We are planning a first-time trip to Tuscany in July. We are going to rent a place for 5 nights and a car and will do day trips from the rental. We'd like to see the popular sites -- Val D'Orcia, Chianti, etruscan tombs, Siena, thermal baths, etc. I'd like advice about the best location to rent an apt.. We're considering 3 places:
1) just outside Siena (Strada della Cetina)
2) Monticchiello
3) Lama (between Riserva Statale Tocchi and Riserva Naturale Farma)
You might consider Certaldo - the old hilltop town is amazing and the newer low town has lots of services.
None of the locations you mentioned are strategically located for day tripping. They are isolated localities that will take longer to get in and out from. I'm sure they are very beautiful and relaxing, but not ideally situated for traveling to other places in Tuscany.
You should look for a villa/agriturismo/hotels somewhere closer to the freeway between Siena and Florence, preferably in the Alta Val d'Elsa somewhere between Barberino V.E. and Monteriggioni.
Very helpful, thanks. Any specific suggestions for a lower budget place?
My wife and I stayed for 6 nights in Montepulciano several years ago. Great location for day-tripping out to all the locations you listed. Several good Agriturismos outside the city. We stayed at Le Caggiole and loved it. We have become close friends with the owners, and go back every chance we get. Obviously I would suggest that you stay with my friend, but more importantly, I think the area lends itself to being a central base for day trips. Good luck, and enjoy!
I can also recommend the area around Certaldo. I stayed at Poderi de Archangel(sp) or something close to that... it was well priced and very lovely. I photographed a wedding in Certaldo Alto and have very fond memories of that village.
Thank you all so much for these great ideas.
Ciao!
Kim
