Where to go in Italy for 3 days. Where is it better to relax in Italy, where to go? Resorts by the sea. A few general recommendations for tourists visiting Italy for the first time

Dear Vita, I suggest choosing Venice for a base stop in Italy. Three years ago, we were advised to stay there in an inexpensive hostel near the railway station and take the opportunity to tour this unforgettable city with a Russian-speaking guide. It was also convenient to travel around the nearby cities of Padva and Treviso. We returned for an evening rest and an overnight stay in the hostel "Giovannina". Very comfortable and cheap :)

About everything in order.

You need to come to Venice at the Venice Mestre train station (there are two train stations in this city). Turn right from the central exit, walk 50 meters and turn left into Via Dante. Go to house number 113. This is the hostel "Giovannina".

Prices here are very democratic:

4-bed room - 10 euros per person;

3-seater - 12 euros per person;

2-seater (there are options with one bed and two) - 13 euros per person;

1-seater - 21 euros.

The price includes towels, luggage storage, coffee in the morning, Wi-Fi.

By e-mail before arriving in Venice, we agreed with a Russian-speaking guide on a walking tour of the city, during which we planned to choose one-day tours for the next days of our stay in Italy. At first they wanted to move to spend the night in the cities that they planned to visit. But it turned out that it is cheaper and easier to settle in one place and travel "one day with a return" :)

If you decide to use the tips and services of Russian-speaking guides in Venice, here are the contacts to those who helped us and the colleagues recommended by them:

1. Alena Doroshchuk: [email protected], tel. +393492302664;

2. Monica Gambarotto: [email protected], tel. +393356776933;

3. Veronica Kareva: [email protected], tel. +393408725305;

4. Gennady Lobas: [email protected], tel. +393454274886;

5. Natalia Smirnova: [email protected], tel. +393383802901.

There are many developed options for excursions, but you will also be helped to choose exactly the route that will be most interesting. On the first day, we walked around Venice, swam on local water buses, visited several museums.

If you plan to travel by water buses throughout the day, you should buy a ticket for all the "numbers" of this type of transfer :) Its price depends on the period for which the ticket was issued:

18 euros - 12 hours;

20 euros - 24 hours;

25 euros - 36 hours.

We refused to travel by gondola due to high prices: 1 hour of skiing - 100-150 euros - the cost depends on the course of travel :)

On the first day, we visited all the main monuments of Venice, from St. Mark's Square (San Marco) to the Rialto Bridge, the Doge's Palace, the library, the Bell Tower, the Clock Tower ... John and Paul, the Colleoni monument, the Arch of Paradise, the Bragadins' house (Casanova visited this house), the Rialto bridge. Visiting temples and museums in Venice costs 2.5-3.5 euros.

We spent the next two days on excursions from Padva and Treviso.

If you buy tours from the listed licensed guides, their cost ranges from 180 euros for a 4-hour tour of Venice to 350 euros for 7 hours of guide care with a trip to Padva and 450 euros for a trip to Treviso. Visiting museums with a guided tour cost 3 euros per person in Treviso and 2.5 in Padva.

Well, in each of the Italian cities you can not only please the eye, but also the stomach :) Pizza and coffee are the most delicious right here!

When and where is it better to relax in Italy by the sea near Rome and other cities in order to go on excursions and see most of the country with your own eyes? Let's look at the issue of holidays in resorts from all sides: prices for excursions, where to go, which beach resort to choose for holidays with children or the whole family. We will find out what to see in Florence, Naples and other Italian resorts.

Italy is a country that offers tourists excellent opportunities for sightseeing, skiing and beach holidays. When choosing a seaside vacation in Italy, where to go, which resort to choose, you need to decide, having decided on the purpose of the trip.

Youth rest

For this category of tourists, it is very important to have bright and noisy entertainment that will leave an impression for the rest of your life, an active nightlife, the presence of discos, bars, clubs in the resort.

One of the most popular youth resorts is Rimini. Firstly, it is distinguished by the presence of a variety of housing for any budget. Secondly, the active nightlife attracts thousands of young people from all over the world. The resort is rightfully considered a country. The coastline of the city stretches for 15 kilometers, the beaches are kept clean. Entrance to the municipal - free, private - paid.

Not far from the resort is the most dancing city in Italy - Riccione. Here are the best and most popular clubs in the country.

Not far from Rome there is another popular youth resort - Tivoli. It is distinguished by beautiful beaches, the presence of historical sights, delicious cuisine and friendly residents. In addition, there are many thermal healing springs in the city.

Verona attracts a huge number of young people who are looking for romantic adventures. This is one of the most beautiful cities in the country. Romantic excursions to the house of the heroes of Shakespeare's poem "Romeo and Juliet", exclusive souvenirs, many shopping centers, delicious Italian cuisine will delight those who choose to stay at this resort.

Where to go to Italy with children?

Where to relax with children in Italy in the summer? Many tourists, traveling with children, choose Italy for their holidays. Firstly, it is a healing climate, mountain air, ecology. Secondly, the Italians themselves are very welcoming and friendly to children. The resorts have a lot of entertainment, theme parks. Thirdly, sandy beaches with a gentle and convenient entrance to the sea are safe for swimming for small tourists.

Rimini is considered an ideal place to relax and, thanks to its clean beaches with a gentle entrance to the sea, the resort is very popular. Children's complexes and sports grounds are equipped in recreation areas on the seashore.

Lake Grada is a favorite vacation spot for family tourists. Mountain air mixed with forest air has a positive effect on the health of tourists, creating a unique healing climate. On the territory there are theme parks, water parks, safari park. Sandy beaches with clear waters are ideal for children.

• , the best cities to celebrate.

Where to rest for pensioners?

Tours for pensioners are very popular in Europe. Now this direction is actively developing in Russia. Italy is a favorite holiday destination for aged tourists. This is facilitated by the mild climate, security in the country, an interesting excursion program, and the rich cultural and historical heritage of the country.

In general, such tours are best planned out of season. At this time, there are few tourists in the resort, there is no sweltering heat, long queues. This is the perfect time for a sedate, unhurried comfortable rest.

