Whatever type of vacation you’re looking for, anything from a beach holiday to a city break, Italy is a fantastic destination that caters for all needs. Flying to Italy from the UK is no problem at all, with regular routes from Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool, Edinburgh and London airports. If you’re someone who plans ahead, booking flights to Italy a few months in advance can save you lots of money.

Rome is considered by many to be the cultural capital of Europe, if not the world. Italy’s capital is home to some great architectural wonders such as the Great Colosseum, the Piazza della Repubblica, the Trevi Fountain, and the Sistine Chapel. Located in the heart of the capital is the Vatican City, and St Peter’s square is something you simply have to visit when in the vicinity. The sheer beauty of the city makes it an ideal place for a romantic break abroad.

In addition to Rome, Italy is full of other vibrant and must-see cities. There is Milan with its beautiful cathedrals, Naples with its unique architecture, Venice with its network of waterways, and the Roman edifices of Verona. . Nearly all of Italy’s cities boast a rich historic heritage and are distinctive in one way or other, take Pisa, for example, with its Leaning Tower.  You can get cheap flights to Verona and all of Italy’s other major cities from the links below.

What’s so fantastic about Italy is that there is also so much to do outside of the country’s great cities. With the Alps to the North and the Appennine Mountains forming the peninsula’s backbone, the country houses some astounding places of natural beauty. Throughout the country there are some scenic lakes, of which Lake Garda is perhaps the most well known, as well as some quintessential small towns and villages.

The country’s mountainous region also makes it a great location for all kinds of outdoor sports and activities. Whether you’re keen to go bungee jumping, rock-climbing or kayaking, there will plenty of opportunities for you. Keen on Skiing? Italy has some fabulous skiing resorts, such as those at Alagna Valsesia and Courmayeur, that offer some amazing pistes.

While you’re in the country it’s definitely worth taking a trip to the iconic ruins at Pompeii. Having been buried under the ash an eruption at Mount Vesuvius, the city is near-perfectly preserved to present the best depiction ever of life in the Roman Empire.

If you’re someone who enjoys more of a quieter holiday, then Italy has a coastline that stretches some 7,600 kilometers that is strewn with secluded golden beaches. If you’re enjoying a family holiday, then there are plenty of beach resorts such as San Remo that cater for adults and children alike.

Whatever you’re after, Italy has it. It’s a fantastic country that boasts a friendly and accommodating atmosphere as well as some of the most beautiful buildings and landscapes anywhere in the world. And what’s more, there are plenty of budget airlines that will take you there for a very reasonable price.

Guest post by cheapflights.co.uk

Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours specializes in providing personalized Italy travel services designed for the independent traveler visiting Italy with family and children, with his/her business partners or simply on his/her own! Based in Rome, Italy Nancy Aiello Tours offers a wide range of top quality Italy travel services for the demanding Italy visitor who wants to enjoy Italy art and history, Italian food and made in Italy shopping in comfort and style. We are glad to offer our privileged guests private Italy transfers by fully insured a/c Mercedes Benz limo and minivans, Italy V.I.P. concierge services, Italy accommodation tips, Italy tour planning services, private guided skip the line Italy museum private guided visits, and more.

Italy Private Guided Tours Tour Italy at your family pace with Nancy Aiello Tours of Italy

Ciao from Italy

Nancy Aiello @ ItalyTravelista.com

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The 2010 edition of The Vatican Museums by Night will continue on September and October 2010 every Friday from 7.00 pm to 11.00 pm. Book your Vatican by night tickets early to avoid disappointment!

The Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel with more than four million visitors every year, more than 7 kilometers of alleys and more than 1400 rooms to tour host one of the most incredible collections of art and masterpieces in the world enjoyed by independent travelers and families with kids alike. The Vatican Museums are among the greatest museums in the world displaying works from an immense collection going back to ancient Rome times built up over the last 5 centuries by the Holy See starting with Pope Julius II who founded the Vatican Museums in the 16th century.

Rome visitors every Friday night on September and October 2010 have this truly memorable opportunity to enjoy the 2010 edition of the Vatican afterhours tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.

By touring the Vatican by night visitors are able to admire not only the breathtaking collections that include the Upper Galleries of the Vatican Museums (Candelabra, Tapestries and Maps), the Raphael rooms and the Sistine Chapel but will also have access to the Egyptian Museum, the memorable Pio-Clementino Museum and it’s Octagonal Courtyard home to some of the best Vatican’s classical statuary.

That’s just the beginning with more good news for October 2010 with the exceptional events «Che c’è di bello» that blend music, theater, cultural and art exhibitions. To attend these Vatican by night events tickets must be reserved in advance through the Vatican State official website or by contacting our VIP Vatican consultants that will be glad to design a one of a kind Vatican by night itinerary customized just for our guests in Rome.

These memorable artistic and cultural shows will start at around 8,30 PM and last for about an hour leaving then plenty of time to continue the tour of the Vatican and will be performed at some stunning Vatican venues such as the Terrazze della Pinacoteca, with its breathtaking views over the St. Peter’s Dome, the Gregorian Profane Museum, Raphael Loggia, the Cortile della Pigna (courtyard of the pine cone), part of the much older Cortile del Belvedere, and also in the so called Braccio Nuovo, a masterpiece of Rome neoclassical architecture.

