Renting a car in Italy can provide the liberty to move around and see the sights whenever it suits you. But it’s crucial to have a rental car that’s compatible with the driving and parking conditions of the surrounding environment. You may be visiting artistic heritage sites, historical locations, or just making contact with the locals, whatever your journey, you’re probably curious about what the proper vehicle for Italy could be. Here are some thoughts depending on the specific type of trip you have in mind.
Best Car for Summer Weather
If you’re aiming to be in Southern Italy during the summertime, you might consider renting a convertible. It can be tempting to rent a sedan, but the first-class beaches and vivid landscapes are better appreciated without a roof and doorframes obstructing your vision. Not only will your view of the world-famous beauty of Italy be maximized, so will your parking skills. That’s because the increased visibility a convertible offers can make maneuvering into parking spaces more efficient.
Best Car for Traveling Around
Are you heading to the picturesque mountainous areas of Italy? It’s a good idea to rent an SUV. You can also rest assured that an SUV will hold all your things and allow you to sit comfortably. Otherwise, a sedan will be practical driving to and around the small towns.
Driving Restrictions within the City
Driving in downtown Rome requires that you know where the limited traffic zones (ZTL zones) are. If you rent a car from one SIXT’s many convenient locations in Rome or Florence, for example, you’ll need to follow the rules for the ZTL (Zona Traffico Limitato in Italian). In most cases, you are only eligible to get a ZTL pass if you’re a taxi driver or live or work in the city. The zones in city centers are controlled by cameras, and if you drive into a ZTL in your rental car, you will pay a fine of more than €60, depending on what city you are in.
Some ZTLs have 24-hour restrictions, while others are only during business hours, at night or on market days. You will need to read street signs carefully or do research before attempting to drive to your destination to avoid getting a fine. GPS is not a reliable way to detect ZTL zones because they sometimes change and because GPS typically doesn’t take these zones into account when recommending the shortest route to your destination.
