bluemooseband

we are a group of 6 adult Canadians, and will be driving from Rome to Venice after a cruise. We know we don't have time for a side trip to Florence, but would like to pull off the main highway in the Tuscany area on our way to Venice, perhaps a small town, have a nice lunch etc., before getting back on the road.

Any suggestions ?

cheers

bobthenavigator

Hmmm, What time will you start? It is only about an hour out, but Orvieto is always my choice for a stop.
Another good option is Montepulciano which is a bit more of a diversion but also much nicer Tuscan ambiance and scenery. Exit at S-146 but after lunch get back to A-1 via Torrita di Siena and Sinalunga--that gives you a good bit of Tuscan charm.

dwzemens

I sugggest Cortona, which is a bit further off the Autostrada than Montepulciano (I think), but for my money is a much nicer town.

We spent a delightful morning/lunch there last month and I highly recommend it.

StuDudley

I'll agree with Bob - either Orvieto or Monteplciano. I'm not a big fan of Cortona (visited it 4 times). I think Orvieto would be the most convenient & easiest to get too, with lots of dining options. They even have some shops around the Duomo that stay open during lunch.

Stu Dudley

bluemooseband

Thanks, all three look great ! we plan to leave Civitavecchia (not Rome, thankfully) on a Friday morning, after we get off the ship, say, 10-10:30am, and don't need to be in Venice until the evening. (spending 2 more days there).

cheers

DownUnder

In that case I would definitely suggest Montepulciano and this is the place to go http://www.caffepoliziano.it/

bobthenavigator

I agree with the Cafe Poliziano---the real thing.