Here below please find the detailed Vatican events scheduled for October 2010:

• Friday October 1st «Arte della leggerezza e leggerezza nell’arte” with music by Barber, Grieg, Debussy and Milhaud (Terrazze della Pinacoteca)
• Friday October 8th : « Spes mea cara. Omaggio a Maria» with Maestro Luca Salerno (Salone di Raffaello)
• Friday October 15th «Australian Night» meetings with the aboriginal Australian culture and a show performed by Australians aborigines with an introduction by Nereda White (Terrazze della Pinacoteca enhanced by a visit to Missionary Ethnological Museum
• Friday October 22nd Traditional Russian music conducted by the Moscow’s Cathedral Choir (Cortile della Pigna-Propilei enhanced by a visit to the Icons’ Room in The Vatican Pinacoteca museum)
• Friday October 29th Il Bel Canto at the Museum with music from Verdi’s Il Trovatore

Would you like to tour the Vatican Museums with Nancy Aiello Tours? Please, contact Nancy Aiello Tours to learn more about our fun and comprehensive private guided Vatican City tour designed just for you and your party. Professional Italy tour planning company Nancy Aiello Tours provides private guided Vatican and Rome tours, Florence tours, Venice private excursions with English, Mandarin Chinese, Spanish, French, German and Russian speaking qualified licensed Vatican touristic guides.

For your private guided tours of Italy contact Nancy Aiello Tours at info@nancyaiellotours.com

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

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© Copyright 2010, Nancy Aiello Tours

Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours specializes in personalized private guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers including underground Rome and her hidden treasures.

New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

If you are interested in publishing a version of this article please contact Nancy Aiello Tours.

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Touring Rome with your family? Check out our NEW Family Rome Tour Website

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1. Travel to Rome | A Day at the Vatican | Vatican Tips
2. Rome by Night | Walking Tour of Rome | Free Rome Tour
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Explore Rome, the Eternal City after dark! Rome lovers think Rome is most beautiful at night when its ancient Rome landmarks, St. Peter’s Square and Rome’s magnificent renaissance squares and baroque fountains designed by Bernini and Michelangelo are illuminated in all their glory! Beside it’s another thing to do in Rome for FREE! ItalyTravelista has three walking Rome tours to suggest where parents and children alike can enjoy the charme and elegance of Rome at night at their own pace!

Tour Ancient Rome by Night

Start off your illuminated Rome tour at Piazza Venezia Square to enjoy the Vittoriano Monument and ask your kids whether the huge white monument looks more like a “Wedding Cake” or a “Typewriter”! Then proceed along Via dei Fori Imperiali where on your left is Trajan’s Column and on your side the ancient Roman Forum. In the background rises the majestic Coliseum and to its right the Constantine’s Arch built in 315 AD. Turn right and take Via di San Gregorio until you reach Via dei Cerchi. Turn right and on your left you will see the Circus Maximus where the famous chariot races depicted in the Ben Hur movie took place while on your right rises the magnificent Imperial Rome palaces of the Palatine Hill. Walk the length of the Circus Maximus and turn right onto Via di San Gregorio. On your left stands the Arch of Janus built around 356 AD by Constantius II just next to the beautiful medieval Church of St. George al Velabro and further ahead on your right take a peek at the unusual circular 6th century Church of San Teodoro. Follow around until you reach Piazza della Consolazione. Take the stairs leading up to the Capitoline Hill but before you actually reach Michelangelo’s square stop for the most stunning view over the illuminated Roman Forum!

Tour Christian Rome by Night

Begin your pleasant walk at Piazza Farnese square to enjoy the Farnese Palace lit up and wonder about the great artists of the Renaissance like Michelangelo and Della Porta who worked on this magnificent Renaissance palace now home to the French Embassy. Walk through Campo dè Fiori square lined these days with bars and restaurants but where on Feb. 17, 1600 Giordano Bruno was burnt for heresy onto Piazza della Cancelleria to admire the beautiful Palazzo della Cancelleria, the first palazzo in Rome built from the ground up in the new Renaissance style, and then across the main street to Piazza Navona the most baroque square in Rome. Cross the Tiber river on the Ponte Sant’ Angelo and look at the marvelous Saint’ Angel’s Castle. The highlight and end of your night walking Rome tour will be the breathtaking view of the illuminated St. Peter’s Basilica.

Tour Renaissance and Baroque Rome by Night

Your enjoyable walk starts at the charming Piazza del Popolo square designed by Valadier in the 17th century reminiscent of Bernini’s plan for St. Peter’s Square. Pass the two baroque twin churches and stroll down the antique dealer street of Via del Babuino (the Baboon) for a few blocks and then take a left onto the fascinating Via Margutta, home to several artists including the famous Italian director Federico Fellini. At the end of Via Margutta you reach the Spanish Steps. From Via due Macelli go down Via del Tritone and follow signs on your left for the most beautiful baroque fountain in Rome: the Trevi Fountain.

When visiting Rome do tour Rome by night! Pretty much all of the major attractions that you see in Rome during the day are lit up at night. And yes, definitely worth seeing again, and again.

