What is the best way to get to Montalcino from Florence on public transportation? How much will it cost R/T? Is it too far to go for a day trip? We have friends who will be there when wTthanks so much.

Hi there -- I was told that one can take a train to Buonconvento and then catch a bus to Montalcino. When we did this route last year, however, we rented a car... Good luck! -- h.

anyone done it?

Hi fairoaksjim,

I've been researching this same question in preparation for a possible trip in Sept. I haven't done it, so can't comment on it!

But it appears you have two choices:
1. Either the bus from Florence to Montalcino with a change in Siena. You can leave Florence at 08.40 to arrive in Montalcino at 12.05, or leave at 10.40 to arrive at 14.00 or leave at 11.40 to arrive at 14.55. The bus from Florence to Siena is 131R & the bus from Siena to Montalcino is 114A. Check this website for the schedules & fares (go to "timetable" then put in "Firenze" for departure and "Montalcino" for destination)http://www.trainspa.it/en/home.html

2. Take the train from Florence to Siena, then the bus from Siena to Montalcino. You can get train schedules & fares at trenitalia.it. The trains from Siena to Montalcino run 10.50-12.05, 12.45-14.00, etc. Use the same website above. The problem with this option is that you have to get from the train station to the bus station, and I understand they're located at opposite ends of town.

I've decided that if I do this, I'll take the train to Siena then a taxi into Montalcino, about 40E. I don't know if I'd do it for a day trip.

Maybe you and your friends ought to meet in Siena?

s

Meeting in Siena is a good suggestion, especially if your friends will have access to a car. The drive from Siena to Montalcino is roughly 45 minutes. Good luck!