Rick Steves' Rome: More Feedback
If you've traveled with this guidebook, please help us improve it for future travelers. How can it be more helpful and accurate? Did any recommended hotels, eateries, or sights disappoint you? Do you have any new experiences or new places we should consider? Any warnings or tips for people traveling with existing edition?
Rome Eatery
We found much helpful information in Rick's Rome guide. One recommendation, however, seems to have been past its prime. We made it a point to lunch at Osteria da Giovanni ar Galletto on the Piazza Farnese because of Rick's comment that of all his listings, this offered "perhaps the best al fresco dining experience." We were quite disappointed. Customers were packed in such that it was hard to move, cigarette smoke seemed excessive even for Italy, service was exceptionally slow, they were out of minestrone, and the high price included 6 euros for 4 small pieces of bread. There was no sign of Angelo's commitment to "serving fine food." We had much better dining experiences in several places we just stumbled into on our own.
Jan
Mt. Airy, MD USA Thu 05/26/2005
Ghetto Tour with Micaela
Just returned from a week in Rome,and one of the outstanding tours was the Jewish Ghetto with Micaela Pavoncello.(www.jewishroma.com) Her knowledge of Jewish history in Rome and her presentation was truley inspiring.She is Jewish Roman from birth and who better could make this tour come to life.Charles & Valerie BrahmsIndian Wells California
Charles & Valerie Brahms <email>
Indian Wells , CA USA Sun 05/22/2005
"Tranquility in the heart of Rome"
We stayed at the Hotel Santa Maria for Easter Weekend 2005. It was our first trip to Europe. We had booked on the Internet for ourselves and another couple. I had high anxiety about booking unknown accommodations not only for my husband and me, but good friends, too. After we had been in Rome for 2 days and had come to love Rome and the Hotel Santa Maria, I finally had the nerve to ask our friends what they were thinking as the taxi driver delivered us to the Hotel Santa Maria. The response from our charmingly candied doctor friend was. “ I was thinking we were screwed, but it turned out to be absolutely wonderful”.
Don’t let the narrow alleyways and fear of the unknown keep you from staying at the Hotel Santa Maria. It was wonderful. All four of us would stay at the Santa Maria again in a heartbeat. One tip I picked up from reading the reviews worked great. Because the Hotel Santa Maria is not one of the major hotels, the taxi drivers don’t know how to get there. If you make reservations, ask them to e-mail you driving instructions from your arrival point. We requested, via e-mail, and they provided driving instructions from the train station to the hotel and the approximate cost of the taxi. It worked great. Go for it! P.S. We booked private tours from the Roman Promenades linked to their site. These were great, too.
Collin
Waxahachie, TX USA Sun 05/22/2005
Romashuttle
We were in rome recently 5/08 and used Romashuttle to get to/from Civitavecchia at a very reasonable price $120euro/includes tip. I made the reservation over the internet in Rome and followed up with a phone call. When we returned from our cruise the van was there waiting for us. I would recommend corrseponding and calling romashuttle to confirm your reservation
Claude
Los Angeles, CA USA Fri 05/20/2005
Rome Jewish Ghetto
We had a wonderful tour of the Ghetto guided by Micaela Pavoncello. She was extremely knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Her comments added to our understanding and enjoyment.
Arthur & Marilyn Loewenthal <email>
Pelham, NY USA Thu 05/19/2005
A great stay in Rome
We were looking for a quiet, nice hotel in Rome and were very happy with Residenza Canali. The hotel is situated near a bunch of antique shops in a quaint little section of Rome.
We got a superior room and it was very large. There was a huge sitting room as you walked in the door with a couch and writing desk. The bedroom was also good size and the bathroom had all the updated amenities anyone would need.
It was quiet for two nights of our stay but the third night was somewhat noisy (I think there was a party a couple blocks away). The staff was extremely helpful, spoke fluent English and had great recommendations. Dont miss eating at the wonderful little family-run restaurant next door to the hotel. The food was excellent and cheap!
We thought the hotel was very reasonably priced for what they offered and it's in a great location. The hotel is small (only 6 rooms) so they offer a lot of individual attention and service.www.residenzacanali.com
We have taken the 45-60 minute tour of the Coloseum with Roman Promenades twice, in 2002 and 2005. It is about 18€ per person which covers your entrance fee, and you don't have to wait in line plus a free promotional tour for the Palatine/Roman Forum. Stefano is the name of the guide who most often does the Coloseum tour. He speaks excellent English and the tidbits of history and legend are mixed with humor. It is very entertaining and a good way to breeze past the long lines and get an overview of the Coloseum as well.www.romanpromenades.com
TexasAggi
Dallas, TX USA Tue 05/17/2005
Hotel Italia
My husband and I have just returned from Italy. We found the rooms to be clean and neat. The location was great. Breakfast was a good start to the day. Everyone at the desk was very helpful. We had friends who stayed at the St. Peter's Crown Plaza who had a bigger room, but that was the only advantage. They had to pay 18 Euro for breakfast, people not helpful at all. They wished they had stayed where we did.We met interesing people at the Hotel Italia during breakfast.We would certainly recommend it.
Lucile <email>
Bell Buckle, TN USA Sun 05/15/2005
Hotel Oceania
My husband and I just returned from Rome and stayed at Rick's recommended Hotel Oceania. The neighborhood was quiet and quite central. The breakfast was lovely as were the innkeepers. Thanks Rick. Tom and Linda
Linda Bell <email>
Sewell, NJ USA Sat 05/14/2005
B&B Smart
this is a very clean and delightful bed and breakfast, located in a very central area. the owners are lovely! i highly recommend this accomodation!www.bandbromeitaly.com
jessica <email>
vancouver, bc, canada Wed 05/11/2005
try this one
this is a very clean and delightful B&B, located in a very central area. the owners are lovely! i highly recommend this accomodation!
jessica
vancouver, bc, canada Wed 05/11/2005
"Wonderful location, great hospitality!"
My wife and I spent 5 days in beautiful Rome this March. We were looking for a quiet room in a location that would allow us to walk to most of the sights. We began contacting a few of the more popular hotels, but they were all booked out. One of the hotels we called recommended Guest House Arco De' Tolomei, a new guest house that had just opened a couple of months ago. We contacted them by e-mail and they responded immediately.
Located only about 10 minutes walking distance from the Panthenon, 15 from the Colloseum and 25 - 30 from the Vatican City, this charming guest house is an ideal place to stay. It is located in a quiet street in Trastevere. Many good restaurants are located nearby. Marco, the owner, was always willing to assist us with helpful ideas and recommendations. In fact, he even had recommended the Roman Promenades tour company. We ended up taking 2 days of private tours in Rome a night tour and a tour of Pompeii. This suggestion MADE our trip! These tour guides were so excellent and helped us to see so much more than we ever would have on our own. (I will do a review of that company in the future.) You absolutely MUST have private tours if you are in Rome for the first time! the web site is www.romapromenades.com
Guest House Arco De' Tolomei also offers its guests internet and e-mail access. In summary, we can certainly recommend this one to anyone looking to make the most out of their stay in Rome.
Rick
Meinz, Germany Sat 05/07/2005
Rome walking tours
We greatly enjoyed our tour of the Basilica and the Vatican Museums with Odyssey Tours last Monday (www.odyssey-tours.com). As a teacher of Religious Studies and a C of E priest I was very impressed by the accuracy of our guide's Biblical and theological knowledge – and I owe her an apology! I dared to question her assertion that Adam was forbidden to eat from the tree before Eve was created – and therefore Eve was not really to blame for the Fall. As a mere male I should have remained silent – I have checked the text and she was right!! Now I have to go back and re-write twenty years of teaching notes!! Julia’s tour made the whole day both enjoyable and informative – the highlight of our trip to Rome and surely worth recommending!
Tony Cox <email>
USA Thu 05/05/2005
66 imperial inn
sorry..i paid 110 euro/night only
jessica
Chicago, IL USA Thu 05/05/2005
66 Imperial Inn
The 66 Imperial Inn near Termini was a great find. The rooms were fabulous. Breakfast was OK. Prices were competitive at 140 Euros.Contact info is as follows: E-Mail is info@66imperialinn.com. Website ishttp://www.66imperialinn.com
Jessica
Chicago, IL USA Mon 05/02/2005
Rome guide, hotel, restaurant
My wife and I were in Rome April 2005 to visit our daughter who was studying there. We contacted Micaela Pavoncello before we left to reserve a tour of "Jewish Rome". We ended up spending 2 days with her and it was the highlight of our trip. She speaks excellent english and has a warm, welcoming personality. She can be contacted at pavoncellom@hotmail.com. Also, we stayed at the Intercontinental Hotel de Ville at the Spanish steps and it was great. We joined their Ambassador Club when we made our reservation and it entitled us to a guaranteed upgrade and one night free. A restaurant recommendation as well: Al Moro near the Trevi Fountain was excellent.
Robert Valins <email>
Tampa, Fl USA Sun 05/01/2005
Hotel Italia
I stayed there for one night in October with 2 friends. The rooms, though small, was quite clean and nice; so was the bathroom. Breakfast was very nice. The people at the front desk were very helpful. Upon departure we were trying to get to Termini in a cab (my friends had too much luggage; I could have walked it easily and quickly) but the streets were jammed and closed off due to a visit by some dignitary. No cabs could get through. The desk clerk called someone he knew who agreed to meet us around the corner and take us directly to the airport in his van...saved our bacon.
--This could double as a story for the Solo Travel graffiti wall. My friends were not smart about packing light, although I told them several times to pack light and visit the Rick Steves web site. This could have caused us to miss the flight. If I'd been alone, I'd have just walked to Termini.
Jane Reed <email>
Los Angeles, CA USA Fri 04/29/2005
Hotel Aberdeen
The hotel Aberdeen was more than expected, very very quiet, very very clean, a perfect location, easy to find, and all the staff was extremely helpful. My mom and I visited the week after the Pope's death, and the hotel called every morning to find out when and if the museum would be open, made sure our flight was leaving on time, recommended great places to eat, made reservations for us for Nero's Golden Palace. I would definitely stay there again and recommend it to all my friends.
Melissa <email>
Speer, IL USA Thu 04/28/2005
Residenza Cellini (Apartment)
Our family of five was so priveledged to stay in Barbara and Donato's appartment on Via Mariana Donigi. The apartment is beautiful and the location is safe and convenient to the Vatican and Piazza Cavour.Donato is the consummate host with helpful hints and wonderful recommendations for restaurants. I can't imagine staying anywhere else and we look forward to our next visit-soon!
C Walovich <email>
Redwood City, CA USA Fri 04/22/2005
Brancacci chapel
oops! My comment below should have been under Florence, not Rome.
Conny <email>
Williamsburg, Va USA Tue 04/19/2005
Brancacci Chapel
Just a word of advice regarding the Brancacci Chapel. We followed Rick's tour of the chapel, and did not realize that you only have 15 minutes to visit the chapel before you are herded out. Had we known that, we would not have lingered on each fresco as long. We did not get to finish looking at all of the frescoes and reading about each one.
Conny <email>
Williamsburg, Va USA Tue 04/19/2005
"Roman Promenades Tours"
We had a 2 day private tour with Roman Promenades and it was the best thing you could possible do while in Rome. The tour giudes were great and their knowledge was impressive. Their tours brought Rome to life. I do not beleive that a large tour would give you the same in depth knowledge as the private one. My wife and I plan on going back to Rome in a few years with our two children and would would use this tour company again. The web is www.romanpromenades.com
Frank <email>
Tucson, Arizona USA Tue 04/19/2005
Residenza Canali ai Coronari: "Nothing is too much trouble."
