Road trips

Italy

Italy has some of the most iconic and picturesque destinations in Europe. From the breathtaking views in the Dolomites to the sun-kissed beached of the South, every road trip in Italy promises memories of a lifetime. So, grab your map, hop in the car and get ready to explore the best of Italy on a road trip you’ll never forget!

Rifugio Puez in Val Gardena, hiking the Dolomites in Italy and road trips in Italy

How To Plan A Road Trip in Italy

  • Step 1: Begin by thinking about your ideal road trip; what regions are you drawn to? Which local foods are you dying to try? Whether it’s exploring the coastal towns of the Amalfi Coast or indulging in fresh seafood in Sicily, Italy offers countless surprises to please every kind of traveler.
  • Step 2: Consider what type of experience you want to have. Are you in the mood for outdoor adventures, such as hiking in the Dolomites or wandering through ancient ruins? Or do you want to immerse yourself in Italy’s artistic and architectural heritage?
  • Step 3: Decide how many days you have for the road trip and how far you’re willing to drive each day. A road trip in Italy is meant to be savored. So plan your itinerary to allow for longer stops in the scenic towns along the way.
  • Step 4: When it comes to renting a car, opt for something compact. Italy’s old town centers often have narrow streets, and parking can be tricky in historic districts. Whether you’re driving through the rolling hills of Tuscany or navigating the winding roads of the Amalfi Coast, a smaller car is definitely the best way to see the country’s must-see attractions.
  • Step 5: Be mindful of the seasons. The ideal time for a road trip is during the shoulder seasons. In spring and autumn, weather is milder, the crowds are thinner and the scenery is at its best. However, try to avoid August at all costs. That’s when most locals take their holidays and many businesses shut down for a few weeks.
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Good to know before a road trip in Italy

Roads in Italy are generally in great condition, but traffic gets chaotic in big cities. Also, most of historical city centers have a ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones) in place. In these areas, restrictions for car access are in place and closely monitored by cameras.

If you visit from a non-EU country, you may need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) in addition to your regular driver’s license. Check with your rental company before booking.

Also, you have to pay tolls on Italian highways (autostrade). These are calculated based on the distance you travel and can make a road trip more expensive. In this case, you can use secondary routes. But these in turn can make your itinerary slightly longer.

All My Road Trips in Italy