Wish to hire a driver from Rome airport to Florence hotel. How long is the drive and how much should it cost? Thanks.

Hi Michael, <BR>It is an easy 4 hours drive. The roads are excellent, the Italians are good drivers although very fast. <BR>It is a toll road. I don't remember how much we paid, but it was pretty reasonable. The gas, like everywere in Europe, is expensive. <BR>Lots of road restaurants and coffee shops on the freeway. <BR>Your only problem will be the parking in Florence. Get a hotel with parking facilities. <BR>Ada

MICHAEL, Expect to pay about $350. <BR>The train is about $35---your call.

Michael, I just returned from Italy and took a private car from Sorrento to Rome (4 hr. drive). They wanted $300 dollars and I negotiated a $250 deal.If you decide to hire a car definately negotiate (also make sure it is a reputable driver) Frank

I have to agree with Bob. The train is a much better way to go. Florence is small enough that it is easy to navigate the streets. Another reason not to hire a car: your hotel may be located in one of many areas Florence that does not allow cars. Check out the Italian rail website for information : www.fs-on-line.com. It has an English option and is eay to use. <BR>Have a good trip. <BR>ps- I have lived in Italy 2 yrs and have found the trains to be an excellent mode of transportation.

We took the train last year from Florence to Rome. Clean, comfortable and on time. Don't waste your money on a car & driver! You can get a train from the airport in Rome right to Termini Station in downtown Rome. From there, you can get a train to Florence. Check out the website Tammy cited - all the schedules are there.

Try this site:- <BR> <BR>http://orario.fs-on-line.com/fsbinx/fsqueryx?lang=en <BR> <BR>I do not know whether you have to book ahead so as to get your confirmed seats. <BR>

Not sure about costs but if you can afford it then it is the best way to go. Driving in both Roma and Firenze is not a fun, relaxing experience. Parking is another story - not to mention dragging your lugguge from the car park to the hotel on cobble stone roads! I'd recommend definitely hiring a driver.

*If* there were 3 people and say the car/driver cost $300US, that really isn't that bad. With 3 people taking the Airport-Termini train ($24), and 3 1st class Eurostar tickets ($117) and a taxi from the station to the hotel. Figure ~$150, I'd pay double that if we (3) could get picked-up at the airport and dropped-off at a Florence hotel esp after an international flight. Good Luck, Regards, Walter <BR>

Thanks for the suggestions - we decided to fly! A one hour layover (after clearing customs), $99 bucks per and a 1 hour flight.