We're planning to spend a month in Tuscany, and have decided to divide our time between two bases: Lucca for the first two weeks, and someplace else, as yet undecided, for the second two. We plan to rent a car for the second base so we can make day trips to some of the towns and villages, maybe even get into Umbria for a bit. I've been thinking Arezzo might be a good choice, but someone mentioned Montepulciano somewhere on the forum, and I'm wondering if that would be better. Anyone have any thoughts or recommendations? Thanks in advance.
Posted by
Forest Grove, OR
11348 posts
Good idea to split your time between northern and southern Tuscany allowing you to explore quite fully without unreasonably long drives. And, yes, easy to get to parts of Umbria.
Both Arezzo and Montepulciano put you in the southerly part of the region. Arezzo has a train station central to the town, if that is of interest. Montepulciano's is a few kilometers away.
Montepulciano to Montalcino, through Pienza, is a beautiful drive, and some of the finest wine country, as well. (I can recommend a few wineries.)
You might decide based on finding the lodging you like best. Perhaps an agriturismo will suit you?
Posted by
Boston
1706 posts
We enjoyed Arezzo itself, but when we drove out for day trips, the extra drive time became burdensome. I think Montepulciano would be more convenient for the Tuscan sites you'll likely want to visit.
Posted by
Treasure Island, Florida, USA
258 posts
Aaah, four whole weeks! Lucky you!
I have never been to Arezzo, so cannot compare them. We've spent time in Montepulciano twice, 5 days, then 7 days. Loved both visits. There is enough in the town for walks and shopping and dining for at least a week in my opinion. There are also good grocery options just outside the walls. Think pici at normal prices! We have also stayed in Orvieto for 5 days, also a great base but a bit further out.
Montepulciano is close to La Foce gardens, and our favorite cheese farm, Podera Casale.
Try to choose a place inside the walls, we found it magical in the evenings and enjoyed picinics in the squares. Oh, and pay attention to ZTL and parking details. There is a little know parking lot (number 8 I think) that is at the top of the town. Otherwise it is quite a trek with luggage.
Have fun choosing!
Posted by
Lubbock, TX
404 posts
The most beautiful part of Tuscany with a car is south of Siena. Depending on what your priorities for a base are, Siena might make a good choice. Arezzo is lovely, but very east from the rest of Tuscany. If you want to go farther south, I would suggest Montepulciano.
Posted by
OP
39 posts
Thanks for all the replies. I'm wondering about staying in Siena, though. I love the location, but I've heard it can be inundated with tourists. And even though I fall into that category, I'm concerned it would be too crazy. We're planning our trip for October, though, so maybe it wouldn't be too bad. Your thoughts?