Staying at an agritourismo just north of Florence and trying to decide how to get into Florence for two days of sightseeing. We do have a rental car. Would it be best to drive all the way in? How easy is the parking? I've heard of some huge lot on the
OltraArno. Or is it easiest to bus in? All you experienced travellers, help out a family making it's first trip to Europe! Thanks so much for all your help.

Hi C,

Check for bus service at http://tinyurl.com/b9mja

You could drive to Fiesole and take the bus to the Florence SMN train station.

PS,

How does Siena fit in?

My immediate reaction would be to advise you to plan this trip in such a way that when you get to Florence you are turning the car in so you don;t have to worry about driving, parking, etc.

For Siena, it can be reached from Florence either by bus or train.

We have driven through many parts of Italy, and in my opinion, Florence is one of the more difficult places to drive....poor signage, one way streets, no parking zones...it is all there....and with Vespas zipping in and out everywhere.....avoid taking a car in if you can....

Assuming you meant just north of Siena, take the bus. There are many daily departures in both directions and it will cost much less than driving and parking. As Traviata said, Florence is one of the most difficult cities in Italy in which to drive. The bus takes about an hour and the station is just outside the Siena wall near the Hotel Jolly.