Our original itinerary called for 4 nights in Istanbul, however due to the conflict there, we decided to skip Turkey for now. We changed our flight so we're flying from Athens to Rome. We originally had 5 nights in Montepulciano and 1 night in Florence (we're flying home from FLR). We now have an extra 4 nights but are unsure where to spend them. We're planning on having a rental car in Montepulciano and will be driving around every day to the various hill towns, so I'd like a spot beforehand where we could just stay and enjoy the city. We're very active travellers so a small town wouldn't suit us for long. We were just in Rome, Venice, and Florence and while I'd love to go back to Venice, I'm not sure it makes to train up there and drive back down. We've also talked about Naples (and were originally thinking the Amalfi Coast, but in late Nov, it just isn't that appealing) but it's the same issue. Thoughts?
Posted by
Forest Grove, OR
11322 posts
In November a city generally makes sense. I think you will get enough country with 5 nights in Montepulciano, so perhaps Venice is a good idea. We really like Venice in the off-season and there is plenty to do indoors if the weather is poor. It can be brilliantly clear and beautiful in winter, though, but chilly.
The Amalfi Coast is pretty quiet in Nov. It gets more lively in mid-December and through the holidays, but it is an option. I would stay in Sorrento and do a day trip to Naples and another to Pompeii.
A little out of the way but an oft-overlooked city is Torino, and Milano has potential as well. IMO neither is as charming as Venice.
Posted by
4384 posts
I'd also consider Torino. Also Bologna/Parma.
Naples could be great in November--no distraction of the AC, just enjoy all of the indoor cultural attractions plus see Pompeii in nice weather instead of 100 degree blazing sun like so many have to suffer through. I assume you are picking you the rental car in Florence, so I don;t think it would be too onerous logistically.
Posted by
OP
Kansas City
180 posts
Our original plan was to take the train down to Naples, then pick up the car and sightsee along the AC. However, after doing further research, we realized we'd rather do the AC in warmer weather (we've been before, but only on a tour). We've done Pompeii, so for us Naples would be Herculaneum and the museum.. but not sure if there's 3 nights worth of sights we want to see. If we did Venice, we'd take the train from Rome, then get the car on the way out. If we did anything else, we'd get the car from the Rome airport. We'll be returning the car to the Florence airport before flying out the next morning. We've thought about Bologna/Parma/Milan.. but we kept getting stuck with too many places to see, not enough time. Since we're going to be moving so much during our 5 nights in Montepulciano, I was thinking we need a place to just settle.
Posted by
4384 posts
It sounds like Napoli is out, but peruse http://www.napoliunplugged.com/ if it is still in the running. There is a lot of art. Agree don't bother with the AC until spring.
I still think Torino because I have heard what a pleasant city it is with a lot to do, and some day trips if you get antsy.
Genoa gets overlooked, but it may hold some interest.
Venice in November could never be a bad thing.
This is tough since you have done the biggies.
I wonder if there are other smaller cities that may hold your attention--Ravenna?
Posted by
Ventura, CA, USA
297 posts
Since you will be leaving from Florence, what about Sienna or Lucca? Or, why not just stay in Florence or Fiesole? The is a great B&B in Fiesole that we go to that is a great retreat time. Pensione Bencista is just outside of Florence with a view overlooking it and the Duomo. You can just relax and recap your journey.
Posted by
Frisco, Texas, US
254 posts
Lake Como!! Perfect place to relax and enjoy the scenery. You can take ferries all around if you want to see more. We were just in Varenna 2 weeks ago. We loved it.
Posted by
OP
Kansas City
180 posts
Thank you for all the replies! After a lot of thought and trying various ideas, we've decided to pick up the rental car and drive to Orvieto for 2 nights, then head to our Agriturismo for 2 extra nights (we'll get a discount and free dinner for staying a week instead of 5 nights). I think having the extra time will be nice as the two weeks before Italy are hiking through Jordan and crazy running around Greece :)
Posted by
seattle
2047 posts
Bologna has lots to see and could fill several days. It's a great city with many historical sites and great food. Also, if you feel the need to do more side trips, Modena, Reggio Emilua and Parma are only 1-2 hour train rides or drives. If you have a car, consider staying at the Savhotel- great hotel with parking, a good breakfast buffer and short bus ride to the city center. It is then only about 1-2 hour drive to the Florence airport.