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Emilia-Romagna/Tuscany day trip (with rental car) suggestions?

We have a trip coming up at the end of the month. Starting in Venice then to Bologna then heading to Florence to meet up with extended family.

We'd like to rent a car and see some less travelled sights on the day we're moving Bologna to Florence. It's a Sunday and one-way rental prices are higher so I'm considering two options: 1) pay the upcharge and rent from Bologna and explore stops on our way to Florence, or 2) use the train to get to Florence and rent a car to "day trip" out and back from the station.

It will be a low-key day: explore, walk and wander, take pictures, get food, etc. I really just want to give our group a good feel for some less touristy places. I've mapped two possible routes with stops that seem to match our vibe. I'm looking for feedback and reactions and what I'm sure I'm missing!

Option 1: Drive Bologna > Dozza > Brigshella > Scarperia > Florence

Option 2: Train to Florence > Drive Greve > Montefioralle > Panzano/Radda/Monteriggioni > Florence

Thanks!

Posted by
7870 posts

You’ll need to check on Sunday hours especially for your return
Some will close early that day (1pm)
Airport locations will have longer hours

Can you just wait til in Florence and do your rental / driving on a weekday?

Make sure all drivers have an IDP and read up on driving in italy ( ZTLs, speed cameras, parking)
If you are stopping with luggage in car make sure it is well hidden, take valuables with you

(I would go with Option 2 if i had to choose but really wouldn’t want to deal with car rental pick up and return on a travel/moving day)

Posted by
2 posts

I did a 3-day roadtrip around Calabria a few years back so am familiar with the rental car and driving quirks, but thanks for the reminder on the luggage! I checked the Sixt location at the Florence train station (haven't looked at the others) and it's open to 20:00 on Sundays.

We have our time in Florence pretty well mapped out, so this is the one "open" day in our itinerary. So, I want to make the most of it.