Car Rental in Italy: Your Expert Guide

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updated 18.12.2023

Travelling through Italy by car is an exciting way to explore the country's rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes and historical wonders. A network of roads through picturesque countryside, charming villages and iconic towns allows travellers to get off the beaten track and discover hidden gems. In our in-depth guide, you'll learn all the nuances of car rental in Italy. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the spectacular Amalfi Coast, the flexibility of a car will allow you to travel at your own pace, stopping off at vineyards, historic sites and breathtaking viewpoints along the way. Looking for cheap rental cars? Compare care here.

How to rent a car in Italy
How to pay tolls in Italy with a rental car
How much is a rental car in Italy
Is it a good idea to rent a car in Italy?
Best regions to rent a car in Italy
Renting a car in Italy with kids

How to rent a car in Italy

Travelling around Italy by car is a delightful journey, offering a unique combination of freedom and cultural immersion. To embark on this adventure, start by searching for reputable international car hire companies such as Kayak or Avis, as well as local providers, using search terms such as 'car rental Italy'. Compare prices, car options and terms and conditions to find the most suitable option for your travel plans. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Rental tip: rent your car in Italy from £35 ($45) a day

Make sure you have a valid driving licence, and if your licence is not from the EU or European Economic Zone, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required, which can be applied for online. Choose convenient pick-up and drop-off locations, which are often at airports, train stations and city centres. Familiarise yourself with the insurance coverage offered by the hire company and consider additional options for comprehensive protection.

When you collect the vehicle, inspect it thoroughly for existing damage and document any problems to avoid any disputes later. It is standard to provide payment details and pay a deposit, usually arranged via credit card. Return the vehicle on time and honour the agreed terms and conditions to avoid trouble.

© Shutterstock

Documents and regulations

When going to rent a car in Italy it is necessary to take into account the regulations and required documents.

Minimum Age

To drive in Italy you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driving licence. However, various car rental agencies may have additional rules and only rent cars to drivers who are 21 years of age or older. To save yourself from surprises, you should do your research beforehand and choose an agency whose age policy matches your conditions.

Driving Licence

A valid driving licence is a mandatory requirement. Foreign tourists from the EU and the European Economic Zone can use their national driving licence in Italy, but for others, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required. An IDP may also be useful for EU citizens, especially in situations where there may be a language barrier or when communicating with local authorities.

Insurance

Understanding insurance coverage is critical. Basic insurance is usually included in the rental price and covers liability and damage to the rental car. However, it often comes with a deductible. Travellers can opt for additional insurance such as Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Theft Protection (TP) to reduce or eliminate the deductible. To make an informed decision, it is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of the insurance offered by the rental company.

Best car rental companies

Choosing the 'best' car rental company in Italy depends on various factors, including individual preferences, budget and specific needs. There are several reputable international and local car rental companies operating in Italy, providing travellers with a variety of options. Here are some well-known car hire companies that are often considered among the best in Italy:

Kayak: As a travel search engine, Kayak allows users to compare prices and options from various car rental companies in Italy. It's a convenient tool for travelers to find and book rental cars from different providers, including the ones listed below, ensuring they get the best deal suited to their travel needs.
Hertz: This world-renowned brand has a significant presence in Italy, offers a wide range of cars and has rental outlets in major airports and cities.
Avis: Another large international company popular in Italy. It offers a variety of car options and has convenient pick-up and drop-off points.
Europcar: A European car hire company with an established network in Italy, offering a wide range of cars, from compact to luxury models, and known for their flexibility.
Sixt: A German company operating worldwide, including Italy. It is known for its modern rental car pool and often offers premium cars.
Budget: A well-established rental company present in Italy that targets budget travellers and offers different types of cars.

Looking to compare prices? Check car rental prices in Italy

Aerial view of highway, expressway and motorway with a toll payment point in rural Italy © Shutterstock

How to pay tolls in Italy with a rental car

Paying tolls in Italy with a hire car is not as complicated as it might seem, and there are several ways to ensure a smooth journey on the country's toll roads, also known as autostrada. In addition, many car hire services in Italy offer features to make paying road tolls easier.

Looking to compare prices? Check car rental prices in Italy

Methods of payment

Cash: Traditional toll booths in Italy accept cash. To pay your fare, carry enough local currency, preferably in small denominations.
Credit/Debit Cards: Most toll booths on Italian highways accept major credit and debit cards. Make sure your card is compatible with an international payment system and inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid problems.
Telepass: Telepass is an electronic toll collection system widely used in Italy and Europe in general. Rental cars equipped with Telepass devices can drive in dedicated lanes without stopping. Check with the rental company if your chosen car is equipped with Telepass.

Toll payment services by rental companies

Autostrade website: Some car hire companies cooperate with the official Autostrade per l'Italia website, which allows you to prepay your fare online or sign up for a service that automatically transfers the fee from your credit card.
Telepass: Rental companies can provide access to the Telepass service, which allows you to manage your toll payments through a dedicated app.
Toll Pass Service: Some rental car companies offer a toll service, which involves a device in the car that automatically records tolls and deducts them from your rental account.

To ensure a smooth toll payment, check with the rental company in advance. Ask about the availability of electronic toll devices in the car and the payment options available. If you use cash, carry small denominations to pay at toll booths. Familiarise yourself with the toll collection points along your route and plan necessary stops at the toll booths.

How much is a rental car in Italy

The cost of a rental car in Italy depends on factors such as the duration of the rent, the type of car, the rental company and the time of year. As a rule, rental prices are higher during the high season, usually in June, July and August, when tourist activity peaks.