The best resorts in this regard are Rome (), Venice, Naples.

Services that will help you make it cheap:

• Booking cheap plane tickets to Italy from Russian cities will help make the Aviasales service.
• Booking.com will help you book the best hotels in Italy with a view of Vesuvius or the sea. If you need to make a selection of hotels in a certain resort by the sea or close to attractions, then RoomGuru can handle it.

What to see in Italy on vacation?

Going on vacation abroad, many tourists do not know where to go except for the beaches, let's see what to see in Italy on vacation, for easier perception, I broke this question into cities and resorts.

The country is famous for its picturesque nature - islands, lakes, mountain landscapes, sandy beaches, olive groves, and much more worthy of your attention.

Italy has a rich cultural heritage, so the excursion program is very developed in the country.

• Excursions at favorable prices.

What to see in Rome?

For lovers of architecture, holidays in Italy in summer and winter should definitely lie through Rome. In fact, there are a lot of different attractions in the city: temples, cathedrals, museums, galleries, bridges, fountains, etc. Consider the most important of them, which in no case should be missed:

1. Coliseum;
2. Pantheon;
3. Vatican;
4. The Sistine Chapel;
5. St. Peter's Square;
6. Trevi Fountain;
7. Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore;
8. Venice Square;
9. Column area.

• of the best attractions in 1-3 days of rest ⇒

What can you see in Florence?

As a rule, tourists have very little time to visit everyone. And there are a lot of them in Florence. Wondering what to visit first? Below you will find a list of the city's most important sights:

1. Santa Maria del Fiori is the symbol of the city;
2. Uffizi Gallery;
3. Ponte Vecchio;
4. Church of Santa Croce;
5. Medici Palace;
6. Church of the Holy Spirit;
7. Strozzi Palace.

What is the best thing to see in Milan?

Shopping lovers should definitely visit the city and shopping boutiques. Milan () is the place where fashion is born. This is where fashion weeks take place. Many sights of carp with her:

1. Fashion Square - A quarter of shops, fashion boutiques;
2. Duomo;
3. Cathedral Square;
4. Brera Gallery;
5. Museum of Poldi Pezzoli.

What to see in Naples?

Holidays in Italy are mainly chosen by package tourists, but Naples is famous for independent tourism or business trips. Here you can not only overlook the volcano, but also try pizza in a cafe that is visited by all the stars of world cinema.

What to see from the main attractions of Naples:

1. Vesuvius volcano;
2. Pompeii;
3. Castel Nuovo;
4. Castle of Sant Elmo;
5. Basilica of San Francesco di Paola.

The best attractions in Venice

The resort is considered the most romantic place in the world. The city has a large number of temples, cathedrals, canals, museums and galleries. It is worth noting the fact that Venice goes under water, houses and architectural monuments are destroyed by humidity and soon there will be nothing left. I advise you not to postpone the trip on the back burner and see the whole reality with your own eyes.

What is the first thing you need to see in the city:

1. Doge's Palace;
2. Cathedral of San Marco;
3. Church of Santa Maria della Salute;
4. Palace of Ca'd'Oro
5. Church of the Jesuit;
6. Peggy Guggenheim Collection;
7. Grand Canal.

Holidays with children in Italy in the summer by the sea are best planned with the help of tours, so you will get rid of many nuances (search for a transfer, meals, excursions) and waste of time.

• Cheap trips to Italy from Moscow, St. Petersburg, and other Russian cities are provided by Travelata.

Where in Italy to relax with children?

Well, what kind of vacation without your family, let's see where you can relax in Italy with children. The country offers an ideal holiday for families with children. One of the reasons for this is the presence of a large number of entertainment for children. Are you wondering where is the best place to relax in Italy with children in order to combine a beach holiday with a rich entertainment program for children?

• Mirabilandia- one of the largest amusement parks in all of Europe. It is located near Rimini. Its area is 85,000 sq. m. On the territory of the park there are lakes, gardens. It consists of 7 thematic zones and 40 attractions. Animation shows, performances, concerts, stunt shows are often tripled here. In addition, the park has 2 beaches.

The cost of a child ticket is 30 euros, an adult - 35 euros.

• Atlantic- one of the largest water parks in Europe, located near Milano Marittima. One of the main attractions is the sperm whale, which meets all tourists at the entrance.
• Aquafan- located in Rimini. The area of ​​the water park is 90,000 sq. m. Ticket price for children - 18 euros, for adults - 25 euros.
• Oltemare- Dolphinarium in Rimini. The main theme of the park is the conservation of nature around the world. Here is a dolphin lagoon, where animals put on a show. Adult ticket - 29 euros, children - 18 euros.
• Italy in miniature is a place where you can feel like a giant. Here are entire cities in reduced sizes with moving trains, cars, fountains. The park has 270 architectural monuments. It is located in Rimini.

Children's ticket - 17 euros, adult ticket -23 euros.

When is the best time to rest?

Many tourists are wondering when is the best time to go to Italy on vacation. In fact, in the country you can relax all year round. The choice of the time of the year depends on the purpose of the trip: swim in the sea and sunbathe, visit the sights or just go to a restaurant with Italian cuisine.

If you plan to go on excursions to major cities of the country, then it is better to choose the time of the low tourist season - mid-autumn to mid-spring. At this time, there are few tourists, so there are no queues, and ticket prices are reduced. In addition, the cool temperature will make sightseeing more comfortable.

Excursions to provincial cities can also be made in the summer months. At this time, you can enjoy the beauties of the local nature.

When is the best time to go to the sea?

When is the best time to go to sea in Italy? The beach season in Italy opens in mid-May. But, despite this, in June the sea is still quite cool -18-20 degrees. The peak of the tourist season falls on July-August, when the water warms up to 25-26 degrees, and the air -35-40 degrees.

In September comes the velvet season. The heat is already subsiding, the sea warmed up by the summer rays pleases tourists with the opportunity to swim.

