Hello all!
We (party of 4 adults) are headed to northern Italy later this month. We are traveling all over, so we've rented a car. BUT, I'm nervous about the drive to the CT (Monterosso). Was thinking about driving from our place in Tuscany to Parma, then taking the train from there. CT is our last stop before flying to Paris from Verona. Ideas?
Thanks!
You can also drive to La Spezia (bigger town closer than Parma with car rental places) maybe and take the train from there; either way take the train.
Thanks, I thought of that too... My rationale is that Parma is about half way between Monterosso and Verona. I'll keep La Spezia in mind!
Why are you nervous to drive to Monterosso? We drove down to the waterfront parking lot in Monterosso and left it there for several nights. You drive down on a winding road but it is not a problem at all. Taking your luggage on the train would be more of hassle.
Thanks Suki! Only nervous because the roads literally look like spaghetti on google maps! LOL! So was considering other options. It's good to hear that the drive isn't difficult, though, thank you!
Kassie,
There's a large car park by the station in La Spezia, which would probably be the easiest option. You could also drive to the car park on the beach in the new town area of Monterosso. Where are you going after the Cinque Terre? You could also drop the car in La Spezia and use trains for the rest of your time in Italy.
I assume you're aware of the ZTL (limited traffic) areas which exist in many Italian towns. Hefty fines if you drive through them!
Some of the drives through the Cascades in your State of Wash. are worse.
Kassie
If you have been to Hurricane Ridge, Mt Baker or Paradise at Mt Rainier, you can do Italian "spaghetti" roads.
Thanks everyone! I appreciate the feedback, I think we'll just drive to the car park in Monterosso. 😊