I have just returned from my second visit to this litle gem of a hotel. I cannot imagine ever staying anywhere else in Rome. The location is fantastic, tucked between the Piazza Navona and the River Tiber in the middle of the old city. The area is safe and stylish with many good bars and restaurants. You can walk to all major sites from this location. Residenza Canali has a friendly atmosphere and throughout our visit my sisters and I felt that we were in our own private town house! The staff are welcoming and knowledgeable. They knew which buses and metro stops we should use for an excursion out of the city and whilst being very patient with our attempts at Italian, also spoke good English. We found the rooms to be well decorated and everything we needed was to hand. You may be fortunate to have one of the rooms with your own private roof terrace, although you have to be prepared to climb a fair number of steps. What a treat to sit in the sun surrounded by pots of colourful flowers and dream about "la dolce vita" with a glass of wine!We loved the breakfasts, plenty of choice to suit all tastes and lots of wholesome food. Transport can be arranged quite easily to and from airports. We did some guided tours with the tour company Roman Promendades, it was recommended to us and their tour guide, Stephano, was awesome. For 18 Euro's per person we got an 1 1/2 in-depth tour of Colosseum AND an hour tour of the Palatine (which is not always easy to access) after lunch. Price included entry fees to both locations AND free photo taking opportunity with a bona-fide dressed Roman soldier. Enjoy. www.romanpromenades.com
Nicolas Bugherman <email>
Cincinnati, OH USA Tue 04/19/2005
Truman, re: Nicolas Inn
My husband and I just returned from Italy yesterday, and stayed at the Nicolas Inn in Rome for 2 nights. I do a lot of research on places to stay and I found that all the favorable reviews have been right on. It was a great place to stay, very clean and comfortable, and the price was good, 100 euros a night. The owner, a young woman originally from Chicago, was most helpful in orienting us first time visitors to Rome by pointing out sights to see, best places to pick up tickets, great recommendations for nearby restaurants, buses to take to get to certain museums etc. The breakfast was one of the better breakfasts we received on our 10 day trip to Italy. It was served in our room and consisted of coffee or tea, juice, brioches, toast, a choice of 2 different fruits (cantalope, apple, kiwi, banana), yogurt, and a sweeter cake/bread. The room was nicely decorated with pictures, potpourri, etc to make it feel homey. The bathroom was larger than the bathrooms at the other 3 places we stayed. Our room overlooked Via Cavour, and you did hear some noise from the traffic below but by the time we went to bed, we were so tired anyway it didn't bother us. They do have airconditioning in the summer, so you don't need to keep the windows open in the summer. They have 4 rooms, 3 overlook the street and 1 overlooks a court yard. They are a 10-15 minute downhill walk from the trainstation, and a 10 minute walk to the roman forum, colloseum, etc. It was a perfect place for us to stay, and I would definitely stay there again.
Today I got an email from Melissa, the owner, and she asked that I post a review on Trip Advisor. I can't speak for Hotel Santa Maria, and I am sure it does happen that owners will post reviews themselves, but because of our experience at the Nicolas Inn, I have no doubts that all the favorable reviews are from bona fide satisfied people who have actually stayed there. If anyone needs further information, feel free to email me.
Conny <email>
Williamsburg, Va USA Mon 04/18/2005
"Loved the Hotel Santa Maria"
Highly Recomend!!!!!! Truly an Incredible Experience!!!!!! The staff here was extremely helpful and knowledgeable, from guided tours (Tour company www.romanpromenades.com)to great places to eat. If you are looking for an intimate encounter with Rome and the people, this hotel is for you. We felt more like family here than guests. An excellant location, within walking distance to most sites of interest, or a short taxi ride.
LynnAnn & Craig Cascio <email>
Sebastopol, California USA Thu 04/14/2005
Residenza Cellini
Barbara & Donato at the Residenza Cellini were the perfect hosts. Their hospitality was above and beyond our expectations, and they helped us find excellent meals, navigate through Rome, and plan our drive up to Siena. Although I have stayed in (supposedly) more reputable hotels in Rome, I found that none have service comparable to the Residenza Cellini.
Matthew Parsons <email>
MA USA Sun 04/10/2005
Roman Odyssey Tours
We used Roman Odyssey Tours PRIVATE tours - at 50 Euro/hour they were a real find. Made our trip more interesting and pleasant. Our time was limited and the two tour guides we had knew how to maximize our time and made the experience wonderful. The guides were Americans who had lived in Rome for years. Would higly recommend.
Laurie Margolies Horowitz <email>
new haven, , ct USA Sun 04/10/2005
Going to Catacomb Callixtus?
Rick's recommended way of reaching Catacombs of Callixtus is the most exhausting way - getting off at the Colli Albani metro stop, taking the bus, then walking a mile to the catacombs - or expensive, i.e., using the Archeobus - which appears only once an hour and comes with a price - if it does.
There are two fast ways of getting there:
1. Take Bus 118 from Circo Massimo or from Piramide (Ostiense) Metro and get off at Via Appia Antica, in front of the Catacombe di San Callisto. Or
2. From Termini, take bus 714 to the St John Lateran square, then bus 218 and stop at Fosse Ardeatine, which is at the back entrance of the Catacomb.
Sid Reyes <email>
San Lorenzo, Ca USA Thu 04/07/2005
Rome and the Pope's death/funeral
All tourist sites, offices etc in Rome will be shut on Friday 8th in fact Rome will basically be shut down on that day. Other cities will remain functional stopping at 10 am to observe a 1 minute silence. The Vatican will remain closed following the funeral because of the conclave however life will return to normal for other tourist sites. Some churches (catholic) may remain closed to the public in the week after the funeral.
Zim <email>
Rome, IT Thu 04/07/2005
Group tour - Rome
Loved our tour with roman odyssey tours. Great American guide, very attentive service. Highly recommended. We did the Vatican and liked it so much we did it again for Ancient Rome.
Sharon <email>
Roanoke, VA USA Tue 04/05/2005
Roma and the Pope's Death
Pardon, I meant the week that starts Sunday, April 17.
Charles M. Luther
USA Sun 04/03/2005
Roma and the Pope's Death
Everyone seems concerned about the effect of the Pope's death on availability of sights. Honestly, since it has been 26 years since Roma experienced the death of a pope and since this pope made many changes in the procedure to be used, I don't think anyone can offer more than an opinion. Since we go to Italy every year and have been in Roma for Easter and Christmas, etc, I would guess that most sights NOT AT THE VATICAN will be open except on the days of the funeral, the day a new pope is announced and makes his first major public appearance. Of course St. Peters itself will be very crowded and tightly regulated for the viewing. After the conclave begins I would guess that the main body of the church will be open daily at the usual hours with some allowance for moving dignitaries from their apartments to the Sistine Chapel. As to the Sistine Chapel it will be closed until further notice. The museums will be open up to the point nearest the Chapel, ie, the Raphael rooms, which may be closed since they are almost directly above the Sistine Chapel. Other sights like the Borghese, the Forum, the Campidoglio museums, etc will doubtless be open with the above exceptions. Anything anyone says at this point is a guess but the local papers will have daily updates on changes. I suspect the conclave will only last about 3 or 4 days in spite of their having to resolve some contentious issues. The funeral itself will probably be next Thursday, April 7th. So perhaps by one day in the week starting April 11th Roma will be back to its chaotic, crowded, normal state of anarchy. Remember too that the Italians have a very different "work ethic" than we do so some may not go to work just because they are saddened. I do love that place.
Charles M. Luther
USA Sun 04/03/2005
Hotel Aberdeen
What a nice hotel! The location was very good and the staff sent us, by email, detailed instructions on how to find the hotel from the airport. We were able to walk most of the time, (to the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, even back from the Colosseum) and there was a bus stop about a block away. The room was extremely clean, and we particularly appreciated the heated towel bars when our luggage arrived two days late -- great for clothes drying. The staff were very helpful -- suggesting restaurants, giving directions, and helping to track down our luggage. Our friends had a room over the street and did say they could hear the traffic at night. Our room was at the back and it was quiet. We would definetly stay there again.
Liz <email>
CO USA Sun 04/03/2005
Wonderful hotel, wonderful tour in Rome
Hotel Santa Maria Thanks for the wonderful hotel and great breakfasts! I must admit to being a bit scared while walking through Rome -- seeing all of the graffiti and well worn buildings. After entering the gate of the hotel I was astonished, everything was quite beautiful. The garden, with the orange trees, tasteful decorations and plesant atmosphere was a welcome end to all of our "busy" days meandering the streets of Rome. The rooms are very comfortable and well maintained. I am amazed that the hotel is only three star! I have stayed at many five star hotels in Paris, Belgium, Wales and across the planet that simply do not compare. The tour given by Roman Promenades (www.roman promenades.com) was a wonderful tour. We spent three amazing days - one seeing the Roman Forum, the others visiting the Vatican and the Catacombs. (No waiting on line!) I cannot recommend this company - and especially Stefano - highly enough. Well done!! Joseph Kennedy Joseph Kennedy and Kyrin Blythin London, UK
Joseph Kennedy Joseph Kennedy and Kyrin Blythin
London,, UK Sun 04/03/2005
pope's recent death
We have reservations through selectitaly.com for the vatican museums on April 11th. We'd also like to see St. Peter's if possible.
Is anybody aware of how Rome attractions and particularly those in the vatican will be affected by the pope's memorial service including presidents, the 9 days of grieving, the election of the new pope using the sistine chapel (15-20 days after today), the pope's burial at St. Peter's, etc.
Any wider affects across Rome or Italy?
Arrive in Rome on April 10th ..... Leave for Florence on the 12th. ..Leave for Siena on 14th ... Leave for Monterosso on the 16th. Back into Rome on the 18th and back to the US on the 19th.
Just wondering. Godspeed John Paul
April11 <email>
Houston, TX USA Sat 04/02/2005
Tour of Vatican
I took a tour of the Vatican through Eternal Tours. Absolutely delightful and fascinating! The tour was led by an art historian who gave so much insight to the architecture, the history of the buildings, the paintings, the sculpture, etc.
The tour was 40 euro, or 36 if you book online at www.througheternity.com.
The tour was to last 5 hours, but since it was Holy Thursday with a lot of activity in the Basilica,the tour had to be altered. We wound up with a 6 hour tour instead, with an incredibly knowledgeable, affable, and fun guide. Ask for a tour with Danny - you'll walk away from the Vatican with firm plans to come back another day.
Check it out.
Anne F.
Ardmore, PA USA Wed 03/30/2005
Car Rentals In Europe
NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER rent a car from Holiday Cars Sixt Car Rental. I reserved a car in Rome for 6 days and needed to make a change. I called and spoke with agents and 2 different supervisors. I sent a fax. I sent and email. And I even tried to call them in Germany (their headquarters for reservations). The US office could go nothing with the reservations. They gave me the email address I received no answer. Called them again and they gave me a different email address - again no answer. Called them again - they gave me a fax number - no answer. Called again - they gave me a phone number - no one answered the phone. At this point I now just want to cancel the car but how since no one answers you. They had already charged my credit card, so now there's a whole new fight I have to go through. I say again to all - NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER RENT FROM HOLIDAY CARS SIXT CAR RENTAL. No cheap rates just areen't worth it!!!!!
Maria
Los Angeles, CA USA Tue 03/29/2005
"Rome Walks" in Rome
Just returned from a week in Italy. We love walking tours since we are Americans living in London and do London Walks all the time. Rome Walks is in Rick's Rome book and they were great, but a little variable, depending on the guide. Our Vatican Museum guide was knowledgeable but a little unenthusiastic, and we waited over an hour in line since they do the tour in the AM. Definitely visit the Vatican later in the day when lines die down!!!!
Our guide for Ancient Rome was absolutely TERRIFIC! She was so enthusiastic she went overtime (almost 4 hours for a scheduled 3 hour tour)- she couldn't stop talking and sharing her enthusaism for the place! And she engaged my 11 and 16 year olds, too!! Her name was Sophie and I definitely recommend asking for her if you use this organization. It is a small group and she does a lot of the tours.
