Thanks for posting this question. We never even thought of using this type of service to extend our trips in Europe. We aren't doing it this time for Central Europe but I know we are seriously considering touring Ireland with
Nat Geo in 2018 and this would be a great way for us to extend the trip for a few extra days in Dublin.
I've only just booked the apartment, but so far, so good! I've received messages from my host, and he has indicated he will set up a car service for airport pick-up once the trip gets closer. I'll definitely post a full trip report during/after our visit.
I've also booked several of our Rome "excursions." I got the ideas from Rapunzellover's Italy trip report last year. I've booked a walking tour of the fountains/piazzas, a VIP Colosseum tour, and the early-entry Pristine Sistine tour all through Walks of Italy. Logistically, we would probably have a VERY difficult time doing the early-entry Vatican tour if we stay at the Waldorf because that tour starts at 730 am, and according to Google maps, it is an hour walk from the Waldorf to the Vatican. This apartment I booked is no more than a 20 min walk from anything.
Because of the schedule of the tours, we basically have an entire Monday to do whatever we want (before our 2 pm Colosseum tour). I was thinking we'd walk to St. Peter's and do an early morning climb to the top of the dome. That was one of the highlights of my previous trip to Italy, and I would prefer to do it early in the day (rather than after our organized Vatican tour, when I suspect it will be much more crowded).
I know the dome climb is essentially free (I think it's something like 7 euros if you want to take the elevator part of the way up), but it's not guided. There are guided dome-only tours for $30-$40 a person...has anyone done one of those? Is it worth it, or should I just tackle this on our own?
Also taking recommendations for restaurants. I may go back to Walks of Italy and book a pasta-making class/dinner, though.
