Testimonials of Rome Travels of our Tours & Travel Services : Your Certified Trip Advisor - Rome Travels | Home | Rome Guide | Rome Tours | Rome Travel | Religious Holidays | Italy Pilgrimages | Italy Shore Excursions

We, Rome Travels S.r.l., work essentially through words-of-mouth, referrals and the US travel agents. At the same time, in our long career we rarely asked to leave a comment to our estimated clients of the tours and travel arrangements and travel packages provided for their Italian trip.
Further, we publish, of course with the consent of the person(s) involved, what our dear clients said along with their e-mail, so you may be 100% sure that they truly represent your best & certified trip advisors.

Considering that our father Sandro has started this business in 1971, my brother in 1991 and myself in 1997, we thought being impossible to edit all of them per year. Here below we have some of them. We do believe that it is appropriate to entrust more and better what the people who were with us said rather than any other advertising.

Sincerely,

Rome Travels S.r.l.

Dear Cristiano,

My family and I want to thank you for the outstanding tours you and your company provided to us during our vacation in Italy.  Not only were you knowledgeable of all the major sites and attractions but you made all of us feel like family! Going through you and your company is the only way to do a tour when traveling in Italy. The private Vatican Tour was even more memorable and impressive than I could have imagined! Our daughters were very comfortable with you when they asked you questions and you never rushed during any of the tours you provided to us.  This in itself is what sets you and your company apart from others!  This to us – made our Italy Vacation even better than anticipated.

Cristiano – I would recommend you and your company (Rome Travels) to all my friends here in the States that are traveling to Italy.  Thanks so much for making our family Italy vacation the best vacation we have taken.  This vacation will be a lifetime memory for all of us and you added that extra special touch.  Thanks for a wonderful 2 days with you and being who you are – a very knowledgeable and personable gentleman.  

All our best,
The Giammalvo Family – (USA, Florida) - E-Mail: r.giammalvo@comcast.net



I would never visit Rome without a personal tour guide, and I would only use Rome Travels / Cristiano Pellegrini.  We have used them twice now.  The second time we went, we arrived by cruise ship and they made arrangements to pick us up right at the ship and transported us to Rome in first class luxury.  They customized our tour to make sure we saw the things that were most important to us.  Cristiano is not only an extremely knowledgeable tour guide, but he also exudes a passion for this beautiful city that causes you to appreciate it even more.  If you want to make your visit to Rome most memorable, don’t do it without Rome Travels.   

Donna Manley – E-Mail: dmanley@coxconstruction.net

Dear Christiano,

I want you thank you and your family for the wonderful and professional tours during our visit in Rome this past summer. As you may remember,  I work for a company that produces trade shows and investment cruises.  The cruise line we use is Crystal, the only 6 star cruise line.
I must tell you that your tours are as organized as the ones provided by Crystal BUT so much better since we did not have to go with the masses of people.  It was wonderful how you could always avoid all the lines for us as we toured, and it was comforting knowing we would be picked up at the airport, taken right to our hotel and that our return went so smooth.  You and our family have extensive knowledge of Rome and we learned so much from you.
We used your services 6 years ago on our first trip to Rome and were so happy to be able to reserve your time again.
Thank you again Cristiano .... wish we could return soon!

Sincerely,

Maureen Baltzer - E-Mail: maureenbaltzer@moneyshow.com

Dear Cristiano:

Thank you so very much for introducing us to Rome.  You gave us a wonderful tour of Tome and we saw much more than we could ever have done on our own.  Your knowledge and expertise of the area made our short visit most memorable.  Our entire trip was great and we saw many wonderful cities and sites, but I do think that we enjoyed Rome more than any other city we visited and that was because of you and how you took such good care of us.  You were right … when you told us that your personal tour would be so much better than a group tour.  We cannot thank you enough and would highly recommend you and your company to any other visitors to Rome.

Outstanding and grazie!

Linda and Charlie Collier - Fairfax, Virginia - collier7@verizon.net

Dear Cristiano,

thank you so much for providing us with a very informative and interesting tour of the Vatican. You helped us to make our trip more meaningful and memorable. We will be sure to recommend your services to our friends and family.

Sincerely, Dean & Lisa from Texas - dguerro@verizon.net




Cristiano and his team made my family's trip to Italy one of the most wonderful of their lives! He is professional, fun and easy to work with. His knowledge and love of his country is infectious and he shares that with everyone he meets. We can't wait to go back and tour together again!

Ashley Russo - E-Mail: ashleyrenna@hotmail.com

Cristiano

When Dick and I were in Rome, we so enjoyed the tour of the Vatican we had with you.  I firmly believe we would not have enjoyed the experience as much if we did not have you with us.  So much of what the Vatican has to share with the world would have been lost on us.   We would have missed more than we saw.  
I have passed your contact information on to a few local friends in the Seattle area

Sincerely,

Lynne Goodfellow - E-Mail: lgoodfellow@homesourceinternational.com



Dear Cristiano:

I was in Italy in June 2009.  I found your website through a web search of "Rome Underground."  While I  was impressed with your website,  it in no way compared with the extraordinary tours I was to receive with you,

I have my Ph.D. in sociology,  and while I would say that my travelling companions are even smarter than me,  your knowledge and passion for  the great and vast history of Rome, made our tour more fascinating than I thought it could be!

The two things I think that made my tours with you most enjoyable were:  1)  your seemingly boundless amount of knowledge on any subject we brought up and 2)  your absolute attention to everything we wanted and needed.    I know that if we had needed less information or detail --  you could've done that (you were ever so understanding with the tour we took just after our arrival when we were terribly jet lagged ...  and gave us just what we needed a month later at the end of our trip)!  The amount of personal attention you give your clients is absolutely astounding.   I will always be grateful to you for be willing to discuss contemporary Italian sociology with me although I loved every drop of history (and word etymology) you shared with me.

I will forever be grateful for the time we spent with you in Rome.  My husband describes it as "the best day of my life"  (at which point I slap him,  and tell him that the best day of his life was the day he married me and Cristiano only gets the second best day of his life)!

