I am extending my RS Heart of Italy tour in April for an additional 8 days to explore Tuscany and Umbria more. My interests are: Orvieto, Perugia, Assisi, Montalcino, Montepulciano, San Gimignano. There may be an opportunity while on the RS tour to take a side trip from Lucca to San Gimi and I'll be making my way up from Rome to Tuscany/Umbria with a stop in Orvieto for a night or two. My question is, once I get up to the Northern part of Tuscany and Umbria, where should I base myself keeping in mind interests and costs. Since I will be on my own, I would like to have accommodations where I can interact with other travelers and locals. My interests are: cooking, fine craft work, art, wine, nice walks. Please give me your thoughts on favorite hostels or B&B's that are central to the cities as I will not be driving. Prefer to spend no more than $50-60 a night. Thanks RS bloggers, you are the best.
Posted by
Atlanta
3262 posts
Hi Linda,
It depends--the "Transportation Connections" section of Rick Steves' Italy book does a good job of making recommendations. I'd pick the destinations that are easiest transportation-wise. Depending on where you decide to go perhaps Siena would be a better choice (than Montepulciano) for transportation options.
Either Orvieto or Assisi are an easy train trip from Rome. Montepulciano is going to be a little more difficult and bus might be a better option.
Posted by
Atlanta
3262 posts
Hi Linda,
With the weakness of the dollar you're looking for rooms for about 33 Euro per night--not sure that's realistic.
If it were me I'd look at something like 4 nights in Montepulciano to see Tuscany and 2 nights in Orvieto and 2 nights in Assisi for Umbria. You'd have to look closely at rail connections.
We were in Perugia in October and I wasn't thrilled with the city so I'd consider skipping it--also the city center is a distance from the train station.
Those are just some initial thoughts--I'm sure other will have suggestions as well. It's all beautiful and I know you'll have a great time!
Posted by
OP
Seattle, WA, USA
1421 posts
Sharon, with your plan then you suggest train instead of bus.. right?