterranean Sea and the Apennine Mountain Range gives it the extended summer season and the “just about right” temperature during spring and autumn. Winter in Rome is typically the freshest season with several rains here and there. Also, snow in Rome seldom happens so the winter season here doesn’t have the typical freezing temperatures you get from other countries.

Spring in Rome

Rome’s spring season starts from the month of March and ends in May. This is the season when tourists pour in to experience the transition of the weather from cold to warm. The rainfall during these months also decrease as summer season nears. By the end of April and mid-May, you won’t even think about bringing an umbrella with you because of the clear blue skies and stable weather conditions.

Some of the annual spring season events you may want to checkout include sporting events like Maratona della Citta di Roma and Roma-Ostia half marathon, the free music festival or Primo Maggio, Roma Independent Film Festival, and some arts and culture events such as Festical delle Letterature, which draws in authors from around the world, and FotoGrafia Festival, which in turn summons professional and amateur photographers.

You shouldn’t miss out on the annual Spring festival of Rome called Festa della Primavera. During this time the Spanish Steps are decorated with plants and regular concerts are usually held in Trinita dei Monti. To those who are avid Tennis match fans, you should checkout the annual Masters Series Roma which usually begins in mid-May.

The Settimana della Cultura is one of the favorite events of tourists because for one whole week, state-owned museums and monuments open up their doors to everyone free of charge. If you really wanted to experience the “Birth of Rome,” you should take advantage of Natalie di Roma which celebrates Rome’s founding on 753 BC.

The spring season also marks some of the religious events held by the Roman Catholic Church in honor of saints and Jesus Christ. Festa di Santa Francesca Romana is an event very precious to Italian motorists. This is why they drive their vehicles at the church of Santa Francesca Romana to have them blessed. Also, the Settimana Santa and Pasqua (Holy Week and Easter) is one of the widely celebrated religious events in Rome. Pilgrims and devotees from around the world flock to Vatican City’s St. Peter’s square to hear mass presided by the Pope himself.

Summer in Rome

The summer in Rome is the season wherein most of the Rome visitors and residents spend most of their time on the beach and seaside. From June to August, various summer events have been laid out for tourists and Italians. One is the Roma incontra il Mondo which usually takes place from mid-June to early August. Musicians from around the world perform on a lakeside stage which of course entertains those who are on the lakeside. Stalls and bars are also set up during this time to sell ethnic food, music, and books as well.

The summer night life in Rome lights up when the ten-week bonanza of Gay Village starts on the late week of June and ends early September. The venue for this event changes every year but for the most part, some bars, restaurants, live acts, clubs and discos, as well as cinemas co-celebrate this special event so you can expect a lot of late night parties during the summer season.

Estate Romana (Roman Summer) festival is a three-month long event that is celebrated with music from the local bands performing in piazze, palazzi, parks and courtyards. During this event, some films are also shown outdoors through projector screens. If you wanted to cool down and relax from the Roman summer heat, then this is definitely one of the things you should experience.

Alta Roma Alta Moda is for the fashionistas of Rome and tourists. The Roman designers gather up and showcase their new collection for the coming seasons of Autumn and Winter. If you wanted to experience the glitz and glamour of fashion, then you shouldn’t miss out on this event.

Autumn in Rome

Autumn in Rome begins at September but the chilly season can be usually felt during the month of November. The autumn season still draws in crowds of tourists but it is lesser as compared to the spring and summer season because some of the schools in other countries have begun.

The weather from September to October still reflects the sunny cloudless skies, a perfect time to take a stroll down Roman-paved streets. When November rains begin, an important accessory you should always bring with you is the umbrella or a raincoat.

Well, Rome isn’t going to let autumn put a stop to the fun and exciting activities lined up for everyone. If you love music, dance, theatre, and perhaps an international mix of culture, then you shouldn’t miss out on Roma-Europa Festival. The Festa Internazionale di Roma, also called Rome’s Film Festival, is one of the brand new annual events you can enjoy in autumn.