Most sincerely,

Jennifer Hackney - Oklahoma - E-Mail: jkhbuy@yahoo.com

I planned my first trip in 2007 to Italy with only a plane ticket and the professional guidance of Cristiano Pellegrini of Rome Travels. Cristiano assisted with many of the arrangements, including the finest hotels in Amalfi, Siena and Rome.  He secured guide service in both Amalfi and Siena, coordinating all transportation between cities. His attention to detail and quick responses removed any concerns throughout the planning process.

Our stay in Rome and our time spent with Cristiano was special. Cristiano’s historical knowledge, access to all places Roman and his personal warmth provided my family with an experience not found with any group tours. I am currently planning my third trip to Italy and again will be using Cristiano’s services.  

Michael Winters - Chicago IL - E-Mail: mike.winters@winterslandscape.com




My husband and I highly recommend the touring services of Christiano Pellegrini.  Not only is he charming, but extremely knowledgeable.  His expert guidance assured that we did not miss any of the treasures displayed in the Vatican Museum and the Basilica.  

Joyce Goldmann, Dallas, Texas - E-Mail: joycegoldmann@gmail.com

Hello Cristiano;

We have arrived back to the U.S. from our fabulous trips to Italy & London.  We are very grateful that Bonnie & Tony gave us your name as a private tour guide.  It was an experience we will never forget and was worth every penny (Euro).  One of our favorite days in Italy was the (full) day we spent w/ you visiting the Vatican, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, the Pantheon, having a delicious lunch @ Armando Al Pantheon, going to tour the Forum & the Coliseum.  We are so thankful you knew all the ropes, & we didn't have to wait in all those long lines to get into these places.  

We also appreciated the respect & recognition you received from the people working in these places.

Your enthusiastic presentations & interpretations of what we saw was far beyond our expectations.  We learned so much from you!  Your passion shows that this is your calling in life.  The one thing we regret is that we didn't spend more days w/ you.  We will schedule this next time we're in Rome.  We also enjoyed Gino, whom you set us up with in Pompeii, & the driver who took us all the way back to Rome.  

See you next time for sure!

Warmly,

Eleanor & Bob Preger - California - epreger@aol.com




Hi Cristiano,

I just wanted to thank you again for guiding us through your beautiful city.  We all agreed that Rome was the highlight of our vacation and we hope to return within a couple of years.  When we do, I’ll make sure to contact you for hotel recommendations and to get on your schedule for additional touring.

Thanks again for all of your help,

Wesley Miyamoto - Fairfax - VA - wmiyamoto@novastrategies.com

Cristiano,

Jack and I wanted to thank you again for your amazing tours during our two visits to Rome. On our first visit, in July of 2007, we and our two teenagers arranged a full day tour with you, visiting the Colosseum, the Forum, the Pantheon, and the Galleria Borghese. We all enjoyed your informative, personalized tour, and enjoyed learning from your wealth of information!

When planning our second visit, in August of 2008, we made sure we contacted you in advance to make sure you were available for more tours. We spent 2 1/2 days  with you, highlighted by our guided tour of the Vatican Gardens and Museums. We have recommended Rome Travels to all our friends who have travel plans to Rome, and will continue to do so. All aspects of the diverse tour experiences were professionally done, and left us with amazing memories of our trips to your beautiful city. Thank you for all you do!

Bonnie Mollen - Boston, MA, USA - E-Mail: telly6@aol.com

We were so happy with our Rome Travels tour, we would recommend it to anyone traveling in Italy. It took all the pressure off knowing where to go and what to ask for, also learned so much more information then you could ever get from a huge group tour. Our guide Cristiano was gracious and spoke excellent English. Hope we can return soon and see more of the beautiful city and surrounding country.  Thank you so much Cristiano.  

Yours Janey Giessinger and family. - Atascadero - CA - E-mail: janeygiessinger@yahoo.com

Our visit to Rome and the Vatican was a great family reunion of 3 large families.  
We had Cristiano and Rome Travels as our tour guides for our entire trip.  They attended to our every request, were very flexible and the Vatican experience we had was very memorable.  Two years later we still talk about Cristiano's knowledgeable approach and caring attention to our family.  I would recommend Rome Travels for your adventure!

David Murphy - E-Mail: usera8289@netscape.net  

Buongiorno Cristiano,

I just wanted to drop you a note to say again how much Susan and I enjoyed our day with you.  Your knowledge of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel and the other sites was just the beginning. We felt as if we were seeing Rome with a friend who wanted to be sure we experienced the best that the places we visited had to offer.
On top of that your restaurant recommendation proved to be delightful, and your suggestions for how to make best use of our visit beyond the time we had together were right on the mark.

We can't stop talking about how much fun we had in Rome and elsewhere in your beautiful country, and you played a big part in making our trip such a grand occasion.

Ciao,

Bruce and Susan Lea - Texas - E-Mail: wlea@gilbaneco.com

I was fortunate to get a recommendation from someone at that had gotten a tour of Rome from Cristiano Pellegrini of Rome Travels.

In my trip to Rome in February, 2009, I took two different tours of Rome from Cristiano.  Simply put, Cristiano is the best tour guide that I have encountered in the world.  
His tour of the Vatican Museum and St. Peters was very well thought out.  We did not spend much time in areas of the Basilica that did not have the most significant interest in the time I had allotted.  For areas of that were the highlights within the Museum and St. Peters, he had exhaustive knowledge and gave a concise overview based on his years of training.  

I also took a second tour from Cristiano that was tailored around places that I wanted to visit; specifically Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano,   Scala Santa, Sancta Santorum and Basilica of Holy Cross in Jerusalem.  Each of these sites were very moving and would strengthen the faith in any Christian.  Cristiano helped me understand the significance of the great treasures in those places.

If I had not used Cristiano as a guide, I would not have fully appreciated the history and spirit of Rome.  He was also able to procure tickets to the Pope’s Audience as well as transportation.

I also know people that have taken a guided tour as part of large groups.  They have also conveyed to me that they had very fulfilling experiences.   

Thank you Cristiano!

