Trip to Italy Where to begin?

Questions & AnswersCategoria: Planning Trip to TuscanyTrip to Italy Where to begin?
Anonimo asked 9 anni ago
Trip to Italy Where to begin?

Hi Elena

Wonderful blog you have here, so much information!
We (3 adults) are planning a trip to Italy this fall, Sept/Oct. We have 3 weeks or so. First on our agenda is Venice and then on to Tuscany. We want to see as much of Tuscany as is possible without rushing around. We can spend anywhere from 1 week to 10 days or even up to 2 weeks in Tuscany. Planning on renting a car. Right now, I think our final destination would be Naples/Rome.

I don’t really know where to start. We enjoy driving in the countryside, luv good food and wine, enjoy the scenery and outdoors. My first question would be to base ourselves in 1,2 or 3 locations? We want to see Florence, Siena, wine country, forests, the scenic coastline. Current idea is to spend anywhere from 3-5 nights at each base stopover. Please help! Any ideas would be greatly appreciated!
Cheers!
Jimbo

2 Risposte
elena nacci Staff answered 9 anni ago
Hello Jimbo,
You have the right time to fully enjoy Tuscany! Venice is of course a must see, a unique place in the world, and you say you may end your trip in Naples/Rome, so after Rome you may direct towards Naples but reach the stunning Amalfi Coast, one my most beloved places in Italy Just take a look at my suggested Italy tour for your curiosity!
Well, as for your time in Tuscany, you may stay at a maximum of 3 different locations, 1 or 2 in the countryside and one near the scenic Tuscan coastline. If you are to choose one location in the countryside you may go for the Chianti wine region, that enjoys a central location in Tuscany from where you can reach the main sights, from Florence and Siena, to smaller villages like San Gimignano or Pienza.
If you are to choose 2 locations I would consider the splendid Val d’Orcia area south of Siena, that can be a good base to visit many more sights more south of Tuscany. As a great location at the seaside I would definitely choose Monte Argentario, a beautiful promontory on the sea enclosed by a unique lagoon. Monte Argentario is one of the most scenic places facing the sea. 
Chianti and Val d’Orcia, though different from one another, are the 2 most scenic territories in the countryside, and both are prestigious wine areas. Val d’Orcia is particularly fascinating also thanks to its unique hill towns like Montalcino, Bagno Vignoni, and Pienza.
Finally Here are Tuscany top attractions, while here is a useful blog post for all first time visitors to Tuscany, take a look.
Feel free to ask any other question,
Happy planning!
elena
Jimbo
replied 9 anni ago

Thanks Elena. After posting, I came across your 14 day Tuscany itinerary, which along with your reply here gives me plenty to go on. Your blog is so helpful and it is much appreciated. Cheers! Jimbo

Jimbo
replied 9 anni ago

Hi ElenaAfter reading through all the information available on your blog and elsewhere, this is the itinerary we have come up with. We start in Venice for 4 days, then take the train to Florence for 2-3 days. Rent a car and spend 5 days in Chianti wine region and then on to Val D’orcia for another 5 days. We are still undecided on the next part. Either Monte Argentario or down south to Amalfi Coast for 3-4 days before departing from Rome. Thanks so much for your indispensable blog and assistance!Jimbo

elena nacci Staff answered 9 anni ago
Hi Jimbo,
thanks for your nice words
The first part of your itinerary is very good! As far as the second part of your trip, I would probably choose the Amalfi Coast. I deeply love this incredible part of Italy; the atmosphere, the views, and the food of the Amalfi Coast are unique  
Have a great Italian holiday!
elena