Public transportation in a fairly cheap and easy way to get around. Trains are an ideal way to get from one city to the next. All big cities are connected, along with most small ones you will want to visit. Though once notorious for being late, the Italian rail service is getting better.  The train also gives you a scenic view of the countryside. Euro-rail passes only save you money if you travel to or from another country. Italian rail also has their own pass that will save you money in Italy. Going from major cities to other major cities you will need to reserve a seat in advance or risk standing on a long trip. On busy days you may also consider reserving.

Busses connect all of the major cities. Though slower than the train, they provide you with a scenic view of the countryside. They are also slightly cheaper than the train. Inner city busses seemed to be quite good. You buy a ticket at a kiosk and you validate it on the bus. It was about a buck in each city for a 1 way trip. In Florence you will need to take the busses to get around.

Rental cars let you go where you want and when you want. However, in tourist congested cities, cars can be more of a headache than a luxury. Plus, you are sharing the road with drivers that don’t have the same sense of self preservation that you do.