ChanB - The cars/vans in Europe are usually smaller than the American version even if they are the same brand. Even if the van is free (points?), it will eat into your too few days timewise. It takes much longer to drive from Rome to Florence than to train (90 minutes). Just getting out of the city will be a pain.

Can you tell me where you found the prices for train? I went to the website I thought was correct...entered all the info...thought I put 2nd class and it came out 299 (is this euro or $$) just for Rome to Florence. I will try it again.
Thanks

I used the Italian railways website:
www.trenitalia.com/en/index.hmtl

Fares are quoted in euros.

If you were looking at RailEurope or another booking service, the fare you were quoted includes their fees.

Chan - Rome-Florence by ES costs € 33 (2nd cl.)
See Jean's link.

Steve

Also look at the AMICA option to see if there are still seats available. It saved us 20%. Must be booked at least 24 hours in advance. Good luck!

http://www.trenitalia.it/en/promozio...ffa_amica.html

I think she's already on her way.