Please tell me if it is realistic to drive from Rome to San Gimignano in the afternoon? I don't want to rush out of Rome and in the morning. How long is the drive?
I did pick up a Michelin map, what route would you suggest? Thanks for your valuable info as this is my first trip!!

It took us about 6 hours to get from NAPLES to San Gim. Substract the Naples to Rome leg, you're looking at about 4.6 hrs. The route is dead easy. Follow the A1, Autostrada del Sol, also called the Mezzojourno, I know Nothing about navigation, told my hubby-- the driver --to stay on the NAPOLI-MILANO A1 north, and we got there with zero hassle. I strongly recommend HOTEL PESCHE, (Fish)It has a shuttle from San Gim to the hotel which is 4 kms away. Book a room in this converted farm house FACING San Gim. It was amazing. I found it in the fodors book and it was spectacular. Costs 10 euro for all day access to the whirlpool, worth every penny after a long day driving and walking. Parking was easy but far, bring water and wear comfy shoes. You must climb the tall tower. The view is spectacular. Enjoy and drive safe. We ate at 'AUTOGRILL" along the way, greasy.

We drove from Rome airport to just outside San Gim after a 24 hr flight and from memory it only took us about 2.5hrs. Straight up the main road!! it was easy from the airport, no city driving and directions to contend with. I am sure it wasn't too long, if it had of been we wouldn't have done it straight after the flight. good luck, it is not difficult driving.

www.viamichelin.com
There are really 2 ways to go. I prefer along the coast and then via Grosseto to avoid the GRA.

Oops ! Scratch that.
I was thinking Montalcino. Take A-1 for San G.