We are going to Italy in May. Last planning is for 4 nights in Tuscany area. I would love to hear more seasoned travelers recommendarions. We arrive in Florence airport at 2 pm on May 2nd. We go to Manarola on the 6th. So we have the 4 nights in between to enjoy Tuscany. We are not interested in going into Florence this trip. Travel via Car? Train? Where to stay? Thank you for your help! Liz
Posted by
Chicago
8701 posts
Tuscany needs a car. Pick one up at the Florence airport and base in a hill town center in a hotel with parking. We like Montepulciano but there are other attractive towns also. The Val d'Orcia is the most scenic area.
Posted by
Toledo, Ohio, US
11613 posts
I have visited many small towns in Tuscany by bus and/or train. If you decide to tent a car, note the issues that may arise (parking, ZTLs, etc.).
Posted by
Austin TX after living in Boulder CO for 25 years
1175 posts
Rent a car. You can see a lot in 4 days !
The Chianti region is spectacular with the winding roads and vineyards around every bend. Stay at Borgo Argenina outside of Castellina. Elena cooks with all of her guests one evening and it is a wonderful event ! You can explore Radda and Greve and so many more villages.
The Val d'Orcia region is also spectacular. Stay at Cretaiole. Isabella also cooks with her guests and this location is closer to Montepulciano and Pienza.