Question:
We are travelling from Pisa to Sienna.  How far is Siena from Pisa? We would like to travel along the coast part of the way and then cut across to Siena. We would prefer to miss the autostrada and major moter ways. Our preference is to use smaller roads, quieter and more scenic.
George, Dublin, Ireland

By Bob Cortright
TalkTuscany.com writer

I haven't driven this stretch, but here's what I would do if I were making the trip.

There looks to be a nice but small stretch of unspoiled coastline just south of Livorno. The first bit of the trip will be from Pisa on the SS1 to just past Livorno. There will be a short ride on the A12 autostrada. South of Livorno the SS1 narrows and winds along the coastline for what looks like 10 miles (16 kilometers) or so. The SS1 rejoins the main highway (A12) just north of Cecina.

At this point - just north of Cecina - head east on SR68. SR68 heads up the Cecina river valley into the foothills and Volterra. I have done the hill part of this drive and it is a lovely back-door entry into inland Tuscany. I think it works well as a first drive for someone getting off the plane in Pisa and having to travel 3 more hours in a car to Siena. A windier road might get a little tedious for you - and your companions!

Except for the stretch from Pisa to Livorno on the A12, this route avoids the autostrada.