Sue F. <email>
London, UK Sun 03/27/2005
Melanie...
Rick mentions this "type of service" in his book. He states that you should not expect a reply back from most all of the hotels listed if they have no rooms available. I imagine this is to save the cost of international toll charges to simply say "no vacancy".
Jon Mills <email>
St. Louis, MO USA Wed 03/23/2005
Nicolas Inn in Rome
Had a great stay at this little B&B. As the other posts have stated, the owners are very helpful. Nice rooms & a good location. Their restaurant recommendations were extremely helpful. I would stay here again if we return to Rome.
Henry Tvarno <email>
Vegas Baby!, UT USA Wed 03/23/2005
Hotel Adler
We e-mailed our reservation request to the Hotel Adler on Thursday and recieved no response by Sunday. On Sunday, we phoned and made a reservation requesting a confirmation via e-mail. When we recieved no confirmation by the following Tuesday we had an Italian speaking friend phone for us. The Hotel Adler said they had not sent a confirmation to us because there were no rooms available. This type of service was unacceptable to us. I would recommend a review of their listing in a Rick Steves guide.
Melanie Meszaros <email>
Ogden, UT USA Tue 03/22/2005
B and B association of Rome; Pensione Panda
We spent five days in Rome with our teenage daughter staying in a nice suite of rooms in a private home found through B and B association of Rome. 2 bedrooms(one a single) with private bath and entry hall, and continental breakfast for E130 per night. This was a bargain for Rome! The accomodation is coded as "Trastevere Nievo" on their website and you book online. The apartment is near the tram and bus H which goes everywhere in Rome from Via Trastevere. Trastevere is a great place to be in Rome. Stay here if you speak some Italian; the hostess does not speak English but was very kind and helpful. This was an excellent accomodation for our kind of travel.
On our return to Rome after Florence we stayed two night at the Pensione Panda, which I had also booked online. Cheap and clean near the Spanish steps. But, boy was I glad that I had printed out my reservation confirmation! The check- out clerk tried to up the rates by 20E a night but the documentation stopped the argument. Be advised.
Margaret Thornhill <email>
Venice, Ca USA Sun 03/20/2005
Walking tours in Rome
Just got back after visiting Rome for the first time and had the pleasure of being part of one of the tours given by Icon Rome.We attended a tour through the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica and Vatican Museum. Our guide had a genuine passion and interest in his subject that really sparked the imagination bringing fascinating historical figures to life. I didn't want to listen to someone merely regurgitating what the guide books said, but I also wanted to learn about other things such as recent ideas, theories and scholarly contentions, and above all be entertained not bored. This is exactly what I got, what an unexpected and refreshing change! Even if you don't like the idea of being part of a tour I can highly recommend trying one of these tours out while you are in Rome.
Jon <email>
Derby, UK Tue 03/15/2005
Rome hotel and side trip
We just returned from a trip to Venice, Florence, and Rome (with a few side trips). Perhaps the best hotel I've ever stayed in was in Rome. Not from your book, but it should be there - the Hotel Concordia. It's two blocks from Spanish Steps, a few blocks from Trevi fountain, and easy walking distance to everything else! Very clean, modern rooms and a good breakfast. Most important to our experience was Roberto the owner/manager and his fantastic staff. We felt like we were staying with family, only better. We got some great advice about restaurants (alla Rampa next to the Spanish Steps), and life in general. We'll go back not only to visit a fantastic city, but to visit Roberto!
One side trip not in the book but maybe should be was Villa D'Est in Tivoli. It's easy to get to (train and bus) and absolutely breathtaking. The villa is nothing special but the gardens and the fountains are amazing. Definitely worth a day trip. Hadrian's Villa is 3 miles away by bus. We didn't get to go because of a blizzard (no kidding) but Villa D'Est was worth the trip.
Karyn Morin <email>
South Berwick, ME USA Mon 03/14/2005
Domus Aurea
Domus Aurea should be viewed by those travellers with a strong interest in archaeology or a powerful imagination. It definitely was not worth the effort to make a reservation and then pay for a guided tour of something as colorful as your unlit basement. Trajan filled it worth dirt and made it the foundation for his baths. On the other hand, Borghese Gallery reservations were well worth the effort, rewarded with a fleeting 2-hour visit. Thanks, Rick
David Bleakney <email>
Fort Monmouth, NJ USA Thu 03/10/2005
Residenza Cellini/Rome
My husband and I spent 10 wonderful days in Rome last June and we send many thanks to the Residenza Cellini (and Rick Steves’ Rome Guide!) for helping to make this the trip of a lifetime. From the incredible cappucino and breakfasts every morning to the comfortable and spacious rooms to the impeccable service, this was a top-notch hotel in all respects and, quite honestly, the best lodging in Europe we had ever stayed in. In our opinion, though, the best part about staying in the Residenza was our gracious hosts, Barbara, Gaetano, and Donato, who always were as friendly, accomodating, and helpful as can be. In fact, the last night of our stay, my wife and I spent most of the evening at the hotel, chatting with Donato about his life, his travels, and his family. Whereas most travellers would be out on the town trying to catch last minute sights, we found this to be the perfect ending to our trip. To make it even more special, Donato presented us with a bottle of Italian wine as a thanks for staying at his hotel. We highly recommend the Residenza Cellini to all travellers visiting Rome and, if you do choose to stay there, please make sure to stop and chat with your hosts: you won't regret it!
Marissa Markonish <email>
Raymond, USA Sat 03/05/2005
rome hotel
just returned from 4 days in rome with wife and twins (13 years old). wanted to recommend hotel aberdeen on via firenze. hotel was very clean, comfortable and in great location. walking distance to termini and most major sites. short walk to republica metro for ride to vatican. hotel staff was exceedingly helpful and courteous. price with discount for rome 2005 book took away the sting of the weak dollar. our family/quad room was unavailable for our first nite, so annamaria gave us two double rooms for the price of the quad and let us keep the rooms for our 4 nites. way above and beyond. i highly recommend this hotel to anyone.
bob barkow <email>
lilburn, ga USA Wed 03/02/2005
Rome
Just returned from Rome and thought of one piece of advice: don't expect the taxis to make change for you. We were lazy about this and paid too much most of the time. Not a big deal, but we should have made more of an effort to have had the smaller denominations.
Susan West <email>
New Canaan, CT USA Wed 03/02/2005
rome tours and hotels
we think the rick steves to italy and rome is wonderfull it helped us a great deal. we want to recommend angeltoursrome just because they were so good to us. then we want to recommend hotel santa chiara and hotel royal splendid which made our stay very welcome.phillip
phillip ryan <email>
new york city, new york USA Wed 03/02/2005
Rome
Rome - wow, what a city! Walkable day or night, tremendous sights and friendly, kind people. We walked everywhere and sometimes ended up back where we started by mistake! We read about the gypsies on this website and saw every situation we had read about. Not a big deal as we had no surprises, wore our money belts and found the gypsies annoying, but not dangerous. The only thing that disappointed was Hotel Nardizzi Americana. Yes, it was affordable and convenient, but our room was depressing and some of the other guests made us feel unsafe. At the Colosseum, the rented recordings are extremely dry and tell none of the passion and drama of the history of the place. Some enterprising person should re-record those tapes. Otherwise, Rome was tremendous and I would go back tomorrow and stay for a long, long time. At the SelectItaly website, I pre-purchased museum tickets and reserved times and we were able to walk past the looong lines waiting to get into the Vatican Museum, so that was well worth it.
Susan <email>
New Canaan, CT USA Wed 03/02/2005
Hotel Paba
I want to add to the positive comments of for Hotel Paba in Rome. We had a delightful stay there. Great location. Nice rooms. Alberta, the owner, is an absolute delight and was always very helpful. I would stay there again.
The only change from previous posts is that she now offers pre-packaged rolls for breakfast instead of sending you to a pastries shop across the street. We went there anyways and their pastries were great (adds an extra 1-2 Euros to your cost). She does have a Nescafe machine which makes better cappuccino than I expected.
Also just across the street is a small grocery store with a big deli counter. They will make you a sandwich on a fresh roll with meat and cheese for about a Euro - a great deal. We had them a couple of times for breakfast to get some additional protein. They had great green olives too. Almost no English spoken, but that was never a problem.
Al <email>
Seattle, WA USA Mon 02/28/2005
romashuttle.com
I just got back and will be posting some comments soon. I wanted to briefly note a problem I had with Romashuttle, as it was recommended on this board.
I e-mailed a reservation from their web site and followed up with a direct e-mail. Got a automated reply, but no personal conformation.
At arrival, there was no one to meet us. It worked fine to take the train into town, but if I had relied on the shuttle I would have been out of luck.
Al <email>
Seattle, WA USA Mon 02/28/2005
Hotel Santa Maria-Rome
Hotel Santa Maria is a dump. All postings regarding this property are fabricated by the hotel manager. Seriously, why would someone type such a loooong report on here about one hotel describing it is such detail? I stayed there. It is hard to find, a very LOOOONG walk to everything including the Vatican, Colosseum, and Spanish Steps, not 15, 30 or even 45 minutes walking as advertised. The rooms are tiny, no AC in the winter months, which you need, believe me, and the breakfast SUX! Beware!!
Fredo <email>
Roanoke, VA USA Sat 02/26/2005
chasing my tail
I live in Asia have have traveled alone in six Asian countries. Getting around has never been a major problem...until last week in Rome.
Rome humbled me.
I walked in circles the entire week!
What can I say--RELY on your map. Know where you are. Use your guidebook. Consider having a small compass with you so you'll know which way to head.
Don't worry about looking lost--everyone else is, too.
Elizabeth McLeod <email>
Busan, Korea Wed 02/23/2005
Roma
If you can cross the street here, you can cross it anywhere! A nice place to stay near Piazza Navonna is the Residenza Canali. It's right off of the Via del Coronari, and just about 10 minutes from everywhere else. A good deal, too.
Ntherlands Tue 02/22/2005
B&B Smart in Rome
The best B&B in Rome! I've been travelling for a while around europe and this is one of the best places I've come across.Rooms are large and clean .Two thumbs up. The wonderful place everyone should try is: B&B Smart Via Farini 52, flat 10, 5th floor with lift, 00185 Rome Italy www.bandbromeitalty.com e-mail : isajiang@virgilio.it
Jennifer Wende <email>
Halifax, NS Canada Mon 02/21/2005
B&B Smart in RomeThe best B&B in Rome! I've been travelling for a while around europe and this is one of the best places I've come across.Rooms are large and clean .Two thumbs up. The wonderful place everyone should try is: B&B Smart Via Farini 52int. (flat 10), 5th floor (with lift) 00185 Rome Italy www.bandbromeitalty.com e-mail : isajiang@virgilio.itJennifer Wende Halifax, NS Canada Mon 02/21/2005
Hotel Adler Rom
Stayed in Hotel Adler with my son for 2 nights January '05...small but entirely adequate with very friendly staff...great location
Gary Aron <email>
Kansas CIty, MO USA Wed 02/16/2005
Rome at its best!
We enjoyed ourselves in Rome this past October 2004. Our only regret is not staying longer. One "biggie" is that if your driving in get a GOOD map. Italy is great at alot of things but directions and clearly marked signs are not two of them! If asked you will be told that it is "just straight ahead"! We stayed at HOTEL ABERDEEN and really liked it. The location is in a safe location. Clean and a HUGE bathroom. We loved the towel warmer and great water pressure! Be prepared to walk but close to good food. The staff is great only one problem we had was when they asked one morning if we wanted to move to a larger room, we said we were fine. After returning home that evening we found our stuff had been moved. Apparently, the cleaning staff wasn't informed! Good prices and nice people though! We tried to go to several restaurants listed in Rick's books but either found them closed or couldn't find them. Don't rely on the maps in the book for details. Here are a few of our lucky finds for restaurants..... enjoy Rome and make sure you save plenty of time.Restaurants in Rome
"L'Angelo del Gelato" c.so Vittoria Emanuele II - a great place on the other side of the river from the Vatican. A great little restaurant next to it also. Avoid the places next to the Vatican and walk here...it is worth it!"La Tavernetta" - good basic italian food. Via Sistina 147"da OLIMPIO" - our FAVORITE by far, and my husband lives by his stomach! Low table charge, only .50 euro each which is good for Rome! We opted for this becuase another restaurant down the street was closed (a Rick recom.)What a find! Just make sure you avoid the corner store, the owner was VERY nasty to us when I took my son in to use the bathroom!
