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Although it can feel like you're driving on a formula 1 racetrack at times, the roads in Tuscany are generally very good. The region has a well maintained network of motorways, which will get you to your destination quickly. When you're not in a hurry take the more picturesque backroads to explore the beautful Tuscan countryside.
To ensure your driving in Tuscany is trouble free, here are a number of resources, which you may find helpful.
MAPS & ROUTE PLANNING
There are a number of excellent resources for driving directions and maps. We use
Bing Maps
when planning a trip. Alternatively, if you like stopping off along the way at some of Tuscany's fine restaurants, use this
Michelin Guide
, it works out routes, which pass by the best restaurants.
The company which manages the motorway network in Italy has an excellent, informative website giving traffic information, However,
the English version of the site
still has some Italian words, which may need explanation. On the right hand side of their site there are a number of icons.
Traffico"
means traffic conditions. This gives real time conditions including webcams all along the motorway system.
"Percorsi"
means directions and toll charges. Just enter your departure (partenza) and arrival (arrivo) points and the site gives you a map and directions. Click on
"Organizza il tuo viaggo"
for maps, directions, conditions, webcams, tolls etc. We recommend that you check weather & road conditions before leaving and print out maps & directions etc and bring them with you.
For detailed directions on how to get to La Posticcia, see our "How to Get Here" page
If you decide to bring your own car. We recommend joining one of the main motoring organisations, such as
The AA
, their website has useful advice and tips when driving in various European countries. They also offer
European Breakdown Cover
giving roadside assistance/emergency repair, 24 hr English speaking helpline, emergency car hire and accommodation and at a great saving if you buy it online. They also have route planners, maps, guides and even emergency breakdown kits. These resources along with our traffic conditions and weather advice should get you to La Posticcia, safe and sound, ready for a relaxing holiday.
Although La Posticcia is close to a local village, we feel a car is essential when visiting, firstly to get to and from the airport and also to explore the Tuscan countryside and main cities.
AVIS CAR HIRE
is efficient and their costs are very competitive. When booking a hire car. - Always book your hire car in advance – not a good idea to arrive at an airport and hope the car you need will be available. At peak times, especially in smaller airports (ie where the “no-frills” airlines arrive) cars can be limited. Better to be certain you’ve got what you want. It's really no fun having to spend half your holiday searching for a car. -Pick up/drop off point – Most people pick up from the airport the moment they arrive. It’s more convenient, the office will be open, you’re sure you’ve got what you booked and the drop off point is right back at the airport. However, others don’t like the idea of arriving in a new country, picking up a car and within a few minutes being in the middle of a 6 lane ring road at rush hour. It may be worth considering getting a coach or train into the centre of town and then picking up your hire car the next day. Remember, opening hours for city centre pick up offices can vary so check beforehand that they are open. - Extras – baby seat, roof rack, snow chains. At peak times supplies of extras can be limited so book in advance. - Documents – make sure your driving licence is valid, your credit card is accepted and has enough funds for the deposit.
TRAVEL GAMES FOR CHILDREN
For some adults, driving in a foreign country and exploring new areas can be the highlight of the holiday, however, children impatient to get to the pool can get bored. As a fun solution to cries of "are we there yet!" we suggest some of these great Travel games for kids . There are lots of different games to suit most ages. Mum and Dad might even join in!
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