I just returned from a very short trip (only 1 week) to Italy for my first time ever in Europe. I learned so much from this website I thought I'd share some thoughts - as a Vegan, I found it easier than anticipated to find great food - pizza with no cheese - what a concept! Fresh Pasta with tomato sauce, bread salad and more. We stayed at Hotel Giglio in Florence and they were most accommodating - even coming to find US when we got lost trying to find the hotel due to street closures from a political demonstration! We enjoyed a wonderful meal (the owner is marvelous) outside Siena at Il Grapolo Blu in Montalcino! The Tuscany countryside was my favorite.
My only mistake was on the way to the Florence airport yesterday at 5am when I allowed the taxi driver to load my bags into the car before reconfirming what the charge would be - the hotel said between $15-$20e - and he said "twenty-eighty" - which I admit I thought was an odd fee, but went with it. It turned out he wanted $28e when we arrived at the airport!! I'm sure he's done that before and with the language difference, he probably makes quite a nice tip when he gets away wiht it. The Taxi company was Roma 4 - just in case it can help someone else!
We had the pleasure of staying in the Chiani region at a lovely villa called Podere Erica (www.chiantivacation.com) - incredibly beautiful, peaceful and such a kind family who owns the farm. They grow grapes, olives and even honey and allowed us to pitch in to help with the harvest - a memory I will carry forever.
Enjoy Italy!