Italy Info
 

My husband & I (Seniors) are taking our first trip to Italy May 1, arriving in Rome for 3 days, departing Rome May16. We will then go to Montepulciano,Tuscany for our son's wedding for 3 days.We have no idea where to go after Tuscany for the rest of our 10 days, nor how. We have ruled out Florence/Venice and renting a car. Any suggestions regarding towns/transportation/temperature? Thank you!

We missed Montepluciano when we were there last summer, but heard from other travelers that it was a highlight.

You have so many options. Since you'll be flying home from Rome, it may be better use of time to head South vs. North to Milan area/Lake Como. You could stop in hill towns in Umbria (Assisi or Orvieto), in Tuscany: Siena, San Gimingnano (sp?) or if you want to see the water go to the Cinque Terre or South to the Amalfi Coast. May would be a lovely time to head South b/c it shouldn't be too hot. Could also go to the island of Capri.

For transportation I would recommend renting a car. It is super easy to drive in Italy. You will leave your car is parking lots outside of historic town centers. The Autostrada makes it fast and easy to get anywhere. My parents, who are in their 70's, have been going to Europe independently for the past 20 years - taking a car always. My husband and I did it for the 1st time last summer on our honeymoon. Just buy an atlas of the country and you'll be fine. Hiring drivers can be expensive and trains limit you to time schedules and off the beaten track towns.

Have fun and good luck!

I believe the op has ruled out renting a car.

You can visit Siena and make this a base in Tuscany. It is easily accessed by train, convenient, and scenic. There are many organized trips through the Chianti region (wine tasting, San Gimignano, etc.), that you can hook up with on site (check the travel agencies near the train station when you arrive), so there are no worries about a car. After spending some time there, you could always head back to Rome, and from there take the train to Pompei for something a bit different.
Have fun!

May I ask, why did you rule out Florence?
Given that you are in Tuscany and don't want to rent a car, it is a fabulous choice for at least a few days.

It is not a large city like Rome and with the inner area of the city limited in traffic, it felt like a relief to us to walk around and see things there. My dad, who is a country boy at heart, loved Florence and went around on his own there.

It is very easy to take trains in Italy and if you don't want to rent a car don't feel pressured to do so. There are a few places you will miss but there is so much to see in Italy you will find many choices still available.

Stop in at your local library and rent (or order online) some of the Rick Steves videos on Italy. They will give you some ideas of things you might like to see and then read several different guide books or the Destinations section of this guide book to narrow your search.

Have fun and good luck!

Dear M,

Why would you rule out Florence and Venice on your first trip to Italy?

You could spend 1 day in Florence and 3 in Venice.

If you absolutely do not want to see these great cities, spend a couple nights in Siena or Orvieto, then return to Rome. 3 nights in Rome is not enough.

Buon viaggio!