Car Rental In Italy All You Need To Know

Is your travel destination to Umbria, Sicily, or Tuscany, or are you heading to explore all of Italy?

Wouldn’t it be great if you could make the most of your time in every province and enjoy the beauty each one offers? Renting a car is the ideal option for anyone traveling throughout Italy. 

Whether taking the whole pack, flying solo, or embarking on a romantic getaway with your partner, renting a car in Italy is the best way to explore this spectacular country. 

In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the information and tips you need to know about car rental in Italy. 

Let’s get started! 

Renting A Car In Italy: What You Need To Know

Renting a car in Italy is fairly straightforward to do. Most big rental agencies have offices across the country that are open all year round. You should check mpvrentals.com to find the most suitable vehicle. 

Types of Cars Available

Alright, you first need to know a wide selection of cars. You can rent everything from small compact cars to luxury vehicles, SUVs, and family-friendly minivans. Depending on the size of your group or your budget, you can select the most suitable vehicle for you. 

You should also prepare a few essential documents to present when picking up your car. This includes:

• Passport or IDs
• Credit card
• Driver’s license
• IDP or International Driving Permit
• Proof of insurance (if available)

It’s essential to read the terms and conditions carefully, as different companies have varied requirements, including age restrictions and other peculiarities. 

Age Restrictions

Like any country you plan to visit, Italy also has age restrictions for car renting. Most rental companies require that the driver is at least 21 years old and has held their license for a minimum of 1 year. 

Remember that some agencies may require you to be aged 25 or over 30 to rent certain types of cars. You should also be no more than 70-75 years old. 

Insurance And Other Fees

Car rental in Italy generally includes a basic insurance package that will help you cover repairing and replacing the vehicle if it is damaged or stolen. However, additional fees may apply, so read all the documents carefully before signing them. 

You should also check the type of fuel included in your rental package. Most cars are petrol-driven, but you can also find some diesel variants. 

Rules Of The Road

Brushing up a little on Italy’s driving rules before getting on the road is essential. Here are some of the basics: 

• Drive on the right. 
• The speed limit is 50 km/h in built-up areas, 90 km/h outside cities, 110 km/h on highways, and 130 km/h on motorways. 
• Wearing a seatbelt is mandatory for all passengers, including those sitting in the back. 
• Using your phone while driving is forbidden. 
• Drink driving is prohibited, and the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. 

Fuel Policy

You should always know the fuel policy of the car rental company you are dealing with to get the best rates. Most companies provide a “full-to-full” fuel policy, meaning you should return the car with as much fuel as it had when you first picked it up. 

ZTL 

ZTL stands for Zone a Traffico Limitato (limited traffic zone), an area within certain cities where only authorized cars are allowed access. You may be subject to fines and other penalties if you enter this area without permission. 

There are about 200 ZTLs throughout Italy, and road signs can quickly identify them. Entering a ZTL without authorization is strictly prohibited, so avoiding these areas is best. 

Superstrada and Autostrada

You should also familiarize yourself with the terms Superstrada and Autostrada. Superstrada are highways that connect cities, while Autostrade is a network of express roads that connects major cities like Rome, Milan, Turin, and Florence. Make sure you get a clear picture of where these roads are located to better plan your trip.

Rental Rates

It’s essential to remember that most rental companies offer better rates if you book in advance. Prices may vary significantly from season to season, so it pays off to check different websites and compare offers before deciding on a car. 

Tips To Save Money On Car Rental In Italy 

If you are looking to get the best car rental deal in Italy, here are a few helpful tips: 

• Book your car in advance. This will save you money, as most rental companies offer discounts for early bookings. 
• Opt for a manual transmission car if you can drive it. It’s cheaper than an automatic car. 
• Get the right insurance policy for your journey. Some rental companies will try to sell you additional services you don’t need, so read the documents carefully before signing them. 
• Check where you are allowed to drive. Some rental companies may restrict access to specific roads and highways, so double-checking the restrictions before getting behind the wheel pays off. 
• Use a discount code or coupon if available. You can find these codes online or through your hotel concierge. 
• Always refuel the car before returning it. Most rental companies will charge additional fees if you don’t refuel the car before returning it. 

Final Words —Bon Voyage!

Renting a car in Italy is the best way to explore its charming cities and breathtaking landscapes. But with all the rules and regulations to remember, it might be confusing for first-time travelers. 

We hope this guide has provided enough information to make your Italian road trip memorable!