Lake Como, Venice, Florence and Rome August 2005

(181 Reviews)
100% Recommended

Deborah Mitchell

Kansas City, MO
River/Ocean Cruise and All-Inclusive Specialist

I've always been something of a wanderer, having moved on a regular basis as a young child. I was lucky to have many national parks as my backyard, giving me opportunities to explore: Zion National Park, Everglades National Park, Shenandoah Nation...

Deb on the Grand Canal in Venice

Another agent in the office and I went to Italy on a land tour trip sponsored by Celebrity Cruises.  Cassie and I flew into Milan, rented a car and drove to Lake Como.  We stayed there for 2 nights and experienced it to the fullest.  The hotel that we stayed in was lovely, right on the lakeshore.  We, also, took a ferry ride to Bellagio and had lunch.  I loved the town of Bellagio, so quaint!


We drove on to Venice and dropped of the car rental, found our water-taxi transfer and headed over to the Hotel Bellini, where we stayed for 2 nights.  The first night we had a group dinner in a lovely restaurant in one of the many alleyways.   The second night was a very memorable dinner, as one of the group members had a cousin working as a chef at the Hotel Bauer, 5 star hotel.  It was quite the dinner showcasing his talents, and tasting good wine. Venice is a walking city, full of labyrinthian streets and tons of bridges (usually requiring steps up and down again), so wear your most comfortable shoes.


We took the high-speed train to Florence, where we stayed at the Hotel Astoria for 2 nights.  I absolutely LOVED Florence, as it is a great walking city.  No question -- Florence is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.  We Visited the Duomo, also known as the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, is one of the world's largest.   we, also,  got to see Ponte Vecchio, the most famous bridge in Florence; this one's lined with tourist-oriented shops selling mostly jewelry.  Florence is home to many Renaissance masterpieces. One of the world's best-known statues, Michelangelo's David, is the stunning (and colossal) high point of a visit to the Accademia, where art-lovers will find much else to admire, as well.   


I took a train one afternoon to Pisa, so I could see the Leaning Tower of Pisa....so I have been there, done that.


Next, we took the high-speed train on into Rome and stayed 2 nights at the Hotel Cicerone.  I loved the walking tour that we did near Piazza Navona, the Spanish Steps, and the Pantheon.  We, also, did the tour at the Colliseum.  The next day was spent visiting the Vatican Museums and St Peters.  I am so glad that I experienced that.


This was by far, one of my most favorite trips that I have taken.


 


 


 


 

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