Jim & Anne Horner - Fairfax - VA - E-Mail : jimhorner@mac.com

In April of 2008 a family party of 12 spent a delightful two weeks touring Rome, Florence, Venice and a small village near Lake Como from where our grandfather immigrated 100 years ago.  We contracted with Cristiano Pellegrini of Rome Travels to arrange for housing, guides and transportation.  
As the person responsible for setting up the trip, I worked directly with Cristiano for months before the trip.  He was always timely and very helpful in determining hotels and tour adventures.  I can only say the response from our group after every stay in each city was, " How can it get any better? "  But, it always did !
We were blessed to have Cristiano as our guide in Rome.  He is not only professional but fun to be with.  His historical presentations at numerous stops in this great city were phenomenal.  (I had toured Rome twice before yet was amazed at how much Cristiano added at each stop on our tour.)

His selection of guides in Florence and Venice reflected his professional commitment to his vocation.  Both were outstanding in knowledge, presentation and ability to communicate.  Cristiano arranged for all our travel needs with the right sized bus and an outstanding driver.  We were always in a safe environment that "Max" (our driver) was careful to maneuver while traveling the highways and byways of Italy.

The highest recommendation I can give is that not one person on our trip would have done anything differently, except to spend more time in Italy with Rome Travels as our guide.

It is without reservation I recommend the firm for your consideration.

Alvin G. Sandrini - Bakersfield, CA - E-Mail: asandrini1@bak.rr.com

On behalf of our traveling party of nine, it is my pleasure to comment on the superb guidance we received from Cristiano Pellegrini in January of 2009.  Our group ranged in age from 15 to 60 -- in itself, a challenge.  We hoped to see and learn as much as possible in one week.  Cristiano, a warm and gifted teacher,  facilitated our visits to the Vatican, Borghese Museum, ancient crypts and modern shopping areas.  He gave life to the antiquities, depth to the historical significance of churches and monuments, and a reverence to unparalleled art.  We looked forward to his arrival each morning and realized within days that his presence and leadership were fundamental to our Roman experience."

Suzanne Stoll, Washington, DC - E-Mail: sstoll@rabengroup.com

Cristiano,

I wanted to thank you again for the exceptional services that you showed to my friends and me when we were in Rome.  I bragged to them that you were an expert on Rome and they were certainly not disappointed.  Your passion for the religious and cultural history of your country makes your tours come alive. My daughter describes Cristiano as “the smartest man in the world.” I appreciate the flexibility working around our schedule and I look forward to recommending your services to anyone traveling to Italy!

Ciao,
Nancy Harlan - E-Mail :  sixutfans@aol.com

Cristiano,

thank you for the beautiful trip. I would not consider anyone else to be my tour guide when traveling to Italy so kind and considerate. I brought my 84 year old mother to spend 4 days in Rome followed by 12 day cruise, you not only took good care of us in Rome but also many of our stops on our cruise.
Cristiano was above and beyond all through our trip, his company is the only way to go. There were 37 of us and he handle all of us with care and patience.    

Thank you Cristiano for making our dreams come true all 37 send their greetings and thanks hope to see you again soon.         

Mary Price - Email: price9506@att.net

Cristiano,

On behalf of my family and I, thank you for providing a view of Rome and the Vatican that extended beyond any tour books, literature or maps. Your passion and ability to express the rich history of the area allowed us to see things in a very “ up front and personal way ”.
I could not image touring Rome without your expertise. You have provided us with memories that will truly last a life time. We will be back !

Bill Jeitner – (USA Pennsylvania) - E-Mail: info@BKForensics.com

Dear Cristiano :

It was by chance we found you through the website and you are the right person to be contacted . On behalf of our family and our family friends we thank you for providing us with an exclusive tour to the Vatican City , Sistine Chapel , Raphael room, the Museums, a view of Rome , and a very authentic Italian restaurant. You are trully a professional guide , extended beyond tour books, maps and literatures.

The  history of Christianity, The Roman Empire, The Vatican City and Catholicism are in the back of your hands.You have the full knowledge of all these and we can't ask for more. Our visit was a memorable one and we look forward to return to Vatican City in the near future.

Best wishes : Henry and Hedy Kurniawan . E-mail : henryhedy@yahoo.com

Cristiano,

La ringrazio molto per un incredibile tour. Both Margarita and I wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed our visit to the Vatican with you. Your knowledge and understanding of the Vatican was wonderful. It was the highlight of our travels in Italy.

We both cannot wait to come back and visit again and I am sure we will be using your services during our next trip next spring.

Thank you again. Ciao,

Joe Mignone - jmignone@bass-security.com

Ciao Cris !

It is a very strong statement and I feel that your participation in the planning and execution of the Rome portion of our trip made the entire trip "the best trip ever".  I want to sincerely thank you for everything you did for all eight members of our family.

The comfort and timing of our transportation with wonderful drivers, all the venues we visited whether it was the dome over St. Peters or the senate building where democracy was founded,  we truly saw and experienced Rome.  All the information you provided us, arranging dinner with the sisters, meeting your family … it was all the best it could possibly be and two days of pure joy are stored in our minds ( and our travel journals and albums ) for a lifetime.

Walking hand in hand with my sister and brother through St. Peters with our families around us is significant Cris and you were at the head of the parade.  You are a fun guy to be with and at the same time passionate and enthusiastic about your historic city and country.  Your wealth of knowledge on every building, statue or byway is incredible. No question goes unanswered. Thank you so much … remember … each of us threw another coin in the fountain.  Also remember … when you come to Chicago, you are to be our guest.

God Bless!

Paul - e-mail: pmaas@screenflex.com

Cristiano,

I just wanted to send a note from Dawn and I to say thank you for the wonderful tour today ( Molto benissimo in my bad Italiano! ). It was an excellent combination of information, humor, and personality and your knowledge was surpassed only by your fantastic disposition and style.

Grazie and arrivederci.

Patrizio y D. - E-Mail: pjtully1@comcast.net

Cristiano:

This mail is long overdue but I want to thank you very much for that wonderful day you gave us at the Vatican City. We were both thrilled at the way you brought the history and art to life so vividly and this could only have happened because of your great knowledge and sheer passion for your subject.

Since returning I have had a long conversation with Barclays Bank Concierge company and, as a result, I am told that you are now down for all their Rome trip package as Highly recommended for guided tours.

Mary and I managed to throw our three coins in the Fountain so fully expect to return in the near future. When we do, we will be sure to make contact again.
Once again, many thanks for making our short break in Roma so special.