Winter in Rome

When December starts, you’d have to bring out your winter clothes to prepare for the bone-chilling temperatures during the winter season in Rome. Although snow is rarely seen in this city, you’d still have to prepare for the unpredictable weather conditions and for this we mean the rainfall.

But no worries, even with the rains, you can still enjoy Rome’s festivities at this time of the year especially when Christmas season is about to begin. The nativity scenes, lights, music, and toys displayed in Piazzas are simply breathtaking.

Most of the events celebrated during winter season falls into the religious category and these include Immacolata Concezione (Immaculate Conception), Natale and Santo Stefano (Christmas Day), San Silvestro and Capodanno (New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day), and Epifania – La Befana (Epiphany).

Each season is unique and has its own charm, if you want to live a truly unique experience pick the season you prefer and enjoy your memorable stay in one of our Apartments in Rome. All our apartments are located in the very historical center.

The Key to Italy provides top class private accommodations in Venice, Florence and Rome

A tour of Rome

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Anyone who's spent time living in Rome what a modern day Roman is like, and they will probably say they are just like the city itself, warm, full of life and sometimes chaotic. With roughly about 3 million people living and working in Rome and around 8 million visitors annually, it can be a little overwhelming at first but a tour is a great way to explore a new place and find out fun facts such as so here are a few of the best tours Rome has to offer.

If you are visiting Italy’s capital to learn more about the history of Rome, The Vatican Museums Private Walking Tour is a fantastic option. If you take part in the tour you get to bypass the very long queues that usually surround the buildings. They also offers private tours. Unfortunately, these tickets don’t come cheap with prices starting at EUR75. However, the ticket gives you access to the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and Raphael's rooms. This means you get the chance to see more than 2000 rooms and just under 10 miles of the most extensive collection of art in the world. The Tours are available in English and are given by fully trained tour guides.

If you are looking for a tour that will give you the chance to see the city, try the Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour. Tickets are available for either 24 or 48 hours and prices start from about EUR20. There are numerous busses around the city and your with your ticket, you are able to get on and off when the bus when you want. You get to see great views of the city thanks to the open top roof seats are the best places to sit when the sun is shining. You get to see some amazing views of the city. Buses run every 15-20 minutes, from 9am to 6pm or 7.30pm so you can spend as little or as long as you want at each attraction. This is a great way to explore the city at your own pace and the tour guides are known for their fun facts about the city. Did you know that Italians on average eat around 30 kg (66 pounds) of pasta and drink 60 litres of wine per year?

If you are after a tour that is completely different to all the rest, why not try Rome Segway Tours. A Segway is a two-wheeled, self-balancing electric vehicle that you can travel standing up on in pedestrian areas. These are a quick and efficient way to travel around cities and have become increasingly popular in recent years within European. A 3 hour tour costs about EUR60 and you are provided with headphones so while you are travelling round, you can still hear what the tour guide has to say.

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Hop-on Hop-off Double Decker Bus - Sightseeing Rome City Tours

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This is a very family friendly service and is also a very good idea to jump start your vacation and get acquainted with the city, attractions, places and distances. Just have a tour, see what Rome has to offer, get off at your favourite place if you can't resist :) or take the whole loop and carefully choose your next top attraction to visit.

The buses are open top which allows you to enjoy full 360 degree panoramic views as you travel along your route.

There are many different companies (up to 7) that operate very similar core routes around the Rome sights.

Although all tours are loops where you can start at any point, nearly all operators start at Termini Station the main central station of Rome, connected to both metro lines A and B.

Generally you have the choice of a 24 or 48 hours ticket with which to make use of the 12 to 20 stops in the most beautiful, cultural and evocative areas of the Eternal city. The tours operate 365 days per year.

