debbiev

We will be heading to Italy, flying into Rome for a couple of days and then off to the country. We spend (there will be 4 of us) most of our time hiking and being outdoors.

Any suggestions on where to go? We were thinking of the Tuscan region. What are your thoughts on renting a car vs. the rail system. We like to explore, which would be more difficult if we don't have our own car, but not sure about the parking in cities and being able to park your car in town (from some of the other reviews that i have read). I'm from the US so a car is an automatic for us - but would appreciate others input. We will be in Italy for 10 days.
Thanks for your help!

michele_d

Hi debbiev,
You definitely will not want or need a car in Rome but it is great to have one for the Tuscan region. There is a lot to do in that area. You could easily fill a week. So many little towns that are difficult to explore without a car.

We were in Italy last October and we didn't have any problems finding parking anywhere we went. The roads in the little towns can be challenging because they are so narrow but we managed just fine.

We stayed just outside Pienza at a fabulous agriturismo by the name of Fonte Bertusi. There are individual little apts with kitchens. The breakfasts they serve are fantastic and the family is very kind. http://www.fontebertusi.it/eng/

Have fun,
Michele

zoecat

I love to hike in the Val d'Orcia area of Tuscany, which is where Michele recommends. I have also stayed at Fonte Bertusi (5 times!) and love it. It is beautiful, the hosts are great and the location could not be better. October is a great time to visit- cooler weather and less people. Be sure to enjoy the fresh porcini mushrooms- ask Fonte Bertusi owner Manuela for the best and simple way to prepare.

There are many dirt roads and tractor paths to hike on throught the area. Hiking from town to town, eating lunch, then hiking back is a great way to see and experience the beautiful landscape.

You will need a car. Rent one when you leave Rome. Either rent in Rome or train to Orvieto or Chiusi and pick one up there. Check autoeurope.com and kemwel.com for cars. Be sure to look at the rental price AND the deductables. You may have better luck finding an automatic in Rome, so call the 800 numbers at Auto Europe and Kemwel and discuss your best options with a representitive. They are very helpful.

Be sure to pick up an International Driving Permit from AAA before you leave home- they are required for driving in Italy.

Here is more information on driving in italy-

http://www.slowtrav.com/italy/driving/index.htm

zoecat

I forgot to mention that my favorite guidebooks for the area are-

http://www.amazon.com/Insight-Guide-.../dp/1585733008

http://www.roughguides.com/website/s...ny-Umbria.aspx

Be sure to purchase a very detailed map for driving. You can get one at the newstand/bookstore just outside the main entrance gate into Pienza.

Enjoy your trip!

debbiev

zoecat - thanks for the information. Our trip isn't for several months, but it will be here before we know it and having this information will be most helpful in planning our adventure. I had never heard of this forum before and have already found it very helpful.
Thanks again for your information and the additional links.

debbiev

We are also going to be touring the Ferrari plant when we are in Italy. I saw that private tours are available, is the only way to tour?

- thanks

Jean

"We are also going to be touring the Ferrari plant..." Unless things have changed very recently, the only way you can tour the Ferrari factory is on a tour booked by the dealer where you bought your Ferrari. Mere mortals can visit the Ferrari museum, however.

http://www.barchetta.cc/All.Ferraris...o/#The_Factory

Henry

debbiev,
If your trip is the end of October consider http://www.montalcino-tuscany.it/sagra_del_tordo.htm

for places to see http://www.slowtrav.com/italy/tuscany/hs_planning.htm

Henry