Our plan - pick up a car in Rome, drop off in Florence. I am confussed about all the pick up options. We are staying in the Centro Storico in both cities. From Rome we will drive to Orvieto for the day then on to Monteluco. I considered the train to Orvieto or Chiusi, but no cars are available (we don't need a van for 4). From Monteluco we go to Montalcino, then Florence. Any advice? Thanks!

<< I considered the train to Orvieto or Chiusi, but no cars are available>>

from what company were no cars available? what are your dates/size/transmission wants?

Please see my new post titled: Rome Car Rental - Eurocar office moved for important info. on the Eurocar office. Oh, my vote is for a car, not the train. Having the freedom to explore, even to get lost, is part of the joy. The train is great for major city connects (Rome-Florence), but for your itinerary take a car and try to stay off the Autostrada. The countryside is beautiful.