We are flying into Genoa and straight to Cinque de Terre for a couple of days. Then we have four days, three nights to explore Tuscany on our way to Venice and then home. I know that the time is short, but so want to experience the rural areas, small towns, wine tasting and casual meals. Agrituristimos interest us, where we can find a base and enjoy the sights, and avoid the large cities. Hesitant to rent a car, but think that it would probably be better than a train for what we want to do. It is our first trip to Italy, and any help on great spots that we can experience olive oil farms, wineries, and good food without the crowds?
Thanks, Jackie
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San Francisco Bay Area (USA)
16238 posts
Rent a car from La Spezia, near the Cinque Terre after you Cinque Terre visit (car is useless at Cinque Terre). From La Spezia drive to Tuscany. Base yourself in an agriturismo or b&b between Florence/Impruneta and Siena (for example around Colle Val d'Elsa. Visit towns from there. Choose from here:
www.borghiditoscana.net/eng/
At the end drive to Venice. Return the car upon arrival in Venice (piazzale Roma).
For what you want to do renting a car is the way to go. You can't stay in Agriturismos without a car.