emily

Well, finally got Rome planned and now am on to the second part of our trip. I had originally thought we would train from Rome to Florence then rent a car and drive to Tuscany/ Umbria region. Now am thinking maybe it makes more sense to rent car in Rome or an Umbrian town and explore Umbria for few days (2 nts) and then drive to somewhere in Tuscany for 4 nts. Does that make more sense so as not to back track? Once we rent the car, we will return later at Milan airport upon our departure. Can we rent in say Orvieto and return in Milan without astonomical charges? <BR><BR>Also, trying to decide where to base ourselves in both Umbria and Tuscany. We will want somewhere centrally located to explore other towns during day and then return to hotel and be able to walk to dinner and charming restaurants at night. I am tentatively thinking of staying 2 nts in Pienza (hitting Orvieto on the way there from Rome) and day tripping to Montalcino and Montepulciano on one day and Cortona and Perugia on the other?? Then, drive to San Gimignano for 4 nts to see Chianti region, Siena, Monteriggioni, and Volterra-- probably also day trip to Florence one day. Any thoughts on this would be MUCH appreciated. <BR><BR>We will then drive from Tuscany to Lake Como area for 3 nts and then Milan 1 night.

Leslie

Emily - yes it makes sense NOT to back track. No reason not to rent the car in Rome, or if you are nervous about exiting Rome in a car then, yes, train to Orvieto and pick up your car there. These are very nice bases and small town destinations.<BR><BR>My only comments would be that a single day in Florence doesn't really do Florence justice. Also, Cortona and Perugia both in one day is alot to fit in. Perugia is a decent sized city and for my money, if I were going that far, I'd spend my day in Assisi which is indeed, special.

Dayle

Hi Emily,<BR><BR>Your plan sounds full, but very good. Yes, pickup your car in Rome or Orvieto (after sight seeing) and drop at the Milan airport. Milan is as bad to drive in as Rome is!<BR><BR>If you would like to search my post called "I'm Guilty & Ashamed", it might give you some ideas for Tuscany/Umbria.<BR><BR>Buon viaggio!

Pascha

Having a car in a city like Florence means it's in an expensive car lot some where. The back track factor isn't complicated since its only an hour by car to southern Tuscany. Take the train to Florence, then rent the car from there.

emily

Thanks so much for all your confirmation. I too am thinking one full day in Florence will not be enough, but I have been there twice. Just going for my hubby's benefit. I plan on taking the train into Flo so that I do not have to take a car in. <BR><BR>Any advice on hotels in San G or Pienza? I'm leaning towards La Cisterna in San G.