We are living in Italy and have already explored the country by car, from North to South. Along the way, we faced many challenges on the roads đ , so we decided to share valuable tips to make your driving experience smoother than ours.
Italian roads are generally well maintained, especially the highways, also known as “autostrade.” These roads are designed for high speeds and are usually in excellent condition. However, itâs important to know that using the autostrade is not freeâyou need to pay tolls to access them.
Besides the autostrade, there are secondary roads, known as “strade statali,” which connect smaller towns and rural areas. Their quality can vary. Some are in good condition, while others may have potholes or unclear signs. Always stay alert and drive carefully.
Car Rental in Italy
Renting a car in Italy is an amazing way to explore regions freely and at your own pace, especially if youâre heading to Tuscany or the Dolomites, where public transport is more limited and thereâs so much to see. Here are some useful tips to help you rent a car in Italy:
Age and Driverâs License
Check the minimum age for car rental, which is usually 21 years old, but it can vary depending on the rental company. Youâll also need a valid driverâs license from your home country and an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Book in Advance
Reserve your car in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to secure availability and better prices.
For car rental in Italy, we recommend DiscoverCars. You can book in advance and cancel if needed.
Car Insurance
Choose the insurance that suits your needs. Basic insurance is usually included, but it often comes with a high deductible. You can purchase additional coverage to reduce the deductible or protect against other risks.
Vehicle Inspection
When picking up the car, inspect it carefully inside and out. Take photos of any existing damage to avoid issues when returning it. Weâve been questioned about scratches before, but luckily we had photos to prove it, so everything worked out fine.
Fuel
Check what type of fuel the car uses (diesel or gasoline, which is called âBenzinaâ) and remember to return the car with the same fuel level as when you picked it up. Always review the rental companyâs fuel policy.
Read more details here: Fuel in Italy: Everything You Need to Know Before Driving Abroad and Driving in Italy: How to Use Self-Service Gas Stations
Snow Tires or Chains
Make sure the car has snow chains or winter tires if you plan to drive in snowy or icy conditions. From November 15 to April 15, they are mandatory on many Italian roads. Not having them can result in fines or even accidents if it snows.
Company Reputation
Check the reviews of the rental company. Some donât maintain their vehicles well or have older fleets, which can cause headaches.
On DiscoverCars you can check the companiesâ reviews.
Airport Counter or Shuttle Van
Check if the company has a counter inside the airport or if youâll need a shuttle. Sometimes, you must call the company so they can send a van to pick you up. Make sure your internet SIM card works as soon as you land.
Valuable tips for car rental Driving in Italy: Essential Tips for Car Rental, Tolls, Parking, and ZTL Zones and How to Rent a Car in Italy: Complete Guide for Travelers
International Driving Permit (IDP)
If you plan to rent a car in Italy, the first step is to get your International Driving Permit (IDP) before leaving your country. For brazilians, itâs issued by DETRAN and remains valid for the same period as your driverâs license.
The validity period is:
- If your driverâs license expires in less than 3 years: the IDP will expire on the same date.
- If your driverâs license is valid for 3 years or more: the IDP will be valid for 3 years.
Although some rental companies accept only your national license, the IDP is internationally recognized and avoids misunderstandings. Most companies require it.
Tolls (Autostrade)
In Italy, most highways charge tolls based on the distance traveled.
You can pay tolls in cash, with credit cards, or using Telepass, an electronic tag.
We paid everything using Wise International Credit Card. If you donât have one yet, itâs worth getting it to avoid high international fees.
Always keep toll receipts as proof during your trip.
Read more here: Tolls in Italy: Complete Guide to Autostrade, Costs, and Payment Options
Types of Tolls
- Pay-as-you-go tolls: Conventional tolls, similar to those in Brazil. You stop at the booth and pay with cash, card, or Telepass. Pay close attention and avoid entering the Telepass lane if you donât have it. Each booth accepts different payment methods, so always check the signs before choosing a lane.
- Ticket-based tolls (Casello): You collect a ticket when entering the highway and pay when exiting, based on the distance traveled. Donât lose the ticket! On our first week in Italy, we mistakenly entered a Telepass lane, blocking traffic until a guard waved us through. Later, at the toll exit, we had no ticket. Thankfully, the attendant asked where we had entered and charged us correctly. Explaining everything without knowing Italian was quite the challenge hehehe.
- Online tolls: Some roads donât have physical toll booths. Instead, youâll see signs telling you to pay online. You must pay within 15 days, otherwise youâll get fined. Payments are made by entering the carâs license plate and travel date on the official website, and you can pay by credit card.
Types of Roads
- Autostrade (A): High-speed highways with multiple lanes and tolls. Speed limit: 130 km/h (normal conditions), 110 km/h (rain).
- Strade Statali (SS): State roads, usually toll-free, with fewer lanes. Speed limit is normally 90 km/h.
- Urban Areas: Speed limit is usually 50 km/h but always check road signs.
Zona a Traffico Limitato (ZTL)
These are restricted areas usually located in historic city centers. Unauthorized vehicles are not allowed to enter.
Look out for signs indicating ZTL zones. Entering without permission results in heavy fines.
Restrictions may vary. Some zones are limited only during certain times or days.
Parking in Italy
- Blue lines: Paid parking. You need to buy a ticket from the nearest machine and display it on your dashboard.
- White lines: Free parking spaces. However, theyâre rare in tourist areas or city centers.
- Yellow lines: Reserved for residents. Do not park hereâfines apply, and your car may be towed.
- Paid parking lots: Sometimes itâs worth paying, especially with a rental car. In some areas, theft can happen (like breaking windows to steal luggage), so paid lots are usually safer.
Fuel in Italy
Gas stations often close for lunch breaks and on Sundays. Plan ahead so you donât run out of fuel.
In many Italian gas stations, thereâs no attendant. You prepay at the pump with your card. The system temporarily charges for a full tank, then refunds the unused amount within minutes. We never had issues, but always keep the receipt just in case.
Some stations offer both self-service and full-service options. Choose self-service, because full-service is much more expensiveâsometimes 30% more per liter of gasoline (âBenzinaâ).
Learn more here: Fuel in Italy: Everything You Need to Know Before Driving Abroad
Our Final Thoughts: Driving in Italy
Renting a car in Italy is definitely worth it. Roads are good, and if youâre traveling with at least two people, costs can be lower than train tickets. Plus, you gain flexibility to explore more places. Overall, itâs a great value for money. Just follow these tips to avoid fines and unnecessary stress during your trip.
We love sharing our travel experiences in Italy to make your trip easier, stress-free, and unforgettable!
For more Italy travel tips, check out:
First Time in Italy? Essential Travel Tips You Must Know
The 50 Most Famous Italian Wines
Italian Regional Cuisine: What to Eat in Every Province
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