Looking to compare prices? Check car rental prices in Italy

During the low season, which runs from November to early March, rental prices tend to be more affordable. During this period, demand is lower and rental companies may offer discounts or promotions to attract customers.

On average, the daily cost of renting a compact car in Italy can range from 30€ to 70€ or more, depending on the factors listed above. Luxury and customised cars are more expensive. To get better prices and guarantee availability, it is essential to book cars in advance, especially during high season.

In addition, although the base rental price covers the cost of the car, travellers should take into account other costs such as fuel, road tolls, possible insurance coverage, and a deposit which may contribute to the total cost of renting a car in Italy. Always check for additional charges and read the terms of the rental agreement carefully to avoid surprises when paying the final bill.

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Is it a good idea to rent a car in Italy?

Whether the idea of renting a car in Italy is a good one for you depends on many factors. Here are the pros and cons:

Pros

Renting a car allows you to explore Italy at your own pace, reaching places without developed motorways and scenic routes not easily accessible by public transport.
A rental car is convenient when visiting remote or low-tourist areas where public transport may be limited.
A rental car allows you to create a personalised itinerary, adapting the journey to your preferences, or you can use an already prepared itinerary from us. For example, during this self-drive trip to Apulia - cuisine & culture you will visit Lecce, Bari and Taranto together with Ostuni, Polignano and Alberobello, and remember that our trips can always be adapted to your expectations.

Cons

Italy's major cities, such as Rome and Florence, can have heavy traffic and finding parking can be difficult and expensive.
Many Italian cities have ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones) zones with restricted access. Travelling through such zones without the proper permits can result in fines.
The costs of a rental car in Italy, fuel, road tolls and possible parking fees can be considerable. In some cases, public transport may be a more economical option.

Other options to travel around

Trains: Italy has a well-developed railway system that connects major cities and is a convenient and scenic mode of transport.
Buses: Regional and intercity buses are available, providing economical travel options to various destinations.
Taxis and private transfers: Taxis and private transfers are convenient transport options for travellers in Italy. Taxis are easily accessible in urban areas and provide on-demand services, while private transfers can be pre-booked for a more personalised and comfortable journey.
Travelling with Rough Guides: By choosing to travel with our customised travel service, you not only get a range of diverse Italian itineraries to suit all tastes but also seamless travel throughout your entire journey, organised by our local experts.

Train in Italy © Shutterstock

Best regions to rent a car in Italy

Car rental in Italy opens up new opportunities for exploration, and some regions are particularly well suited to car journeys.

Renting a car in Florence

Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is the perfect starting point for a rental car journey. The city itself is quite compact, but with a rental car, you can explore the picturesque Tuscan countryside, visit charming towns such as Siena and San Gimignano, and explore the region's famous wineries.

Renting a car in Tuscany

Tuscany is a dream destination for road trips. Rent a car here and you'll be free to explore the rolling hills, vineyards and olive groves. Discover iconic destinations such as Chianti, Pienza and Val d'Orcia for breathtaking scenery and historic sights that are best explored at your own pace, especially in September or October.

Renting a car in Naples

Naples serves as the gateway to the Amalfi Coast and the stunning coastal regions of southern Italy. With a rental car, you can head to the Amalfi Coast, visit Pompeii and Herculaneum, and stop at panoramic viewpoints along the way.

Renting a car in Rome

Although Rome has excellent public transport links, renting a car allows you to take convenient day trips to nearby towns and cities. Explore the ancient ruins of Ostia Antica, visit the picturesque villages of Castelli Romani or travel along the scenic Amalfi Coast.

Renting a car in Italy with kids

Travelling in Italy with children is more fulfilling if you rent a car for flexibility and convenience. Prioritise comfort by choosing a spacious vehicle that is designed for your family's size and has room for child seats if necessary. Ensure compliance with local car seat regulations and safety laws.

Planning a route with regular rest stops allows children to stretch their legs and play, contributing to a more relaxed journey. Also bring entertainment devices, such as tablets or travel games, to keep children occupied during journeys and a variety of snacks and drinks to cut down on stops and satisfy hunger.

Familiarise yourself with ZTL zones in cities to avoid fines and find family-friendly parking options. Optimal travelling times - off-peak hours - will help reduce traffic-related stress. Finally, being informed about Italy's traffic laws improves safety and provides a more enjoyable family travelling experience.

Looking to compare prices? Check car rental prices in Italy

Regulations for car seats

Italy has clear rules regarding child car seats, which focus on height and weight rather than age. According to the rules, all children less than 150 cm tall and/or weighing less than 36 kg must use an approved car seat appropriate to their weight and height. Notably, age is not a determining factor in this rule.

This requirement applies to all private vehicles, which emphasises the need to use a car seat when renting a car for a trip or even when being dropped off by friends, grandparents, Airbnb hosts, etc. It is the responsibility of the adult legally charged with responsibility for the child in the car, and in their absence, the driver.

Failure to comply with these rules can result in fines ranging from €83 to €332. Repeated offences can result in the revocation of the driver's licence for between 15 days and 2 months. Most car hire companies offer the option to order a car seat, usually for a daily fee, with a choice of seat types. However, it is advisable to be clear about your seat requirements, obtain written confirmation and ideally a photograph to minimise potential problems as there may be last minute changes, such as providing booster seats only.

Tuscany road with cypress tree © Shutterstock

Let us plan your trip

Allow our team of local experts to plan incredible Italy adventures for you. Reach out to us at your convenience, and we'll create a personalised itinerary that you can fine-tune until it aligns perfectly with your preferences. Take a look at our pre-made Italy itineraries for ideas, and keep in mind that we can tailor all our planned routes to cater to your individual needs.