• Where is the best place to relax in Italy in July? If you are planning a beach holiday, then this month it is better to go to Sardinia () or Sicily (). For excursions, Pisa, Milan are suitable. It is important to note that festivals and other important events are held in many cities at this time.
• Where to rest in Italy in August? Portofino, Sanremo, Santa Margarita, are ideal for a beach holiday. At this time, you can go hiking in the Alps and enjoy the mountain scenery.
• Where can you relax in Italy in September? This month is the most favorable for camphor rest. There are excellent opportunities for excursions in large cities - Rome, Florence (), Venice.

Accommodation options:

• villas and apartments by the sea for family holidays ⇒
• Rent an apartment or at low prices, a selection of good options according to reviews of tourists and independent sites ⇒

I am often asked about where to go in Italy ... To be honest, this question puts me in a stupor, because I cannot answer it quickly. What am I doing? I ask the interlocutor subtle questions and, based on these data, I begin to offer directions ... In the process of communication, we come to a common denominator.

Where to go in Italy?

To answer this question you need to understand:

1. When exactly do you want to go to Italy?

In summer

Then you can consider relaxing by the sea or enjoy the mountain coolness. In the cities during the day there is unbearable heat and you run the risk of leaving home tired and irritated.

in winter

In this case, you can consider the north of Italy, where Christmas markets take place in December. The atmosphere is just fabulous. If you are a ski enthusiast, then ski resorts are for you. There are a lot of them in Italy and they are designed for different wallets. You can also go to Anterselva and watch the Biathlon World Cup, which takes place here in January.

In winter it is very good to travel around the cities. At this time, the flow of tourists is reduced and you have a great opportunity to get to popular tourist places without a queue, as well as take a walk along the relatively quiet streets. For example, we were in Florence and Rome in February and entered the museum almost without a queue.

Spring/Autumn

In spring/autumn it is also good to travel around cities or by car to different regions. In spring you can see Italy in bloom, and in autumn in gold. Perhaps this is the best time for photography lovers. For me, the most beautiful landscapes can be caught in spring and autumn.

When you have decided on the period of your trip, the second question arises:

2. What exactly do you want to do in Italy?

There are many options open here:

Lying on yarn and not going anywhere

In this case, choose a vacation on the islands or on the mainland by the sea: Riviera del Conero in the Marche, fabulous beaches in the Puglia region, in Basilicata, Calabria, Lazio, the Ligurian Riviera, Sardinia, Sicily ... You can list for a very long time. The territory of Italy is washed by the waters of as many as 4 seas: the Adriatic, Ionian, Tyrrhenian and Ligurian. Where else can you find such happiness?

Option 50 / 50: half a day on the beach, half a day on excursions

Often, Filippo and I choose a similar vacation option if we go to the sea, because he likes to lie in the sun (I don’t), but after two or three hours it gets boring.

In this case, you can go to one of the above regions (or make a route and visit 2-3 at once). To make a final decision, you will need to understand the following:

what sights would you like to see there,
how to get there: by sea, by bus, by train… Or you have to take a car/motor scooter. I know that in the south it is not always possible to reach very beautiful places by public transport. Such moments are very important to consider even before you find yourself in Italy. As they say, forewarned is forearmed.

You don't want the sea, you like art and architecture

Italy is very diverse and this is reflected in the architecture of cities. To decide on the direction of your trip, you should think about what exactly you want to see: the North of Italy, the Center or the South, you just want to walk around the cities or you are interested in certain museums.

I know that many who travel to Italy for the first time choose the already traditional route: Rome - Florence - Venice - Verona - Milan. In this case, you can travel by train.
But you should always remember that outside the major cities there are no less interesting places that are worth visiting. For example, between Rome and Florence, there is the Umbria region worthy of your attention, where in cities such as: Gubbio, Assisi, Spello, Spoleto you can see magnificent churches painted by famous Italian artists. And there are many such examples in Italy.

You have already seen the main tourist centers of Italy and want to get to know Italy more deeply

If you have already been to the major cities of Italy, then you should think about visiting small medieval borgos, which, fortunately, are very numerous here and some of them are simply magnificent. It seems to me that it is in such borgos that you can feel the spirit of a particular region, watch the real life of Italy, have a delicious lunch in a local trattoria, where the owner himself will tell you a lot of interesting things ... in the local dialect.

Or as a place of deployment, you can choose cities that are not yet very well known to a wide range of tourists, such as, for example, Bologna (only now tourists are starting to open this city), Turin, Treviso, Perugia or Assisi, Ancona in the Marche ... Each of these cities has already interesting for its sights, local cuisine, museums. And also the fact that from there you can travel to nearby medieval cities / fortresses. Probably, soon I will make list articles with an overview of borgos near these cities). And believe me, if you go there, you will definitely not regret your choice).

Do you want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of big cities in a secluded place?

The option of a trip along the medieval borgos away from noisy centers is ideal for those who want to take a break from the bustle of big cities in a secluded place.

I remember with particular fondness our trip through the Val d'Orcia in Tuscany. At that time, I was simply exhausted and I wanted to go somewhere far away from civilization. When we arrived at the hotel in Montalcino, I couldn't believe my eyes. Lying by the pool in front of me was a breathtaking view of these famous hills. It was something fantastic. In the afternoon we took a car and went to explore small towns. I remember that there was such a sweet silence everywhere ... I returned to Verona rested and energized ...

In principle, already at this stage, we have identified important aspects of the trip. It remains only to answer the last question:

3. Would you like to visit local factories?

It can be wine, cheese dairies, local artisans... This is very important to understand, because it is better to contact them in advance. Ideally, it’s better to find a Russian organizer who will take you there, introduce you to your family, act as an interpreter… walk around the city.

Summing up, I want to outline the main questions that will help you choose the direction of our independent trip to Italy:

• When are you planning your trip to Italy?
• What exactly do you want to do in Italy?
• Would you like to visit the wine / cheese production, meet local artisans?

Spaghetti, mafia, Colosseum, Andriano Celentano - experienced tourists will immediately determine what these words have in common. Italy is a country in the south of Europe, located on the Apennine Peninsula, including the islands of Sardinia and Sicily and welcoming guests all year round. It is impossible to travel all over Italy in one trip, so it is recommended to visit several main cities first.