Paul & Mary Hardman - UK - E-Mail: paul@hartoons.co.uk

Dear Cristiano and the entire Rome Travels team.  

We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to Italy and the real highlights were getting to know the Rome Travels team.  The guides were extremely knowledgeable during our excursions in Florence, Rome and Naples.  We loved each city and region.  Everything was taken care of right down to the last details. The insights of each location provided by the guides made for a very fascinating adventure.  In each city the guides took us to great restaurants for lunch that are out of the touristy areas and visited by the locals.  

I will recommend Cristiano and Rome Travels to all my friends and hope to return to Italy someday soon to see more sights with Cristiano and team.  Cristiano made our trip to Italy a true highlight and a family memory that will last forever.  

We consider ourselves fortunate to have used Rome Travels to help us experience Italy and also lucky to call Cristiano our new friend and someone we will keep in touch with for a very long time.

Sincerely

Blake Modersitzki and family - Email: blake@pelionvp.com

If you want to see Rome with a local insider, Cristiano is the right tour guide for you.  Rome can be overwhelming in its history, architecture, art, and its hundreds of beautiful churches. Cristiano puts it all into perspective and provides the most unique insights into past and present Rome. With him, you will envision the Forum and the palaces as they stood 2,000 years ago, truly appreciate the Sistine Chapel with his mini-art lesson, marvel at the mosaics and frescoes in the basilicas,  and eat at locally authentic restaurants.  

We researched many tour companies, but Cristiano immediately made us feel welcome and his knowledge of art, history, and the right places to visit ( all tailored to your interests ) ensured for us a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

I cannot imagine seeing Rome without his unique perspective as a proud local Roman and hometown guide. He is also is great fun and really helped us to decide and manage our incredible week in the Eternal City.  

Liz Merdian Lareau - (USA, IL ) -  E-Mail: liz@bawdenlareaupr.com

Our three tours with Cristiano were undoubtedly the highlights of our recent trip to Rome. We first retained him for a private tour of the Vatican, which was absolutely outstanding. He took the time to explain all of the details of the Basilica and Sistine Chapel so that we could enjoy the beauty and history of the priceless artifacts. He showed us where Roman materials were used to build and decorate the buildings.

We decided to immediately see if he could fit another tour of Roman Churches into his schedule and we were delighted that he could spend another half day with us, highlighted by the incredible San Clemente Church.

Even though two of our party were leaving for the Amafli coast midweek, my wife and I hoped that we could do yet a third tour with Cristiano, this time of the Roman ruins. He was gracious to accommodate us with a tour of the Forum, Palatine Hill and Coliseum.

In every case his English was perfect and his attention to detail amazing. I could not give him a high enough recommendation ... if you need a guide for Rome ( and believe me, you do ), he is your man. Please contact me if I can be of further assistance.


Mike Kelsey, Wilmington, Delaware -  USA - E-Mail: michael.kelsey@comcast.net

Courtesy and with the consent of Mr. Hector Lareau -

Article from " Quad-Cities Online " - edited on December 12th, 2010
As for the Testimonial & suggestion, Tip. 3 - Read and download the PDF here.

On 19 March 2011, our small group of 4 people had the greatest pleasure and delight of going on a tour of Vatican City that was arranged by Cristiano Pellegrini of Rome Travels.  This tour was exceptional and greatly exceeded our expectations.  We not only avoided long lines, but more importantly, Cristiano's knowledge and insight brought the history of Vatican City and Rome to life for us.  

We were treated with the greatest respect, kindness and understanding.  It was truly an honor to meet Cristiano and to have him be our guide for the afternoon.  Anyone reading this can be 100% confident that they will be more than fully satisfied if they choose Rome Travels.  The next time we are in Rome, we will look to Cristiano to arrange all of our guided tour needs. He is our friend for life!

Rick and Louise Paradis - Sherrard, Illinois  USA - E-Mail: paradisrl@frontiernet.net

We've arrived home from our wonderful trip to Italy.  Starting our tour with you in Rome was the best thing we could have done.  You were most knowledgeable and enthusiastic about Rome's history.  Your stories and insights really made a difference to our understanding and appreciation of this ancient culture.  Our guided tour thru the Vatican (no lines, thanks to you) was a treasured experience.  

We would recommend that anyone wanting to learn about Rome spend time with you as their guide.  There are so many highlights that we would have missed if it hadn't been for you....and so many facts we'll never forget.  We're back to baking "dog bones" but remembering our fabulous time with you in Rome.
Thank you again

Jef and David Bucknam

Wells, Maine

http://www.olddogcookie.com

I did not want our tour to end when we said goodbye outside St. Peter's. It was a great mix of historical information and colorful anecdotes that reflect your passion for the history and culture of the Church. It is not just facts but an appreciation of beauty, and the pleasure of sharing that beauty with other people, that makes these kind of experiences really memorable. I am looking forward doing it again when I return to Rome.

Vincent Jefferds, CA, E-Mail: vincent_jefferds@yahoo.com

Dear Cristiano:  Just wanted to make sure everyone who goes to your Rome Travels site knows what a terrific time we had with you!  The tour of the Vatican and Sistine Chapel and the other sights you took us to was so enjoyable and informative because of your knowledge and interest in history and Rome.  We thoroughly enjoyed the day.  

The driver was a great idea and we got to see so much more since we had him the 2nd half of the day.  Also, FANTASTIC restaurant you took us to for lunch! A+ day and can't wait to come back! Thank you again!  

Susy and Tom Dukes, FL - E-Mail: tdukes@cfl.rr.com

We had the most wonderful trip to Italy!  We think you are the best guide in all of Rome!!! You were fabulous and the perfect fit for out little group!  You tailored the tours to fit our needs and schedule.  You eliminated the lines and the hassle of the crowds.  You set the tone for our wonderful trip to Italy and made our visit to Rome the absolute best!  I am so happy your were recommended to us!  I have told all our friends if they go to Rome, I have the perfect guide.  

Thank you for making Rome such a great experience and for the best suggestions on where to dine. Thank you Cristiano and remember if you ever get to Kennebunkport, Maine come to see us ! Have a wonderful summer!

