Hello:
We are having our honeymoon in Italy (first time for both of us), March 20th-31st, starting in Venice (2 nights), then Florence (3 nights), then Rome (5 nights). Initially I had wanted to do Rome first to avoid the Easter crowds but I had heard from many that Venice was a good starting point and also a good place to help with jet lag. Any input regarding the following itinerary? We want to make sure that we see the sights but also have some relaxation time. Thanks!
March 20th: Fly out of Las Vegas in late afternoon to London Gatwick, brief layover.
March 21st: Arrive in Venice around 4 p.m.; first night will probably consist of dinner and probably trying to get over jetlag.
March 22nd: I was initially thinking of a self-tour of St. Mark's and all the main sights but now found a St. Mark's after dark tour with Walks of Italy that we may do. Therefore any suggestions as to how to fit as much as possible during the day (our only full day in Venice?); Seeing Doge's Palace, the Rialto, etc.
March 23rd: Take train to Florence; arrive in afternoon. Maybe just dinner, walking around.
March 24th-25th: Trying to figure out what day is best is see the museums, Duomo, etc, keeping in mind that the 25th is Good Friday (in case some places are closed). We also want to do a half-day trip if possible; if we don't have time to go to Siena then at least close by to Fiesole. Do you recommend getting a guided tour for all the museums or is it possible to do it ourselves? We really also just want to explore Florence by walking around the marketplace, etc.
March 26th: Leave for Rome via train; check in to hotel (near the Spanish Steps), maybe just do dinner and walk around that area.
March 27-28: Easter Sunday and Monday: Here is where I need help. Given that some shops and restaurants may be closed, I think the best idea is to just walk around, have nothing planned. I had initially booked a Colosseum tour on Easter Monday but moved that to the 30th since taxis and buses might not be as abundant.
Do you think it's possible to go to Ostia on Easter Monday or move it to the afternoon of the 29th (see below)?
March 29th: Pristine Sistine early 7:30 a.m. tour; what to do in the afternoon?
March 30th: Morning Colosseum tour with Walks of Italy. Afternoon ideas?
March 31st: Flight back at 1 p.m.
Thank you so much!