Meg <email>
Elgin (via Tourrettes sur Loup, France), IL USA Wed 02/09/2005
Feel like a Roman and not a Tourist!
My husband, our 2 teenagers and I spent 2 weeks in Europe this winter. We spent 4 nights each in Rome, London and Paris. We spent our 4 Roman days and nights at the Hotel Santa Maria in Trastevere. (As an aside, I have been to London and Paris before, but never to anywhere in Italy.) Though it definitely ended up as our favorite place of the 3, arriving in Roma is quite a shock to your system! It is much more "foreign" seeming than London or Paris.
When we landed in Rome, a driver arranged by the hotel (not employed by them) was waiting to meet us in our terminal. However, no one was there. The streets of Trastevere are like a maze of alleys. And none were really very familiar with that area. Our driver had a large enough vehicle for all 4 of us and our bags, and we were off.
Finding the hotel was quite an experience. Trastevere is a wonderful area! It is not touristy. It is more like how real Romans live. But, that being said, it is not laid out to make it easy for tourists to find their way around. (Use the map the hotel gives you once you check in.) Our cabbie drove up, down and around increasingly narrower streets (that looked like US alleys). He finally could get his cab just in the hotel.
The hotel itself is small. I think there are only about 20 rooms. You enter a gate off the street, and walk into a courtyard area. All rooms open into this courtyard. Umbrella-covered tables are scattered around the courtyard, making for a wonderful outdoor breaking dining area. Buildings that adjoin the hotel make you realize you are NOT in a resort...you are in a regular Roman neighborhood, as balconies that display laundry, bicycles and such are there in view.
We rented the Sr. Suite, which is the largest room they have. It has a king bed downstairs, and 2 twins upstairs in a little loft area. Like most of Rome, the floor is tile. The furnishings were very simple but adequate, the bedspread plain, the tv small (13"?). But somehow, none of that mattered and only served to convey a more realistic feeling of where you were and what you were experiencing.
The room did have a safe, air conditioning/heating.The bathroom had a large marble sink, different than I've seen before. It was large/wide, but very shallow. The hand towels were not terry cloth, but more like the kind you'd use to dry dishes with in the US. Not really a problem, just kinda weird. The bathroom was decent size, not huge, not tiny. It did have a bidet, and combined shower/tub. I had read that hot water is sometimes a luxury in Rome, but not in this hotel.
The staff was very friendly and helpful and had recommended the Roman Promenades tour company. We ended up taking 2 days of private tours in Rome a night tour and a tour of Pompeii. This suggestion MADE our trip! These tour guides were so excellent and helped us to see so much more than we ever would have on our own. (I will do a review of that company in the future.) You absolutely MUST have private tours if you are in Rome for the first time!
The breakfast is served in a room off of the courtyard. The "procedure" is that you take a tray, load it up with whatever you want, bring it up to the front counter, tell them what kind of coffee you want, and leave it there while you go find a seat. They will then carry it out to you. (The room is down a few stairs, so this is very helpful.) The breakfast has a lot of different kind of pastry items, cereal, strawberries, meat and cheeses, and juices. Some of the pastry items were really more like cookies. (I obviously decided to NOT do a low carb diet while traveling. It just would not be possible to do and still enjoy the trip and experience everything fully.) My absolute favorite was what I call the nutballs. They seem to be made of just chopped nuts, sugar and cinnamon, and then rolled into a ball and baked....crunchy, sweet and deliciously moist inside!
Our days in Rome were not spent around our room. We would get up, enjoy the breakfast, meet our tour guide and be out until around 4pm. By then, things are kind of quiet everywhere anyway, so we'd take a little rest in the room, and then go out for dinner around 7 or 8. When I heard that dinner is usually not eaten until 8, I didn't know how I'd ever be able to wait that late. But once there, it is easy to fall into the location habits, and we grew to love the 8-10pm dinners, lingering over the pasta, wine, coffee and gelato. The hotel is a 2 minute walk from the Santa Maria Trastevere square, which has a number of restaurants, and it is so fun to watch in the evening as it fills up with people and activity. There are probably 50 or more restaurants within a 5 minute walk, so just pick a place, sit outside, enjoy the food and people watch! It was a let down to get back to the American way of eating dinner when we returned!
A note about the neighborhood....it doesn't look like a pristine, tourist resort area. It has graffiti, trash, and people, dogs and vehicles/scooters racing through it. (Of course, so does most of Rome!) But it never felt unsafe, so don't let what some books say scare you away. (Just be mindful and smart about things.) You will have a much more authentic experience being immersed in this area. (It is across the Tiber river from the Trevi fountain, the Piazza Navona, the Spanish steps, and the Pantheon, but all those can be walked to. You just need to plan on walking while in Rome!)
Our leaving was easier than arriving....our driver for our Pompeii tour picked us up and we were on our way. Truly a delightful stay that romanced us into dreaming about our return in the future!
Mary
London, UK Wed 02/09/2005
Hotel in Rome
My wife & I were very satisfied with our 8 night stay at Residenza Cellini early January 2005. Friendly staff, good position and well kept rooms.
Martin <email>
Australia Tue 02/08/2005
Capuchin Crypt in Rome
I was just reading Rick's update on the Capuchin Crypt in Rome being closed for 2005 renovations. I just received word from the Capuchins in Rome, that the site is now open. It has been closed for a couple years now, but work is apparently done and open to the public again.
Anthony R Gavin <email>
Anaheim, CA USA Tue 02/08/2005
Hotels in Rome
My husband and I recently returned from Europe, and wanted to thank Rick for his recommendation of Residenza Cellini in Rome. The staff went above and beyond at every opportunity. For example, when Barbara found out that we had met there on my husband's leave from Iraq, she sent champagne and chocolate to our room on our last night. The location was great and the service was exceptional. Thanks for a great recommendation!
Amy <email>
seattle, wa USA Mon 02/07/2005
Rome
Just got back from Rome and was so glad I had Rick with me! Be sure to read the description in the book while looking at Frescos in the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel so that you fully understand Michelangelo's brilliance. In the same light, the Forum and Coliseum come alive when you read what Rick has to say about them. My favorite recommendation was Gellateria Crispini near the Trevi Fountain. Remember, good Gelato should be grey in color unless made with chocolate or berries. Also, when Rick recommends just ordering the house antipasti for dinner, trust him. The only disappointment was that we had to refer to another guidebook for our tour of the Jewish Ghetto.
Rebecca <email>
Washington, DC USA Tue 02/01/2005
Direct train to Pompeii
We took the Eurostar train from Rome Termini station directly to Pompeii without changing at Napoli Centrale or Garibaldi for the circumvesuviana train. The Eurostar price of train ticket second class seating to Pompeii directly is the same as for Naples, about 44 Euros for two people. We took the circumvesuviana after visiting Pompeii to Naples, visited the city in the afternoon, and took late train back to Rome.
Dagmar <email>
San Diego, CA USA Sat 01/29/2005
Side trip to Naples
Has anyone eaten at Pizzeria Da Michelle in Naples? I just wander what your experience was. We stopped there in January and never got waited on . We waited over 60 minutes and all the waiter did was seeded out at a table. Despite my numerous eye contact and pleads we never got to order. There were other people who came after us who were served. Yet few others were “stuck” like us. WE finally left really hungry without eating. Lucky for us, Naples as may wonderful pizzerias.
Dagmar <email>
San Diego, CA USA Sat 01/29/2005
Thanks Rick
The four of us returned from an excellent trip in Rome/Pompeii/Florence/Pisa in large measure thanks to Rick's excellent guidebooks.We encountered many tourists, including some from New Zealand, intensely studying the books.
Some observations:a. Hotel Aberdeen is very helpful.
b. Train stations everywhere are very convenient and friendly - no need to bother with travel agencies like American Express.
c. Italian IC trains between the major cites are very good - there is no need to bother with First Class or making reservations. We switched to the more expensive Eurostar from Florence to Rome and were very disappointed: the train was much less comfortable than the 2nd class IC train and, because it ran late, hardly faster.
Paul Cheng <email>
Palos Verdes Estates, CA USA Sun 01/23/2005
Phone and Rail
Phone Tip: Don't bother with phone cards. A phone center near the Trevi Fountain allowed us a call to the states for 15 minutes - 2.30 Euros!Rail Tip. When traveling between airport and Termini, put the fare card in the yellow machine to be stamped.
Robert Larson <email>
Stephens City, VA USA Sat 01/22/2005
Carravagio painting/Cappuccin Crypt. Walking canes.
I have two quick items: 1) if your legs/knees are unsteady at all, carry a collapsible walking stick in your backpack. Available in catalogues, or cheaper online (walkingcanedepot.com).
2) I just looked at the 2005 Rome edition, and found that your entry for the church above the Cappuccin Crypt still states that the church upstairs has a Caravaggio. it no longer does, and the pamphlet available there (printed who knows when) says it has been moved "to a safer place." Sadly we were not able to find out where it is.
Linda Spink <email>
West Chester, PA USA Sat 01/22/2005
Tours
Just back from 4 days in Rome (not long enough!) and just want to say if you're looking for a guide for the Vatican go to www.romanodyssey.com for a tour. Our guide was fantastic and knew little hints and underlying stories of the paintings and sculptures that really helped to add another element to the tour. They are interested and passionate about their subject and this easily rubs off on you! Had wonderful time in Rome so much to see and do-no problems with theft or anything like that-it's just the nightmare driving you have to watch!
Eleanor Hills <email>
Bath, UK Sat 01/22/2005
Which way is left?
As much as I love you, Rick, for making our trip so much easier and enjoyable, I do have a question. Why do you say in the videos, books, etc. "it is on your left..(or your right) but not tell us whether you are going in or out of the place in question? As an example, I wanted very much to stand in the exact place where Charlemagne was crowned Holy Roman Emporer in 800AD but couldn't figure out if it was going into Saint Peter's or upon leaving. The guards standing around knew less about it than I did so I made do and had photos taken in the vicinity. And the espresso place outside the Pantheon with the ancient well...to left or right going in to Pantheon or upon leaving?
Maybe I screwed up and just didn't find the correct notation in the book?By the by, I highly suggest taking a pair of ultra small binoculars with you. Not opera glasses because they don't have the high quality lenses usually. We got a pair before we left and enjoyed the domes and artwork SOOOOOO much more than other tourists. Like the mosaics in Ravenna..amazing when you can really see their beauty close up.
Skell Goens <email>
Everett, Washington, wa USA Mon 01/17/2005
price change for cupola, good eatery, I love Rick
It now costs 6 Euro to go to the top of the cupola in St. Peter's Basillica instead of 5 Euro. It is 4 Euro if you want to walk all the way up...but I would not recommend that!
Also, I went with 5 other girls to the eatery suggested by Rick by the Colosseum, something dell Studente and it was great!!!! I showed them my Rick Steves book and they gave us: free seating outside, free before dinner drinks, free appetizers and a half price menu!! Also, the tour Rick has in the book on the forum is fabulous! A group of 6 American girls studying here in Rome (in Monte Mario) all wish we could travel with Rick...but I guess we will have to settle for the book! Thanks!!!
