We're going to France (Paris Only) and Italy in 2 weeks (so late December-early January). We have 4 full days between Paris and Rome and prefer to go to a smaller and quieter place during this time (We have 15 days in total). We have a few options:
(1) 3 days in Umbria+ a day trip to Pompeii or Tivoli after we arrive in Rome
(2) 3 Days in Florence+ a day trip to Pompeii after we arrive in Rome
(3) 3 Days in Florence+ a day trip to Siena
(4) Any other suggestions?
We're flying from Paris to Florence. Should we rent a car? Rental cars aren't super expensive, but the roads/drivers in Italy make me pretty nervous. I'm especially interested in Etruscan/Roman stuff. My wife is interested in seeing a castle in the area.
Posted by
Charleston & Birmingham
4627 posts
For Etruscan, I would think you'd want to go to Orvieto.
Posted by
5097 posts
What's after Rome?
The rural parts of Italy are not challenging to drive. You could depart from the airport direct (are you interested in Florence or not?) and do a mini--"Etruscan holiday" of Volterra, Baratto-Populonia, and Pitigliano/Sovana/Sorano. Drop car in Orvieto and train to Florence. You can easily fit in a castle, though there are many to consider! https://castellitoscani.com/en/
Posted by
Canada
115 posts
Hi there.
We've been to Umbria, It's great.
However, since your time is limited and you mentioned that you are interested in the Etruscan/Roman experience; may I suggest for your consideration a fourth option?
Rent a car from the airport in FCO and drive north, find accommodation around Civittavechia and visit Tarquinia, Cerveteri. These are incredible Etruscan sites.
However, I think option (3) is best. 3 days in Florence (4 nights). While you are in Florence, you could replace your Sienna day trip with a bus to Fiesole which has a great museum and Roman Amphitheatre. Fiesole was first settled by the Etruscans so it would check both boxes for you.
Keep in mind that your day light will be quite short so taking these long day trips outside of your main city might not quite be the best use of time. Just a thought.
Option (5) is just 3 days in Pompeii....it's a great little town with so much to see and do.
Have a great trip.