Car Hire Italy

In the land that gave us Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, Lamborghini and Maserati, it should come as no surprise that driving isn't just a way of getting from A to B – it's a way of life.

City driving may take a little while to get used to, but the pace eases off with rural driving. Do beware though that some of those narrow country lanes and twisting mountain roads demand plenty of concentration.

Italy’s road system is generally well maintained and their highway system allows for the easy planning of journeys. The A1, known to Italians as 'The Autostrada del Sole' works almost like the spine of the nation's road network, connecting Milan in the north to Naples in the south, via Rome. Most major road trips through the country will incorporate the A1 at some point.

There are some variations in speed restrictions across the country, but in cities, towns and villages speed limits of 50km/h tend to apply. Outside of these built-up areas, speeds are normally capped at 90 or 110km/h, with main highways – or 'autostradas'– carrying limits of 130km/h.

Traffic can also be something of an issue in larger cities, particularly during peak travel times. Many city centres try to cut down on congestion and protect key landmarks with restricted traffic zones, known as ZTLs or ‘Zona a Traffico Limitato’.

Typically signposted with a red circle on a white background and monitored by video cameras, you’re likely to land a fine if you enter the area during the hours stated. If your hotel is within a ZTL, let them know you’re arriving by car to secure a permit allowing you time for arrival and departure.

In terms of parking, white lines on the street mean the space is free to park in, while blue lines indicate that you’ll need to pay and display a ticket. Yellow markings show zones that are reserved for “special” parking.

Some signs show different restrictions for week days – indicated by two hammers – and weekends, represented by a cross. A red and blue circle with a diagonal line through the centre means that parking is forbidden during the hours shown.

Italy really does have it all. There are the history-laden cities, the rich culture, the fabulous food and some of the most breathtaking scenery you’ll find anywhere in the world.

Whether you’re coming for the sun-kissed coastal resorts, stunning Alpine lakes or to immerse yourself in one of its iconic cities, Italy is blessed with an array of delights that will charm and seduce in equal measure.

Venice, Milan, Florence and the north

Alpine skiing, lake resorts such as Lake Como and Lake Garda, the Italian Riviera… northern Italy offers an intoxicating and enthralling mix of must-see destinations.

Then there are the wonderful cities. Visit fashion capital Milan and enjoy the buzz of shopping in some of the world’s finest stores, or delve into the city’s most famous attractions, including the stunning Duomo.

Milan’s renowned cathedral is an extravagant beauty. Made from pink Candoglia marble and covered in more than 130 spires and 3,000 statues it is truly a sight to behold.

If you’re looking for romance and adventure, head to Venice. With its incredible architecture, peaceful ambience and other-worldy feel, you can soak up the sights of St Mark’s Square and enjoy a ride on a gondola down one of its famous canals.

The Basilica Di San Marco is also a must. Founded in the 9^th century, it’s awash with intricate mosaics and Byzantine domes.

Naples, Bari, Calabria and the south

If you’re arriving in the south of Italy, you’ll find a whirlwind of incredible places to visit. There’s the baroque city of Lecce, thought by many to be the most beautiful city in Italy. Its distinct architecture is perfectly captured in the Basilica di Santa Croce, with columns and gargoyles covering the building.

Further up, in Campania, you’ll find the idyllic Sorrento and the swanky island of Capri that sits off it. Nearby is Pompeii, the famous town buried by lava and ash from Mount Vesuvius some 2,000 years ago. You can see what life was like for the Romans all those years ago as everything is perfectly preserved in the ashes – making for an unforgettable visit.

Discover iconic Rome

If there’s one city on Earth that is known for its history and heritage, that city is Rome. You don’t need to be a huge history buff to find this city captivating, though. Sure, no visit to Italy’s capital is complete without a visit to the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, but there’s also the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps and Pantheon.

That’s before you step into the world’s smallest country - right there in the centre of Rome is the Catholic state of Vatican City, where you’ll find St Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.

Getting off the mainland

Just off the ‘toe’ of Italy’s ‘boot’, you’ll find the large island of Sicily. A relaxed rural environment, tourists head here for the weather, gorgeous landscapes and moreishthe cannoli.

Clean air, white sand and beautifully translucent waters make Sardinia a wise choice for the discerning holidaymaker. World-class dining, perfect beaches and a calm atmosphere run throughout the island.

This varied and spellbinding country has something for everyone. There’s something quinetessentially Italian at every turn, yet each region and city is different from the last. Hiring a car in Italy allows you to experience it all for yourself.