We need some advice. We're visiting Italy next May, starting with 6 days in Rome and ending with 4 days in Venice. We're taking advantage of hotel rewards for these 2 stays. We have 13 days in the middle to figure out how to use.

One idea that appeals is to rent an apartment in Tuscany. After 6 days in Rome, we're going to need to recharge in a country setting. We would probably need to rent a car for this segment which is daunting, but since we've successfully toured other European countries with a car, I think we can manage. Do we rent in Rome and return in Florence after this stay?

If we rent in the south of Tuscany, should we then move to Florence for a few days? We've heard wonderful things about Cinque Terre, and wonder whether we should stay there a few days.

We'd rather stay 4 days or longer at each location as we hate having to pack constantly. On the other hand, we hate to drive more than 45 minutes each way on a day trip.

This is our first Italian trip, and our 40th anniversary, so we want it to be very special.

Any and all advice is greatly appreciated.