Hi all:

I'm trying to finalize part of a trip to Italy this fall.

My question is about driving . . .

After leaving Florence, we'll be going to:
Lucca - 2 nights
Cinque Terre - 2 nights
Venice - 2 nights
Lakes - 3 nights (not yet sure which lakes)

Has anyone driven that route or close to is? Does it make sense to get a car vs taking the trains (we love taking the trains in Europe)

If a car is the way to go, which car rental agency?

Any and all information is MUCH appreciated.

Thanks!
Carol

Carol - I can't see much to be gained from having a car for most of your itinerary IMO.

The Cinque Terre is best by ferry, on foot or by train. In Venice a car is just an unnecessary expense ...

Personally I find touring the lakes is fun by ferry, though some might prefer a car for this area. The choice is yours ...

Steve

I think if you do decide to rent a car that an agency such as AutoEurope would be worth looking into. For your own paerticular itinerary and given your joy in riding trains I would not recommend the commotion having a car would involve.

I am sure having the car would provide a lot of flexibility but do you really need, or even want, that degree of flexibility?

I remember someone here saying they like having a car because they don't like being tied to a train schedule and I can certainly understand that. But there are those who don't see that so much as "being tied" as they see it as being "free" from all the "necessaries" required by having a hire car.

But, as they say, "to each their own" and sometimes "forget" to add that all are OK.

Hi clehrman-
You won't need a car in Cinque Terre.
You won't need a car in Venice.

I haven't driving the exact route you mention,
but it seems to me that you could be fine taking the train between Lucca, CT, and Venice, and then if you really feel the urge to drive, rent a car at that point do explore the lakes region. Otherwise, trains are a good way to go for you.
Second the vote for Autoeurope.

sorry for my grammar, just woke up!