Our RS tour stops in Volterra. We have a free afternoon and evening. I want to rent a car and drive to San Gimignano and to Sienna. There do not appear to be any rental companies in Volterra. Buses are my least desirable option. Any suggestions?
Posted by
WPB, FL & Firenze
3112 posts
You're correct that buses aren't a great option. There are only a few #770 buses per day between Volterra and Colle Val d'Elsa where you'd need to change to different buses for Siena and for San Gimignano. You might be able to visit one or the other by bus if you were mindful of bus schedules, but seeing both in an afternoon and evening would be quite a challenge. Also, keep in mind that bus schedules are reduced on Sundays.
A taxi to San Gimignano might be an option but the 30km ride would be expensive. Maybe you could split the cost with others on the tour. A taxi to Siena would be very expensive, so that's probably not a practical option.
Posted by
Rural Georgia
2182 posts
Any suggestions?
Stay in Volterra. It's a charming town and there's plenty to do no matter how thorough your tour.
In the late afternoon, walk outside the city gates on the western side and stroll the promenade with the townsfolk. You may even be able to strike up a friendly conversation. Hang around for the sunset, which is spectacular. I spent nearly an hour just photographing the town, watching how the light changed. I shot until the sun was completely down. One image is one of the best from the entire trip and it proudly hangs on the wall in our house.
After the sun goes down, find a nice restaurant (your guide can help you with this) and enjoy a relaxing dinner. Then take a stroll through the streets before turning in.