How would you spend 5 days between Venice and Rome
 

Hello all-I am tweaking my summer trip itinerary and am trying to get a feel for what I most want to do. Will spend 3 days/2 nights in Venice in June, then 5 days/4nights in Rome. What to do in betweenfor 4 nights/5 days? Verona...Florence...Siena...Lucca...so many options! I am in love with what I've seen of the 5T. Traveling with my 18 year old daughter. Not planning to have a car. We are "casual" people. We but love food, art, architecture. and music. Love markets. What would YOU do with that time?

In a small village from where to day trip to Florence and then get out and go back to peace and tranquility for the evening. Two words: Montecatini Terme.

Thank you--I will look into Montecatini Terme. Any other suggestions for a good "countryside" location that would have access to public transport?

Agree with Viajero2 re Tuscany as the logical place, although I'd recommend staying right in Florence, especially if you're into art and architecture--so many art museums and churches and so little time. You can reach Siena or Lucca easily by train from Florence for a day trip. On balance, of the two I'd recommend Siena.

Also, consider a stop at Padua or Ravenna on your way from Venice to Florence. The Scrovegni Chapel (Giotto) is a short walk from the train station at Padua, and Ravenna has wonderful churches.

Go to Bologna, if truly your interests are "food, art and architecture..." in that order.

Plus, its a university town so your 18 year old daughter will find it a little more interesting.

I would base in Florence and spend a few days in the city and two a few day trips - ;like one to Pisa for the incredible Leaning Tower or to a classic hill town like Siena, just a short cheap bus ride from Florence.

Or take a train or drive from Venice to the Cinque Terre and spend a few days there before going to Florence.

Great thoughts...I hadn't even considered Bologna. Must look into that a bit further.