We have one full day in Venice, and one in Rome, and would like a guide to show us the key sites. How do we find one?
Anne Cotton, Bath
Your tour operator will be able to book guides for you. If, however, you’re travelling independently, it can be tricky to find someone who is trained, informed and reliable.
If you had a little more time, city tourist offices are good places to find a guide. To book one in advance, though, it’s best to call your hotel and ask if they can recommend anybody. Or book a local, through localguiding.com, toursbylocals.com or mycreativetours.com. These outfits have lists of guides for many cities, and explain who they are, their experience and what tours they offer. A three-hour sightseeing tour starts at about £150, regardless of the size of your group.
Got a question for Richard? Email travelclinic@sunday-times.co.uk