Florence is connected to the north and south of Italy by the Autostrada del Sole (A1). It takes about one hour of driving on scenic roads to get to Bologna (although heavy truck traffic over the Apennines often makes for slower going), about 3 hours to Rome, and 3 to 3 1/2 hours to Milan. The Tyrrhenian Coast is an hour west on the A11. For help with car trouble, call the ACI (Automobile Club Firenze).
ACI (Viale Amendola 36, outside town. 055/2486246).