SAN GIMIGNANO
We started Friday in our beautiful apartment. Today was the longest drive. We went to San Gimignano – about an hour and a half from our apartment. Countryside was amazing but Rob wasn’t able to see much of it due to the stress of driving. We finally got to San Gimignano – some planning is required before you go as you cannot park inside the walls – so we parked in an outside carpark and wandered in. The town has cobbled streets and originally had almost 80 towers – now only about 12. Amazing, atmospheric and a little touristy – almost every shop sold the same sort of stuff – knick knacks, pottery, Pinocchios, – but we enjoyed ourselves nevertheless. Had a nice lunch in the piazza.
SIENA
Then we drove to Siena – again parking was tricky – they have ZTLs – basically the whole centre of the city is a no drive zone – unless you have a special permit – massive fines if you go in. Wandered through looking for Xmas market – none to be found. Very steep hills. Found a large piazza – it was the one that hosts the famous horseraces (the one featured in Quantum of Solace – James Bond).
Then we went back home and decided to have a quick walk around the town and to our surprise – found a Christmas market! Very cool to look around – although all the songs were American. Lots of exotic cheeses, wines and food. Bought a craft beer that was very nice.
Really enjoyed Tuscany although the driving was very stressful. Thanks Lucca for a great stay!!
Saturday morning we drove the car back to Florence and then we are on a high speed train to Venice! I love the ease of travelling on the tracks over here in Europe. No stress at all!!
Ciao, Rob and Kim
