We will be visiting the northern region of Italy in May, 2024, flying into MXP-Milan. We are a family of 8 and we would like to spend at least 1 full day in Florence before we sail out of Genoa on our 7-day cruise (flying into Milan was significantly cheaper than flying into GOA-Genoa). I have read horror stories about driving in Italy, especially when it comes to driving a van (we're a party of 8). Is it a good idea to rent a vehicle or should we take the trains. Mind you, we will be lugging around 2 pieces of luggage each (1 carry on, 1 checked bag). Thoughts?
Posted by
4811 posts
When you say carry-on, do you mean a smaller bag that can be managed, or two suitcases each?
I would not want to drive a van in and out of Florence, and I don't think it would hold your luggage. I would use train from Milan to Florence. What is the rest of the itinerary--are you intending to stay overnight anywhere else? Three days in Florence would be nice.
The Milan to Florence leg will be fairly straightforward, but if you think everyone cannot manage the train changes for Florence to Genoa, then you could hire private transport.
Posted by
By the Rims
150 posts
Trains are good, watch your bags at all times, on and off and during train travel
Posted by
Sweden
6856 posts
If your plan is to visit Milan, Florence and Genoa, a car will be a cumbersome and expensive headache.
Posted by
Camano Island, WA, usa
1497 posts
There is restricted parking in Florence. Sometimes a Hotel has parking you can reserve. In general it is easier not to have a car in Florence. If you have hired transportation they can drop you off with your luggage. Others can make more specific recommendations.
Posted by
Rural Georgia
2181 posts
My suggestion would be to travel to Genoa on arrival. Rent a hotel rooms there, then take the train or bus to Florence.
Posted by
Idaho, USA
7658 posts
Traveling by train is easy, so I would recommend that option. If you know which day & time you’re taking the train, you can purchase your tickets a month ahead to save money. But the Regionale trains are always the same price.
If possible, stay in Florence two days. There’s so much to see & do there.
Posted by
Italy
3812 posts
Why would you drive from Milan to Florence when there is an high speed train going there?
There is literally no benefits: you'll spend more to arrive later.
The driver(s) will be tired because of the drive in the mountains, then in Florence the ZTL will force you to stay outside the center and take a bus/tram.
Posted by
OP
11 posts
These are all great suggestions!! Thank you so much everyone!! You're awesome!!! You don't know how much you've helped me!!!!
Posted by
OP
11 posts
My suggestion would be to travel to Genoa on arrival. Rent a hotel rooms there, then take the train or bus to Florence.
This is one of my favorite suggestions....makes total sense, thank you. 😊
Posted by
OP
11 posts
When you say carry-on, do you mean a smaller bag that can be managed, or two suitcases each?
I would not want to drive a van in and out of Florence, and I don't think it would hold your luggage. I would use train from Milan to Florence. What is the rest of the itinerary--are you intending to stay overnight anywhere else? Three days in Florence would be nice.
The Milan to Florence leg will be fairly straightforward, but if you think everyone cannot manage the train changes for Florence to Genoa, then you could hire private transport.
2.5 carry ons,, honestly. A carry on, checked mag and a personal-items bag.
Posted by
Saint Paul, Minnesota
1534 posts
Did you look at flying into Florence or into Bologna (40 minutes away from Florence by train)?
Posted by
OP
11 posts
Did you look at flying into Florence or into Bologna (40 minutes away from Florence by train)?
Yes, it was very expensive from Fort Lauderdale/Miami. We are already booked to fly into Milan, which was significantly less expensive