There are many charming apartments and villas in the area, and these are just a few suggestions the owner recommended. Feel free to book something on your own, reserve one of the options listed here, or, if you're looking for a similar place to one I’ve already posted that’s no longer available, just let me know! I’d be happy to reach out and find additional options for you. 😊
Distance from Wedding Venue: Approximately 5 km (10-minute drive)
Sleeping Capacity: Varies by unit; options for couples and families
Accommodation Details:
Units: 3 farmhouses that house the Suites and Family Suites, a renovated former stable where the bar, restaurant and relaxation area are located and an independent Cottage.
Amenities: Swimming pool with panoramic views, garden, terrace, and outdoor seating area
Facilities: Air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, kitchenettes, and sofa beds
Ideal For: Guests seeking a blend of historic charm and modern comforts
Distance from Wedding Venue: Approximately 7 km (12-minute drive)
Sleeping Capacity: Varies by unit; options for couples and families
Accommodation Details:
Units: Rooms, apartments, and villas
Amenities: Outdoor pool, tennis court, fitness center, bar/lounge, and spa services
Facilities: Air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, satellite TV, minibar, and tennis and soccer courts
Ideal For: Guests desiring a luxurious countryside retreat with extensive amenities
Distance from Wedding Venue: Approximately 8 km (10-minute drive)
Sleeping Capacity: Up to 8 guests across 8 independent apartments
Accommodation Details:
Units: One-bedroom apartments
Amenities: Infinity swimming pool, sun terrace, garden, barbecue area, children's playground, and Wi-Fi
Facilities: Air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, kitchenettes, and balconies
Ideal For: Guests seeking a peaceful countryside experience with modern amenities
Distance from Wedding Venue: Approximately 8 km (10-minute drive)
Sleeping Capacity: Up to 5 guests
Accommodation Details:
Unit: 3 separate farmhouses lodging between 3-5 people
Amenities: Garden, outdoor pool, fully equipped kitchen, patio, and free Wi-Fi
Facilities: Air-conditioned rooms with private bathroom, washing machine, and dishwasher
Ideal For: Small groups or families desiring a private countryside retreat
The Bed & Breakfast "Fra I MeSi" is located on the second floor of a historic building in the center of the town of Ambra in the province of Arezzo.
Distance from Wedding Venue: Approximately 5 km (8-minute drive)
Sleeping Capacity: It consists of three rooms all with private bathroom, hairdryer, fan and independent heating.
Accommodation Details:
Units: Guesthouse rooms
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, mountain or city views, and work desks
Facilities: Tea and coffee maker, sofa bed, and electric kettle
Ideal For: Guests seeking a cozy and authentic Tuscan experience with a bed and breakfast in a local town
Distance from Wedding Venue: Approximately 2.5 km (5-minute drive)
Sleeping Capacity: Up to 6 guests
Accommodation Details:
Unit: 2-bedroom apartment (Casa Mattei) and 1-bedroom apartment (il bosso) in one of the towns closest to the Villas
Amenities: Free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, free parking, garden, and pet-friendly accommodations
Facilities: Air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, kitchen, and living room with sofa bed
Ideal For: Guests desiring a traditional tuscan experience close to the venue
Book in Advance Online:
Advantages: Booking online in advance often gets you better rates and guarantees availability, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Popular Websites: Use comparison websites like Auto Europe, Kayak, Rentalcars, or directly from car rental agencies like Sixt, Europcar, or Hertz.
Pick-Up Locations: You can either pick up the car directly at the Florence Airport (Peretola) or at central locations such as Florence Santa Maria Novella Railway Station (Firenze SMN). The railway station option is convenient if you're coming by train.
Rent from the Airport or Central Locations:
Florence Airport: Convenient if you're arriving by flight, as it’s just a 20-minute drive to the city center.
Santa Maria Novella Train Station: If you’re coming in by train, renting from the station is ideal. It's centrally located and very convenient for picking up and dropping off.
Best Car Rental Options in Florence:
1. Sixt Rent a Car:
Convenient Locations: Florence Airport and central locations like Santa Maria Novella.
Vehicles: Offers a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars to luxury and sports cars.
Additional Features: Can offer flexible rental terms, premium vehicles, and a good loyalty program.
2. Europcar:
Convenient Locations: Available at the airport and several central locations in Florence.
Vehicles: They offer a range of economy, mid-range, and premium vehicles, along with options for SUVs or convertibles if you want to drive in style.
Additional Features: Offers good insurance packages and multilingual support.
3. Hertz:
Convenient Locations: Both at Florence Airport and Santa Maria Novella Train Station.
Vehicles: Known for its wide selection of cars, from smaller city cars to luxury vehicles.
