We are leaving Italy from Milan and will be in La Spezia (by Cinque Terre) and are wondering if we should take a train to Milan or drive our rental car there......does anyone know what the drive would be like and how long it would take????
Posted by
US Pacific Northwest
10344 posts
Go to this link: http://www.ricksteves.com/graffiti/helpline/index.cfm/rurl/topic/30354/bhelp-with-your-itinerary-questionsb.html, it has several additional links that will enable you to determine both the driving time (Google Map and Viamichelin) and see the train schedules (Bahn site for train schedules only, you don't buy tickets on it) that are your alternative to driving.
Posted by
US Pacific Northwest
10344 posts
In Italy, if trains go there, I take the train. Driving in the country, on or off the autostrada, is not a problem; but once you get into a big city like Milan, it's where you start to see the reason for taking trains. And in Cinque Terre a car is useless and parking is very limited, esp. in the summer.
Posted by
Elk Grove, CA, USA
6898 posts
My question is do you have an early flight out of Milan Malpensa and do you intend to spend your last evening before the flight out in La Spezia? If your answer is yes, you will have great time difficulties with either the car or train. Message back. We can advise.