Ginger Doucette - Maine - E-Mail: gdoucett1@msn.com

My husband and I were very fortunate to be able to book a private nighttime tour of the Vatican / Sistine chapel with Cristiano as our guide. An absolute gentleman, his tour was thorough, detailed and fascinating. He seemed to know every inch of the place and had an answer for every question. His knowledge about the Vatican and its history is astounding, and his genuine passion for it was infectious.

Our time spent with him in the after-hour tour of the Vatican & the Sistine Chapel was a privilege and one of the highlights of our vacation.

Rob & Julie Maigret - Los Angeles, California - E-Mail: j@juliemaigretdesign.com

Hello Cristiano

Just wanted to write and thank you for the fabulous 3 days in Rome. We really enjoyed the time we spent with you, what great memories we have. We were really impressed by the depth of your knowledge and the passion you show for your city. We are most grateful to you for making this such a special part of our trip.

The boys remember so much more than you would think, 13 is a tricky age so we appreciate your patience too!

With best wishes to you and your family,

Catherine, Tom, Alexander, William and Libby - E-Mail: catherinereagan@hotmail.com

Hello Cristiano,

I want to thank you very much for taking such good care of my brother, Tom Smither, and his family earlier this summer.  Once again you made your beautiful city come alive and they will never forget it. They thoroughly enjoyed their time in Rome and much credit goes to you.  I had fun looking at their photos and seeing you with them.

It has been several years (maybe early 2000’s) since I took my first tour with you as I accompanied my husband on a business trip.  I was lucky enough to have another experience on a second trip.  I again was so impressed with you and your knowledge that luckily I asked for your card.  Since then we have happily referred you to our friends the Boudreaux’s, the Harlan’s, the Goldman’s and now the Smither’s.  All have had such an excellent experience with you, and found you to be professional, knowledgeable and fun to be with.  When my Dad, (age 85 then), took my five siblings and spouses to Rome, you again made it a memorable experience.  We are still talking about that trip and YOU.  You definitely choose the right profession!

Susan Riley, Dallas, TX - E - Mail: rileyssr@gmail.com

Dear Cristiano

On behalf of Chemtura, myself and Tony, I’d like to thank you for providing us with such a wonderful evening in Rome at the Trattoria Da Luigi and for the tours in Rome.

The meal in Rome was a great success and everyone, with no exception, thoroughly enjoyed the evening and the meal was absolutely wonderful.  We would also like to thank the restaurant for taking such care when it came to delegates with special dietary requirements.

The tours were a tremendous success and all those who participated remarked on the professionalism, enthusiasm and great depth of knowledge of the tour guides.  So, many thanks to you, Frederico and Sandro for providing us with such a wonderful afternoon.

On behalf of Tony and myself please accept our grateful thanks and appreciation to you for your help and support throughout the planning process and for meeting with us prior to the event.  It was a real privilege to work with you and I hope we will have an opportunity in the future to use Rome Travels again.

With very kind regards

Caroline & Tony  - Chemtura Ltd - UK - E-Mail: Caroline.Clark@chemtura.com

Dear Cristiano,

sorry that this took so long - I am actually on the plane returning home to Miami.  As I sit and think about my trip, many things come to mind. For example, how lucky I am to have had this precious time with my granddaughter Danielle and experience the many amazing cities in Italy together.  

One of the highlights of our trip was definitely our day with you at Vatican City.  I have been there once before but felt as if it were truly my very first time.  From the way you whisked us in to the wonderful time we spent sitting in the Sistine chapel as you explained the entire ceiling and walls in a way that 14  year old Danielle could appreciate was a day we will both remember for the rest of our lives! I thank you so much and hope some day to see you again.

Marjorie Tobin - E-Mail: margietobin@bellsouth.net

Dear Cristiano,

we often remember the wonderful tours in Rome you organised for us during the AFCEA Technet Europe 2003.
For this reason, we want to thank you for accepting, with enthusiasm, our invitation to coordinate the demanding cultural programme of CSC² ( Cyber Security Conference & Challenge ) of AFCEA International.

AFCEA Naples Chapter - Website: www.afceanaples.it





Dear Cristiano,

Thank you so much for the wonderful tour of the Vatican on Monday.  You did a fabulous job escorting us quickly, and  efficiently while highlighting all the major points.  You did a fabulous job and we thank you so very much!!!

Thanks again for all your time and great wisdom! Ciao!

Jen and Michael Rowe - E-Mail: jenrowe1965@yahoo.com

Hello Cristiano,

I want to thank you for the wonderful private cruise tours you provided for us this May 2011 in Rome, Florence and Naples.  Each driver picked us up exactly on time and were very easy to identify. They were pleasant, curteous and skilled drivers. We did not have any doubt we were going to arrive back to our ship on time.  

Our guide in Florence was a treasure. Alessia is so passionate about her art and history it was contagious.  She helped us feel the history and appreciate the sculptures and paintings thoughout the city. Walking along the river, through the arched halls and over the bridges that were traveled so many years ago.  We covered the town on foot for the real feel of the area and did not feel we wasted any time, even had bonus time with the president of Italy speaking to the public.   

 Our day in Naples was fabulous and way too short. The tour of Pompeii was unbelievable. Andrea had us perfectly times to miss all the crowds. It was like having the town to ourselves.  Plenty of time for pictures and obsorbing the ambiance of  the site. He then took us to the Amalfi coast which was breath taking.  Our stops along the way at a small butcher/sausage shop and Lemoncello store for samples and shopping really added to the local flavor of the trip. Our lunch at the  restuarante was the pinacle of our tour. It was as authentic and personalized as we could have ever dreamed of.  Easily the best meal we had the entire trip with a view of the coast that would rival anywhere is the world.

I saved the best for last, our tour of Rome with you.

What a wonderful day, seeing the Coliseum, the Vatican, Forum, chariot arena, Trevi Fountain and so much more. We definitly needed alot more time in each and every city. The Rome you opened our eyes too was spectacular, everywhere the ancient ruins mixed in with the newer history and modern sites....  Thank you so very much for sharing your beautiful Country with us.  We all hope to return one day and will be calling you.

