judybarnes

First I wanted to visit Siena. But it's a city. Then I thought, Lucca and Pisa. Then I thought, how about Fiesole? Or Chianti?

I want a day trip from Florence Monday, Dec. 18, that will give us a taste of Tuscan countryside. Not just more museums. On our own by train or bus is fine. We can see what reasonably priced tours are available at the last minute, too.

Thoughts?

Tim_and_Liz

we are taking a cooking class in the Tuscan countryside with www.accidentaltourist.com

It includes a visit to a winery as well.

weddinginitaly

Rent a car and go it on your own. So many great towns are close to Florence - San G., Siena and Chianti. Skip Pisa - too touristy and not a true representative of Tuscany.

Flame123

Southern Tuscany, i.e. Montalcino, Pienza, Montepulciano area, is IMHO the most gorgeous Tuscan countryside area you will find.

We recently spent a week there in October and loved it. We had a car, which I assume you don't? I think you really need a car for this area. If you need any more info you can either check my trip report under my screen name or ask me specific other questions.

TRSW

I really recommend taking the train to Lucca. I only spent a half a day there and wish I had more time.

The walk up on the city walls was AMAZING!! Especially as the sun starts to set.

Tom

Mario06

The best option is renting a car, here is a few suggestions:

Lucca - http://www.tuscanweb.com/news/?ID=189

Fiesole - http://www.tuscanweb.com/news/?ID=71

Siena - http://www.tuscanweb.com/news/?ID=121

Cortona - http://www.tuscanweb.com/news/?ID=78

Arezzo - http://www.tuscanweb.com/news/?ID=107

Volterra - http://www.tuscanweb.com/news/?ID=100

San Gimignano - http://www.tuscanweb.com/news/?ID=97

judybarnes

If we rent a car, I don't want to do it in Florence as I hear the traffic there is really bad.

I thank you all for your input. Gotta get ready to go to the airport!