Start of the journey: the road to Rome

All roads lead to Rome

Rome, the capital of Italy, has been a historical, cultural and political center for many centuries. Guests arriving at Fiumicino Airport first of all need to find the train station (which is easy, the main thing is to follow the yellow sign with the image of a train and the inscription Train). From there trains depart to Termini station and to other stations of Tuscolana, Trastevere, Tiburtina Ostiense. Tickets can be purchased at the box office at the station, just tell which station you need to get to. However, it must be borne in mind that the last train from the airport leaves at 23.20 hours and therefore, you will have to use the services Taxi, which will cost an average of 50-75 euros.

Tip number 1: Upon arrival in Rome at the airport and train station, it is advisable to have both a credit card and a change in cash: in the evening, the cash desk often does not work or the machine does not accept cash.

Another budget way to get to the city is to go by bus, which departs every thirty minutes, and the ticket price will be 4 euros. The road to the hotel will take about 1.5-2 hours. The last bus from Fiumicino leaves at 23:00.

Budget hotels in Rome

Rome is a very expensive city, so a budget tourist will have to work hard to find a decent mid-range hotel and at the same time not spend money on the road every day, since almost all inexpensive hotels are located far from historical sights.

The table below shows several budget hotels in Rome, which quite satisfied the travelers according to their reviews.

Roman landmarks

Tourists arriving in Rome will have unforgettable meetings with numerous attractions:

• Coliseum
• Pantheon
• Villa Borghese
• Trevi Fountain
• Baths of Caracalla
• St. Peter's Basilica

Ruins of the ancient Colosseum

Vatican

The Vatican, the smallest state in the world, also deserves special attention and a visit. The area of ​​the state is 0.45 square kilometers, the main territory of which is occupied by the Vatican Gardens. In total, there are 28 cathedrals on the territory of the Vatican. Visitors undergo a thorough check: cutting and stabbing objects, weapons, drugs, medicines, paint, alcohol are not allowed. There is a strict dress code in the Vatican: all parts of the body of tourists must be covered, shorts, tops, miniskirts, and transparent clothes are not allowed. Also, it is not allowed to bring drinks and food with you.

Vatican Square at sunset

Venice - the pearl of the Adriatic

After the official Ancient Rome, you can continue your journey through Italy by visiting Venice, the most romantic city in the world. Lovers from all over the world come here to receive and make a marriage proposal or already spend their honeymoon together.

How to get to Venice

It is best to get from Rome to Venice by high-speed train in 4-4.5 hours, night trains reach in 6-6.5 hours.

Important! When booking tickets for trains from Rome to Venice, you need to remember that you need a train going to the stationVenice Santa Lucia and not to Venezia station Mestre, which is located on the mainland.

It is advisable to purchase tickets well in advance of the trip on the Internet, as it is possible to buy very cheap tickets and avoid queuing at the railway station.

Sights of Venice

One of the most popular are her channels, they are an integral part of the proud image. Biggest grand canal divides the city into two parts; its length is 3805 meters and the width is 30-70 meters. Many small canals flow into the Grand Canal, travel through which is possible only by gondolas.

View of the cathedralSanta Maria della Salute

Another significant attraction of Venice are its bridges - Ponto Realto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs. These bridges are the most photographed places for tourists. Luxurious Doge's Palace, built in the fifteenth century for the government of the Venetian Republic, impresses with the beauty of its facades, made of pink marble. All the halls of the palace amaze with their uniqueness.

Obligatory to visit and other sights and museums of the city:

• St. Mark's Cathedral
• Cathedral of Santa Maria della Salute
• Piazza San Marco
• Palace of the Ca d'Oro
• Church of San Zaccaria
• Jesuit Church of Santa Maria Assunta
• Academy Gallery
• Museum Correr
• Lace Museum
• Murano glass museum

Where to stay in the City of Love

Venice is not a cheap city, so it is unlikely that you will be able to save money here. The choice of housing is quite diverse. The main thing is to choose an area that matches your travel plans.

If there is a desire after Venice to explore the cities of the surroundings such as Verona, Padua and others, then it will be convenient to stop on the mainland of Venice in Mestre area. Prices for hotels and parking here are several times lower than in Venice itself. The downside will be daily trips to the center of the historical part of the city and back, which is unlikely to save money.

Staying on the islands of Venice itself is also possible, although more expensive. If you stay in hotels in the San Marco area, it will be very expensive, although close to attractions, you can also get tired of the constant crowds of tourists. Recommended areas for a relaxing holiday, where the cost of living is much cheaper - Cannaregio, Castello, Dorsoduro. Below are some of the hotels that have gained popularity among tourists:

Piazza San Marco after another flood

When in Venice, I advise you to visit the cafe "Florian" located in Piazza San Marco. This is the oldest cafe in Venice; Hemingway, Casanova, Brodsky, Byron have been here. A cup of coffee will cost 15 euros, but it's worth it: great overview of local architecture and the atmosphere of old Europe.

Alexander Kuzmin, director of the travel agency "Globus"

Beach holidays on the Ligurian coast

For tourists who prefer a passive holiday on gentle beaches, holidays on the Ligurian coast are no less interesting. Italian Riviera- the most famous world resort, located on the shores of the Ligurian Sea. The area is protected by mountains from cold winds, and the warm sea creates all the conditions for lovers of exquisite relaxation.

Colorful architecture of the Ligurian coast

You need to start your trip along the Ligurian coast with Genoa, which is the capital of the region and an ancient worldly port. Genoa itself is beautiful with narrow, ancient streets, palaces and cathedrals. Riviera di Ponente- the most popular region for the rest of European celebrities, which includes San Remo, Alassio and many small resort towns. Following further through the town of Varazze, you can get to the Riviera delle Palme - Palm Riviera. The center of this area is a resort Savona, popular for its beaches.

City suitable for families Finale Ligure- famous for its golden beaches and shallow waters.

