You might think, is driving in Italy a good idea? We say yes! Easiest and most comfortable way to get around in Italy is definitely by renting a car. It gives so much more flexibility and freedom. Driving in Italy can be frightening, but if you have done some research, it’s not that bad at all. Just remember some basic things and some tips and you should be all good to drive around and actually enjoy it, because views are so much worth it.

Renting a car

As said before, driving is probably the most comfortable way to move around Italy. Don’t wait until you are over there to rent a car, book your car online. It’s usually cheaper and you can compare prices. Just make sure you rent your vehicle from trusted rental car company. Most known car rental companies are:

Avis

Budget

Rent A Car

Hertz

Europcar

When driving in Italy, don’t rent more than you need. A tiny car gives you better gas mileage which cuts down a lot of costs, fuel is expensive in Italy, also smaller car makes it easier to navigate the winding roads and narrow streets. Make sure you will check every tiny scratch and if possible, take pictures, it’s easier to have everything backed up if there’s something wrong.

Get a map or even better GPS

Map or GPS or any navigation system comes super handy, and can be a lifesaver because streets, especially narrow ones in cities, can often be poorly marked, in many smaller towns, you are lucky if they’re marked at all. When you’re on an adventure, missing a turn can become a real headache, you don’t want to end up lost in some small city or somewhere up in mountains. Been there done that, adventure itself was awesome, but we ended driving couple of hours more. So, we recommend bring a GPS system, rent it or just use your navigation app from your phone. It can be super nice experience to get lost in Italy, but not when you are hurry.

Familiarize yourself with local traffic signs and regulations

Make sure you research and try to remember local signs and speed limits, regular speed limits are. Except when posted otherwise, the following speed limits apply:

130 kmph (80 mph) is the speed limit on highways

110 kmph (68 mph) is the speed limit on non-major highways outside of major urban areas

90 kmph (56 mph) is the speed limit on local roads

Police is rarely seen at Italian roads, speed is usually measured by speed cameras, and you will get a ticket even if you are driving with rental car.

Don’t dive in ZTL zones

The Zona Traffico Limitato (“ZTL”), also known as the “Area Pedonale”, is an area restricted to limited traffic and/or pedestrians only. Reason behind it is simply to protect historical city centers. Most major places where you can find ZTL zones are Rome and Florence, but they are also in smaller cities. The only ones who can legally drive in the ZTL have special permits to do so. These include the police, public transport, and emergency vehicles… not tourists driving rental cars! You will end up getting a huge fine and it can pop in your mail box even after six months. Those zones are usually marked with red sign written ZTL Zona Traffico Limitato. We highly recommend, stay out of there. Also, keep in mind that you may be fined for every single time when you go over the limit so the fine can easily go up quickly. Here are maps of popular cities which are worth checking out.

Don’t drive in Rome

Traffic in Rome is crazy, and streets are super narrow. Rome was the only place where we didn’t drive, well we tried to drive in there as little as possible. You can’t drive in center anyway. So, don’t risk with damaging you rental car or worse don’t risk with your safety and health. Don’t attempt to drive in there and use taxis or public transport instead. You will quickly realize yourself when you see traffic in there.

It’s absolutely must to drive Italian country roads

Imagine being some place so beautiful as Tuscany and driving there. Endless fields of vineyards, breathtaking views and mountain roads, it can’t be better than that.

It’s basically it for driving in Italy, remember, not to drive in Rome, use map, keep your eye out for speed limits and signs and stay away from ZTL and you should be all good. It’s super pleasant experience and there’s nothing to afraid of. Feel free to ask any questions. Have a safe trip and drive carefully!