Open Top Buses

All of the buses are open-top and equipped with a personalized throwaway audio system which functions more than 8 languages languages, providing recorded commentary throughout the tour. Often there is also an English and Italian speaking host onboard each bus to assist with any queries. You will be provided with a set of earphones which you keep and use for the duration of your ticket.

Itinerary

The itinerary usually goes from Termini Station passing the Colosseum and Roman Forum then Circus Maximus and along the River Tiber, where you can walk over to Trastevere. Then back again to the other end of the Roman Forum and then Piazza Venezia. From Piazza Venezia it stop along the way near the Piazza Navona and Pantheon and then straight to the Vatican crossing the River Tiber.

After the Vatican most buses will route through the Villa Borghese, Via Vittorio Veneto, Piazza Barberini, Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. Then back to Termini. Check out the travel map for the specific bus operator of your choice for the detailed route.

Ticketing and Prices

Prices are between 15EUR and 20EUR for a 1-day ticket and between 23EUR and 25EUR for a 2-day ticket

Average time for a complete tour and about 2 hours total time departing about every 15-30 minutes usually between 9am to 6pm (last departure from Termini station)

Most operators offer a discounted fare for children aged 6 to 12 years old.

Major Rome Bus Tour Companies

* Open Tour '110 Open'
* City Sightseeing
* Green Line
* Ciao Roma
* Roma Christiana
* Archeobus

A couple of them are more 'thematic' than the others and specifically:

* Roma Christiana in addition to the standard route has an extended tour that visits many Basilicas to the south of the city, Baths of Caracalla and is the only bus that visits Trastevere itself, even going up the hill behind Trastevere with great views down on the city.
* ArcheoBus goes through the centre of Rome and then along the famous Park of Via Appia Antica, and the Christian catacombs stopping at many of the major archaeological sites.

Enjoy your tour!

How Far is Rome From Venice and What's the Best Way to Get There?

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Many of our clients are asking us how to go from Rome to Venice or from Venice to Rome,

How far is Venice from Rome and if they should go by train, by flight or by car.

The distance between Rome and Venice is about 520 kilometers.

By Train

By train it takes between 3h 48 min up to 6 hours depending on the solution you choose, but you'll want to go with the 3h 48 min which is widely available with trains departing almost every hour.

You leave from Rome Termini Station, which is the main central station in Rome and located in the city center, and arrive to Venezia Santa Lucia Station which is on the island of Venice, few steps from exploring the city!

You should look for the so called "Frecciargento" trains which are usually a no-stop direct connections between the two stations of Rome and Venice. Some "Frecciargento" trains will stop in Mestre, which is the closest city on the mainland just in front of Venice, for a few minutes.

On these trains you will also see a logo "ES* AV" which stands for Eurostar High Speed (Alta Velocità).

Eurostar trains are very comfortable, power supply for your laptop or to recharge your phone are available onboard, the journey itself is pleasant as the train crosses the Italian countryside and you can enjoy some nice views from your window from time to time.

Cost is about 75€ for 2nd class tickets and 100€ for first class. 2nd class should be ok for most of travellers, 1st class is more comfortable and has more space.

You can check and book online your tickets with the official Italian Railway Company which is called Trenitalia http://www.trenitalia.com/homepage_en.html (english available).

You are supposed to choose the exact time and date of your train according to the schedule and your seats.

Pay attention as the dates you book can't be changed and if you are found travelling on a different train from the one you booked you'll be fined, controls are very strict.

You are not necessarily supposed to buy your tickets in Italy, or by an Italian travel agency company, you can book the tickets online, Trenitalia will send you an email or text message to your phone (or both) with the reservation number. Print your receipt and reservation number and bring it with you, wait for the ticket collector to come to your place (they check the train regularly back and forth) and you are all set.

Both when booking and when travelling our advice is make sure to look for Venice 'Santa Lucia Station' and not (Venice) Mestre Station, Mestre is in fact a different city from Venice and still on the mainland, you are most probably going to visit the island of Venice.

