Just wanted to know any suggestions of sites that I can't miss in these cities. I will be traveling with a tour group but we are given anywhere from 2-4 hours on one day in each of these cities to roam around on our own. We are covering the main tourist sites in both but will not be able to see everything of course. Was wondering if the Borghese Gallery and or the National Museum of Rome is a must see. Thanks for any help.
Posted by
Freedonia
16411 posts
Depending on which tour company you're with, they may offer optional sightseeing trips during your "free" time. (I'm a former tour director so I have seen this.)
Not knowing what is included in your tour of those cities, it's hard to suggest things. Nor do we know what you're interested in.
If you're interesetd in art, then I'd suggest the Musee D'Orsay in Paris. This is not usually included on tours. If you're interested in History you might want to go to the War Museum and Napoleon's Tomb--same building.
And remember, when the tour "brochure" says "see" something, it means you see it from the bus. When it says "visit" it means actually getting off the bus and in most cases going inside.
Posted by
The Hague, NL (AMS)
2207 posts
Janine,
Either the Galleria Borghese or Nazionale are great museums to see - and probably the two I would most recommend currently. That's because the Borghese just opened a new display and of course has the most incredible Bernini sculptures. It also has many works by Caravaggio, my favorite painter... so I guess I have a weakness for the Borghese.
But if you're into Pompeii, the Nazionale, located close to Termini, has an incredible display - on loan from Naples - of many works of Pompeii art... and they are beyond description. The colors are as vivid as if they were painted yesterday. I believe this "temporary show" has been held over through the summer so you might want to check their website if you're coming later than that... of course the Nazionale also had "Olivia's Room" - which is just amazing! If you go to the Nazionale, start on the top floor and work your way down!!!!
I could not choose between them... so please don't ask me - Just look and see what most interests you!!!
Ciao,
Ron
Posted by
Atlanta
5236 posts
Rome: Borghese will require reservations. You may or may not go to the Panthon on your tour. If not, do so on your own. The piazza in front is great for people watching and unwinding from the grind of the tour at a sidewalk cafe as is Piazza Navona that is just a few blocks away. Paris: Musee D'Orsay.