I am taking my first cruise in September on the new Symphony of the Seas leaving out of Barcelona. It includes stops for for Florence and Rome, but looking at excursion it seems we would spend more time getting there than actually being there. How much can you actually see in a few hours in such iconic places? Are there closer alternatives worth seeing?
If you are adventurous and comfortable with travel via train we have taken the train from port into Rome(much quicker and cheaper) and then took the subway to points of interest..ie: Vatican,basilica,Tevi fountain,Spanish steps,coliseum etc. Quite easy to see all in one day as long as you don't need a tour(could probably get one tour in). You will definitely enjoy the atmosphere of Rome as opposed to being in a taxi or bus the entire day. It is just what you are comfortable with.
Florence is far from La Spezia but we also took the train from La Spezia into Cinque Terre and stopped at each little town to explore. A bit of a walk to train station (1/2 mile?)
Are day trips to Florence or Rome worth the time and money
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If you are adventurous and comfortable with travel via train we have taken the train from port into Rome(much quicker and cheaper) and then took the subway to points of interest..ie: Vatican,basilica,Tevi fountain,Spanish steps,coliseum etc. Quite easy to see all in one day as long as you don't need a tour(could probably get one tour in). You will definitely enjoy the atmosphere of Rome as opposed to being in a taxi or bus the entire day. It is just what you are comfortable with.
Florence is far from La Spezia but we also took the train from La Spezia into Cinque Terre and stopped at each little town to explore. A bit of a walk to train station (1/2 mile?)