Sam’s Italian Trio
Sam CooperMy ‘Italian Trio’ weekend began in Rome, one of the most historical cities in the world. Rich with history and full of stories to tell, it is a must on anyone’s bucket list and perfect for a short break holiday. Even better, it’s only a 2.5 hour flight from the UK.
My hotel was a short stroll from the Spanish Steps, surrounded by the biggest names in fashion where you can see how the other half live, but you also get a taste of cosmopolitan Rome. As my visit was short (but very sweet), the best way to see everything was by a tour bus, disembarking at the sites you’re most interested in.
There are certain places in Rome you must see and one of them is the Vatican, headquarters to the Catholic Church. Whether you’re religious or not, it’s an eye opener to what is classed as a “small state” since 1929 with approx. 1000 residents. Take a walk around the museum and see the various art pieces before walking into the immaculate gardens and heading towards the Sistine Chapel. One of the most eye catching pieces of art ever created, Michelangelo’s ceiling is something of beauty which tells the story of Adam and Eve, God, and heaven and hell.
Continue your journey through the Vatican Museum which dates back to 1506. Immerse yourself into a world before your time, with art work and sculptures selected by popes over the years, including some of the most important masterpieces of renaissance art work in the world.
A visit to Rome and the Vatican is not complete without a visit to St Peter’s Basilica. Building work started in 1506 with completion in 1626. Home to popes who have been embalmed, people from all over the world come to worship them. Here you can truly appreciate the true beauty of the architecture and the attention to detail that has made this one of the most iconic historical places in the world.
One of the very first things you learn in school is about the Romans, so a visit to the Colosseum is a must when in Rome! This grand building, which is showing its age as it’s crumbled over the years, is a stunning piece of architecture which has an overwhelming historical presence in Rome dating back to 80AD.
With renovations finally completed, another landmark to see in Rome is the Trevi Fountain. It’s a beautiful landmark however can get very busy. I would recommend going in the evening after a meal as it’s lit up and tends to be a little quieter.
To really appreciate Rome I would recommend at least 4 nights, however if you can stay longer you will keep finding things to see and do as it’s a city where any corner you turn a story can be told.
The next part of my weekend I travelled to the Tuscan city of Florence, home to some of best pieces of art work in the world. On a direct train the journey from Rome to Florence took only 1 hour 30 minutes. A 5 minute taxi journey to my hotel, it was then a 3 minute walk to Santa Maria Novella and other local landmarks.
Florence is a city very accessible by foot along the cobbled streets. Here you will see a mix of architecture from pre -historic Greek and Roman periods, to Gothic, Renaissance and modern influences in the early 1900’s. On a sunny day you can see the colours of the buildings come to life including the Pitti Palace, The Bargello and The Basilica of Santa Spirito.
Take a walk along the Arno River, maybe stop for a coffee on a gentle walk, and why not try a gelato! The most famous bridge in Florence is Ponte Vecchio which dates back to the days of the Romans. It’s not your typical bridge as it has small quaint shops selling anything from local souvenirs to jewellery and food delicacies.
I took a train from Florence to Venice which took just over 2 hours. From the train station you can easily travel to various locations on Venice island by a water bus or even a shared taxi, however if you pay a little more, why not arrive in style in a private water taxi? I did just this and for 20 minutes I felt like James Bond in Casino Royale! Most of all I felt like a VIP. Everyone deserves this feeling so try it!
Venice is an iconic destination due to the amount of canals. Only Birmingham has more canals however Venice is much prettier! My first impressions didn’t disappoint, however the best way to appreciate this unique destination was to blend in like a local. I put away my camera, and I got lost in the little quirky streets. I kept finding canals which you would class as side streets, but each building told a story.
What I love about Italy is that no matter which part you visit, the warm welcome you receive, the food you taste and what’s on offer with history dating back thousands of years, it has something for everyone. Italy will not disappoint!
To book your short break to Italy with Sam, call us on 01543 258631 or e-mail vip@rbcollection.com
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