Not enough time in Italy!
 

We are flying into Bologna on a Saturday afternoon (late June) and flying out of Rome the next Sunday, so we have 8 nights. Want to see Florence and some of the Tuscan countryside (definitely want to do some wine tasting)as well, but not sure how to structure it so we're not running around the whole time.

Current plan is 2 nights each in Bologna, Florence, Tuscany (Lucca?), and Rome. Is this crazy? I know we won't see all the major attractions in Florence, but that's OK. My only other thought is it to save Rome for another trip, and just return the car to the airport directly from being in Tuscany.

I would follow your instinct and do the 2nd thought, saving Rome for later. Lucca is not your best location for Tuscany but I assume you have a reason.

I agree with Bob, take Rome for your next trip.

Vincenzo

Before I even finished reading, skipping Rome (even if you have to use that airport) was going to be my suggestion as well.

I don't know if this is part of your plan, but when you travel in and out of Florence, DON"T drive!! Absolutely. And travel between Bologna and Florence is very easy by train, only about an hour.

I'm also interested in why you chose Lucca. If you have an "idea" of Tuscany in your mind, Lucca may not at all meet those expectations.

Hi T,

I would skip Lucca.

2 nights Bologna,
3 nights Florence, daytrip to Siena
3 nights Rome - daytrip to Orvieto

Enjoy your visit.

((I))

Thanks for the responses. Lucca was more of a random suggestion, as I've seen it mentioned before. Haven't booked anything yet so other cities are welcome. The plan would be to rent a car in Florence (or maybe just outside? Is there an easy place to rent near a train station?) and then return it at the airport in Rome, assuming we skip Rome.