Italian Triple Centre with A World Wonder
This was an excellent tour. Starting out in Rome the hotel was conveniently located near the train station. We used the Big Bus for transportation to both our tour-provided excursions and on our free days we were able to use it to get around as well. We very much enjoyed the Coliseum/Forum tour. This was a highlight as was the Crypt and Catacomb tour. We had the option for the Big Bus night tour, but it was the same loop as the day trips we took and wasn't the greatest. On our free day we were able to visit Vatican City and the Victor Emmanual monument. We also were close enough to walk to Trevi fountain, used the Big Bus to see the Spanish Steps and Pantheon. I think we were able to cover all the bases while in Rome, maybe next time getting to Castle San Angelo and walking the Via Veneto. Florence was definitely a highlight of the tour. Once again Hotel Desiree was located near the train station. Superb staff. We made it down to the Uffizi, Duomo and Ponte Vecchio during our free time. However it would have been prudent to note that attractions such as the sculpture of David and the Duomo Cupola sell out months in advance and if we wanted to do them on our own to book them well in advance. Our half-day trip to Pisa was well guided and we had enough time in town to see the tower. Our full-day tour of Tuscany was fine as well. The local guide did confuse us a little when he was pointing out the possible chocolate and other "tastings" we could partake in San Gimignano and the stop in Monteriggioni was a little to early to experience all the shops and such. And we were only there for such a short amount of time it was a small letdown. But the winery visit and Siena were worth it. The train to Venice was easy and the hotel was once again literally across the street from the train station. Two things to note here, I wouldn't suggest the private-booth seats (1-4) in business class because if you are travelling with luggage it is pretty hard to store it in that booth. You'll have to hunt for space further down the carriage. And when arriving outside Venice in Mestre (where we stayed) to pick up the two-day travel pass it would be best to watch a You Tube video where it shows you can do it directly at a bus stop kiosk because most newsagents take cash only and it ate up my remaining Euros. Getting in and out of Mestre to Venice was simple and we had a great time! Our local guide Denise (working with Wanderful Holidays) was excellent! She did our St. Mark's & Doge's Palace tour, gondola ride and our walking tour. And she was great! Very informative, able to set up meeting places with ease, helped us navigate the waterways and gave us great tips for eating. And we enjoyed the day trips to Murano and Verano as well. All in all this relaxed tour with free days in Rome and Florence was excellent. A great mix of inclusions and free time to book our own sightseeing.