A few general recommendations for tourists visiting Italy for the first time

Every tourist who comes to Italy is fascinated by the beauty of this sunny country, its ancient cities and luxurious resorts. However, one should not forget about some precautionary rules, so as not to be disappointed later:

• Having dined in a restaurant or cafe and received a check in Italian, at least the number of dishes tasted on the bill is checked. Italians have a habit of adding anything to the bill, as they say "by mistake", hoping for ignorance of the Italian language.
• Regarding taxi drivers in Rome, you need to keep in mind that according to the law, a taxi ride inside Rome should not exceed 70 euros.

After reading the data on the Internet, I decided that an independent trip is exactly what I need, since not a single operator offered the package tour that I wanted, or a prostitute would be very expensive. And my income is not large enough to scatter. The choice of rest was Italy or Egypt, I was especially interested in tours to Hurghada for their purchase conditions and the combination of a relaxing holiday with oriental flavor, coral reefs and the purity of the Red Sea.

Finally, Italy. So. Vacation requested, hotels booked and visa granted.

August 10, 9:35, Sheremetyevo D, Aeroflot flight Moscow-Rome. Everything went fine. And now the Moscow smoke from the fires is replaced by the bright sun of Rome.

And this is where the adventure begins for me. I must immediately warn you that the most entertaining thing on this trip was that I don’t know a single foreign language normally.

Well, that's how it happened. Some vocabulary of English and Russian - Italian phrasebook. But that doesn't help much.

As always, the baggage claim dragged on for a good hour, during which I looked around and tried to find a way out. Finding the exit to the railway station was, as it turned out, not so easy. One pointer completely confused me, as it pointed to the right, and the station turned to the left. But I found it, and it’s good, but ... now I need to buy a ticket and buy a ticket for some regional train.

And you won't know which one is which. And how to ask for just such a ticket. In general, having plucked up courage, I asked for one ticket that Trastevere. No problem 8.5 euros. Hurray!, but ... then where. I see that people are composting small tickets, but I have a healthy one. I tried to compost, the machine did not respond. Alerted, but apparently the train is leaving soon. Sat.

I know that it stops at many stations and how to understand when mine is. Fortunately for me, the autoinformer announced the next station, including in English. While I was driving, the controller passed, looked at my ticket and did not write out a fine, which is strange, since, as it turned out, I needed to compost later. Okay, so much stress at once. Here is Trastevere.

I walk out and have no idea where to go. Here on the forum they wrote to me how to get from the station to the hotel, but as luck would have it, I forgot to print this part. But there is a booking sheet with the address, maybe someone will tell you. I start asking the street. It turned out that I chose the same hotel.

My choice fell on Hotel Antico Borgo Di Trastevere. According to reviews, a small hotel in the picturesque area of ​​Trastevere. Close to the center. Well, I think that's what I need. Once I watched a program about Rome and they spoke very well about this area, as it preserved the spirit of Rome. Even then I decided that if I go to Rome I will try to live there, but here the price is pleasant and there is a single room. Here I chose.
But, as he said, he must be found. I go up to some elderly Italian gentleman, show the address. He told me: “This is Trastevere (otherwise I don’t know anyway), you sit down on the tram, not on the bus (he repeated this 2 times) and you go to the Trastevere stop.” Well, I'm happy to thank him for the food on the 8 tram, but there are about 5 stops along the route with the name of the area. And which way to go.

Upon check-in, everything went quickly and I was escorted to my room. Transferred to put it mildly, since the room is 2 meters from the reception. And oh, number. I read that the room is small but didn't think it was that big. The main part is occupied by a double bed, there is a bedside table and on the other side a passage of 30 centimeters, built-in wardrobe, electronic safe, air conditioning.

On the wall to conduct flat TV (Most of the channels on which they do not show). The shower is designed for very thin people. Some of my friends simply wouldn’t fit into it, it’s good that I’m very thin..
But on the other hand, for such money, everything is in order, clean and okay. True, there are essentially no windows either (maybe the rooms on the second floor have them, but in my room 3, they don’t have it, more precisely, under the ceiling there was a window type for fresh air to enter.
But then again, it's all trifles. After a shower, I go to survey the area. Another goal was to buy a local SIM card. I will live a long time, I need to call a lot. If we had so few offices of cellular companies, they would probably go bankrupt. Looking ahead, I found the first office, about an hour after 2 walks around the city, but I don’t walk slowly.

So, I decided to cross the Tiberina on the Garibaldi bridge, and go wherever my eyes look. At the same time prudently did not forget to take a free card at the hotel.

And then there was Rome. Three days of continuous Rome.

Starting from Argentine Square, then to the Colosseum, the forums, then without realizing it, ended up at the Trevi Fountain. I wandered around in the crowd, and somehow got out all the same on Via Nazionale, where I found both the Wind office and the DESPAR supermarket, where I bought some water for the further journey. By the way, I noticed that in Bill the prices are 50 percent lower than in Despar. Apparently because I saw Despar in tourist places, but not Bill.

At the Wind office, I bought a SIM card. It literally took 5 minutes. A temperamental Italian in all languages ​​​​said something to me, and so I don’t understand English very well, and with the speed with which the Italians speak, I don’t understand anything at all. I tried to ask when the SIM card would be activated (since I read here that the period could be up to 24 hours, which didn’t suit me at all), to which I received an impatient answer that everything was in order, now it will work.

True, after 2 hours it still didn’t work, and when I passed by again and tried to find out at least an approximate time, this temperamental young man began to resent, like “Senior! Look at how much work I have, today everything will work in the evening, at 9 hours". Well, it was useless to argue. Rules are rules. Then from the Republic Square, across the street of 4 fountains, I again found myself on Via Nazionale and decided that it was the evening (especially Moscow time) and it was time to refresh myself.
I got printouts from the forum and maps from Google, I found that there are several recommended restaurants very close by. Since it was all too early, I decided that I would find the first one in this one and go. Antica Trattoria "La Matriciana" (famiglia Crisciotti), Via del Viminale, 44, came first, but the windows of the door were closed. I decided that it was too early, but since I still decided to eat, I continued on my way and there was a restaurant Il Tavolinetto (http://www.il-tavolinetto.it/) nearby.

