Planning a 2 wk. rental this fall in So.Tuscany/Umbria.Areas being considered are Sarteano,Palazzone,Pozzuolo & San Casciano de Bagni.We will want to make day trips into So.Tuscany & Umbria.I have reviewed maps and have a good idea of distances.I would however like to hear from experpienced travelers if day trips by car would be practical.We would like see Pienza,Chianti,Perugia,Assisi,Arezzo.Thanks for any help.

Henry, Yes, very feasible. I like the region from Sarteano north to Sinalunga as a base location for those day trips.<BR>Do not miss Montalcino and area as well.<BR>See www.slowtrav.com for excellent input for rentals and much more.

Sarteano is an isolated village about 15 km from both Chiusi and Chianciano Terme down a very twisty road (granted, it's a gorgeous drive through olive groves). If you don't have a car and have to take the bus to get to Chiusi's train station, make sure you pack motion-sickness medicine.<BR><BR>Although I've never stayed in Sarteano, what I've seen from that same bus never really impressed me.<BR><BR>Given the areas you'd like to see, I'd recommend that you look at places in SE. Tuscany or W. Umbria between Citta della Pieve and Lake Trasimeno, such as Panicale, Castiglione del Lago, or Cortona (getting overrun with tourists, thanks to Frances Mayes).

I agree do not miss Montalcino; also consider Orvieto and Montepulciano.

Orvieto is OK for a day trip but I was glad to spend the night there. Daytrippers clear out and the town is wonderful in the early evening. Montalcino's enoteca is great for wine tasting. Assisi was full of tourists but still a good experience. Start at the top of the town and work your way down. As much as I liked Tuscany, I loved Umbria. Perugia has a main shopping street with cafes, but it's true beauty can be seen on self-guided walks through the outskirts. Go to the T.I. and get the free map with suggested walking tours.

Since you'll be there for two weeks, I assume you'll be renting a car. (If not, change your plans!) With a car, you'll be fairly convenience to just about all the sites you want to see no matter which base you choose. And, you almost can't go wrong with whatever your final choice of cities and towns to visit! That's the joy of visiting Tuscany and Umbria!