Need advice...7-10 days in Italy this Fall

Emily, to answer some of your questions - the time to "get from one place to the other" will vary depending on the destinations. The "best mode of transportation" is usually train. With a time frame of only 7-10 days, I'm not sure you'll comfortably be able to visit five locations, especially as you stated that you're "not interested in breezing by places or rushing our stay". A few comments on some of your destinations.... in late October or early November, the Cinque Terre will be somewhat "quiet". At least some of the tourist facilities close for the winter. If you wanted to stay there, you'll probably have the best chance for rooms in Monterosso. Could you clarify whether the 7-10 days includes flight times? Keep in mind that you'll lose the first day in flight times and time zone changes, and will arrive in Europe the day AFTER you departed. The last day will be spent on the flight home, so that has to be included in the planning also. Your Mother and Sister might find it helpful to pre-read the Guidebook "Europe Through The Back Door" as that will provide LOTS of information on travelling in Europe. My initial impression is that starting in Venice would be the best idea as the progression from there is a more logical route, especially if you're coming from Austria. * I'll have another look at this in the morning to see if I can suggest an Itinerary that will work * (it's about 00:30 and reading the display is getting difficult). Cheers!

Hi Ken, Thanks so much for your input! Yes, those 7-10 days will include flight time...very good point, thanks. They are leaning more towards 10 days as of now. Do you think we could do Venice, Lake Como, and Florence in 10 days, including their flight in & out of the country? Cheers =) Emily

If you don't want to breeze by places or rush your stay, then you should choose only one destination. If you want to take your time, then definitely no more than two. Which two? Do you want to experience Italy's art, history, culture, or just enjoy being there? If it's primarily art and history, then Venice and Florence.

Hi Lexma, Thanks for your input...good stuff to consider!!

3 days to see most of Venice's best, 3 days to see a lot of Florence. 2-3 days at Lake Como. The rest in travelling. If it's 10 days, it's definitely do-able. How much time you spend in Florence depends on how much art and architecture you want to see. For some, 2 days is enough, for others 2 weeks is better.

Hi Chani, Thanks so much for your input! It's good to know 10 days is doable :) Emily

Cinque Terre reservatiions fill-up fast. Book now. All reasonably priced hotels in Monterosso were filled for the third week of September when we will be there as of last night.

Great to know! Thanks, Mary =)

Remember the last weekend of October 2010 is going to be a holiday weekend in Italy, for the Italians. They like to holiday in the same places we do. Make reservations for hotel now.