I didn't go inside, but sat down at a table outside. I was the only customer, but almost immediately after, more people came running. I ordered Ravioli (I don't know with what), teramisu and tea. Somehow I didn’t really like the ravioli, but Termais was like Teramis.
I must immediately note that all assessments here are very subjective, especially in terms of cuisine. I do not consider myself a gourmet, but I like to eat delicious food. But here it's for an amateur. I don’t know who recommended this Tavolino to me, but the retoran is the most ordinary one and didn’t particularly inspire me. Having a snack, I continued my wandering around the city, studying and remembering what was where.

Since it was getting late in the evening, and I had never gone back to the hotel, I decided to return. The more day I had a busy day, since I was getting from Voronezh, it was possible to relax. Returning home, I realized that during my half-day stay in Rome, I had not tried the vaunted Italian ice cream. And on Via Arenula, which leads from Argentine Square to the Garibaldi Bridge, I came across an ice cream parlor, of which there are many in Rome.

The sales guy offered me ice cream in English, but soon, apparently from my accent, he realized that things were not going well and directly asked "Russian?". It turned out that he speaks excellent Russian. And how glad I was that I did not need to strain my meager knowledge. And satisfied, taking the Sicilian Cassata went to the hotel. And then there was a mystery for me not resolved in any way.

How Italians manage to eat ice cream in cones without getting their hands dirty. After all, it begins to melt, and you do not have time for it, and one way or another, your hands are all in ice cream. After the second such attempt, I asked me to put ice cream only in cardboard cups.
After tasting delicious ice cream, I decided that enough for today and it's time to sleep. But I still had to contact the local guide, with whom I had arranged an excursion from Russia.
And here is the explanation digression. You can, of course, get around everything yourself by reading about all the sights in advance or along the way. But laziness was born before me and I decided that I would rather cry, but let them warm my ears with their stories. Moreover, as it turned out later, the guides still sometimes know how to place accents and pay attention to such things that, while studying on their own, they might not have thought.

At about 9 o'clock local time, the SIM card was activated, and after a call to my homeland, I phoned the guide. She admired the fact that I live in Trastevere for a long time and it turned out that on this day the day of some saint was celebrated (already forgot of course), when the Italians look at the sky and the stars fall there. Deciding that I had no right to break away from the people, I ventured to walk around the night Trastevere.
And although the time was already at 10, the people were walking at full speed. Tables in restaurants were filled to the brim, people were walking and having fun. Straight beauty. I also decided to have a bite to eat with the people again. And here was my mistake. I don't eat much at all. I look at how experienced people advised in one of the restaurants and there are a lot of people and like Italians. Went in and sat down. The menu is like a menu. But I still don't understand much.

I think I'll order something like that. I did not understand what I ordered. I understand that it is meat. And right next to it, as it turned out, an Italian family of people at 15 with children celebrated a birthday, as I understood grandmothers. For 2 hours of sitting in the neighborhood, the national flavor was enough for me for a long time. The children screamed like they were cut, ran, fought and put up. And no one said a word to them. The restaurant is called "Da Massi" located on via della Scala,34-34a-34b

And here is my order. It was something meat stuffed with something inside, lightly chopped and seasoned with sauce. Yes, I remembered. I was bribed by the word "Truffles" in the title. Apparently from above were these same truffles. The meat was a little tough, but apparently it was meant to be. I ate it for a good hour and a half. It looks delicious, but it doesn't fit anymore.

A liter of water was washed down with incredible ease. I didn’t have enough for coffee, and after saying goodbye, I went to bed. Since, after talking with the guide, I decided, in addition to the overview, to visit the Vatican Museums, and I had to be there by 8 o'clock in the morning. This means that in order to orient yourself on the ground and not be late, you need to leave early. Yes, and I'm tired for these days, frankly.

So, day two.

I have to be at the Vatican Museums by eight o'clock. But where exactly they are located - I do not know. I know at St. Peter's Cathedral, but I'm not sure how to find it exactly. Having reached the cathedral, I start looking and along the wall, along the wall I find the entrance. Around 8:00 a queue is slowly forming. In 20 minutes it will become just gigantic.
But fortunately. I go in a group that goes through the queue very quickly. I agreed on the excursion back in Russia, or rather, agreed on the overview, but it turned out that there is the Vatican, and I myself didn’t really want to read the guidebook, so I preferred that they tell me, but I just listened.

In the Vatican, of course, the Sistine Chapel impressed. It was very interesting to look at the work of Michelangelo, which I only recently read about in a book by Irving Stone. I immediately remembered the pages of the novel. Plus, the guide's story was reminiscent of some forgotten pages, and some were remembered and what she did not say. After we went to St. Peter's Cathedral.

Same. of course, that's another impression. And I was not even impressed by all the relics and other attributes of a religious cult. Impressive architectural and sculptural moments. Here after all and "Mourning" by Michelangelo. Generally great. In the campaign through the Vatican, two and a half hours passed like an instant, I did not expect it myself.

observation. On the tour, I joined a group of tourists who came on an excursion package. It was kind of pitiful to look at them. Since after the early Vatican they had a rich program ahead, and a review and something else. And when just relax and walk is not clear. And every day a new city, a mass of information that in a rare head does not turn into a hodgepodge.

And further. Tour guide while we were going. I was interested in tourists whether they settled well, how they found a hotel. And the tourist is so satisfied and happy, she says: "Oh, everything is fine. Everything is in order. The hotel is very close. It's on the metro. God knows what station and then only 5 bus stops." And I mentally compare with my location. I would go with a package, I would also live on some outskirts, but here in the very center and, in fact, for little money.

And so, saying goodbye to the guide, mentally wishing good luck to these conquerors of Europe, I get dirty and set off on a free voyage. Since I didn’t have time to have breakfast, I decided to find a cafe to drink coffee with a dessert and there already decide what to do next. After all, until 16-30, when I have a pedestrian survey, there is still a lot of time. Going into one of the cafes, I decided to try something called Frappuccino.

