We’ll be picking up a car at 10 AM in La Spezia and driving to our agriturismo near Cortona (Pierle). Viamicelin has 3 routes and I am debating between the two: Shortest- via A11 and A1 - 3 hours and around Florence or via A12, SR429, SS 223, SP 34,35 – 1 hour longer but through San Gimignano and Siena. Which route would you recommend? I think it would be nice to stop at a small town or two along the way. Can someone recommend a small town along the way we could stop for a short visit? I don’t think there is enough time for Siena. We’ll be at our agriturismo for 7 nights so I imagine we will drive back one day to visit. Seasoned Europe travelers but first time car renters. Thanks.
Posted by
Toledo, Ohio, US
11613 posts
As first-time renters, note that automatic cars are uncommon, if you need one be sure to specify that.
Consider how tired you usually are when you arrive in Europe, be sure you feel up to driving right after your flight. You could take the train to Firenze and pick up the car there, or spend the first night in La Spezia if you don't think you will be up for driving.
As for stops along the way, if you decide to drive when you arrive, I would just choose a place that looks interesting from the road when you feel like you want a break.
You will need an Internationsl Driving Permit for each driver.
Posted by
693 posts
How about Lucca? As you say, you can take day trips to Siena and San Gimignano from where you are staying.
Posted by
San Francisco Bay Area (USA)
15163 posts
Lucca and Volterra are two towns that are a bit far from Cortona for a day trip. It might be a good opportunity to visit at least one on the way from La Spezia. Lucca is a small city, rather than a town.
If you have never rented a car in Italy be aware of the following:
1- you will need an International Drivers' Permit (they are issued by your local AAA for $15)
2- as mentioned above automatic transmission is not popular in Europe. Therefore if you don't know how to drive manual transmission cars you need to specify it when you rent. Automatic transmission is generally available only with more expensive larger car models.
3. Google 'road signs in Italy' (or in Europe) and learn the European road signs and rules. They are usually straightforward symbols, so no language skills required, but it doesn't hurt to learn them.
4. Google 'Zona Traffico Limitato (ZTL) and learn about it.
5. Very important: left lanes on freeways are passing lanes only. No cruising in the left lane is permitted. Always stay in the right lanes and use the left lane for passing only.
6. Very important: THERE IS NO RIGHT TURN ON A RED LIGHT. EVER!
Posted by
OP
32 posts
Thanks for the replies. I was thinking Volterra. I will be staying up the coast for a week before getting the car so the jet lag won't be a problem. We are using the car for part two of vacation.