Sincerely yours,

Dee Shepard, Michigan - E-Mail: trail_gal03@yahoo.com


My fiance and I had the EXTREME pleasure of working with Cristiano on our recent trip to Italy. He had been hired by my fiance's family for their Rome travels a few years prior and I decided to use him for our trip. I am so thankful we did! He was fabulous! From our first email correspondence (very responsive despite the time differences) to the last detail of our trip, it was a pleasure. He spent a half day with us taking us to the Vatican which, without him, would not have been as informative, interesting and intriguing. It was fun to hear the hidden stories and extensive history that falls within the walls. Without Cristiano, we would have missed so much.

He then spent the next full day taking us through many of the key sites of Rome... The Forum, Coliseum, Basilica... so much! Cristiano's knowledge and deep history of the region made it fascinating to listen. Plus, the fact that he tells it in a story form makes it even more compelling. He's amazing.

If you are going to Rome, I can't stress enough how important it is to get a good tour agent. We met with many people who had hired another firm only to find they hired a 'driver' who provided nothing else than a drive through town. If you want to learn about the region and get a strong understanding of the culture, the history and little nuggets of information that bring what you are viewing to life, you have to hire Cristiano and Rome Travels. You won't be disappointed.

Kim Miller, Portland OR - E-Mail: kimemiller1030@gmail.com



Buonosera Cristiano,

I just wanted to send a brief note to once again thank you and your father for making our stay in Rome a most memorable one and for all your help and patience as we planned out our Rome schedule. You both made everything so much easier for us! Like I said before, Maria guided us well when she recommended RomeTravels !!

We keep thinking back to our 2 great tours, and all we were able to see and do.Also, it's been great fun to share our stories and experiences with friends and family.

It was such a pleasure to meet both you and your Dad, and we feel like we have made 2 new friends !!

Roxanne Wickham, MA - E-Mail: roxi719@gmail.com  -  October 2011

Cristiano,

I just wanted to let you know how much you enhanced our recent trip to Rome.  Having you as our guide made our visit much more meaningful and enjoyable.  Thank you for sharing your passion and knowledge of the city with us, it was a wonderful experience.  When we return to Rome, we will be sure to contact you again.

Rick Ankrom & Jay Hooker - E-mail: rick.ankrom@yahoo.com - October 2011


I want to thank you for a fabulous tour of the Vatican. I want to come back and do it again! Most of all, your explanation of the Last Judgment will always remain with me. I loved how you explained it before we actually stepped into the Sistine Chapel. The grandeur of viewing the real work took my breath away.

I will definitely recommend you to all my friends who plan to visit Rome. Your tour was the best! Thanks again.

Best, Alex Liu - MD - E-Mail:  hellebore@gmail.com - ( March 2012 )



Cristiano,

I hope this e-mail finds you well. Andre and I want to send you our heart-felt thanks for a most wonderful experience. The private tour that we booked with you was the highlight of our holiday. Your knowledge and enthusiasm about Italy, in general, and Vatican City, particularly, is incredible. I have already recommended your services to friends and family.    I tell everyone that a tour of the Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica with anyone other than Cristiano would be a waste of time.  You are truly the best.  Thank you so very much!

Wishing you good health and abundant happiness,

Gloria and Andre Todd (Olney, Maryland) - E-mail: gat17945@yahoo.com - ( April 2012 )




Cristiano,

Sorry this is late in getting to you, but Rick and I wanted to thank you for a wonderful time we had with you in Rome. Thank you for showing us around. You have and ARE a gift.  Hope we can see you again one day.

Richard & Susan Smith - ( Forest, VA )  E-mail: happynbald@aol.com - ( May 2012 )

Cristiano,

Thanks for everything during the last two days. They were amazing days of bonding and spirituality for our family. Your tour and insights were exquisite, and we enjoyed getting to know you and your family. As I said, we'll happily refer you, and look forward to showing you our Boston some day.

We hope to stay in touch and wish you and your family all the best.

Mr. Brucato - MA - cjb@brucato.org -  ( June 2012 )



Our family recently had the pleasure of a day tour with Cristiano. What a wonderful day. Cristiano was so personable that we all felt comfortable right away. He was engaging with our young adult children and tailored his tour comments according to their interests. I joked with him that he is a "walking encyclopedia," yet he seemed to sense just how much information we could handle.
He was very flexible and allowed us to change up our afternoon itinerary without skipping a beat, and showed us a view of Rome that we never would have seen without his accompaniment.

Thanks Cristiano!!

Lisa and David Jenkins - Lafayette, LA - dmjenk54@gmail.com - ( June 2012 )

Cristiano,

We want to take this opportunity to thank you for making our visit in Rome so very special. You truly do an amazing job in your field as a travel guide. Your knowledge and experience made the difference between just seeing Rome and experiencing its history and culture . Our family will forever be enriched by your friendship, passion and the depth of your expertise that you so selflessly shared. We look forward to seeing you when we return to Rome.

To anyone considering engaging Rome Travelsduring your visit to Rome, do it without reservation. Our family traveled to Italy for the first time in May ( 2012 ) and had the incredible experience of having Cristiano provide us with personal tours of both Ancient Rome and the Vatican. To suggest he has knowledge of Rome, Roman history and the arts would be a gross understatement. The depth of his knowledge is more appropriately characterized as phenomenal. In addition, Cristiano was prompt, efficient and a very charming gentleman.

All the best,

Ray, Pam, Jason and Jonathan Barbone - E-Mail: rsbarbone@comcast.net  - ( June 2012 )

Good Morning Cristiano!

I apologize for not responding before now.  However, I have not forgotten about our fabulous trip to Rome!!

To say we enjoyed our trip to Rome with you as our guide seems like such an understatement !  I wanted to give my mom a trip of a lifetime to a destination that she only dreamed of visiting.  With you, this was all accomplished!! The emotional impact of this trip on both of us was more than I even dreamed.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart for providing us with that opportunity and for allowing us and understanding the emotion of this visit.  Your passion,  knowledge, and faith were what made this trip one of the most meaningful trips that my mother has ever been on.  
Someday, when I return to Rome with my husband and girls, I will be sure to call !

All the best to you and your family.

Shirley Olney - E-Mail: shirley.olney@sympatico.ca -  ( June 2012 )

Cristiano - Just a note to thank you again for your energetic and well-informed assistance and guidance during our day in Rome.  Truly, Rome in a day, can't be done-- but you helped us to craft and execute a remarkable and memborable one-day experience which you tailored to our request and interests.  History, art, sites, shopping, wine & food, with great topical and political conversation-- all fun and informative-- as we'd requested.  I have alerted Mike Kelsey that your services were perfect.  And, all I can say about the day is  Mamma Mia!