Ciao from Rome

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

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© Copyright 2010, Nancy Aiello Tours

Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours specializes in private family oriented Rome and Vatican tours led by friendly and entertaining official Rome tour guides designed to satisfy the curiosity and attention spans of the whole family visiting Rome.

New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

If interested in publishing a version of this article please contact Nancy Aiello Tours.

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Bed & Breakfast in/around Saint Peter | Rome Travel

When visiting Rome why settle for a hotel room when you can experience the real hospitality of a home in Rome? From cheap to chic Rome offers a wide selection of bed & breakfast accommodations often preferred to hotels by the savvy Rome traveler not only for the quality and value offered but also for the opportunity of a cultural exchange with the host.

B&Bs located near the Vatican City and St. Peter are an ideal starting point to tour Rome and the Vatican treasures, explore Rome’s rich heritage and discover Rome traditional food.

Arches Bed & Breakfast |

Arches B&B is located in the Prati area a short walk from the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Square offering large rooms finely furnished at very reasonable rate. Two rooms (Blue/Green) have hardwood floors and overlook a vera nice veranda. Not all the rooms have en-suite bathrooms.

Arte & Studio Bed & Breakfast |

AeS B&B is located in one of the oldest areas around St. Peter’s Square but offers XXI century design and comfort from the elegant furniture and modern artworks to free wifi and TV Sat.

Excellent rates but closed February, October and November.

Best B&B Vatican |

Best Vatican B&B is conveniently located 50 meters from the Metro stop Ottaviano-San Pietro and a few minutes walk from the St. Peter’s Basilica. This small B&B, only 4 rooms, offers stylish accommodation in a very pleasant environment with all the tech amenities required by the twitter-era traveler including free Wi-Fi.

B&B Bibi & Romeo’s Home |

Bibi and Romeo used to run a very good restaurant in Rome but decided to take a new challenge and now own and operate this very nice Bed & Breakfast located just a short walk from the Vatican City offering 4 well decorated rooms all with en-suite bath and free internet access. Bibi and Romeo will let you feel at home in Rome with their hospitality and kindness.

B&B Nicolo III a San Pietro |

This newly renovated small B&B, 3 rooms all with private bath, located in a elegant street a stone’s throw from the Vatican is run with love and courtesy by Francesca and Stefano. Nicolò III is a very simple, cheerful and clean bed & breakfast where to relax after a long day visiting the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.

The Pope’s Window B&B |

The Pope’s Windows is a new and charming bed and breakfast located in a early XX century building near the Vatican State. From its windows guests will enjoy a terrific view of St Peter’s colonnade and the window from where the Pope gives Sunday Blessing. In all rooms the ceilings are decorated with elegant and beautiful stuccoes and the floor retains the original tiles which together make up a mosaic embellished with beautiful patterns and colors. Only 3 rooms available.

Villino Cecilia B&B |

Bed and breakfast Villino Cecilia is a very nice 19th century villa located in a quiet and peaceful alley along the Vatican walls. Villino Cecilia offers 6 apartments tastefully furnished each one with its own kitchen ranging from 1 to 3 bedrooms designed to welcome from 2 to 10 guests. Lodging at Villino is probably the best choice for families and small groups visiting Rome. Villino Cecilia near the Vatican offers lots of specials and last minute offers. Don’t miss the lovely garden where to enjoy a romantic Rome dinner.

B&B Liberty Rome |

The B&B Liberty Rome is located in a beautiful Liberty building designed renowned Italian architect M. Piacentini. The 3 rooms have all comforts to make you feel at home and are very well decorated. Lots of charme and an attentive service make this small B&B, located in a busy commercial street a great place to spot the locals and live Rome’s everyday life like a Roman.

Bed and Breakfast Bio |

Looking for a bio B&B in Rome? B&B Bio is located in a residential area rich with greenery gardens and parks and has been recently renovated using only natural paints. B&B Bio is the first Rome’s B&B certified by the Italian Association for Celiach and of course serves organic food for breakfast on its lovely terrace. The 3 bedrooms with en suite baths are very elegant and comfortable.

Looking to visit St. Peter and the Vatican? Visit my post A day at the Vatican for tips and suggestions.

Would you like to share your Italy travel tips or pictures with us? Please write us your comment and we will be happy to post it!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

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© Copyright 2009 Nancy Aiello Tours All Rights Reserved

Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours is based in Rome and specializes in Tailor-Made Private Guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers.

New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

If you are interested in publishing this article please contact Nancy Aiello Tours for consent and further info.

Related posts:

1. Where to Stay in Rome | Convent and Monastery Accommodation in Rome | Travel to Italy
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Travel to Rome | Tour Rome with Nancy Aiello Tours

Convents and monasteries in Rome are blessed and restful alternatives to Rome’s hotels and B&Bs. These religious accommodations usually located in Rome’s historic center offer tight security, spic-and-span bathrooms, often some of the cheapest room rates in Rome plus a sense of spirituality and peace that more than reward for any inconvenience, making convents and monasteries in Rome an attractive budget alternative for lodging in the heart of Italy. Staying in a convent or a monastery offers Rome visitors the opportunity to experience an unusual Rome and make a Rome trip a memorable journey. Convents accept women, men and families with children, but make sure to check in advance if the convent enforces any night curfew.

