Rick Steve's podcasts

We used the ones for Rome, specifically the Colosseum/Forum and Sistine Chapel. I'd say they're definitely worth it! They can be a little cheesy at times, and the forum one involves a bit of backtracking back and forth which can be confusing and annoying, but the podcasts make a great complement to the guidebook itself. Most things in Italy tend to lack explanatory signs, and it's hard to know what you're looking at without a book or audioguide. Considering the price, I'd definitely download the podcast for any sights you plan to see!

Last summer, my wife and I used most of Rick's podcasts for Rome, Florence, Venice and Paris. We enjoyed them all very much and would recommend them. (We each carried our own iPods). A few of the museum podcasts were slightly out of date -- the museums have moved a few of the artworks since they were recorded. And I agree that the Forum podcast was confusing to follow -- it was often difficult to know which structure he was talking about. But all in all, very much worth downloading. Make sure you also print the maps!

Angela, as well as the RS podcasts, download others as well for a wider view. There are vod casts available as well.

Download 1 or 2 and listen to them and decide if you think they will work for you. We have the RS podcasts downloaded and the italyguides.it podcasts downloaded.