rental car in tuscany

Picking up in Florence isn't too bad. Just make sure you have a route mapped to get out of town - you can generate one on Viamichelin. Drop somewhere short of Rome. The airport would be a good place because the agencies have long hours and you can hop onto the train to get into Rome itself.

I have used Autoeurope a number of times with great success. And, acknowledging the outcome of a debate I started here some months ago, visit your AAA office to get an international driving permit. They're required in Italy.

I also suggest dropping the car in either Assisi or Orvieto and training to Rome.Saves a lot of hassle and either town is a good overnight with a early train to Rome.

If you are planning on being in Orvieto, there is a car rental drop off just a couple blocks from the train station. We picked up or rental car in La Spezia and dropped it off in Orvieto. Go to Autoeurope to see where their agency locations are. I would NOT pick up a car in Florence or Rome then take the train back to Rome.
If the price changes to a lower rate, Autoeurope will refund you the difference but you have to notify them that you saw a lower rate either with them or another company.
Where are you traveling in the Tuscany/Umbria areas?

Florence driving is ugly. I have done it but do not like it. I have also bussed it to Siena from Florence, easy and economical. Then stay in Siena and see Siena sights then bus to Pienza, Montepulciano and San Gimi all very easy. then pick up rental car ie Avis when you are ready to leave Siena. It worked great for me and saved lots of euros too. Bussing from Siena is so simple ck Rick book it all in there.

Dennis, I would try other rental companies as well as AutoEurope. In the 8-10 times I've rented a car in Europe, they provided the best deal only once. Try the usual comparison sites -- Kayak.com, Expedia, etc. -- and directly with some of the international companies, such as Avis, Hertz, etc. In the fall I rented from Avis in Italy and was very pleased.

In response to Ron, above, I would definitely rely on Autoeurope. They guarantee their rates are the lowest but, more importantly, you can work with humans. Their 800 number connects you to their staff in Maine who are incredibly helpful. Often, they can suggest alternatives to what you see online to save even more money. Plus, if something goes wrong in Europe, you can call them toll free to resolve the problem. I don't think you'd get the same assistance from Expedia or Kayak.