Out of the 200 or so lodging and accommodations run by religious orders, monks and nuns in Rome this is ItalyTravelista list for a holy Roman holiday.

Casa Bonus Pastor | Vatican Area | No Curfew |

The Casa Bonus Pastor it’s owned by the Vatican but is in all respects a 3 star superior hotel located a short walk from St. Peter’s square. 88 well appointed rooms with only single beds available, a very nice garden and good Italian restaurant make this place an excellent choice to explore Rome and the Vatican without breaking the bank.

Casa di San Giuseppe | Trastevere Area | No Curfew |

The charming Casa San Giuseppe is located in the popular and very central Trastevere quarter, in the heart of historic Rome. It used to be a convent and after lengthy and careful renovations now offers very nice rooms, a spacious parking and free wi-fi at very reasonable rates.

Casa di Santa Francesca Romana | Trastevere Area | No Curfew |

The 600-year-old Casa di Santa Francesca Romana near the Ponte Rotto in Trastevere offers 37 clean and nice rooms in a quiet and stress free environment overlooking medieval buildings and the luscious garden where to enjoy breakfast in the warmer months.

Casa di Santa Brigida | Campo dè Fiori | No Curfew |

The fabulous Farnese Square hosts one of the most beautiful and expensive religious lodge available in Rome. The House of Saint Bridget, a splendid XV century building, houses people of all nationalities and creed but due to its antique furnitures, its lovely terrace and its rich library the 20 room convent could be mistaken for an up-market boutique hotel rather than a religious lodge. Be aware that Santa Brigida is not equipped for disabled guests.

Casa Suore Preziossimo Sangue | Vatican Area | Nightly Curfew |

The nuns of the Preziossimo sangue have recently renovated their convent offering 20 spotless rooms designed in a modern minimal chic style. Very clean rooms equipped with Internet connection, TV and A/C provide very good comfort a short distance from the Vatican. Guests can join the morning mass in the convent chapel but must be home by 11 PM in winter and by midnight in summer.

More Convents and Monasteries in Rome opening their doors to paying guests:

Monastero di Sant’ Antonio Abate | Aventine Hill | Nightly Curfew |

Via S.Sabina, 64

Tel. (011 39) 065745528

Rates: Double E.64

Suore Mantellate Serve di Maria | Navona Square Area | Nightly Curfew |

Via S. Giuseppe Calasanzio, 1
Tel. (011 39) 0668803344
E-mail: s.giulianafalconieri@virgilio.it

Rates: Double E.81

Casa di Accoglienza Santo Spirito | Vatican Area | Nightly Curfew |

Borgo S. Spirito, 41
Tel. (011 39) 066861076

Rates: Double E.81/Single E.35

Casa di Accoglienza Paolo VI | Vatican Area | Nightly Curfew |

Viale Vaticano, 92
Tel. (011 39) 0639091411

Rates: Double E.60/Single E.35

Villa Lante Istituto del Sacro Cuore | Trastevere Area | Nightly Curfew

Via San Francesco di Sales, 18

Tel. (011 39) 0668806032

Rates: Double E.80/Single E.50

To learn more about religious accommodations in Rome visit http://www.santasusanna.org/comingToRome/convents.html for advice and suggestions. To learn more about Rome visit Rome’s Tourism website.

To learn more about Rome hotels and B&Bs read Lee Marshall’s recommended hotels in Rome!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

Twitter.com/ItalyTravelista

© Copyright 2010 All Rights Reserved Nancy Aiello Tours

Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours specializes in Tailor-Made Private Guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers.

New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

If you are interested in publishing this article please contact Nancy Aiello Tours for consent and further info.

St. Brigida Convent in Farnese Square | Nancy Aiello Tours Rome Travel

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A Day at the Vatican | Tour Saint Peter 's Square

A tour of Rome is not complete without a day at the Vatican to visit the Holy See, explore St. Peter’s Basilica the world largest Christian church and tour the Vatican Museums the most impressive collection of fine art.

The Vatican City is one of most fascinating areas in Rome with an appeal that is quite unique. In the very small Vatican State visitors and devoted Catholics will appreciate an impressive collection of artistic and cultural treasures starting from St. Peter’s Square, one of the greatest architectural masterpieces of all time, one of the many open-air museums in Rome!

Designed by Bernini and built between 1656 and 1667, Saint Peter’s Square features two gigantic semicircles each comprising four rows of Doric columns totaling 284 columns adorned by 140 statues of Saints. In the middle of St. Peter’s Square is the famous Egyptian obelisk brought to Rome to grace Nero’s circus and erected in its current location by Pope Sixtus V in 1586. There are also two beautiful 17th century fountains adorning each side of the Holy Square. Between the obelisk and each fountain you’ll see a circular stone that marks the focal points of an ellipse and standing on one of these points, it appears to comprise a single row of columns. The backdrop to all this is St. Peter’s Basilica one of the most visited Rome’s landmarks.

Bernini's Saint Peter's Square | Vatican City a Must See When in Rome

The construction of the Basilica of Saint Peter began under Pope Julius II in 1506 and was completed in 1612. The imposing Church was built on top of a former 4th century basilica erected by the Emperor Constantine on the spot where the legend says the apostle Peter was crucified and buried. The dome was designed by Michelangelo and the church, the largest church in the world, covers an area of 23,000 m² (5.7 acres).

