Driving through Italy is an adventure filled with surprises, scenic views, and cultural immersion. As someone who recently navigated Italy’s roads, I’m excited to share my firsthand experiences and practical tips to help fellow traveler’s make the most of their road trip.
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.
Getting Started: Basics of Driving in Italy
Driving on the Right: One of the first things is that Italians drive on the right-hand side of the road, which is different for me in Australia. A small but important detail to remember, especially when starting off in a new country.
Road Conditions: Overall, I found the roads in Italy to be in good condition, although some older streets were cobblestoned, adding a charming but bumpy twist to the journey.
Tolls in Italy
Practical Tips from the Road
Choosing the Right Car: Opting for a compact car proved to be a wise decision. With narrow streets and tight parking spaces, manoeuvring through Italian towns was much easier and less stressful. This also means to pack wisely. Unfortunately our luggage did not fit the first car but the car company was happy to help us locate a bigger car and we were very grateful! (We found our car on Klook)
Parking Planning: Researching parking options in advance saved me time and headaches. Booking accommodations with parking facilities or nearby garages ensured hassle-free parking, particularly in city centers and smaller towns. If you do need to park at your hotel let them know before hand to reserve you a spot. We learnt the hard way that if a hotel advertises parking available doesn’t mean they have a spot free.
Our Rental Car
TIP: If you’re planning on renting a car in Europe, make sure to check out Rentalcars.com. Also, make sure your car is allowed to cross borders if you plan on driving into different countries. Compare car hire here.
Avoiding ZTL Zones: One lesson learned the hard way was to stay vigilant for ZTL zones. Accidentally entering these restricted areas meant receiving fines later—a costly mistake that could have been avoided with more attention to signage.
Tackling Tolls: Tolls are a common sight on Italian freeways. While navigating through toll booths, I made sure to choose the correct lane for cash or card payments to avoid delays.
If you are looking for tips about visiting Rome? Make sure to check out my Rome Tourist Attractions! Free and Paid Sights you Can’t Miss and Travel Guide to Visiting Rome, Italy!
Driver’s License Essentials: While I wasn’t asked for it, having an International Driver’s License was essential. Along with my valid home country license, it ensured I was legally covered for driving in Italy.
Planning the Route: Armed with Google Maps, planning our route became a breeze. Keeping driving stretches between towns to around three hours allowed for leisurely pit stops and spontaneous exploration along the way.
Crossing Borders: For those planning to venture beyond Italy’s borders, checking with the rental company about crossing borders is crucial. Knowing any restrictions or additional requirements ahead of time can prevent unwelcome surprises.
TIP: Hotels in Rome get more expensive the closer you get to your travel days, and they do get booked up. As soon as you know your travel dates, book your hotel. I use Booking.com for most of my hotel bookings.
Final Thoughts on Driving in Italy
My road trip through Italy was a whirlwind of unforgettable experiences, from the stunning landscapes of Tuscany to the winding streets of ancient towns. By sharing these insights and lessons learned, I hope to inspire fellow travelers to embark on their own Italian adventure behind the wheel. I can’t wait to do it again!
If you are looking for more tips about visiting Tuscany? Make sure to check out my Hotel Silla Review and Vespa Tour Review next.
Don't forget to book your activities in Italy
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