My husband and I are planning a trip to Italy. We would like to visit the Amalfi Coast, Rome and then rent a small villa in Tuscany for about 7 days. We would probably stay 3 nights on the Amalfi Coast, Rome 3 to 4 nights.

My question is should we land in Rome, rent a car and drive to Tuscany for the first week, then, turn the car in and take the train to the Amalfi Coast, well, Naples and then the commuter to the coast. For the end of the trip take the train to Rome for our final stay.

Then when we're ready to fly home take the train out of Rome to the airport. Or, would it be better to do it the other way around. Start in Rome, the Amalfi coast and then Tuscany. Just not sure which way would be easiest and more convenient.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

ttt

Can you fly into Naples and out of Rome (open jaw)?

If so, do the AC, then rent a car and drive to Tuscany, drive to Rome and drop car in Rome or nearby. Fly home from Rome.

I prefer the hustle bustle and serious touring of Rome to begin the trip, then the relaxation, beautiful vistas, and laid back time in the Tuscan villa to end the trip. And, of course, one last night in Rome before your flight home, which allows you a last look in the Pantheon and a meal at your favorite restaurant.

Can you fly into or out of Naples? (Open jaws=into Naples out of Rome or vice versa.) Or possibly into/out of Pisa for Tuscany.

What time of year are you traveling?

General rules:

- Don't drive after a long overnight flight. You'll be sleepy and jet-lagged. Italy has strict impaired driving laws.

- In Italy get to the city closest to your departure airport the day before your flight. Don't rely on long-distance trains or normal traffic.

- It's the best use of your time to get to your furthest point (by train) that first jet-lagged day. You won't be up to much sight-seeing anyway.

The flights fly into Rome, if we were to fly into Naples from LAX it makes 3 stops and takes way longer. The best way would be to take the train from Rome to Naples.

How far is Rome airport to the Tuscany region.