Vatican (Rome) - Italy

1. Vatican museum
00120 citta del vaticano
(www.museivaticani.va, 15 euros)
- book online in advance

2. Sistine chapel
Intricate frescos painted by reluctant Michelangelo

- do make use of guide books / apps to better appreciate each scene
- most moving: the sin that tore Adam and Eve from God

3. St. Peter's basilica


Please remember NOT to go to the Vatican on a sunday.

Rome Sightseeing- Italy

Do 1 & 2 together

1. Shopping- Spanish steps, near Trevi foundation (5mins apart- a lot of walking tours)

*Do be careful as its very pack and beware of pickpockets. Wear as "lok" as possible. I always carry a ratty looking sling bag to play safe.

Tip-- While Italy's VAT refund is good (e.g Chanel is 14%, Prada around 12%), I find shopping in Rome stressful. Florence has less variety as the boutiques are smaller, but I feel happier shopping there.

2. Trevi fountain

Throw a coin backwards... Just don't hit someone... Good luck! ;)

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Do 3 & 4 together (about 5h)

3. Colosseum

The crumbling amphitheater was first used for gladiatorial battles in AD80, staged in front if 50,000 jeering spectators. Open 8.30am-7pm.. Expect queues too. You will notice a cross there too. It's a bit sad when you see what is termed "entertainment"..

4. Roman forum

http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Forum

Rome map- Italy

Rome's main airport: fiumicino

Central train station: Roma termini

Taxi: about 50 euros (our choice)

Alternative: Leonardo express (every half-hour) takes about 30mins to reach Roma termini. 14 euros per pax, 1 way