Jessie <email>
St. Louis, MO USA Sun 01/16/2005
Last Addendum
last notes in pieces due to jet lag - Rome Shuttle - romashuttle.com - can book via internet in advance and was reasonable and on time to get from airport and back and used ATM's everywhere in Rome without problem.
Elise & Mark <email>
Fairfield County, CT USA Fri 01/14/2005
Rome Trip addendum
contacts for the guides from previous entry - peter de muro peterde_muro@hotmail.com andMicaela Pavoncello pavoncellom@hotmail.com
Elise and mark <email>
Fairfield County, CT USA Fri 01/14/2005
Rome Trip
Back from a great week in Rome - Hotel Borgognoni - midway between Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain - perfect location - Romewalks.com - Annie called us right back our first day and within an hour arranged tours with 2 wonderful guides - Sophie for the Colosseum and Cynthia for the Vatican - "Micaela Pavoncello" - Micaela, an Art historian, gave us a fantastic tour of the old Jewish ghetto and central Rome and Peter "peter de muro" , an expert in Roman archaeology and history gave us in-depth and fact-filled tours of Ostia Antica and the Forum. (My daughter and I have studied Roman civilization for years and these guides - especially Peter & Micaela had answers for everything) - It seemed impossible to get anything other than great food anywhere we went and we travelled safely (on foot and with the buses and metro)- We liked having guides for some sites and being on our own for others. Recommend the Borghese Gallery, Domus Aurea (during off season no reservations were needed)& church of San Clemente. Email if more info needed about guides or anything else. Thanks Rick - the Graffiti Wall info along with your book really helped!
Mark and Elise <email>
Fairfield County, CT USA Fri 01/14/2005
Ground floor room in a very pleasant hotel
For anyone who has trouble climbing stairs, or is traveling with someone who does - we stayed at the Hotel Pomezia near Campo di Fiore, which has a very nice handicapped acccessible ground floor room. It was great for my 70 year old mother (with bad knees) who was traveling with us. She could go out and see the sites, then pop back in to the hotel for a rest without having to negotiate several flights of stairs.
Elizabeth and Richard <email>
Madison, WI USA Thu 01/13/2005
Vatican museum tour
Had a GREAT tour of the Vatican museum and St Peter's with Scala Reale tours. Our docent, Liz, was fabulous. She was passionate, knowledgeable and fun. Request her if you can. The tour wasn't cheap - 60e per person, with a total of 6 in the group, but well worth the money. Highly recommend this guided tour!
Louise
Denver, CO USA Sun 01/09/2005
Hotels in Rome
I traveled with my 81 year old Mother and younger sister---I have M.S. and have mobility issues. We stayed in the HEART of Rome at the Hotel Siena and loved it. The staff was wonderful, even walked us to points of interest and they have a teeny, but working lift for those who need it. It is about 3 blocks from the Spanish Steps. Great Breakfast and close to everything!
Deb Scott <email>
Lakewood, CO USA Thu 01/06/2005
Our photos and recommendations for Italy
For anyone interested, we have a web site of our trip to Italy in June of 2001. Aside from the pictures of us having a great time (thanks to our guru St. Rick), we have included a listing of the places we stayed, what they charged us, and our opinionated review of the room. Hope you find it useful in planning your trip. http://users.adelphia.net/~tabacchi/italy.htm
Ken Tabacchi <email>
Redondo Beach, CA USA Tue 12/28/2004
Home Away From Home
It's the hosts that make this place so great. When we arrived they went over a map with us and pointed out the main stuff to see, how to get there, the best days to go, opening hours. Their restaurant recommendations are great. There are several good places to eat right by the B&B but they also suggested places throughout the city.
There were some strikes and protest marches during our stay but again, the hosts told us about them ahead of time so we weren't really inconvenienced.
We had a bit of rain. They offered us umbrella one morning but we said no, thinking the gray sky would turn into sunshine. Well, 5 blocks from returning we were caught in a nasty downpour! We walked in the door drenched to our undies. They immediately gave us extra towels and even made us tea! They just made our time in Rome very relaxing.
We were really happy with the location. The only time we took a bus was to the Vatican (but we walked back, seeing other things along the way) and the Catacombs, which are out of center. There are ruins all of the place by this B&B! And at night it is really pretty when everything is all lit up. Feel free to contact me with any ?s. www.nicolasinn.com
Liz Crane <email>
USA Sun 12/12/2004
Hotel Smeraldo
My husband and I stayed at Hotel Smeraldo in early November and couldn't have been happier. The location is ideal! We walked almost everywhere, and for times when we didn't want to walk, the taxi stand is so close at Largo Argentina. We paid 120 euros a night and skipped the breakfast as suggested in Rick's book. There is a great bakery right outside the front door, so we grabbed pastry and cappucino in the morning and headed out. For more substantial food, the market at Campo de Fiori is right around the corner. We got fabulous fresh salami, cheese and fruit there. We bought food for a picnic lunch one morning and even found small glasses and a wine bottle opener at one of the stalls. There is a terrific restaurant--Ristorante Santa Anna--up the street from the hotel which we liked so much we ate at it twice.
We used the car service from the airport because we had heard the hotel was hard to find and that a cab driver might drive around and around looking for it (and charge us quite a bit!). Because the airline lost our luggage, we spent a lot of time at the airport searching lost and found and then filling out paperwork. The driver from the hotel waited an hour for us. We were so grateful not to have to manage the train and then the cab with all our luggage after a long day spent traveling. The car service was definitely worth the money.
The staff at the hotel were friendly and helpful, especially with our lost luggage situation. They answered questions patiently and helped us find stores for toiletries and clothing. They also endured our constant, hopeful inguiries, "Has our luggage arrived yet??" We found all the front desk people to be very kind.We would definitely recommend Smeraldo, and we hope to stay there again soon!
Lissa <email>
St. Louis, USA Fri 12/10/2004
69 Manin Street B&B
Now we have got back home in England, I wanted to send you a message of thanks for the wonderful time we had in Rome. The accommodation and friendliness of you all made this a special holiday and one we will remember. Our friends already have sore ears from us talking about it so much. I have no hesitation in recommending you to others
Nick <email>
Rome, Italy Thu 12/09/2004
Rome, Tuscany, Siena, Florence
Rick, your books were invaluable in assisting us in our recent tour of Rome, Tuscany, Siena and Florence. From the Hotel Santa Maria in Rome, pricey but absolutely worth it, staff wonderful; Hotel Stanta Catarina in Siena, lovely, 10 minute walk to Campo, staff and food terrific; Soggiorno Baptistere in Florence, great location, staff helpful, lots of stairs and bring your own soap!
If anyone really wants to see Tuscany, log on to www.coaching-in-bavaia.com for a 1 or 2 week tour in either May or October. Each day's travel takes you to the home of some of the most interesting people in Tuscany who open their homes and share their table and wine in the most incredible locations you will ever experience.
A word of caution -- we pre-booked and paid by credit card as required by ScalaReale for a tour of the Villa Borghese. Don't do it. We were at the appointed meeting place early but could never locate them, although we asked around of other groups waiting to begin their tour. Upon returning to our hotel and calling ScalaReale, they said they tried to locate us, although it's against their practice to have the guide carry a flag stick or something recognizable to a tourist trying to find them, and it was too bad that we didn't connect with them to do the tour. They would do nothing to reschedule us. The next morning we again went to the Villa Borghese and toured with Rick's book by ourselves. If you can only see 1 museum in Rome, this is it. Can't wait to go back to Italy, the history, people, food, wine, FABULOUS.
H. Silven <email>
Batavia, OH USA Tue 11/30/2004
66 Imperial Inn, Rome, Italy
I have done a lot of traveling around Europe and found some good and not so good places. Well this one - 66 Imperial Inn - is at the top of my favorite list. After an 8 hour train ride from Switzerland, I was hoping that I had picked a good place from the internet. Within 10 minutes I had arrived at their doorstep and was very welcomed. The folks are absolutely fantastic. And so was my room. It was roomy, comfortable and had lots of amenities. The bathroom was actually luxurious with a jacuzzi in the shower. I spent a week here and was very sorry to leave the city and the B&B. I plan always to come back here when I visit. It is truly a home away from home.
Nadja Janakiev <email>
Denver, CO USA Tue 11/30/2004
Residenza Cellini/Rome
What a wonderful "haven" in the middle of crazy Rome. Not only was the room lovely & quiet but the staff goes out of its way to please. From cappuchinos served on a silver tray to the stargazer lillies in the lobby to the soft opera background music, this hotel is a conveniently located, elegant place to stay. The pleasure is in the details. Kudos to Rick Steves for finding this wonderful jewel.
Marsha Russin <email>
Roseville, CA USA Mon 11/29/2004
Archeobus in Rome
Archeobus in Rome. Was there this November. We were at Piazza Venezia and saw the Archeobus sign.Since used it before, thought it could be picked up there at the signed stop. Waited 2 hours; no show. Phoned them and was told that one bus was broken down and one in terrible traffic. So be wary of the reliability to see the catacombs.
Otto Fafoglia <email>
Chatham, Il USA Tue 11/23/2004
Hotel Italia
While there are some positives to this hotel (location, staff, breakfast), we found the room to be very small, uncomfortable, and dingy. We also found the web page misleading, leading us to believe we'd be staying in a nicer place. All in all, I wouldn't recommend this hotel.
Chuck <email>
Phoenix, AZ USA Tue 11/23/2004
Very affordable luxury near airport
Shuttle bus to/from Fiumicino aiport (10 euro each way, available 24 hours but they double the price 8:30 pm- 4:30 am) to stay in great luxury, new inn called Euro House. Cost 79 euro for "double room used as single". I had a kitchenette with fridge/freezer stocked with yogurt, cakes, juice, creamers, still and sparkling water and beer (?), with individually packaged sweet croissants, coffee and teas at the cooktop (also had microwave). Lovely bath with shower, huge-thick terry towels, and large private balcony. Only two stories, has parking, within walking distance of eateries but in a quiet area.
I stayed there last day before flying out and after dropping off my luggage, the driver gave me a ride to a restaurant so I could make it before the (inevitable) 3 pm closing for lunch. Made for vacationers and business travelers, with lovely decor, tile floor, TV, phone and apparently both plug-in and WiFi net access. Mainly has suites with separate living room, I think I had their "economy" room (with balcony!). 3 km from Fiumicino on the parallel secondary road, not the highway, so you don't get stuck in rush hour traffic.
Diane Yaghoobian <email>
Pottstown, PA USA Tue 11/23/2004
Food, Wine, and B&B's in Rome!
According to the locals, the weather in Rome was "unusual" during our early November visit. It rained everyday! The chaos of traffic, gypsies, and long, unorganized lines didnt damper our spirits. We had excellent service at the Da Marta & Alida B&B, http://www.damarta.it. We had unbelievable guides with Icon Tours, www.icontours.com, (we avoided every line with them,) and the two best meals of our life at Armandos near the Pantheon, (Save room for the desert tray.) www.armandoalpantheon.it, and at a place called Lagana, I lost their card in the process of packing. I think they are near the Piazza Navonna.
Paris has taken second chair for the next few years. We hope to visit again, and we hear that March is still crowd free with little rain. Rick's book was helpful for filling in the gaps when we found a church or statue that was unexpected. For the most part there are artistic masterpieces in every corner of the city.
Samantha
Boston, MA USA Thu 11/18/2004
Update for next book
For train tickets Rick suggests going to Quo Vadas travel agency at Via del Conciliazone 22-24.We got our tickets here and it was fast and easy but the address is wrong. They are right on St. Peter’s square – un pietro san peter - on the left corner if you are looking at St. Peter’s.
Kristen <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Wed 11/17/2004
Dining in Rome
The main thing we found while in Rome is that if we didn’t have a reservation for dinner we didn’t get in. One night we went to five places before someone finally let us in. The first night we ate a block from the Pantheon – at Enoteca Caprinica and although it was the best wine suggestion we got on the entire the trip (Chianti classico riserva 2000 – il grigio de san felice for $35) the meal was not memorable.