Thanks.  We'll let you know when we'll be back.

Don & Lynne Brown. - September 2012




Good afternoon Cristiano,

Carl and I want to thank you for the fantastic job you did in making our recent trip to Rome the trip of a lifetime.

First of all, we really appreciated the time you took to correspond with us about our wants and needs in regard to itinerary.  You promptly answered our e-mails and all of our questions.  We commented to each other more than once that the trip really began before we left home because of your insights and suggestions.

Once in Rome, we were delighted with the driver and car service you arranged.  Our driver was waiting for us immediately outside of baggage claim and there was no delay, nor confusion.  I was glad we did not try to arrange for a rental car; there is no way we could have managed driving in downtown Rome !

Your suggestion to do the Vatican After Hours tour was a great one.  It was nice to be able to enjoy the highlights of the Vatican Museum without crowds and the opportunity to visit the Sistine Chapel with only a few other tourists was incomparable.  Each time we have been there before, we were hustled through the hall in about ten minutes without the opportunity for much explanation or reflection.  This visit gave us the time and opportunity to study the magnificent artwork at our own pace, as you explained the history and techniques in detail.

Our day at the Forum, Coliseum and St. Peter’s Basilica was truly memorable.  Your explanations were enlightening and entertaining.  We would not have been able to see nearly as much if we had been in that long line waiting to gain admittance to St. Peter’s !

Carl and I both enjoyed our morning at the Vatican Gardens.  What a beautiful and serene place!  The opportunity to take a leisurely tour –with lots of time for photographs—was one of the highlights of our trip.

Thank you for your suggestion to visit Pompeii.  Seeing the ruins has been something I always wanted to do.  It was an easy trip with Florian as our driver and our lunch in Sorrento was charming.  We appreciate you making the last minute arrangements for a day that was truly memorable.

It would have been impossible to plan a trip such as this on our own and see everything that we were able to see.  Plus having you along to explain and highlight the sites made it an experience we will never forget.  Words seem inadequate to express our gratitude.  Please be assured we will recommend you to any of our acquaintances coming to Rome.  My sister will be in contact with you shortly !

Thank you for the bottom of our hearts.  Our trip was like being in a movie it was so wonderful;  without you it would not have been possible.

Until we meet again, arrivederci !

Patricia & Carl Harris - E-Mail: pharris@cox.net - October 2012

Ciao Cristiano !

Our Roman Holidays are over, FINITO even though my heart will remain in Rome for a while.  I want to thank you for everything you have done for us, for your relentless patience, for the fantastic Vatican tour…we learned so much. I was amazed you did not laugh about my views on Michelangelo, you were so polite.  And of course everybody had a blast at lunch, the food, the conversation, the atmosphere…everything.  The trip to Amalfi was excellent, though short.  Andrea is very nice and an expert driver. The entire trip was beautiful and painless, we managed to see all tree places although very briefly.  I hope he was not disappointed with us either.

Dear Cristiano, as we said, you and your family are welcome to stay with us if you ever decide to visit. We are not in Philly, it’s a relatively short drive and we are also not far from NY.
Alex, Leo and Raisa all send there best. Alex loved the trip and we both are looking forward to another one.  

Marina - E-Mail: mkaplan1957@yahoo.com - November 2012



Dear Cristiano and Family ,

Merry Christmas and a very Happy new year from all the families here : We have never had a conversation about our trip especially Italy wheree you were not mentioned: you made Italy a memorable experience :

Warmest hugs to you and your family

Mitaj ( for the Epsteins and Injevs - Party of 12 ) - E-Mail: expensys@gmail.com



Very thorough and detailed explanations of the different places we visited in Rome ..of course Cristiano is very learned on these topics. We were lucky we choose him..he can be trusted ... was on time and he adjusted to our schedule too ...

I highly recommend and have recommended him to my friends already.   Thanks a lot Cristiano !

Dolores Salibay ( Party of 9 ) - E-mail: salibaymd@gmail.com

Dear Cristiano,

I could not end this year without thanking you for making our trip to Rome and Florence in June such a wonderful experience for us. Your knowledge of Rome and especially of the Vatican made our trip so special that we have memories we will never forget. Please also let Elizabetta and Max know how much we cherish our memories of our day in Florence and Tuscany.

Our trip to Rome and Florence was definitely the highlight of the year 2012 for us. While at Trevi Fountain we made the wish that we would return to Rome someday. We don't know when that will be, but when we do, we will definitely contact you so that we can see more of your beautiful city. Over the past few months we have told many people about the great service that you offer. Thank you again for making 2012 such a memorable year for us.

We wish you a very Happy 2013 !

Phyllis & Ted Fuehne - E-Mail: phylliswf@charter.net



We travelled to Italy earlier this month for the first time as a family. My wife and I and two daughters, age 20 and 13. It is not our nature to hire a guide when we travel, but some of my colleagues at my company had worked with Cristiano and insisted that our visit to Rome would be greatly enhanced by hiring him as a guide. So we decided to give it a try. We went for the full day course, visiting the Vatican in the morning followed by Ancient Rome in the afternoon. First off, Cristiano was punctual. We started right at 8:30am sharp as planned.
Second, Cristiano was knowledgeable. He gave us a valuable tutorial inside the Vatican before entering the crowded areas, and could speak at length about the other important sights we visited that afternoon.
Third, Cristiano obviously loves the city of Rome very much, which translates to great energy and enthusiasm in his approach. He is a good guy. And finally, Cristiano can help with other important elements of the trip such as where to stay and where to eat. We all four thoroughly enjoyed spending a day with him and I would recommend him without hesitation.

John Pike, Boston Massachusetts - E-Mail: john_pike@putnam.com   -  June 2013

HELLO CRISTIANO,

ELLEN AND I WISH TO EXPRESS OUR APPRECIATION AND SATISFACTION FOR ALL YOUR HELP GUIDING US THROUGH ST. PETER'S BASILICA AT THE VATICAN AND THE COLISEUM. YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF THE HISTORY OF BOTH LOCATIONS WAS OUTSTANDING.
I ESPECIALLY APPRECIATED ALL OF YOUR KINDNESS IN HELPING ELLEN, NAVIGATE THE UNEVEN GROUND BY HOLDING HER ARM.