St. Peter’s Basilica is a magnet for art lovers featuring Bernini’s majestic canopy in the nave, Maderno’s magnificent Chapel of the Confession, the Pieta by Michelangelo, the Clementine Chapel by della Porta and the stunning tomb of Clement XIII by Canova, just to name a few of the famous masterpieces on display.

But a Vatican tour would not be complete without a tour of the Vatican Museums and the breathtaking Sistine Chapel ceiling, painted by Michelangelo.

Visitors will be impressed by the Egyptian and the Etruscan Museums, the Papal Apartments painted by Raphael and the Pinacoteca gallery that houses masterpieces by Giotto, Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio and more Raphael. A visit to Saint Angel’s Castle, built by Emperor Hadrian in 135 AD, is a great way to round off a tour of the Vatican City.

Saint Angel's Castle | A nice walk from the Vatican

Vatican Travel Tips:

• Vatican Museums Tickets can be purchased online at the Official Vatican Website
• Vatican Dress Code For both ladies and men, knees and shoulders must be covered. No shorts of any kind are allowed
• Wear comfy shoes. Sensible shoes are essential if you are to attempt the ascent of the Dome, as the 320 marble stairs after you emerge from the lift are very slippery
• Days closed The Vatican Museums are closed on Sundays, except the last Sunday of the month when entrance is free of charge. Expect large crowds then. St. Peter’s Basilica is also closed every Wednesday morning when the Papal Audience is scheduled
• Papal Audience Papal Audience is held every Wednesday and the free of charge Papal Audience Tickets should be booked well in advance
• Dear Visitor Please Note: Don’t set your expectations to high! It’s a public ceremony and you won’t be able to talk to His Holiness, take pictures of your kids with the Pope or handshake with the Holy Father
• More Vatican Tips and info can be found at my previous Vatican post here
  

Pizzeria and Restaurants near the Vatican

Trattoria Micci | Euro 30 |

Pizzeria la Pratolina | Euro 25 |

Pizzeria Giacomelli | Euro 25 | Via Faà di Bruno 25 Prati |

Osteria dell’Angelo | Euro 25 | Via Giovanni Bettolo 24 Prati |

Osteria Centouno | Euro 28 |

Cafes, Pizza to Go and Bars near the Vatican

Mondo Arancina | Pizza and arancini rice balls |

Pizzarium | Excellent Pizza to go |

Caffè Antonini | Good sandwiches and excellent Cappuccino | Via Sabotino 25 | Prati |

Franchi | Delicious deli very close to the Vatican City | Take Away |

Piacere e Passione | Excellent coffeeshop with food |

Would you like to share your Italy travel tips with us? Please write us your comment and we will be happy to post it! Buon Viaggio!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

Join me on Twitter!

© Copyright 2009, Nancy Aiello Tours

Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours, based in Rome, specializes in Tailor-Made Private Guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers.

New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

If you are interested in publishing a version of this article on your website please contact us for consent and further info.

Related posts:

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Vatican City: St. Peter Square

When in Rome Visit the Vatican City at Your Own Pace!

Visiting the Vatican City is a Must for most travelers and visitors traveling to Rome. The Vatican is one of the most interesting and breathtakingly beautiful place in the world: St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’ Square.
Here is my Vatican State 101 to help guests and visitors to enjoy the Vatican City and its treasures worry-free.
The Vatican City, one of the most sacred places in Christendom, attests to a great history and a formidable spiritual venture. A unique collection of artistic and architectural masterpieces lie within the boundaries of this small state. At its centre is St Peter’s Basilica, with its double colonnade and a circular piazza in front and bordered by palaces and gardens. The Basilica, erected over the tomb of St Peter the Apostle, is the largest Christian religious building in the world, the fruit of the combined genius of Bramante, Raphael, Michelangelo, Bernini and Maderno.
Vatican City, officially the State of the Vatican City, is a landlocked sovereign city-state whose territory consists of a walled enclave within the city of Rome, the capital city of Italy. At approximately 44 hectares (110 acres or 0.44 km2), and with a population of around 900, it is the smallest country in the world by both area and population. In 1984, the Vatican was added by UNESCO to the List of World Heritage Sites; it is the only one to consist of an entire country.
The Vatican State has three entrances, under the surveillance of the Swiss Guards: the Bronze Door (to the right of Saint Peter), the Vault of the Bells (to the left of Saint Peter), and Saint Anne’s Gate (Via di Porta Angelica).

Saint Peter Basilica

Saint Peter Basilica

The Most Visited Basilica in the world adorned with Artistic Treasures.
The Basilica is open from 7 AM till 7 PM. Inside the Basilica you can visit:

Holy Vatican Grotto (Tombs of the Popes)-Entrance from the right transept.Opening hours: 8 AM to 5 PM

Historic-Artistic Museum (Treasure Saint Peter)
Opening hours: 8 AM to 5.40 PM. Tickets: € 6

The Dome: Entrance from the portico.
Opening hours: 8 AM to 4.45 PM. Tickets: € 7 including lift ride, € 4 without lift.