The second night we ate at a Rick Steve’s suggested restaurant – Sacro e Profrano - and like others have mentioned – every single person had his book out. We thought it was funny and enjoyed it – but tried to venture on our own as well. We kept trying to go to Tulio based on friends recommendations (pretty close to the Spanish Steps and closed Sunday’s), but without reservations this place was impossible.
The last night we found a small place near our hotel in the heart of Rome on Via dei Spagnoli called Il Baccaro that had very creative food and was our best meal in Rome. And the Bric Maioli wine for $14 was our 2nd best suggestion and the best deal of the trip. Our hotel backed up to Ricks’ suggested gelato shop – Giolitti’d Gelataria – and it was yummy even though the man behind the counter swatted my hand when I was pointing out the flavor I wanted. Yikes. I liked the chain gelato place around the corner better – Gelato Della Palma – I guess there’s even one in NYC. Not original but the flavors are fun.
Kristen <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Wed 11/17/2004
Hotel Nazioanle e Montecitorio
We stayed at this hotel on our anniversary trip to Rome. It is in the higher price range in Rick’s book – we paid $238 euros a night over the last weekend in September, which seemed to be a busy time. This was one of only a handful of places that even had availability when we emailed a month before the trip. But thank goodness the other places were full because it was worth every penny. It is located in old Rome on a super quiet square with no traffic - one window in our room looked at the square and the other at the top of the pantheon. The room was huge – with a sitting room and bedroom, there was a huge spread in the restaurant for breakfast, and we could walk to everywhere – especially the 2 best gelato places . Highly recommended if you want to splurge.
Kristen <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Wed 11/17/2004
Bed and Breakfast Smart in Rome
We stayed 4 nights at Bed and Breakfast Smart in Rome and enjoyed our holidays . The rooms were large , comfortable and location was within walking sistance of most important sights . The host was friendly and helpful . We would like recommend this clean and nice B&B to anyone who needs to visit Rome on a budget . www.bandbromeitaly.com
Anna Garrett
New York, USA Tue 11/16/2004
Hotel Smeraldo
Stayed at Smeraldo 4 nights and found it to be 'ok'. The staff was not the most engaging but adequate. Found it to be clean as others have said. Steve's book is slightly wrong in its map locating it. Facing the church S.Andrea Apostle (on V.Emanual) go down the alley immediately to the 'right' of the church, turn left at the cafe on corner and there it is. I'd think it is a bit far to walk to from train station, so might consider a taxi. Plus he will drop you right at the door of Smeraldo. We had name and address written down to show driver. Cost us 26E for the trip.
Steve's book also mentions getting it for 120E rather than the going rate if you show his book. There is a catch. You only get the reduction if you forgo B-Fast! Hmmm? So you end up paying full price. The B-fast is not large but 'ok', I swear tho that you can read a book holding the slices of ham and cheese in front of it!! Pretty thin. All and all no real complaint.
The day prior to departing we asked them to arrange transport to FCO which they did for 50E flat fee. The PickUp taxi arrived on time, we also tipped driver 10E. This is the way rather than dinking with Trains to FCO. That would of cost another 26E plus tip, then 9.50E for each on shuttle so made real sense to take the PickUp to FCO right to the International Terminal. Much easier and cost about the same. I suggest arriving at FCO at least 2 1/2 hr before departure. Had to show passport 5 times, and boy you dont want to miss that flight!! Boarding is about 45 minutes prior.
Den <email>
Wi USA Fri 11/05/2004
Rome was chaos but we managed!
We were in Rome last week during the signing of the EU constitution. There were so many buses rerouted and then there was a big peace march. Things were crazy. Luckily we stayed at Nicolas Inn and they guided us around the city, pointing out places to avoid and telling us about certain sites that were closed. Without their help it would have been so difficult to see everything is just 3 days! They even helped us find a place to stay in Florence.
Dennis <email>
Detroit, MI USA Tue 11/02/2004
Hotel Rome
We loved our hotel in Rome. We stayed at the Hotel Oceania, in Rick's book. Great location. air conditioning, friendly and helpful staff!!
Lisa Eberhart <email>
Raleigh, NC USA Mon 11/01/2004
Private walking tour Rome
We had a great time in Rome. We had a wonderful private guide. He was knowledgable and flexible. We like to see a whole lot he could keep up with us! I would highly recommend him to anyone going to Rome. Fluent in Italian,saved us lots of time in lines etc...His name is Rich BrunnAmerican tour guide in Romewww.rome-day-tours.comcell phone in Italy 338-269-4683
Lisa Eberhart <email>
Raleigh , NC USA Mon 11/01/2004
Excellent Location..Excellent Place in Rome
I Highly reccomend to stay in Rome at ImperialB&B elegant and wonderfull INN at 300 meters from Spanish steps and 300 meters from the Main Station Termini. Cheap rate ..i have paied only 80 euro for 1 Junior suite double room.This accomodation is on 4th floor of a building frontal the ancient Theatre of Opera di Roma. Jacuzzi jet into the Shower with mosaic and marbles. Sat TV,safe box, bar in each room.Internet point.Excellent!!i have had a pleasant sytay in Rome..http://www.66imperialinn.com
lanier <email>
orgoen,Ma, Ma USA Mon 11/01/2004
Excellent good value bed and breakfast/hostel in Rome
I wanted to recommend a friendly, extremely clean and cheap hostel/bed and breakfast in Rome - the Kerouac Bed and Breakfast on Via Cavour near Termini. Great value for money (especially with continental breakfast included) and convenient location. I stayed in a single room but they also have double, triple and quad rooms (no dorm beds). Bathroom is down the hallway and no A/C in the summer. However, all in all, a very pleasant place to stay.Website is http://www.romanhostels.com/ Email is info@romanhostels.com and phone is +39 06 4743428.
Katya <email>
New York, NY USA Fri 10/29/2004
Hotel Paba, Rome
We loved staying in Hotel Paba. The ownwer, what a helpful lady!She was very kind,she did everything she could to make our stay very,very pleasent. 2 blocks away from the colosseum, is very well located. Wish I could say more great things about this hotel, but my English doesn't aloud me. But, if you can stay there, do it, you won't regret it.
Veronica Durazo <email>
Ensenada, BC Mex Wed 10/27/2004
Hotel
Hotels: We were in Rome from Oct 2 - Oct 8, 2004 and stayed at the Hotel Duca D'Elba near the colosium for the 1st 2 nights. The room was really small for $160 euros, but with a comfortable bed and nice bathroom. The service and genuine helpfullness of this hotel's staff was outstanding! They provided ice and and other amenties to help with an injured foot. Top notch breakfast; even when we missed it one morning, the management provided food and drinks without charging us.
The second part of our trip to Rome was spent at a renovated apartment through the Hotel Campo de Fiori. The same price of our Duca hotel, the apartment was extremely large (sleeps 4) with a full kitchen, separte hallway and bath, and allowing us to take advantage of the fresh produce in the nearby marketplace. Watch out however, as many of the apartments are very noisy (ours was right above a bar).
S and J <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Sat 10/23/2004
Good Hotel in Rome
My wife and I stayed at the Tulip Globus about 0.5 miles north of the main train station (Ferrovia) on Ippocrate St. This is very close to the university section and a 10 minute walk from the metro. Breakfast was served on the 5th floor dining room with glass walls on 2 sides and a few tables for outdoor eating - we had 82 degree weather - it was great. Folks at the hotel were very helpful.
Bob O'Brien <email>
Port Washington, NY USA Thu 10/21/2004
stop business
Please note that all of the rave reviews of some Hotels are completely biased. The same owners have posted all over the webs claiming they are wonderful..
none <email>
canaveral, Va, USA Tue 10/12/2004
Hotel Italia, Rome
This hotel is terrific. It's located on a quiet side street near the train terminal and has an elevator. My room was clean and quiet. Breakfast is served starting at 7:00 a.m. and is quite adequate, The staff is helpful and friendly and the front desk is staffed 24 hours per day. Highly recommended.
Steve <email>
Vista, CA USA Mon 10/11/2004
Family Trip to Rome, Florence, and Amalfi Coast
We had a great family trip to Italy this summer with our 3 sons, 17, 21, and 23. We used the Rick Steves guidebooks for Rome, Florence, and Italy(which we used for our trips to Capri, Sorrento, and Positano). We all loved them and found the information and suggestions just what we needed. We made the very most of our short time in each place by relying on the books and the suggestions we found on the Graffiti Wall before we left the USA.
Rome was our first stop. Our best experiences in Rome were due to the 2 wonderful guides that we met. We contacted Micaele Pavoncello for a tour of the Jewish Ghetto(pavoncellom@hotmail.com). What a delightful evening. She is so enthusiastic, articulate, and passionate about Rome, that we cannot wait to return. We would definitely call her first!
Also we arranged through our hotel for a private driver to visit a friend in the countryside. It was our good fortune to meet Roberto Perugia from www.LimousineAroundRome.itHe spoke many languages, but we enjoyed our conversations with him in English. He was so knowledgable and engaging that we already recommended him to friends that used his services for a time in Pompeii and Rome. We would recommend contacting these guides as they made our trip much more enjoyable and personal.
In Florence, our dinner reservations were outstanding, LaMaremma, LaGiostra, and IlLatini. Thanks! The Oltrarno walk was well worth it.
Our trips to Capri(don't miss the chairlift in Anacapri), Sorrento, and Positano were a whirlwind but so worth it. Even the water taxi rides were spectacular... DaConstantino was great for dinner, and the higher up on the hills you go, the meals seem to get better and better, and so does the view.
nancy hyatt <email>
dresher, pa USA Mon 10/11/2004
My endorsement
Went to some of the restaurants touted in his book and ate well each time. Highly recommend Il Rustichella near the Vatican. Worth the trip.Economical Abruzzo Villa Rentalhttp://www.angelfire.com/film/casale
stefano <email>
Valle San Giovanni (TE), Italy Fri 10/08/2004
Rome hotels and tips
Residence Cellini is fabulous. So was the convent, Casa di Santa Brigida where we stayed a week. Wonderful trip, glorious art, great food! However, just a couple of tips for neophytes to Rome. We were two women in our sixties (grey hair) and definitely had to be alert with taxi cab drivers. Despite the fact that we only used official taxis, about 50% percent of the time there were attempts to bump up the cost of a taxi. This varied from the taxi failing to put the meter on, starting the meter way too high, or the meter suddenly jumping up in price at the end of a trip. These attempts were mostly unsuccessful because we were alert and insisted on seeing the meter with the correct starting price. Primary rule - always verify that the meter is turned on and that the initial charge is correct and that the cost climbs up appropriately. Taxis are allowed to charge more at night, extra for baggage etc. so that is fine. If the cabbie is not responsive repeat your request for proper meter display.
I would say that this aspect of our trip was the only negative. Saw pickpockets but we were always safe because we used a money belt and did not let them get too physically close to us.Beware of unauthorized persons on trains attempting to help you put your baggage up on the rack, or helping you get a cart at the station and then requesting an exhorbitant fee. This is easily addressed by refusing the offer of help.
We always felt safe in Rome despite these petty annoyances and met many wonderful, helpful Italians - would repeat the trip in a minute!
Kathy Grant <email>
St. Paul, MN USA Wed 10/06/2004
Rome
The Hotel Oceania is well worth every penny...euro. The rooms were fantastic and the breakfast gave you too many options.
The Vatican - we went on Monday and the line by the Vatican Museum stretch arounds the walls in the morning. So we went to St. Peters first and then the Vatican Musuem after lunch..there was no line to get in then.
Colosseum - go to the Palatine Hill booth to get your combo tickets. We spent a nice walk through the Forum and the Palatine hill before we walked over to the Colosseum. Then we strolled past everyone on line and got in.
