I'm planning on exploring Umbria for 5-7 days in July. I'd like to perhaps make Orvietto my home base and take days trips to Assisi,Montepulciano,Spello,and Spoletto.Should I take the train from Rome to Orvietto and rent a car there,or just rely on trains and buses?
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
7737 posts
I'd probably go for the rental car option out of Orvieto. It will decrease the time you spend in transit and there are some beautiful drives. {insert usual warning about crazy Italian drivers here.} FWIW, we really loved both Orvieto and Assisi and regretted spending only two nights at each place. If you're interested, here are some photos and a few short video clips of our trip to Assisi in May 2008 and Orvieto in May 2011.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32388 posts
Maureen, Given the number of places you want to visit, a car rented in Orvieto would likely be the best option. I can't recall what the parking arrangements are like there, but you might ask the rental firm about parking at the bottom of the hill, so that you don't have to drive up into the town. It's very easy to take the Funicular up to town from the rail station. A few points to note for driving in Italy..... For driving in Italy, each driver must have the compulsory International Driver's Permit, which is used in conjunction with your home D.L. These are valid for one year, and easily obtained at any AAA office (two Passport-sized photos required, which in some cases are provided by the issuing office). Failure to produce an IDP if requested can result in fines on the spot! Have a look at This Website for more detailed information on driving in Italy. You may also want to search other Posts here regarding the Zona Traffico Limitato areas that are becoming increasingly prevalent in many towns in Italy (especially Florence!). EACH PASS through one of the automated Cameras will result in a €100+ ticket! A GPS along with a good Map would also be a good idea. Be sure to also give some thought to the question of CDW. If you accept the CDW offered by the rental firm, it will be expensive but will provide "peace of mind". Some "premium" credit cards provide rental vehicle insurance, however I've found this to be somewhat complicated so I just accept that offered by the rental firm. Check the Car Rental section in Europe Through The Back Door for further information. Happy travels!