I am traveling to Italy for the first time in April. I will be there the 1st through the 11th. I was planning on going to Venice, Florence and Rome (in that order - I am flying out of Rome). Since it will be Holy Week should I change my schedule? Is there anything I need to know about being in Rome during that time? Will I still be able to see the Sistine Chapel?
Thanks,
Emily
Rome (and to some extent Florence and Venice as well, but especially Rome) will be significantly more crowded than usual during the Easter week, Good Fri is the 10th. This is caused by two things: the influx of Christians coming from other countries for religious reasons and also the fact that more locals get time off during the days leading up to Easter. Because of the influx of tourists from out of town coming into Rome for religious reasons, if you haven't booked accommodations yet, you should do so soon. Transportation services are also negatively impacted by the influx of people into Rome, trains may be fully booked that would otherwise have seats available, etc.It may help you avoid the crowded time if you do Rome first, but of course the problem is that you're flying out of Rome, I guess on Saturday the 11th.
We were in Rome during Holy Week last year and loved it. I would recommend doing the Vatican area as your first day there--the closer to Easter, the more crowded it will become. The Forum, etc. will be crowded as well due to the crowds but in my experience was still less crowded than during summer months. You will still be able to see the Sistine Chapel, barring any weird Vatican Closures-check their website (www.vatican.va). I was able to just walk in to Good Friday Mass with the Pope last year and my parents were able to do the same on Easter Sunday. It was a great experience. I agree with Kent, though--book now!!
