We are planning on renting a car in Cinque Terre area (possibly La Spezia) and driving down to Naples. We would like to spend overnight somewhere in between...can anyone recommend a town we could visit on our way to Naples? We are planning an early start and would like to take advantage of possibly visiting the Tuscan region, spending the night and then driving down to Naples (en route to our final destination Sorrento). Any suggestions/recommendations?
Posted by
Eastern Iowa, USA
8063 posts
I will probably be only the first to say this, but is there really a need for a car simply for transport? (large group or other similar reason?) I fully support the idea of getting a car to tool around Tuscany. However, it does sound like you only have a few hours to devote to this on day one, not much time to really see or do anything. Then the next day, getting to the Naples area takes time, Naples itself is no place for sane people to drive, even through, and the Amalfi Peninsula is nearly as bad. For about the same time and accomplishing the same goal, I would get up early, take the Train to Chiusi (5 to 6 hours) Rent a car there, drive around Tuscany, find a place to stay the night, drop off the car bright and early back in Chiusi (one day rental, no drop off charge) then catch a train to Naples (only 3-4 hours by fast train) then bus or the Circumvesuvia to Sorrento. getting there mid afternoon at the latest.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32353 posts
loretta, I agree with Paul. A car is useful for visiting hill towns in Tuscany, but it's NOT a good idea to drive in Naples or Rome! My suggestion for an intermediate stop would be Siena. It's a great central location for visiting hill towns in Tuscany. A few "caveats" regarding driving in Italy.... It's important to note is that 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 CAA/AAA office (two Passport-sized photos required, which in some cases is offered at 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 have a look at some of the other posts here concerning the dreaded Zona Traffico Limitato areas that are becoming increasingly prevalent in many Italian towns & cities ( 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!
Posted by
Eastern Iowa, USA
8063 posts
To add a note to my response and Ken's comment, Siena wuld be a great stop for the night. Chiusi was recommended because it is on the main rail line...Siena is a bit off the beaten track. My thought was pick up a car and return on the main rail line then drive to where ever sounds good, Siena being a top contender. You could also check on what the drop-off cost is to pick up a car in La Spezia and drop off in Chiusi, it may not be great and would allow you to hit more areas in Tuscany, including Pisa. Another "main line" stop would be Orvieto (though technically Umbria vs Tuscany) several great towns around there. I do very much agree with Ken's warnings on ZTLs and driving suggestions in Italy in general.