We got in the habit to set several sites that we wanted to see and then just strolled throughout Rome. It is much better when you are not rushing around.
R. Celona <email>
Pleasantville, NY USA Thu 09/30/2004
Great experience in Rome
Rome
I used most of Rick Steves suggestions for my first trip to Italy and had great success. The Giardino B&B in Rome was perfect, excellent location, clean quiet room, nice breakfast and helpful polite staff (especially Kate). Kate went out of her way to help us get a taxi on a rainy day and made sure all of her guests had an umbrella. A very affordable place for Rome, I dont know why you would need to spend more. The only draw back is two short flights of stairs, which for us was no big deal.
We loved Rome, I wish we could have spent more days there and I usually dont care for cities, but Rome is in a class of its own. I definately recommend getting with a tour group when going to a museum or the vatican, this is a great way to get the most out of your tour and time. We found the private tour groups affordable and available right at the front door of most places. Just wandering and getting lost in Rome was fun too.
We didnt have a bad meal in Rome and for us it felt very safe, of course we used common sense and kept our eye open. All of Rick Steves warnings about bus and train station pick pockets and scam artist kept me very aware, you could definately see the possibilities and the people, especially children, that were more than willing to take advantage of you. All in all, Rick Steves book was the only one I needed and I ran into many people that were carrying it around.
Heather Villavicencio <email>
San Rafael,, CA USA Wed 09/29/2004
cappucin crypt
its closed for renovations since dec 23,2003...we were very dissapointed that it wasnt open
brent kutz
memphis, tn USA Sun 09/26/2004
Rome
LODGING: Spring Hill House is an excellent hotel located two minutes walk from the Vatican Museum. A/C was great and had the best breakfast in Europe.
FOOD: Generally the food was a disappontment in Rome but the Spring Hill House had the best food and value in the area.
HIGHLIGHTS: Vatican Museum tour by the guidebook was excellent. Call up the Excavations office and book a tour under St. Peters. It costs 10 EURO and is limited to only 15 people - well worth it. Ostia Antica was amazing - easily could spend a day here. EUR is an interesting walk amongst the monuments of Mussolini's fascism. Take advantage of the day pass on the metro (4 EURO) - no problems with pickpockets.Enjoy.
Marc <email>
Greenwich, CT USA Wed 09/22/2004
Hotel Oceania, Rome
Rome - Hotel Oceania, Room 11, E138 per night for a double with a private bathroom, breakfast, small refrigerator, TV which we never turned on, and great air-conditioning. This hotel was right off Via Firenze near the police station (close to the Quirinal Palace), consequently we felt very safe wandering around our neighborhood late into the night because there were policemen at little "kiosks" along the streets and also guarding the entrance to most of the buildings around us. It was about a 10 minute brisk walk to the Pantheon.
Our room was spacious for Italian standards and very quiet. The hotel owners were extremely friendly and mapped out routes and shortcuts for us every morning on a map they provided to us. They speak excellent English and there is even a flat-panel plasma TV in the lounge if you want to watch TV in Rome for some reason...?? Breakfast was very nice and served by a maid in the breakfast room from 8am to 10am, though we fudged on the times a bit and it was never a problem.
We were most touched to find a bottle of excellent champagne, a note of congratulations, and 2 champagne flutes in out room when we first checked in. They must have checked our original email inquiry which stated we would be on our honeymoon. We have already contacted Hotel Oceania about staying there for a night this coming May when we will be passing through Rome again.
Jill Briesch <email>
Denver, CO USA Wed 09/15/2004
2004 Rome guidebook
I would like to suggest two corrections to the Rome 2004 guidebook. P. 199, "The city had been sacked by the Vandals in 410."Actually in 410, the city was sacked by the Visigoths under their chieftain, Alaric.P. 136: re Tabularium as "Built in the first century A.D...." The date should be first century B.C.The Tabularium was built by Q. Lutatius Catulus during his consulship of 78 B.C. See L. Richardson, jr. A New Topographical Dictionary of Ancient Rome (Baltimore: Johns Hopkins University Press, 1992), p. 376.
Carroll <email>
Salt Lake City, UT USA Tue 09/14/2004
I posted notes about our trip on Monday. There is one correction- the Naples/Pompeii tour was booked online at Grayline.com, not Greyhound.
Sowmya Prakash <email>
Hartford, CT USA Wed 09/08/2004
Best of Europe
Thank you, Thank you and Thank you, Rick Steves! Our trip to Italy and Austria was a dream come true – planned entirely with your books ( Italy 2004, Europe 2004 and Mona Winks). We were especially pleased with the recommended accommodations.
In Rome, Hotel Oceania was central, clean, and on a quiet street. The staff was friendly and polite.
Hotel Bellettini in Florence was exceptional! The Hotel was located on a quiet street and yet very close to everything – the Market, Duomo and the station. The staff went out of their way to make everything comfortable. Maria Theresia was helpful and patient, inspite of a phone that rang constantly! Gina helped us check in early (10AM)! There was a man and his assistant (unfortunate that we do not know their names) who were in charge of the Breakfast. They really made our day with their cheerful –Buon giorno! - and great service!
Hotel Campiello in Venice was a great value –clean elegant place in an excellent location!
In Salzburg, Hotel Trumer Stube was a nicely located place close to the sights. The only unsettling thing for us was that there were no phones in the room and the Staff left for the night. They did have information posted in case of emergency (phone numbers to call etc) Silvia (the owner) and the staff were very helpful in every way. In Vienna, the NH Atterseehaus was a great value –beautiful, exceptionally clean family suite for 78 euros a night, plus it is on Mariahilfer Street which I think is an excellent location. We also stayed at their sister property next to the Airport which was very convenient.
The only walking tours we did were in Rome with Roman Odyssey tours. They were exceptional! Rahul took us on the Ancient City Tour (Colisseum and the Roman Forum). It was a pleasure to be with this fine young man – he balanced the info very well with humor and short anecdotes. Same goes for Morgan, who took us on the Vatican Tour (It was almost a private tour as there was just another couple with us). Certainly one of the highlights of our trip! Highly recommend their tours.The Bus tour arranged by Greyhound (booked in the US) to Naples and Pompeii (with a local guide) was quite good. It included lunch in Pompeii which was very good. We followed your suggestions and called ahead to book tkts for Uffizi, Accademia, Borghese and even Nero’s House. Glad we did!
We had trouble getting good service at restaurants in Rome. Some of the waiters were downright rude (particularly a pizzeria in Piazza Navona – second from the right as you enter the Piazza from the Pantheon side) But, we were in for a delightful surprise at Caffe Dello Studente run by Mauro. He treated us exceptionally well and Rita the waitress was great. The food was excellent! They definitely made our trip memorable by their warm hospitality. In Florence, most of the restaurants we went to were pretty good (couple next to the Lorenzo Market), and Ristorante il Sasso di Dante. The waitress was so sweet – she offered us wine on the house and bought our daughter a rose (a souvenir to be cherished in her album!) Of special mention are two Indian eateries – Haveli close to the train station in Florence (a Punjabi restaurant –spicy north Indian cuisine) and Spicy Spices in Salzburg (clean food, great value) Also, the service and food at the Italian restaurant in the Sternbrau Inn (Salzburg)was good. We were impressed with the McDonalds in Vienna. Huge exceptionally clean place, efficient staff.
Again, thank you ! We definitely will not travel Europe without your book. Happy Travels!
Sowmya Prakash <email>
Hartford, CT USA Mon 09/06/2004
Hotel Nardizzi, Rome
My family and I recently went to Rome, and want to recommend Hotel Nardizzi. The staff were very helpful and friendly - one even took my husband around the city to find a camera repair shop. It is within walking distance from the train station as well as such sites as the Forum, Trevi fountain, and Spanish Steps.
Laurie Akers <email>
Marysville, WA USA Tue 08/31/2004
Include prices please.
I see many posts of hotels but not many that include Price? How about doing that too and maybe what you paid for different things. Just trying to figure out a budget!
DB <email>
USA Mon 08/30/2004
Rome with kids
Before departing for a week in Rome, we had very little luck finding information on fun diversions for our 7 and 5 year old boys. The Time Elevator was the only thing that came up on search engines. (I did not need the jostling it gave me, but the kids loved it.)
After we arrived in Rome, we found a great brochure called, "Rome With Kids," at a tourist information center near the central train station. This little green brochure, listed parks, puppet shows, and events designed for "little" kids, not teenagers. Definately pick one up if you are traveling with little ones.
At the Vatican City, we picked up a great tour with Steve from Icon Tours. The kids loved him, he was spirited and the adults had a great time too. We also took their tour of the Colosseum with Naomi and we feel we could not have been more fortunate. The kids became immune to the heat, and kept right beside Naomi the whole time. Also, you definately want to splurge for Taxi Cabs, they are not that expensive. We found the price averaged from our hotel to be around 7. Euros. The buses are just way to confusing and crowded with kids.
Patti Jacobsen
Atlanta, GA USA Mon 08/30/2004
Albergo il Sole in Le Spezia, Italy
Albergo il Sole in Le Spezia, Italy is a very good value. The staff is very friendly and helpful. The rooms are clean but hotel itself is nothing special and you share toilet and shower down the hall. The price and the staff make this a great place to stay.
Stacey Klein <email>
Minneapolis, MN USA Tue 08/17/2004
Rome feedback
Just spent 3 days in Rome. Here's my feedback:
(1) We visited EUR (the Mussolini-designed suburb) and as best as we could tell, the map in the Rick Steves' Italy guide listed the Metro stations incorrectly. Might want to check on this.
(2) Keep in mind that pickpockets don't always look like stereotypical criminals. On the subway, I caught a nicely dressed, bored-looking middle-aged woman with a shopping bag reaching around behind her to slip her hand into my husband's (empty) back pocket, just before she got off at a station. I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it with my own eyes. Rick is right: wear your money belt.
(3) The "Time Elevator" is mentioned in the guidebook as an attraction to visit only if you're tired and hot. OK. In Rome, in August, you are always tired and hot. But as we learned, you shouldn't go to the Time Elevator at ALL, unless you have little kids. It is staggeringly silly and uninformative and not at all restful, with all that jolting around in your motion-simulator seats. I think the guidebook should emphasize the cheesiness more. Somehow I had the idea that it would be more like an IMAX movie about the history of Rome. Wrong.
(4) The Hotel Smeraldo was well-air-conditioned, well-situated, and I will love the front desk staff guy forever, because he let us check into our room at 8 AM after an exhausting night train from Venice. He saw our bleary-eyed misery and took pity on us. Kind soul.
(5) I don't think the guidebook mentions the buses (e.g. Terravision) that run from outside the train station to the smaller airport, Ciampino, where the budget airlines like RyanAir fly. You can buy tickets at the Hotel Stromboli on Via Marsala (which also has pay Internet kiosks for you to kill time while you wait.)
(6) We saw the Vatican Museum and St. Peter's in the afternoon (starting around 1:30 pm) and had no trouble with crowds. Rick's suggestion to sneak out the rear door in the Sistine Chapel is a great one (it's marked "groups only" but no one stopped us) -- it let us out right at the end of the line for the St. Peter's dome. The wait to buy tickets to the dome was only about 10 minutes (Thursday at 3pm). We did the dome first, and then when we exited the dome, it deposited us right into the interior of St. Peter's. Worked out great! I recommend that if you're remotely religious, step quietly into a private-prayer section (e.g. Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament) -- incense, candles, nuns and priests and laypeople from all over the world sitting or kneeling in prayer... really moving.
(7) And last but not least, if like me you are overwhelmed by Rome during the long, hot summer days, wait until twilight. Both Rome and Venice become completely different places as the sun sets. Calmer, cooler, more romantic... Rick's Night Walk through Rome was great. The Pantheon in particular looked completely different when we saw it at 9 am and again at 9 pm. Oh, and I had amazing gelato at Tre Scalini (on Piazza Navona) about 5 times... mmm...
