Although it is a long day the trip is worth it. Our driver Andrew was excellent and we were connected with a fantastic, knowledgeable guide at Pompeii who was delightful and funny. Our lunch spot was prearranged and offered wonderful food at reasonble prices. We had ample opportunity for photos and shopping and our van transportation was comfortable. I was able to get acquainted with my fellow travelers in the van far better than a bus would have allowed and I enjoyed the additional benefit of hotel pick up and drop off. All in all a very satisfying experience.

With five million visitors a year the "skip the line" tour provides more time to view and an informed guide provides the interpretive information to appreciate the vast collection of art in the Vatican Museums. Keep in mind that visitors are not permitted in much of Vatican City so you will not see the gardens and other areas reserved for Vatican residents and visiting dignitaries. Our guide had an art history degree and was able to provide good information about what we saw.

I had always wanted to try riding a Segway and this tour provided the opportunity to do it while covering the ground of ancient Rome. The instructor/guide did a good job of introducing us to the vehicle and gave ample time to practice and become confident. She then led us through the throngs of walkers to see the highlights of the ancient area. Everyone in my group was able to grasp the simple skills required to ride and enjoy this unique form of transportaton. I consider this tour a highlight of my time in Rome.

These are two amazing sites though Hadrian's Villa shared some similar characteristics to Pompei. Villa d'Este was amazing, gorgeous and a great pairing with the other site. This tour represents a full day outside of Rome and a very different experience from the city.

Guide was required to speak in German and English which was a bit disconcerting. Don't book on Saturday as Rome is a madhouse of traffic. We were stuck crawling in a traffic jam at 11 at night. Dinner was only fair although the table conversation was interesting. Rome at night was mostly just darker.

Bus has limited hours of operation and there are several run by different companies.I had booked this with the idea of using it to get around Rome but the Metro is much more available as a means of transportation and easy to use. If you are not booking other tours this might be ok for a self guided day in Rome.