We will be staying in the Umbertide region in September and are considering an overnight trip to either Venice or Florence.
Any opinions? According to ViaMichelin the best way to get to Venice by car is through Ravenna and along the Adriatic Coast. Where would we leave the car from that approach? What about Florence? We thought about maybe parking the car somewhere in Arezzo and taking the train the rest of the way. Feedback appreciated.

Florence gets my vote. Venice needs a break from tourists.

Hi pius,

An overnight in Venice is a good idea.

You can park your car at the train station in Mestre and take the train to Venice SL, or at the airport and take the bus into Venice, or you can go into Venice and park at Tronchetto.

See http://www.veniceparking.it/en/index1.htm

I would vote for Venice for an over night stay. The crowds to leave in the late afternon and Venice is wonderful to wander around in the evenings. If you want a place for lots of museums, I would say pick Florence. I was in Florence in May and although I enjoyed the museums, it's too busy a city for me.

Monica

I would choose Venice hands-down, unless you're very interested in Renaissance artwork.

Thanks. If Venice, can someone recommend a hotel, moderate to cheap?

Try the hotel galleria I think their website is www.hotelgalleria.it They have a fabulous location off accademia bridge and they are very affordable.

You might want to consider the time and driving distance involved as well.

Driving from Umbertide to Florence is close to 100 miles. Driving from Umbertide to Venice is about 225 miles.

Hi pius,

This hotel has gotten good reviews
http://www.hotelbernardi.com/en/hotel.html

You could also search this forum for "venice AND hotel"

Thanks everyone. Is there any alternative to travel by car from Umbertide to Venice?