Audience with the Pope

Every Wednesday at 10.30 AM the Pope gives a general Audience in Saint Peter Square or in the Paul VI hall. During the summer months the Papal Audience takes place in Castel Gandolfo located in the beautiful hills of the Roman Castles (Castelli Romani).
To attend the Papal Audience a request must be presented, well in advance (5-7 days for individuals, 12-15 days for groups) to the Papal House Prefecture (fax. no. +39 0669885863), specifying name, date of preference, hotel in Rome, and for groups number of participants. Individuals may pick up the ticket for the audience at the Bronze Door of the Vatican City.

The Tomb of Saint Peter and the Necropolis also known as Scavi

To visit the excavations or Scavi under the Basilica of Saint Peter, you must present a written request, at least 15 days in advance but during peak season 30 days in advance, to the Vatican Excavations Office (scavi@fsp.va), specifying name and number of visitors, language, date of preference and address. The requests may be sent by fax or e-mail in a form directly at the Office (which is to the right past of the Bells).
Opening hours: 8 AM to 5 PM, closed on Religious Holidays. Tickets: € 10 including a guide for approx. 2 hrs tour.

The Vatican Gardens

The Papal Vatican Gardens have been a place of quiet and meditation for the Popes ever since 1279 when Nicholas III moved his residence back to the Vatican from the Lateran Palace and enclosed this cultivated area with walls. Today these walls are no longer standings owing to the site’s transformation at the beginning of the 16th century. Two new courtyards were created: the Belvedere and the “Pigna” or Pine Cone.
The Vatican Gardens in Vatican City are urban gardens and parks which cover approximately 20 hectares (49 acres) which is most of the Vatican Hill.

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel

The Vatican Museums contain masterpieces of painting, sculpture and other works of art collected by the Popes through the centuries. The Museums include several monumental works of art, such as the Sistine Chapel, the Chapel of Beato Angelico, the Papal Raphael Rooms and Loggia and the Borgia Apartment. As of 2008, the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel were visited by 4,441,734 people so book your tickets on-line in advance by visiting the Holy See Official Website www.vatican.va
The entrance is from Via Vaticano, a short walk from piazza Risorgimento or the Ottaviano Metro Station.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday-9 AM to 4 PM, closes at 6 PM, 2 hours longer than last year!
Closed on Sundays, except for the last Sunday of the month when the visit to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel is free of charge-9 AM to 12.30 AM- closes at 2 PM and on Religious Holidays.
Tickets: Adult € 14, Kids € 8.

Vatican Museums Visit after Sunset

NEW! Visit the Vatican Museums after Sunset

Every Friday in September and October 2009 the Vatican Museums will be open to visitors from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm (last entrance at 9:30 pm).
Visitors will be able to admire important collections, following an itinerary that includes the Upper Galleries of the Vatican Museums (Candelabra, Tapestries and Maps) the Papal Raphael Rooms and the Sistine Chapel.
Booking online is mandatory.

Historical Museums of the Vatican City
The Historical Museums of the Vatican City is located in the Noble Apartment of the Lateran Apostle Palace. Entrance from the hall of St. John in the Lateran Basilica in Piazza San Giovanni in Laterano.
Closed on Sunday and on Religious Holidays.
Tickets: € 5, or you may use your ticket from the Vatican Museums within 5 days of its issue.

Vatican Dress Code

Vatican Dress Code

A dress code is enforced for entry into St. Peter’s Basilica and Churches in general in Italy. The code is based upon what is considered “modest” and “appropriate” dress for visiting a Catholic church, and visitors are reminded that, although St. Peter’s is an architectural and artistic monument, it is first a place of worship and prayer. The dress code forbids:

• hats for lay men inside the Basilica
• shorts/skirts above the knees
• sleeveless shirts
• shirts exposing the navel
• shirts for women that expose cleavage
• shirts which contain profanity

Relax after a long day at the Vatican!

Restaurants & Pizzerie & Ice Cream near the Vatican State

Ristorante Da Benito e Gilberto
Ristorante La Veranda dell’Hotel Columbus
Trattoria Micci
Ristorante Da Cesare
Ristorante Dal Toscano
Gelateria Old Bridge
L’isola della Pizza

Enjoy your Vatican visit and please, let me know if I missed anything or if you want to share with us any Vatican tip or insight!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

NancyAielloTours.com
ItalyTravelista.com
Twitter.com/ItalyTravelista

© Copyright 2009, Nancy Aiello Tours

Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours, based in Rome, specializes in Tailor-Made Private Guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers.

New articles are published on our site weekly. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for our free RSS feed.

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Tour the Vatican City | The Outstanding Saint Peter's Basilica

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Downtown Rome, The Vittoriano Monument (The wedding Cake)

When in Rome: Top 10 Sights to enjoy Rome in 48 Hours!

Everybody knows the Eternal City is the world’s biggest open air museum.
Rome’s history spans over two and half thousand years, and the Historic Centre of Rome is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site!
So, if you only have 48 hours in Rome what are the 10 top sights you can’t miss to visit?

Colosseum (Colosseo)

Also spelled “Coliseum” this massive marble structure is one of the most famous monuments of ancient Rome. It was built around 2000 years ago to accommodate up to 80,000 spectators happy to enjoy bloody contests between gladiators and lions. With the same 12 Euro ticket you get access to the nearby Palatine and Roman Forum.
Don’t forget to take a picture with the modern-day Gladiators!

Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi)

The Fontana di Trevi is the most famous and arguably the most beautiful fountain in Rome. This impressive monument dominates the small Trevi Square located in the Quirinale district. Legend has it you will return to Rome if you throw a coin into the water. You should toss it over your shoulder with your back to the fountain.

Trevi Fountain in Rome

After the spectacular Trevi Fountain take a break for an Ice Cream at the nearby Giolitti Parlour where Michelle Obama’s daughters made and then ate blackberry and banana gelato. Needless to say: A must for first time visitors!

Capitoline Square and Capitoline Museums

Enjoy the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelio and the great view over the Roman Forum from the square designed by Michalangelo. Visit the Capitoline Museums, the most ancient publicly owned museum in the world dating back to 1471.

The Pantheon

Another Landmark you can’t miss when visiting Rome! Once inside look at the top of the dome and see the large opening, the oculus, which was the only source of light! The Pantheon contains the tombs of Raphael and of several Italian Kings.

Check San Crispino for a gelato or Caffe’ Tazza d’Oro for a traditional granita!

Vatican City, Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums

The Holy See–Vatican city is a country in its own right owned by the Catholic Church.  St. Peter Basilica is the world’s largest church while the Vatican Museums own the biggest collection of art in Rome, including Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling as well as a 500 year old collection of statues, paintings, tapestries including the Octagonal Court (Cortile Ottagono), the Upper Galleries of the Vatican Museums (Candelabra, Tapestries and Maps) the Raphael Rooms and the Galleries of the Apostolic Library.

St. Clemente Basilica (Basilica di San Clemente)

This Medieval Church has a beautiful interior, but it is especially notable for its 3 historical layers. The 12th-century Basilica is built on top of a well-preserved 4th-century Church, which was built next to a 3rd-century Temple. For a fee, it is possible to explore the excavations of the lower levels, which is a fascinating journey into the history of Rome.

Tiber Island (Isola Tiberina)

The little island in the middle of the Tiber River had long been dedicated to Aesculapius, the roman god of medicine. There is a Church on the island, named after Saint Bartholomew, which stands above the ruins of the ancient temple dedicated to Aesculapius. Another interesting landmark further down the river is the Ponte Rotto (the Broken Bridge) one of the oldest stone bridges built in Rome.
From here you can walk east to the Jewish Quarter for delicious Kosher food or west to the popular Trastevere area for the real pizza!.

Navona Square (Piazza Navona)

This stunning Piazza, the most famous Baroque Square in Rome, has at its central focus Bernini’s spectacular fountain erected in 1651. Get an artist in the Piazza to draw your cartoon portrait and relax in Rome’s liveliest square sitting at one of the outdoor cafés while watching musicians and street-artists.

Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna)

Piazza di Spagna was at the center of the Strangers’ Quarter, the triangle made by Via del Corso, Via Frattina and Via del Babuino, where most foreigners used to live. Today it’s a vibrant and elegant square from where to start your Made in Italy shopping tour by strolling around the famous fashion streets like Via dei Condotti, Via Bogognona and Via del Babuino.

Here is located the famous Antico Caffè Greco

Campo dè Fiori

I love the previous nine sights but my favorite place in Rome is Campo dè Fiori!Lively daily food & flower market, outdoor cafés, good restaurants, trendy shops,   the freshly baked pizza bianca, posh people, and much more!

What is your favorite and unmissable place in Rome?
Look forward to hear your comments!

Ciao from Rome!
Nancy Aiello

www.NancyAielloTours.com

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© Copyright 2010, Nancy Aiello Tours

Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours specializes in private family oriented Rome and Vatican tours led by friendly and entertaining official Rome tour guides designed to satisfy the curiosity and attention spans of the whole family visiting Rome.

New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

If you are interested in publishing a version of this article please contact Nancy Aiello Tours.

Related posts:

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Rome is the capital of Italy and one of the world’s greatest historic cities.
For hundreds of years, Rome was the supreme power of Europe, northern Africa, and western Asia. Rome lies on the banks of the Tiber river in central Italy.
Ancient Rome was built on seven hills. Today the Eternal City encompasses about 20.
The Coliseum, a huge half-ruined amphitheatre, is one of the chief landmarks.
The Vatican City, in the centre of Rome is home to St. Peter’s Church, the world’s largest Christian church and impressive example of Renaissance architecture.
The Trevi Fountain, completed in 1762, is very popular with tourists as it is said that visitors who throw coins into the fountain will someday return to the Eternal City. It also features in a famous scene from Italian director, Federico Fellini’s film La dolce vita.
Throughout Rome there are many beautiful squares, connected by busy streets. The heart of Rome and its commercial centre is around the Piazza Colonna.
People-watching is a popular occupation here as Romans and visitors alike sit in outdoor cafes or stroll through some of the open-air markets.

Pasta. It is said that pasta was first brought to Italy by the ancient Greeks. The first form was called makaria, which is probably what we know as macaroni.

There are an estimated 400 known shapes in existence and a Spaghetti Historical Museum in Pontedassio shows the history of the food.

