My 21 year old son and two college friends will be visiting their friend in Rome over spring break (who is there for study abroad). They are flying into Rome and out of Venice. They have 8 nights total. They'll spend 3-4 in Rome with their friend and probably 2 in Venice at the end. Any suggestions for a stop in between Rome and Venice? They will be travelling by train. Bologna/ Ravenna/ Rimini?
Also looking for budget hotel suggestions (USD 80-100 per night) in Rome, Venice and wherever in between. Thank you for your suggestions.
Posted by
Colorado Mountains, USA
8005 posts
Bologna is a university town, with many college-age kids, and the associated vibe. It’s also a major foodie destination, if that’s helpful.
Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Ducati, and other Italian motor wonders are built a short distance away, and there are factory tours and museums available.
Posted by
OP
12 posts
Thank you for your suggestions,
Posted by
New England
702 posts
Yes, Bologna!
Posted by
Boise, ID, USA
2312 posts
I would place Padua over Bologna.
Posted by
Gettysburg PA
7247 posts
We spent 3 nights in both Bologna and Padova this past fall. I have to agree with Janet- Padova is much livelier and more interesting than Bologna.
We had a great time in Bologna because we met my sister and her husband there and the food was fantastic,
But Padova has a really fun piazza/apertivo scene that we really enjoyed. Seemed to be more college students all over town there - not so in Bologna.
Posted by
Los Angeles by way of Providence and Rome
627 posts
College-age kids should check out Hostelworld for cheap lodging. My daughter used them all over Europe when she studied abroad.
Posted by
Narberth, PA
1255 posts
Might the friend who is already in Rome have some ideas gleaned from college-aged associates?
Posted by
OP
12 posts
Thank you all for the suggestions