Ok, we my wife and I have booked our hotel in rome (4 days) - we have 5 days left to see italy. Where do we go?..north to see florence or venice or tuscany. Or south to the amalfi coast and capri. We are really undecided. Any suggestions? - thanks!!

It depends on the time of year. Many of the resorts on the Amalfi are seasonal, so best to check when you are booking. Also, some places are more crowded during different times of the year (and thus have higher prices, like Venice during Carnival).

Gene, you can't go wrong in either direction and you'll get enough passionate replys from Fodorites for both. <BR><BR>As Freddy says . . . a lot depends on your timing. Let us know your dates and we'll help you out.

Hey all, The dates are Oct 9 - Oct 18<BR><BR>thanks!<BR><BR>gene

Gene,<BR><BR>With those dates, a drive from Rome north through Tuscany would be excellent. I would base in a small town between Siene and Florence and daytrip in any direction. <BR><BR>You'll find many trip reports for tuscany posted here by other fodorites that will give you many things to do.<BR><BR>Check out www.tuscany.net for an extensive listing of villas, castles, estates, etc that are available to stay at.<BR><BR>We stayed at a castle called Castello di Bibbione in the "il castello" apartment - actually in the castle walls. Not expensive and a great location. Their site is www.castellodibibbione.com; <BR><BR>I'm sure there are many other places that you'll see recommendations for. Check them out as well<BR><BR>Good luck and enjoy your trip.

I agree with Luigi. Drive via Orvieto to the Val d' Orica region of south Tuscany and stay in or near Montalcino.<BR>Fabulous day trips from there to many of my favorite places in Tuscany.Take your camera, and read the book " Vanilla Beans & Brodo" before you go to enhance your expereince.