Check into a budget B&B or hostel near Termini or in Monti (easy for luggage and central). Recommended budget options: The Beehive (B&B/hostel) or small Monti guesthouses.
Short taxi or 20–30 minute walk to Trastevere for a relaxed first-night dinner — try Trattoria Da Enzo for classic Roman pasta (check opening hours; many close ~10:30pm).
See Florence Cathedral and consider climbing the Duomo or Bell Tower (advance bookings recommended; Duomo terraces and climb open hours typically 10:00–17:00 but check seasonal times).
Visit Piazza San Marco; basilica entry is free for general areas but certain parts may charge (and lines can be long). Campanile typically open 9:30–7:00 (seasonal).
Vaporetto lines serve Murano (glassmaking) and colorful Burano; allow 3–4 hours total to visit both islands (boats run frequently, check ACTV timetables).
Famous turquoise pools and the stone bridge are ideal for photography and a refreshing swim — bring water shoes. No fixed opening hours; outdoor natural sites are accessible all day.
Well-marked trails through the valley and to hamlets like Sonogno offer easy-to-moderate hikes with beautiful scenery; no set opening hours for trails.
From La Spezia, frequent regional trains (every 20–30 minutes) reach Monterosso in ~20–30 minutes — head to Monterosso for its sandy main beach (the best in Cinque Terre).
Enjoy an afternoon/early-evening on the sandy Fegina beach — Monterosso is the best sandy beach in Cinque Terre and perfect for a relaxing swim and sunset. Access is public; beach clubs may charge for sunbeds (seasonal hours until sunset).
Evening train from La Spezia to Rome typically takes ~4–4.5 hours depending on service. Book an Intercity/Frecciabianca for more comfort; aim to arrive Rome before midnight to reach your accommodation near the Vatican in Prati.
Arrive in Rome and check into a budget-friendly B&B or small hotel in Prati near the Vatican to be ready for the Sept 7 event. Confirm late check-in with your host.
For the canonization, arrive early (often before 7:00am) for good standing room; expect security checks, bag inspections, and large crowds. Bring ID, water, hat, and small snacks.
Attend the canonization of Carlo and Pier Giorgio in St. Peter’s Square / Basilica area — exact timing and entrances follow official Vatican announcements (the ceremony itself often runs 2–4 hours).
If the Vatican Museums are open that afternoon (special events like canonizations sometimes affect opening hours), consider a late visit; otherwise, enjoy St. Peter’s Basilica interior and the dome (if climbing allowed). Book ahead where possible.