WE WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND YOUR SERVICES TO ANYONE WHO NEEDS A GUIDE IN THEIR VISIT TO ROME.

THANKS AGAIN,

BOB SMITH and ELLEN O'NEIL - E-Mail: verovillans@bellsouth.net - June 2013

My family of 5 with 3 teenage boys hired Cristiano to take tours over 3 different days!

Cristiano took us to fantastic places that are not well known by the huge hoardes of barbarian tourists and we felt as if we had these special places all to ourselves. He also knew exactly when to attend the well known places and efficiently used our time to explain the historical significance of items within these special places. Cristiano made the tour so much fun and interesting that even all of my 3 boys were engaged and asked questions.

We did not wait in line at any of the popular places and it was evident Cristiano had a great relationship with all of the guards who granted us special access. Cristiano was very informative, spoke great english, and also had the ability to guage the interests of our 3 boys. He surprised us several times by taking us to a few historically significant places that require many months of advanced reservations.
Whether its Rome for the first time, our you are very experienced in Rome, Cristiano at Rome Travels is a must hire.

Mr. Flint Besecker - E-Mail: FBesecker@verizon.net - June 2013

Dear Cristiano:

Thank you for spending three days in Rome with us. Needless to say, our expectations were incredibly high. You were everything we expected and many times more. You are the perfect guide: likeable and affable, whose knowledge of the culture and history adds a huge value to your services.  You are indeed a proud and fun Italian historian with the unique ability to explain your country's history and culture based on the group you're guiding.

One of the things that impressed us was your ability to know what to see and when to see it, so as to minimize having to fight crowds.  Climbing the Cupula of San Pietro at 8:00 am before any of the "barbarians" were there was priceless as was the view from the roof of the Cathedral with a cup of espresso in our hands. The Friday night visit to the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You made it all happen. All we did was show up, ride in the air conditioned van, and enjoy the sights.

You took us to all the required spots that one has to go to when in Rome. However, we visited places of the same or even more historical and/or religious significance that will never be visited by 95% of the tourists that visit Rome. Your pace was dictated by ours and your driver, Roberto, was outstanding. Stopping for lunch or espresso or gelato was a welcome adventure several times a day, sandwiched between visits to centuries-old locations.

We can't say enough good things about you, Cristiano. You're more than a guide - now you're family.  This is a fairly lengthy review, but you had such a great impact in our family that I had to brag about you.

Cristiano: We're coming back to Rome ASAP and will call no one but you!

The Siverio family - Pensacola, Florida, USA - E-mail: slade@spydee.net - June 2013



ROMAN ADVENTURES AND BEYOND!


It now has been exactly three weeks since my family and I returned from one of the most incredible vacations thanks to Cristiano Pellegrini and Rome Travels.  Cristiano took care of everything once we arrived in Rome as well as our further travels to Pompeii and Positano on the Amalfi Coast.  Without him, we would never have been able to experience the overwhelming beauty and history of this wonderful city in such detail.  Cristiano’s knowledge of Rome, its historical timetable, and Biblical connections are incredible and unmatched by any other tour I have had anywhere!

Through Cristiano and Rome Travels, all of our hotel reservations and admission tickets were taken care of when we arrived.  Cristiano kept us informed of every detail:  who our drivers would be, scheduled times for our adventures, and also ate with us at some wonderful restaurants he suggested during our time together.  We even had espresso stops along the way.  “When in Rome, do as the Romans do!”  My family and I had two complete days with Cristiano as well as an evening tour of the Sistine Chapel, which cannot be compared to anything else in this world.  Our tours included ancient Rome (Roman Forum, Colosseum, Circus Maximus, Pantheon, etc.), subterranean Rome (catacombs, underground houses), and Vatican City including the 300+ steps to the top of St. Peter’s Dome and St. Peter’s Basilica with its unbelievable mosaics, statues, and Michelangelo’s original Pieta sculpture.  On Friday evening our Roman holiday was complete with Cristiano as we took the after-hour tour of the Sistine Chapel.  Our evening began with a dinner inside Vatican City and then walking through the Vatican Museums.  Once inside the chapel, tears just rolled down my face at the splendor of God’s masterpiece through Michelangelo’s hands.  My husband, son, and I were in absolute awe of the exquisite, divine, holiness of the chapel and history it entails.  As if that wasn’t enough, we ended on the roof of the museums viewing St. Peter’s dome at night against an extraordinary moonlit, midnight blue backdrop.

Of course, we did have time to venture out on our own to explore the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and many other areas throughout the city.  However, without Cristiano as our tour guide, we would have been forced to experience Rome along with the other “barbarians” and not get to appreciate the extraordinary experience of the glorious city through someone’s eyes who truly loves the city.  We bypassed lines, and he timed everything perfectly so we would enjoy the full experience without crowds around.

As if our adventures in Rome weren’t enough to make you fall in love with Italy and rave about Rome Travels, Cristiano also set up our tour guides and transportation to Pompeii, Positano, and the Amalfi Coast.  He even reserved our hotel for us in Positano and provided our transportation back to Rome before we flew home.  The tour guides Cristiano selected were fantastic as well, and the drivers were fun and very knowledgeable themselves.

I highly recommend Cristiano as a tour guide with Rome Travels and pray everyone’s adventures will be as memorable as this “once in a lifetime” opportunity that my family and I experienced.

Mrs. Gail Varner - Kentucky - E-Mail: gigigigi@bellsouth.net - June 2013

The pilgrims and I enjoyed the excellent service of Cristiano Pellegrini and Rome Travels.  Cristiano is very knowledgeable, kind, and competent in several languages and the history of Italy and our Catholic Faith.  He anticipates your every need and very willing to accomodate to your plans and desires.  He makes any trip worthwhile and creates a safe evironment for all.

I strongly recommend him and willing to travel with him again soon.  

Msgr. Ralph J. Chieffo, Pastor of Saint Mary Magdalen, Media, PA. - E-Mail: frralphsmm@verizon.net - May 2014