We're travelling from Florence to Siena and renting a car in Siena for 7 days. What is the optimal way to get to Siena? Train? Should we rent a car and make it an 8 day rental? All suggestions appreciated. Thanks.

Rent in Florence and see San Gim. on the way south.

Nice if you're interested in seeing San G. if you aren't the train takes 1 1/2 hours without changes from Florence to Siena. Many will tell you the drive is better. Is price an issue, i.e., would the price be better renting in Florence vs. Siena?

Driving is the easiest. It takes about 1 hour or less taking the highway (SI-FI) or a little longer taking the old Chianti road (222). Second choice would be the bus which is faster and more convenient than the train.

Just back from the area and yes I agree that renting in Florence makes sense. Take Route 222 through Chiati region. It's delightful and stop in Greve and a couple of other small towns at random. They're all wonderful. The countryside is so refreshing after some days in cities.

I took the Eurostar from Venice to Florence, and changed to a local for Siena. I found the experience rather exciting, and somehow enjoyed the frequent stops at the small staions along the way, watching the people come and go. It really felt that I was living and traveling decades ago. I also rented a car in Siena and drove back to Florence the next day. I am glad I did it that way, imagining the "excitement" of renting a car in Florence and trying to drive out of town.