One note of attention is that Trenitalia, due to high fraud rates on foreign cards, has implemented several controls that might prevent several purchases from the same credit card number via Internet. So if you are buying several train tickets you better do it all together in a single transaction instead of doing it in two steps.

By Flight

From Rome to Venice it's about 1 hour flight. Prices really depend on the time and season and are subject to special offers. You might end up finding good deals even though it's usually more expensive than by train.

You are most probably travelling from Rome Fiumicino Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (the largest italian hub in Rome) and San Marco International Airport in Venice. Check out Alitalia (http://www.alitalia.com/US_EN/home/index.aspx) website for availability and rates.

Chances are that you can find flights from Rome Ciampino International Airport and Treviso Sant'Angelo Airport, usually this are operated by low cost companies and namely Ryanair. This route is equally convenient as Ciampino Airport is as close to Rome as Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport and Treviso airport is about 1 hour by bus from Venice.

In both cases however you should consider that you'll have to be in the airport in advance (from 1 to 2 hours), go through all of the check-in security procedures and controls. The airports in Rome and Venice are not just as central as the railway station are so you have to consider the traffic, the additional time needed to go to/from the airport and the city center and the additional cost of taxi and transportation.

Connections from Venice to Rome are just the other way around and similar considerations as above apply.

What's best?

Our advise is to use the train better than a flight since, at the end of the day, by flight it should be a little shorter but we consider it a more stressful and pricy option compared to going by train, but then it's up to you....enjoy your journey!

Check out our private apartments for rent in Venice and feel free to ask any question to info@thekeytoitaly.com.

Cannaregio District in Venice

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Cannaregio District in Venice

The Cannaregio area is the second most extensive “sestiere” ( a sestiere is one of the six zones of Venice, the equivalent of the district the other cities have) after Castello. The quarter stands out at the north side of Canal Grande, stretching over from the train station to the Santa Croce’s sestiere, by which is connected through the bridges respectively named Ponte degli Scalzi and Ponte della Costituzione.

The Canale di Cannaregio is the only other canal, besides the Gran Canal, to have its waters crossed by the vaporetti ( the boats that constitute the means of transportation in Venice). The origin of the district’s name is controversial. Some think that it is due to the presence in the area of wide beds of reeds (in italian the words is “canneti” at the plural) while other suppose the name derives from a little canal (canalicus in latin) that flowed into the Cannaregio’s canal.

The whole sestiere was considered very popular in the past ages. Up to the seventies Cannaregio was considered as not prestigious as it is today. Many companies had set up here their warehouses and plants. After some measures of urban renovation and environmental improvement the area has been completely renovated. Nowadays is silent, peacefull and residential.

Many tourists tend to understimate the value of this neighbourhood because they think the beauties of Venice lie only in the main and well-known places. You should be a local to be conscious of how much can get positive feeling walking around Cannaregio or even have an accomodation in on of the quite streets which lie inside its boundaries. The atmosphere is a special one.

The best way to visit the pictoresque alleys is by walking moved by a sense of curiousity. There is always a corner that make you want to see more. However, the most attractive part of Cannaregio is situated in the north side, waiting to be seen by people willing to know appealing places away from the beaten paths. Along Three parallel canals the enterprising tourist will find a very quite area near the northern shore of Venice.

In the middle of such calmness the traveller can take a brack far from the most crowded spots of the city. Taking time for a reflection and walking free of the daitly thoughts is the best way to get your time in this silent and amazing area . We invite you to walk through the deserted banks, on the silent streeets, and observe the special features of houses and palaces. Heading to the south side you will come to a stretch of canal along Fondamenta della Misericordia, here you it is easy to find a few valuable bars and places where to enjoy some food.

Cannaregio is served by waterbus routes running down the Grand Canal, along the Cannaregio canal.

Check our Cannaregio Apartments in Venice.