Reply #28: The only problem with Rick Steves' advice is sometimes his recommendation can

[grace0418]

"out" a hidden gem and make it too popular. We were just in Florence and tried to go to one of the little off-the-beaten-path restaurants he suggested. Every patron in the place had a Rick Steves book, and the staff acted a bit snotty with us, like they were all too aware that they didn't need our business. We ended up finding a place a few doors down that was just lovely and the staff treated us like family.

I also disagreed with his disdain of San Gimignano. I thought it was lovely, and I avoid tourist traps like the plague.

But overall, his advice is rock solid and I wouldn't travel anywhere in Europe without one of his books.