danzaman

Hey all,
My fiance and I just arrived in Montepulciano tonight and it looks like we're in for days of rain ahead. We had day trips planned to Siena, Cortona, Montalcino, etc. We also have a 4-day car rental.

Any recommendations on what to do/see when most of our stay will be raining? We were obviously planning on being outside a lot and just enjoying the scenery, but that changed quick

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Dan

PalenQ

How aboutnearby Cianciano Terme - not sure of spelling, but one of Italy's primo thermal spas/establishments just a few k's down the road from Montepulciano - may get wet there but at least it will be in a warm bath!

StCirq

My approach to rain is...it's just water...and unless the weather is downright nasty, I do whatever I'd planned to do, dressed in the right gear, taking shelter from time to time in a café or tea salon or bar.

That said, you might google www.whatsonwhen.com and plug in your destinations to see what exhibits and shows and whatnot are going on right now.

Enjoy it despite the weather!

PalenQ

How far away is Assisi - this is one town where most major sites are inside its plethora of churches and shrines associated with Saint Francis and other local saints.

And I agree with StCirq that weather - even the most foul - should not deter original plans if you have proper gear - always take some waterproof gear even in sunny Italy.

I have been in Italy dozens and dozens of times in fall and winter and though it may rain I have rarely seen it rain all day every day.

elnap29

There is a lot to do indoors in Siena. Of course, the duomo is magnificent along with various sections/ museums/etc. but we spent most of our time in the museum across from the Duomo called Santa Maria Della Scala ( the old Ospedale). There are many levels underground that are absolutely fascinating, even just architecturally, including the Etruscan museum.

I'm not sure how far you are from Roselle, but we went there as a day trip from Siena on a rainy day. It's an archaeological site with Etruscan ruins and Roman ruins on top. We walked a section of the Roman Road there, saw the old amphitheater, Roman baths, an old aqueduct and more. Loved the views and we were fascinated enough to ignore the rain. Just take a large umbrella and a raincoat.

It's always disappointing to have rain when you want to be outdoors. I just pretend I'm from Seattle and that rain is a normal everyday event.

kybourbon

I would keep Siena on the list. There is plenty to do there indoors. Go to Orvieto, see the Duomo and do the underground tour.

jamikins

Unless it is torrential downpours, I would go about what you woudl have done. I bet alot of places have covers over their patios so its likely you can still sit in a piazza with a sweater and have lunch or wine etc.