PW30

Hello,
A friend and I plan to base ourselves in Florence and make day trips around Tuscany (Siena, San Gimignano, Cortona, Montepulciano). Can anyone advise on how best to do that? Train? Bus?
Would we do better to base ourselves in the region, rather than Florence itself?
Thanks.

e_roz

I'd recommend seeing Florence for a few days then renting a car and staying S of Siena. We stayed near Montalcino and easily drove to Montepulicano (our favorite, dont miss the COntucci winery), Pienza, San Gimig, Siena, and Cortona was the farthest at about 2 hrs. There are bus options to get to cities but I prefer the flexibility you have with a car. Ciao! Enjoy!

Marilyn

e roz is right. After 5 trips to Tuscany/Umbria in the past 7 years, I am convinced that driving is the best way to see the small towns and countryside. Stay in Florence for a few days without a car, then base yourself elsewhere and take day trips. For the towns you mentioned, anywhere around Siena would be fine.

Lina

A car provides the most flexibility. You would waste a lot of time making connections with trains/buses unless you are only traveling between major towns. We stayed close to Florence in San Casciano in Val de Pesa (see my trip report) and actually could have easily made day trips into Florence instead of "moving" there after Tuscany.

PW30

Thank you all very much. That sounds like a plan. Any suggestions on the most cost effective car rental options?

Marilyn

You can shop around, but I believe I am not the only fan on this forum of AutoEurope.