<BR>We are spending a week and a half in Italy in October. We will fly into Venice, then head to Florence, and end up in Rome. In between Florence and Rome we are thinking about spending 2-3 lower key days in either Tuscany countryside or Cinque Terre. We would like to be able to hike or bike ride, in addition to exploring some country towns and enjoying good food and wine. What is your opinion on the best place of the 2?? Many thanks!!

You've listed your interests and they all add up to the Tuscan countryside.<BR>

Cinque Terre!!!

Get a car as you leave Florence and drive into Tuscany for xxx days. Drop it in Orvieto and train to Rome. Oct. is a good time in Tuscany. Good Luck !

Tuscany countryside as you have a such a variety of things to do and see and do nothing as well. The richness of the land, the hills, the people, the food - a must! I've been to Cinque Terre and I don't think it is as "Holy" as some make it out to be. It is nice but for 2-3 days go to the country side of Tuscany. Cinque Terre can be seen in a day if it is absolute must. Shar