M. T. Benson <email>
Cambridge, MA USA Mon 08/16/2004
GREAT BOOKS FOR ALL
My Boyfriend and I spent two weeks Italy in May/June. I was in charge of "planning the trip." So weeks go by and still I hadn't done my homework.(Buying the travel books doesn't count BTW!) The day we left I chose two books to grab...figuring I would plan the trip on the fly. (pun intended) Thank the stars I chose Ricks Steves books!!!
Background: My boyfriend and I are A list world travelers. what I mean by this is we are in our early 30's hit about 3 to 4 countries per year. Attend parties A-list events all over.(I work in film). Not bragging, giving you the idea of our lifestyle. I was at first cautious to follow a "guide" book because we like to do things...with a twist of style. I am telling you I followed to the T-Rick's plan of walking tours, etc thru both Rome and Florence. It was on target!!! ... his side comments on everything even little things on the target! Who needs a private guide?? We had an incredible time... My BF thought I had spent weeks preparing!! (I finally told him the truth about Rick's book.) We leave for Greece Tuesday and are disappointed that he doesn't have a Greece book... esp.. with the Olympics there this year!! Anyway.. I personally would like a guide book to life Mr. Steves... and thanks for writing a book that appeals to all!
Cat <email>
New Orleans, La USA Wed 08/11/2004
Free Walking tours in Rome
Free Walking tours in Rome
My fiance and I spent 3 wonderful days in Rome this past July. A highlight of the trip was however the wonderful walking tours given by Tony and his 3 Millennia Tours team (www.threemillennia.com). We actually just ran into them by accident while stumbling around the Forum. We took four of their tours. Two free and two we paid for. Well worth the investment. They really brought the city to life. I will never forget the Bill Clinton statue in the Vatican museum.
Andrew Bartels <email>
Baltimore, MD USA Wed 08/11/2004
Rome
We want to thank Rick for all of his helpful hints about Rome. His book was a lifesaver as this was our first trip to Italy. He never steered us wrong. We stayed at the Residenza Frattina near the Spanish Steps. It was a great location as we walked everywhere. Andreas spoke English and helped us with transportation to and from the airport. We sampled the restaurants nearby that were recommended and were never disappointed. We booked a private tour of the Vatican and St. Peters for the 4 of us with Roman Odyssey
and were so glad we did. We would not have been able to digest so much without someone knowledgeable to guide us. Rick's book was our bible! Just bring a lot of euros!
S. Fontana <email>
Richland, WA USA Wed 08/11/2004
About Roman and Italian B&B in Rome
We are a group of seven people and were searching for a place to stay in Rome . We found several links in Internet but weren’t convinced us ….
Searching more we found this link : Rick Steve’s and getting inside it we had a nice surprise finding Graffiti Wall with reviews about B&B’s around Europe
The biggest surprise was to see a Romanian man running a B&B in Rome….by the way , we are Romanians also. Marco was very helpful in giving details about how to manage our one-week vacation in the best way
Opening the link of this B&B we saw the photos of the rooms and likes them but the big surprise was to discover that are more gorgeous in reality than in the web and we felt like home, very clean rooms with air conditioning. We were expecting to find here a simple standard accommodation. It is not fancy, but you will find here all the necessary things to make you feel comfortable.
Travelling in Europe, we always choose 3-4 - star hotels, but we were intrigued seeing all those good reviews about Roman and Italian B&B.
BREAKFAST ???? more than enough …. Two kind of cereals fresh bread every single day even Sunday when supermarkets are closed in Rome milk and all this stuff . is a pretty big table with food : buffet
The locations was very good having the subway in front of the building, but you can also walk to all the important historic sites. For example we walked even to Vatican and we had a wonderful 45 minutes walk, as we found many other beautiful sights in our way. From the B&B to the Spanish Steps it is 5 – stop subway far (about 4-5 minutes)…the point is that we saved money staying here maybe triple less that staying in a hotel right in front of Piazza di Spagna.
Now we know what we have to do: we’ll let other people know about our fantastic vacation here. Feel free to contact us for more details.
Sincerely, Raluca, Puiu, Marius, Ionela, Cristina, Bogdan and Raluca G. <email>
Bucharest, Romania , RO Tue 08/10/2004
Hotel Italia
My daughter and I just returned from our trip to Europe. We loved the places we stayed except one in Levanto which I felt was very overpriced . I did enjoy Hotel Italia in Rome.It was inexpensive and yet very professional, friendly,helpful as well as being near the Colisseum and many other sights. Rick is right though. Rome is a city to take a taxi in. We got lost coming back from the Colisseum on our first night, and it was a bit disconcerting with a 13 year old. Nadine helped us get our bearings, and then we had no more problems. The breakfast was wonderful and the people were great. I wouldn't stay any where else.
Valerie in Seattle
Valerie <email>
Seattle, WA USA Sat 08/07/2004
Hotel and Tour in Rome
My friend and I used Rick's suggestion of the Hotel Giardino! It was very nice. We were very happy there. I enjoyed every minute! The owner Kate is really nice and the two gentlemen in the evening were very nice as well! One of the guys in the evening gave us a fantastic suggestion for a restuarant nearby called "Ristorante Scanderbeg" we ended up eating there all 3 nights! It was fantastic!
The hotel was so central to 99 percent of the sights! It was amazing being literally 5 mins walk from Trevi Fountain and 5 mins walk from the Colosseum! Fantastic!
We also used Rick's suggestion for Roman Odessey tours for the Vatican! We had a great tour guide named Geneiveve. She was very knowledgeable and we only had 4 people in the group! It was fantastic!
MD USA Tue 08/03/2004
A great Tour in Rome
I had the pleasure of having Stefano guide me through the Colosseum and I have been forever spoiled. In perfect English, he addresses not only the history of the Colosseum, but he also dispenses practical advice.
It was a very special tour for me. Without question, after 25 years of travel, this is the best tour I've ever taken. Don't miss Rome and don't go without Roman Promenades. nwww.romanpromenades.com
Calvin Hund
San Francisco , CA USA Tue 08/03/2004
"A Charming Oasis"
Santa Maria was our last night in Rome. A family of 4, we appreciated the quiet, comfortable private accomodations. We knew from the literature, Santa Maria had been renovated, perhaps created, just a few years ago. Our room with 2 single beds below, and a king size above was perfect. Thanks to the friendly night desk staff, they suggested & directed us to a splendid restaurant to top off our week in Italy. Tours for the Vatican and the Colosseum with Roman Promenades were great. In the morning, while we savored the ample breakfast spread in peacefull surroundings, the staff quickly arranged for our door to door transfer to the airport. As we drove away, the bells of nearby Santa Maria Tresteve announced the time, and chimed a promise, we shall return. Grazie
Bents Ralph
New York, NY USA Wed 07/28/2004
Hotel Residenza Cellini
Residenza Cellini in Rome is fabulous in every way. It is more like staying in the home of a rich and kindly friend than staying in a hotel. The location is perfeft as a jumping off point for all of Rome, the staff count not be more helpful, and the rooms are a joy to be in. My family and I loved it.
Mark Gately <email>
Baltimore, MD USA Tue 07/27/2004
Cinque Terre - Don't miss it!
We stayed at a fabulous B&B (recommended by Rick Steves) in Manarola, Cinque Terre.It was at the top of the town 'hill' close to the church. We had a two-bedroom suite on the second floor of La Torrettas. The B&B was very modern, spacious and our rooms had views of the hillside vineyards as well as the sea. We had breakfast on the terrace which also had the same spectacular views. The owner was very gracious and hospitable. Although it didn't have a typical beach, we were happy to stay in this town versus the others because of La Torrettas. Our teenage daughters enjoyed their room with a balcony overlooking the sea, the Monterosso beach, as well as the shops in all of the towns. They took advantage of the Internet place in Vernazza to correspond with friends from home. During our 4-day stay, we ate dinner in several restaurants and weren't disappointed at all. The Cinque Terre wine as well as their pesto spread on homemade focaccia bread were truly memorable taste treats. I'd recommend a visit to Cinque Terre, the hikes between the towns and La Torrettas B&B to everyone.
Mary Bentlage
NY USA Mon 07/26/2004
Vatican problems
Oh, Rick please warn people in the future that if you go through a portion of the Vatican, you cannot go back. My husband & I were split up and lost over an hour in the Vatican. If you don't eat in the first portion, there's no food or water until you reach the streets. If you run through St. Peter's while your spouse climbs the tower, don't leave the steps of the Basillica. After you have gone into the square, you're stuck. You cannot get back to the exit, without going all the way around and paying again.
Please also advise people that the Vatican is the least marked landmark in Europe.We stood in the line for the tower for an hour and no one knew for sure why we were all in line! The good news was that I was able to exchange the $500 American dollars I had been carrying around for over a week for no exchange rate in the Vatican.It's a great place to book your reservation for Accademia but remember the phone cards for the Vatican, only work in the Vatican.Also you must have knees covered in St. Peter's, even while walking up the tower stairs.
rheann <email>
Corsicana, TX USA Fri 07/23/2004
Hotel Giuliana
While not in Rick Steve's Rome book, my wife and I stayed in Hotel Giuliana for one evening during our last trip to Rome, based on a referral from the nearby Hotel Paba. The quality of the hotel was excellent, and we would definitely stay again. The hotel was centrally located just off the busy main streets, within easy walking distance to the train station, metro, and the rest of the city. While AC was extra, we didn't need it as our room opened out onto an interior courtyard, and the breeze at night through the open window was refreshing. The room was clean and well-kept, with marble floors, comfortable beds, and an extraordinarily large private bath. Breakfast was included on premises, and the proprietor was extremely helpful and personable, even sitting down at breakfast with us to talk. Overall an excellent experience!
David McLaughlin <email>
Fairhope, AL USA Tue 07/20/2004
Us in Rome July 3-6, 2004
We found our hotel on Worldby.com since in the guidebook it did not have very many options for staying by the Spanish Steps. We like to shop so this is where we like to be located. We stayed at Hotel Carriage on Via delle Carroze. It was ok. Good service though and the best location for shopping on Condotti and Corso.
We did use the book for everything else. We went to Ristorante alla Rampa at the base of the Steps and it was fantastic food. Fun and crazy atmosphere. Lots of Italians eating here to. We ate here twice. Order the roasted mushrooms (trust me). The service is kind of harried because it is so busy but so what. We used the book to book our tours ahead of time to the Vatican (saved 3 hrs of line time) and to the Colisieum (saved 1-2 hrs). We filled our water bottles at every fountain in every piazza and the water is delicious as Rick says in his books. Also, not in the book, but a fantastic restraunt to try is called Ristorante '34' on Via Mario de Fiori # 34 near the Spanish Steps. We ate the best Sole (fish) of our lives!
Mark & Tracy <email>
Costa Mesa, CA USA Tue 07/20/2004
Hotel Paba -- EXCELLENT!
The Hotel Paba, located just a couple of blocks from the Colliseum and the Roman Forum, really made my wife and my's recent vacation to Rome. It's centrally located, and easy to walk to pretty much anything in the city. The rooms are clean and neat and include air conditioning. A breakfast voucher for the cafe across the street is included. The proprietor, Alberta Castelli, was extremely helpful and trusting; before we arrived, she knew that she was booked the first night of our stay, but she assured us she would be able to find us a place somewhere. After we arrived from the train station, she found us another room for the first night that even matched Hotel Paba's price! In addition, she helped us navigate the buses to find far-flung attractions such as the Catacombes, gave us a free, detailed map of Rome, and did everything she could to make our stay enjoyable. We would definitely stay again! Molte grazie!
David McLaughlin <email>
Fairhope, AL USA Tue 07/20/2004
BEWARE of the NOT OFFICIAL TOURIST GUIDES
Beware