Greetings.
We will be in Italy from mid-end of october, and in the 11.5 days we have, we will definately be going to Rome - Florence - Venice. We are thinking of squeezing 2 nights in a smaller place after Rome (which would help prevent us from being in Florence on Sun, Mon). If you had to pick, would you pick the Cinque Terre or Sienna for 2 nights?
Thanks
Karyn
I just returned from a trip to Italy that includes Rome, Florence, Venice, Siena and Cinque Terre. As much as I loved Siena, I would recommend Cinque Terre. It sounds like you're doing the Northern part of Italy and after the sightseeing, crowds, frantic pace, Cinque Terre is a perfect place to relax. I stayed in Monterossa Ala Mare, La Spiagga hotel.
I've never been to the Cinque Terre that late in the year. Before you decide, check the historical weather patterns for that area at that time. If it's likely to be rainier, then maybe consider rural Tuscany.
It is a good idea to take a vacation from your vacation, though you don't have a huge amount of time. If you don't go to the Cinque Terre, possibly a smaller town in Tuscany, such as Montepulciano, Pienza or San Gimignano would give you a change of pace.
Also, considering that you only have 11.5 days (how many nights? And does the .5 include your arrival or departure day?), factor in travel time. It will take longer to get to the Cinque Terre than it would to go to Siena or other places in Tuscany. Are you willing to give up time on your vacation for that extra travel time?
I guess it would depend on time of year and weather but for me its Cinque Terre. Sienna was nice and all but I would pick Cinque Terre hands down.
Put me in the Siena camp, especially for late October. But have you considered Orvieto? It's easier to get to than Siena and is right on the way. It would be the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of Rome.
