Rental car better from Florence or Siena?

You have enough time/space to clear from the ZTL zones, but if you are unfamiliar with the city it is easy to accidentally enter them.

Kathy,
Siena has a Hertz, Avis, and Europcar.

For convenience and easy access to the autostrada, I would rent the car at the airport in Florence. If you rent the car in the city, or at the train station, you will get a ticket for being in the ZTL zone. In ref to the international driver's license, just visit your local AAA office. No test is required. Just two passport photos and $15 (they can take photos there). We've rented from both AutoEurope and Kemwel. Have fun on your trip!

Thanks, Denise. Because of the bigger city and ZTL issue, I figured Siena might be better, but I don't recall finding rental cars from that city. So, Florence. Thanks. Now, to find out city-to-airport transport. I appreciate your input. ~

The Florence train station is not in a ZTL. If you pick up a car there and drive less than half a mile NW (the only obvious way to the freeways) before turning, you will be well-clear of any ZTL. If you pick up a car anywhere in the city, you will have a reasonable amount of time to clear the area. The car places couldn't do business if this were not the case. ZTLs are well-marked. Fear of them is akin to being afraid of the boogieman. The drive down to Siena is enjoyable,

And are you thinking that Siena is easier to get in and out of w/ the rental, for reasons such as ZTLs? We'll be in Siena for three nights, then Florence for four, so could do a day trip from either spot.

Kathy,
If you were addressing me in the above message I was simply offering information after you stated that you don't recall finding rental cars in that city. But since you asked, While Florence is not bad to drive out of, many people have trouble with the ZTL driving in. All the car rentals in Siena are outside the walls. You didn't ask but I think you might be better off hiring a car and driver rather than renting for one day.

Henry, thanks for the additional thoughts. I'd be happy just using mass transport, but my husband would love to do some driving. And it would be nice to have the freedom to explore, even for a day. Maybe we'll do a couple. Will see how it goes. The input has been helpful.

You'll likely have more car choices in Florence, and Siena is easier to navigate to get on your way. Either one works.