Additional Features: Offers pick-up and drop-off flexibility and prepay options for better pricing.
4. Leasys (Fiat Group):
Convenient Locations: Available both at the airport and in the city center.
Vehicles: Primarily offers small cars and electric vehicles, ideal for driving around Tuscany’s countryside.
Additional Features: Known for offering competitive rates and environmentally friendly vehicles.
5. Budget:
Convenient Locations: You can pick up and drop off at Florence Airport and several other convenient locations.
Vehicles: Budget-friendly options with a range of economy cars.
Additional Features: Great for travelers on a tighter budget but still seeking reliable service.
They drive on the left side of the road (not the right), so if you're renting a car, be prepared for different road rules and driving habits.
Check for All-Inclusive Packages:
Make sure the rental includes essential items like insurance, unlimited mileage, and taxes. Full coverage insurance is often recommended in Italy, as road conditions can sometimes be tricky.
Be Aware of ZTL Zones:
Florence has a ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone) in the historic city center. Avoid driving into these areas unless you have a permit (your rental car will likely be fined if you do).
Manual vs. Automatic: Manual cars are more common and affordable in Italy. If you need an automatic, be sure to reserve in advance as they are less available.
Driving License: You’ll need an international driving permit (IDP) along with your regular driver’s license if you’re from outside the EU.
Fuel: Gas can be expensive, so make sure to fill up the tank before returning the car. Check with the rental agency about fuel policies (whether they require a full-to-full policy or something else).
Navigation: It’s a good idea to get a GPS or use a mobile map (like Google Maps) to avoid getting lost in Tuscany’s winding roads.
If you’re spending a few days in Florence before heading to the wedding venue, I’d recommend using public transportation or walking to explore the city until you’re ready to head to Tuscany.
Florence is a very walkable city with much to see within its historic center, so public transport or simply strolling around is the best way to get around during your first few days.
Why? The city center is compact, and major attractions like the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Uffizi Gallery are all within walking distance. Walking will allow you to fully soak in the charm of Florence.
When you're ready to leave for Tuscany, you can easily pick up your rental car at either the Florence Santa Maria Novella Railway Station or the Florence Airport.
The owner of Villa Cini has provided contact information for private transfers and all transportation arrangements. More details will follow on how to reach out, book, and the pricing information.
Description: A convenient and straightforward option.
Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
Pros: Direct, private, and relatively hassle-free.
Cons: Can be more expensive than other options.
You may pre-book or book when you arrive.
- Italy Taxi: A reliable private transfer service covering routes across Italy, including Florence Airport to Bucine. Visit their main website: italy-taxi.it
- Welcome Pickups: This service offers pre-booked taxis with a driver who will meet you at the airport with a sign. You can book through their website: Welcome Pickups.
- Taxi2Airport: Another online service where you can book your taxi ahead of time. Visit Taxi2Airport to book.
- RomeCabs: While primarily focused on Rome, they offer taxi services to other regions, including Florence. This can be an option if you are flying into Rome and want a private transfer to Florence. VisitRomeCabs.
- Use a taxi app like Free Now or Uber for added convenience. (I believe Uber is only available from Florence to Villa Cini, but it may be very expensive.)
*** Please be aware of scams and always double-check that the sites you book through are legitimate and secure. I'm doing my best to provide reliable options for everyone, but since it is in another country—better safe than sorry!
Description: You could also hire a car service that includes a guide, who could provide insights on the Tuscan countryside during the journey to the venue.
Duration: Around 1 hour 20 minutes, with stops for sightseeing if desired.
Pros: A more informative and relaxing journey.
Cons: Expensive compared to other options.
Private Tour Companies: Several companies in Florence specialize in private tours and transfers, and many offer the option to include a guide with a car service. Some examples include:
- Tuscan Tours: Offers customized experiences for small groups, including private transfers with a guide.
- Tuscany Chauffeurs: Provides personalized services with drivers and local guides for tours across Tuscany.
- Italy Driver Group: Offers private drivers and guides for scenic routes, day tours, and airport transfers.
- Tours by Locals: While typically known for guided tours, they also offer private transportation options with local guides.
Step 1: Take a train from Florence Santa Maria Novella Station to Montevarchi (approximately 40-45 minutes).
Step 2: From Montevarchi, take a local bus to the closest stop near Villa Cini, or arrange a short taxi ride from there to the venue (approximately 20-30 minutes). The nearest train station is in Bucine but it is small and with a few stops, it is better to go to Arezzo or to Montevarchi, where you can take a taxi, arrange for a private or rent a car (may be limited options).
Duration: Total travel time is around 2 hours, depending on waiting times for connections.
Pros: More affordable option.
Cons: Involves multiple transfers and may take longer, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area.