6 days in Rome

I think it would depend on if you've ever been to Rome before. If not, I wouldn't do any day trips. There's so much to see and do in Rome that 6 days won't be enough. I would make a list of the sites you want to see and start planning your days. I think you'll find you have more sites to visit than time to visit them. Donna

Just Once summer very crowed saw the Vatican and did the bus around town mostly Treve fountain ect . I think you may be right Thanks

I've been to Rome twice now, and never again!!! Just returned and even though it's beautiful and historical, it was record breaking heat this August. Also, the illegal vendors from Africa/India and elsewhere, are ruining the Rome experience. They're there by the many thousands, selling cheap, illegal items. They're pushy and even harassing at times. There is a big pick pocket problem and the experience was horrible. We were very sad to see this wonderful city in such shape. It was pretty dirty/smelly also. SAD!!!

There's enough to keep you busy for a week or a year.
But you can cover the highlights in 4 days. In the extra 2 days you can choose to explore the lesser known churches and museum, or maybe take a day trip to Ostia Antica or the Appian Way. Or you can see Rome in 4 days and stop in Florence for two nights on your way to Venice. Regarding the last reply, I've been to Rome 4 years ago, and don't recall it being dirty or smelly. In fact, I thought it was clean for such a large city. The heat can be managed. Even in August, it was bearable early in the morning and at night.

Winter in Rome can be marvelous! (August does suck, but not as bad an Cindi makes it out to be. :-)) Have a good list of indoor and outdoor options in case of bad weather. But bad weather seldom lasts! There are some lesser-known-sites you would have time to see. I wrote about some of them here. Also look at the book "24 Great Walks in Rome" for ideas to get off the beaten path. Above all, since you have time, don't try to cram in everything. I abide by the school of thought that you do ONE big thing (museum, historical tour) a day, maybe squeeze in a church or two, or a smaller historic site, take la pausa after lunch to recharge, go out again late afternoon, never miss an aperitivo, and dine well. Above all enjoy this magnificent city!

Oh, you are going to love Carnevale! I've been to Rome twice, both times in February. On a sunny day, there may be a long line to the Colosseum, but not once you're inside. The only crowded place I went to (except for buses and metro at rush hour) was the Vatican on a Monday (it was the only day I could swing it). If you have sunshine (very likely) there are two day trips I'd recommend. One is to Ostia Antica, the ancient Roman port city. The other is to Hadrian's Villa. There's no "should" though. Relax and enjoy Rome.

Which day in the wk is best time to visit the Vatican and the colosium