Planning our 1st trip to Italy. Flying into Venice (1 nite), train to Florence & picking up a car & off to Tuscany/Umbria where we'll stay 4 nites. Then wrapping up our stay in Rome for 3. We are considering 3 nites in Tuscany & 4 in Rome. Not sure if there is enough to see/do in Tuscany (sounds silly) & we'll need the time in Rome. We wanted to see the coast, but in 8 days, there is just not enough time (kids left @ home). Hubby wanted to avoid tour groups & enjoy the countryside & drive in Tuscany. Is 3 nites enough in Rome to give us a taste without being rushed & over-whelmed?
Posted by
San Diego, CA, United States
864 posts
Sure!
Posted by
Sacramento, California U.S.A.
10261 posts
Three nights in Rome was enough for me. I spent a total of 7 nights in Tuscany (4 at an Agriturismo, 2 in Florence, 1 in Lucca) and I wish I had been in Tuscany longer. Four nights is not too much!
Posted by
Centennial, CO, US
2129 posts
Three nights in Rome was plenty for me as well. I think you might wish you had more than one night in Venice. Maybe 2 nights Venice, 3 nights Tuscany, 3 nights Rome?
Posted by
Sacramento, California U.S.A.
10261 posts
I like Charlene's plan. One night in Venice is pretty short. Although you would have to give up a night in Tuscany. Tough call...
Posted by
Huntsville, AL, USA
8178 posts
I'm in agreement about needing more time in Venice. It is truly a special place.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32224 posts
cindy, Does your eight day time frame include your two flight days? Have you got any ideas on "where" you might prefer to stay in Tuscany? A few "caveats" regarding driving in Italy.... It's important to note that for driving in Italy, each driver must have the compulsory International Driver's Permit, which is used in conjunction with your home D.L. These are valid for one year, and easily obtained at any CAA/AAA office (two Passport-sized photos required, which in some cases are provided by the issuing office). Failure to produce an IDP if requested can result in fines on the spot! Have a look at This Website for more detailed information on driving in Italy. You may also want to search other Posts here regarding the Zona Traffico Limitato areas that are becoming increasingly prevalent in many towns in Italy (especially Florence!). EACH PASS through one of the automated Cameras will result in a €100+ ticket! In some locations, parking tickets or having "The Boot" applied will also be a concern. A GPS along with a good Map would also be a good idea. Be sure to also give some thought to the question of CDW. If you accept the CDW offered by the rental firm, it will be expensive but will provide "peace of mind". Some "premium" credit cards provide rental vehicle insurance, however I've found this to be somewhat complicated so I just accept that offered by the rental firm. Check the Car Rental section in Europe Through The Back Door for further information. Happy travels!
Posted by
OP
Florence
2 posts
Thanks all!! I think we'll take the advice about adding a day to Venice. We are looking @ staying @ Il Falconiere in Cortona. Tripadvisor reviews look pretty good. Thx for the driving tips. Only hubby will be driving - I wanted to do a group tour! This is an awesome blog!! Thx again.