Yes, we are cognizant of the holiday. We land in Florence on the 1st and had planned to spend the day there before heading to Tuscany. But we decided it would probably be too crowded with the holiday.

I did not know about the "unofficial" Friday holiday. I guess that whole weekend will be crowded. Now I wonder if we should be making advance dinner reservations in Castellina and Pienza?

More great suggestions! You are all so wonderful. I think that I will make reservations at some restaurants today. What would be the best way to reserve considering that my Italian language skills are lacking? I am going to email romecabs.com to see if they can help up with a tour on 3Nov. of the major squares and monuments. "Speak" with you soon. Threehearts

If you want to have it all nailed down in advance, I'm sure that if you email your hotel, they will be happy to make your reservaions for you.

samsmom- Thanks for all of your information. Threehearts