Ok, I keep hearing about siesta, which seems takes place between about 1 and 4. So what can be done during this period? Seems shops are mostly closed, how about places to eat, museums etc. Does everything close down?
Posted by
Salt Lake City, Ut, USA
44 posts
Dear Bill
Just returned last night from Italy.Things do close down, however restaurants,trattorias and the like remain open. Museums are open except on Mondays when they are closed. I found that busier places ie St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican were quick entry at 1230-1300. Good time to take a little snooze yourself. When in Rome ...as the saying goes.
Posted by
San Jose, CA, USA
423 posts
Bill, I would see a museum in the morning, find a place to eat lunch on the walk back to my hotel and then I actually did take a few hour nap most days. I was then refreshed and ready to explore more and then search out a place for dinner.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23266 posts
Actually, we just adjusted to the pattern and loved it. Took a nap every PM and stayed up till midnight or later. This was more so southern Spain and the Med rather than all of Italy.
Posted by
In the Mountains, USA
689 posts
A lot of shops will close and some restaurants will close too. But in Italy there is never a lack of things to do. I find Siesta the perfect time to catch up on the journal, wander, scope out sights to return to later for photography... Not to mention taking a nap!!!
Posted by
White Bear Lake, MN, USA
479 posts
Frank, I agree the best way to deal with it is to join in the fun. It's a great time to go back to your hotel, unload from the morning, relax, and reload for the evening. Of course this is only practical if your hotel is near the area that you're seeing. It doesn't work well for day trips or if you're staying at the Best Western in the suburbs.