and another Umbria question
 

This time it's Orvieto vs. Todi. I can't decide if we should stay in Todi and visit Orvieto or vice versa. The Relais Todini sounds pretty appealing. Has anyone stayed there, by chance? We want an upscale-ish place that is within walking distance to "downtown." Does La Badia in Orvieto require a drive to restaurants and whatnot? Or is there a place in Orvieto that fits the bill? Thanks again, everyone.

jeepyland,

I have been to both and while I liked Orvieto very much, I LOVED Todi...I found it very charming with many fewer tourists...quieter and calmer. Did not stay at the Relais, so I cannot help there...the Relais properties we have stayed at have all been very nice, likely will be here as well..

La Badia requires a drive to Orvieto "proper." When we asked whether we would be able to get a taxi back from Orvieto to La Badia on a Saturday night we were told that could be a problem.We wtayed at the Fonte Cesia in Todi and that was very centrally located.

I know the Relais Todini very well indeed - it is lovely but a little bit kitsch for my taste. The setting can't be beaten and the restaurant has one of the best views you could ask for. They have a piano bar 2/3 nights a week (at the weekend normally) and it adds a lot to your meal!There are only about 10 bedrooms in the hotel but it has it's own zoo!!!

RT is about a 10 min drive from the centre of Todi. Fonte Cesia is right in the centre and has a very good restaurent as well.

I love both places and would stay in either very very happily. If I wanted a quieter more relaxing time I would choose Todi - if more choice of places to eat and more shopping opportunities - Orvieto. Neither fits my image of 'downtown' but I am not American. Orvieto is certainly larger.

I looked at La Badia near Orvieto just a little over one week ago. It was lovely! I'm going to consider it for next year. BUT you DO need to have a car because it is out in the countryside a short drive from Orvieto.

The Palazzo Piccolomini is very nice in the old hilltop Orvieto. There are numerous eating choices available. We just had pasta at Mezza Luna (right next to Piccolomini) and it was really excellent.

Have not been to Todi so cannot comment on that.