After drinking this drink with a wonderful shortcake, I decided to explore the parliament area for an evening dinner and look for restaurants recommended by the forum. they were found quickly enough, although they were closed, and so I decided that they would open by 7 pm and I would return and follow the advice of professional Italophiles, but for now it would not hurt to relax in the heat.

A few minutes later I was already in the room and had wonderful daytime dreams. On the way, I went to the most Russian-speaking ice cream shop here, but instead of a Russian-speaking guy, there was already a woman. I had to strain my meager knowledge of English again. But even here it turned out that she also speaks Russian. And it turned out also because she said that only Russians can eat ice cream so early.

Locals mostly go in the evening when they take a walk after dinner. During the conversation, I found out that this is a family business. And the guy is her son. It’s just that he works the second shift and sleeps while he and her husband prepare products. While there are no people, she bakes cakes and pastries, and her husband makes ice cream. This time it was just wonderful pistachio.
After "quiet time" I decided to have a quick bite to eat somewhere, since large portions in a restaurant in such a heat will definitely not do me any good. I found Il Dolphin in Plaza Argentina where I decided to eat their hamburger called Panino. But the choice was not very for me. Since the base was super-salty (for me) ham (ham), or what it is, I don’t know, but there was a lot of it from the heart and I couldn’t eat this stuffed pancakes.

But since there is something still strongly did not want to go to a meeting with the group. The meeting point is the Colosseum. I had already been there, so I arrived on time, found a group that had also traveled around the city and had a slightly exhausted look, but did not lose their good spirits. Having walked along the main points of the historical center of Rome, we got out at the Spanish Steps and again said goodbye in a great mood.

As I was leaving, I heard the leader of the group ordering that now we are all going to the hotel, and then ... well, in general, everything is clear. I decided to go to the restaurants that I had planned in the morning not far from the parliament. According to reviews on the network, he outlined two restaurants. Trattoria Da Gino (Vicolo Rosini, 4) and Ristorante "Matricianella", Via Del Leone, 4. Gino's trattoria was the first on the way. But there is now a completely different institution as it turned out. Roughly called Spago di parlamenti. When I arrived, there were already visitors, but the kitchen was not yet open, only the bar. They said that 10 minutes and the kitchen will work. I looked at the menu, there was nothing similar to what was in the review, and the menu itself did not shine with variety.

Decided not to waste time and decided to go to Matricianella. But even there I was disappointed. Although there was a summer veranda, all the windows and doors were closed and there was no announcement of a vacation. So why did not work - I did not understand. After wandering around the streets, I decided that everything was too touristy, and since I was in Trastevere, I would find something for myself there the second evening.

I was already in Trastevere at about 9 o'clock. The restaurants were full of people. In two there were even queues (although they were somehow incomprehensible). Following the advice, one could, of course, stand in line, but I think the owners, with such a flow, would not be very happy to give me a whole hundred when two could be put there. And one of the restaurants looked like a fish one, which did not suit me at all.
Having walked more along the streets, I found a pizzeria something like De Moro. It seems that the Italians were sitting and the tourists. I was invited inside, to some farthest hall. Not far from the toilet, although there were other halls half empty. I sat and waited. I decided that some of my feelings were not very pleasant and decided to leave him and listen to the inner voice. (You have to listen to him sometime).

Seeing that somehow nothing sinks into my soul, but at the same time I got into some kind of scandal, when in the middle of the street an Italian woman sorted things out with some man, and another man in shorts stood at the door. I decided not to join the crowd of observers and move on. I returned again to da Massi.

And I ordered pizza. But in some inexplicable way, it turned out to be completely covered with that same salted ham (show off is called). Not only is it a feat for me to eat a whole pizza, but also with such a filling ... In general, there could be only one reward - ice cream for the night
After walking a little more, I returned to the hotel, where, having refreshed myself with grapes, I fell asleep very safely. Ahead was a new day in Rome, and what I would do I had no idea.

Third day in Rome.

I had no idea what to do. Since it seems to have bypassed the main sights, it was not reasonable to go to Ostia to the beach, since 6 days by the sea were coming.

Received breakfast in the room in the morning. For me it was quite sufficient. During breakfast and everything else, I decided that I still need to get acquainted with historical sights in more detail and for this I decided to try using a guidebook. Indeed, in many guidebooks there are routes along which you can walk and see the sights, learning something new.

I wanted to do this for a long time and then the opportunity to try it just turned up. After looking through the guidebook "Around the World", which I bought on the road, I chose route number 9. There, to the maximum, there were those sights that I had not yet seen in Rome, or saw very briefly, plus the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore was listed in it.
This is also the fad that was somewhere in my subconscious and for some reason I had to visit it, although I had not read anything about it before and did not know. This is from childhood, just as apparently and like Sorrento somewhere in my subconscious, I had something completely inaccessible and therefore somewhat sacred in sensations. That is, I aspired to this myself without knowing why.

So, I think it makes no sense to describe the route in detail (who is interested in it in the guidebook). I note the following that without the help of a free map from the hotel, some sights would be very difficult to find, almost impossible only with a guidebook. I was very pleased that I got to the Cathedral of San Pietro in Vincolo. Since Moses was found there by Michelangelo (the one with horns).

During the inspection, I still did not understand where the Borgia Palace was located. But since there is still no entrance there (as I understand it), I didn’t get too upset. During the journey along the route, I naturally earned a certain amount of hunger, so the question arose where to eat. Having already waved, to be honest, at all the advice that was given here, I decided to go into almost the first tratoria (restaurant) that came across, if you don’t only strongly push me away by sensations.

Just then I turned off Via Cavour towards the church of Santa Maria dei Monti, and then I came across a restaurant with a completely un-Italian name Wanted. The menu seems to be nothing special, everything is traditional, the prices are also normal, so I went. The restaurant was small and half full. Here I fortified myself with lasagna and sealed my dinner with cassata siciliana.

