Venice
Venice weather in decent all year round but tourism spikes in the summer when the sun is out. There are so many things to do in Venice, from gondola rides to street performances; this city always serves up a good time. The Roman city of Venice is made up of many islands and the only way to travel between the islands is by water taxi. The water taxis are so much fun and during your ride you have some fantastic views of Venice Italy.
Things to do in Venice
Take a Water Taxi
I don’t know why but the water taxi is my favorite attraction in the city. I know it’s not really an attraction in Venice but I enjoy it and doing a round on the water taxi is a great way to see the whole city.
Piazza San Marco
Millions of people visit Piazza San Marco every year. It is the most famous Piazza in all of Venice. The piazza is always pretty crazy and full of tourists but its beauty of the piazza is enough to make you forget the craziness that surrounds you.
Take a Gondola Ride
I don’t quite remember what the price for a gondola ride is but I think its something like one hundred bucks a pop. Oh well, when in Rome, do as the Romans do and when in Venice, ride the gondolas. =)
Campanile di San Marco
Climb to the top of the tower and have a great view of Venice Italy.
Delicious Food in Venice
The restaurants in Venice are always packed and very over priced so I recommend the sandwich shops and pizzerias.
Rome
The ancient city of Rome is home to some of the most famous works of architecture and art in the world. There are so many things to do in Rome and so much to learn. Rome is widely considered the birthplace of the western world, which makes it a very popular travel destination so be prepared to navigate through crowds of tourists.
Things to do in Rome
Visit the Holy Vatican City
The Vatican is the official residence of the Catholic Pope. If you come on a Sunday and you arrive early enough you might be able to see the Pope deliver mass in Saint Peter Square. The lines are usually pretty long so make sure you arrive early and bring plenty of water and snacks.
Pantheon
The Pantheon is incredibly well preserved and a must see if you come to Rome. The two thousand year old ancient Roman building is the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome.
Roman Colosseum
The Roman Colosseum is nearly 2000 years old and it is unmatched as the largest amphitheater in the Roman Empire. When I think of Rome I think of the Colosseum and so do many other tourists here so if you want to take the tour plan to arrive early to avoid the long lines.
Roman Forum
The ancient Roman Forum was once the center of Roman public life. Many public speeches, criminal trials and even elections have taken place here.
Visit the Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps is a great place to sit and relax after a long day of sightseeing. Get yourself a traditional Italian gelato and watch the world go by.
Trevi Fountain
La Fontana de Trevi is probably the most famous of all of Rome attractions. The site is always crowded so plan to come early in the morning or super late at night. (Trevi Fountain looks really cool at night) Don’t forget to throw some coins in, one for love or two to return to Rome someday.
Delicious Food in Rome
If you want to save money, stay away from the center of Rome.
Sandwich/Pizza Shop
The sandwich shops in Rome are pretty good. Try the bruschetta sandwich (fresh tomato’s and thick mozzarella cheese… YUM)
Gelato
Gelato is much sweeter than the ice cream I’m used to and the choice of flavors is pretty wild.
Hotels in Rome
The Hotels in Rome are very expensive so if you are traveling on a budget check out some of the alternatives below:
Hostels
Air BnB
Couchsurfeing