Suggestions for post-cruise

[steelerfan7]

We are on the Royal Clipper out of Civitavecchia and cruising the Amalfi Coast & Sicily for 7 days in May. Tentative plan is to arrive into Milan (only flight available with mileage) on Friday and take the train straight to Rome that afternoon. Evening and next day in Rome before heading to the port on Saturday. After the cruise, we planned on heading back to Rome that Saturday and finishing our sightseeing that afternoon and evening. We have Sunday and Monday to fill, before flying out of Milan on Tuesday afternoon and are looking for suggestions. Options include hanging in Florence for a day and then a day trip to the Tuscan countryside, or maybe Siena; going to Venice; or going to Cinque Terre. Our concern is that all of our time will be spent on trains if we try to do too much.

 

We appreciate any advice or suggestions you may have.

[Twickenham]

Given your time constraints, I would opt for Florence, because it is both easy to do in a couple of days and on the main Rome-Milan train line, so minimizing travel time.

[TMLAalum]

Given your time constraints, I would opt for Florence, because it is both easy to do in a couple of days and on the main Rome-Milan train line, so minimizing travel time.

 

I echo this plan. We spent 3 nights in Florence out of our 8 days in the Tuscany region and still did not see all the highlights. I'd suggest booking a hotel there and if you've been to Florence before, then a day tour booked via Artviva or another touring company to the Tuscan countryside or to Siena would be viable options. You'd be in one place for both nights and have the 2 days "to fill". Just remember that expression "less is more" so savor (or as that annoying Travelocity gnome says "Stop & smell the roses!") vs. kill time during those extra days enroute from Rome to Milan!

Edited December 16, 2013 by TMLAalum

[euro cruiser]

I agree, Florence makes the most sense other than spending even more time in Rome. It's not as though you'll exhaust Rome's offerings, but I can understand the desire to fit in one more location.

[kuldalai]

If you base yourself in Firenze then you can easily train it to Sienna ( 90 mins), Lucca (90 mins), or Pisa (60 mins).

[maryann ns]

If you plan ahead and get tickets you could have a wonderful day in Milan, seeing "The Last Supper" and visiting the cathedral, etc.