It was very tasty (I think). Well, after waiting for the midday heat a little cool, I moved on. There was already a little left. And soon my path ended in the altar of the fatherland. And again the age-old question "What to do?". You could go to the hotel to relax. I was about to leave, but then I found Circus Maximus in the name of the stops. Well, I went.

This amphitheater (or rather, what left of it didn’t make a special impression. It was much more difficult to return from there, since the bus service is a bit unusual there, but quickly everything was found and again in the very center.

Now I definitely decided to go to the hotel, and after a short rest I planned dinner and then see some of the illuminated fountains. They say it's very beautiful.

Dinner turned out to be the same not the most successful. The next recommended restaurant was closed for vacation, but as I understand it, the recommended nearby catering places were indicated on the ad. In the afternoon I saw locals carrying pizza from the Strega restaurant. I went to him. the people were just gathering for dinner, the tables on the summer veranda were free. The staff were very friendly when we met.

Of course, this is not a restaurant that the locals go to, it is tourist oriented, this is without options. But there was not much to choose from, so I went. The system is next. One takes all the orders, and then the rest deliver the orders, and the same one, apparently the main one, then gives the bills. I ordered Fettuccine. I had no idea what it was. I waited for the order, at the same time I watched the work of the staff.

Although well-fed, but a little upset along Via Viminale, I went for a walk further. Then I went to the Termini area. And I must say that he struck me with a certain coldness. And then I realized how well. that the hotel chose it in Trastevere, and not Termini, as originally planned, following the advice of experienced people. It's kind of uncomfortable there. In the same place, after all, next to Chinatown, a quarter with immigrants from Africa. In short, peace and friendship of peoples is for me, but I don’t want to live there.

First, I examined the fountain in the Republic Square. And then, unexpectedly, I met a man who, with his wife and daughter, was in a group of package tourists with whom I went to the Vatican. He was sitting on the edge of the fountain so dead and tired (they had a Tivoli that day) that I once again understood the correctness of choosing an independent trip.

Then there was the Trevi Fountain, Navona Square and something else I don’t remember. After such a walk, it was time to go to the base. On the way, I went to the familiar ice cream makers. Chatted with the guy-seller, and went to collect things. After all, tomorrow there were so many new discoveries about which I had not even imagined, because I had not yet traveled by internal trains with all the consequences ....

So last day in Rome Well, morning, to be exact. I had no idea how many interesting things were waiting for me.

After breakfast, I decided not to wait until 10 o’clock (check-in time) and check out as soon as possible by 9 o’clock. (Since I didn’t buy anything in Rome, I didn’t have to pack much in my suitcase). About this happiness, which I later remembered in Sorrento.

I already wrote on the forum that in the process of waiting for my departure, I rebooked my hotel due to a price reduction. And here it was necessary not to miss this moment. And when I asked me to calculate, I saw that the girl was taking a fax from the booking office where the old price was. I immediately showed her the printout I had taken with me with the new price. And without problems, the payment went through with a reduced price. Although if it weren't there, it's not a fact that everything would be so smooth. since the girl was guided by this particular printout, and not by some online forms.

Saying "Arividerci" I rolled my suitcase down the cobbled street to the bus stop H, which would take me to Termini station and to a new interesting road.
In advance, I did not book a ticket via the Internet, because I did not know how much I would get. succeed or not. For the first time, you can overpay a little. When I entered the station, I saw two huge queues at the ticket office. How they differed from each other, I did not understand, but apparently still different. Some of the signs were different. I decided that it would be easier for me to buy a ticket automatically. Yep, it wasn't there.

To my surprise, the machine gave a slightly different schedule to Naples than I saw on the Internet. Apparently there he gave tickets for some of these regional trains, which are not going so fast. Well, I had nowhere to rush, so it was possible. The next train was in 20 minutes. I quickly clicked on the screen, a ticket came out for 20.5 euros, well, great. Unfortunately, I still couldn’t find where the choice of place was (after all, the experienced people here warned me that if they didn’t have a certain place, they could drive them away, and this is somehow inconvenient), but I didn’t find it, well.

Sending a banknote of 20 euros. Wonderful. There was no coin of 50 cents, I throw 1 euro and then ... silence. From the automatic reaction zero. Waited. Some kind of pretzel was already attached to the back, for some reason it formed a queue to my ATM. Waited, waited. Nothing. Well, I think there is nothing to do. I cancel And then he gives out 20 euros back and does not give out 1 euro, and at the same time freezes so that not a single control button is displayed. There's nothing to be done, it's embarrassing. but I turn around and go to the queue with the cashiers. And then I'll break some machine.

While I was standing in line, I saw how in vain the passengers tried to do something with this machine, so it did not come to life. I stood in line for a long time. And just got it 10 minutes before the departure of the Eurostar (well, that means fate). And besides, the flight for which I was going to take a ticket through the machine delayed the dispatch by almost an hour or more.

Grabbing a ticket 10 minutes before departure, I fly to the platform, but I still need to find a platform and a wagon. But it is not possible to find the platform because it is not written on the information board. Mild panic attack. Suddenly it shouldn't be written, you never know. But exactly at 11 o’clock the platform number lights up on the scoreboard and then a train from Milan arrives, which will then go to Naples.

Fits wonderfully in the car. The suitcase was easily placed on the top shelf, although the numbering of the seats was a bit confusing. How they number them there, I did not understand. With a slight delay of 10 minutes, we leave. Hour ten passed somehow very quickly, then the views from the window, then the book ....

Here comes Naples.

As I drove, I surveyed the area. We somehow got used to the fact that we have a lot of unkempt. destroyed and neglected. But in Europe, then .... And here the same thing. Some uncultivated territories come across, garbage. So not everything is so wonderful in that kingdom.
From Naples station I had to transfer to the train to Sorrento. Again, judging by the forum - everything is simple, to the station, to the left and Vesuvian ... Yeah, simple. Just for those who have already travelled. Already approaching Naples, I listened to what my neighbors were saying. The family went on vacation to ... (!) Sorrento. And I didn't know exactly how to get there. And the girl went there and offered to show them.