This all aside, however, pasta is not the staple diet of the Italians as its popularity portrayed. As in many other European countries each region has its own culinary specialty. The sausages of Bologna, the prosciutto (salted ham) of Parma and the minestrone of Milan are just few examples.

Most Italians would not order pasta when they go out to eat but take advantage of some of the finest fruits, vegetables or seafood in Europe has to offer, within their own country.

Shoes. Italian have a reputation for being stylish and well-dressed.
Indeed they spend more on clothes and shoes than any other 27members of the EU. In fact it amounts to 10% of their total expenditure . It is no surprise then perhaps, that these industries are so important to their economy. Italy is Europe’s largest producer of shoes, and the world’s second largest (behind China). Coupled to this, is the industry’s reputation for quality and design. Shoes from Italy have a cachet that cannot be matched by any other country. Perhaps this is in part a reflection on how the Italian shoe industry operates. Traditionally, most firms are small and family run. Until recently, the Gucci firm was a perfect example of this. Their company was set up by Maurizio Gucci in Florence at the turn of the century, and it has grown and diversified ever since. Its famous loafers were worn by the likes of Jackie Kennedy and Grace Kelly in the 1960s, and in 1980s the firm reiterated its old philosophy of craftsmanship and quality to a new generation, and is enjoying continued success today.

Art. Italy was the birthplace of some of the greatest names in art and sculptures.
Italian artists played important roles in early Christian art and in the style of the Middle Ages.
Giotto, an artist of the early Renaissance, was part of a revolutionary movement in painting which began showing the human body as three dimensional and did not limit the subject matter to merely religious themes. Renaissance painters such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael and Botticelli also made their works more realistic and introduced changes in the use of colour. Many of Michelangelo’s greatest paintings decorate the ceiling and the front wall of the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel. He is widely regarded as the most eminent artist of the Renaissance. Among the best-known modern Italian artists are the painters Giorgio de Chirico and Amedeo Modigliani, the sculptors Giacomo Manzù and Marino Marini and the architect Gino Coppedè.
Every year, countless visitors come to Italy to see some of the priceless art collections and magnificent architecture, Rome and Florence being the two most popular destinations.

Pavarotti has become one of the most famous international opera stars this century. He has also helped to revive its popularity.
Born in Modena, Italy in 1935, Luciano Pavarotti made his professional debut in Reggio Emilia in 1961.

He was widely admired for the warmth and flexibility if his voice, the security of his high notes and the intensity of emotions in his singing. Pavarotti has concentrated almost entirely on Italian operas and songs and his most popular song is a version of Nessum Dorma.

One of the best-selling classical music albums of all time is a recording of the 1994 concert in Los Angeles given by Pavarotti, Jose Carreras and Placido Domingo “The Three Tenors”.

Ciao from Rome!

Nancy Aiello

www.NancyAielloTours.com

For more…Follow me on twitter.com/ItalyTravelista

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When in Rome enjoy the best of Rome Free of Charge! Explore Rome with your family without breaking your bank account! Here’s ItalyTravelista Top 10 Free Things to do in Rome to explore Rome at your own pace! By the way do not miss a tour of Rome by Night!!!

1) Visit the Vatican Museums free of charge on the last Sunday of every month, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. (the last admission is at 12:30 p.m.).

Over 400 churches in Rome Centre alone!

2) Churches are everywhere in Rome, according to Wikipedia there are over 900 churches in Rome! Access is free of Charge including the magnificent Four Rome Basilicas of San Giovanni in Laterano, Saint Paul outside the walls, St. Peter and Santa Maria Maggiore. Donations are welcome!

St.Peter Square in the Vatican City

3) Dozen of Squares, 13 obelisks and countless fountains are the best spots to take pictures, write postcards, and watch the people go by!

Egyptian Obelisk in Navona Square

4) The Pantheon goes Free!

The Pantheon is free and you can have a Big Mac!

5) Watch the Roman Forum from the Capitoline Hill best during sunset!

6) Water! Delicious water from every fountain! Travel Eco-friendly! Don’t purchase bottled water just drink the Major’s Water!

In Rome Fountains and Water are Everywhere!

7) Parks! Walk across the enchanting Borghese Gardens, Villa Ada and/or Villa Pamphili for a great day out or a picnic lunch with kids!

Visit the Holy Area of Largo Argentina and watch the cats lounging among the ruins of four ancient temples.

The Holy Area of Largo Argentina

9) Enjoy Rome’s finest view from the Janicolum Hill and set your watches. Cannon on the hill fires at noon every day, since 1904.

10) Check out the only Pyramid in Rome that houses the tomb of Caius Cestius, one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome and visit the nearby Non-Catholic Cemetery often referred to as the Cimitero degli Inglesi-Englishmen’s Cemetery to enjoy peace without forgetting the Latin Motto Carpe Diem.

Do not forget to read local magazines for free events, Roman foodie festivals & music concerts in Rome.

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

Join ItalyTravelista on Twitter

© Copyright 2010, Nancy Aiello Tours

Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours specializes in private family oriented Rome and Vatican tours led by friendly and entertaining official Rome tour guides designed to satisfy the curiosity and attention spans of the whole family visiting Rome.

New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

If you are interested in publishing a version of this article please contact Nancy Aiello Tours.

Related posts:

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