Rental Car
For Tuscany, Sardinia, Sicily, the Amalfi Coast, and rural areas, a rental car is almost indispensable. In the big cities (Rome, Milan, Venice, Florence), however, a car is a hindrance — ZTL zones, parking fees, and traffic chaos make driving an adventure.
Prices by Season (Small Car)
| Period | Price/Day | Price/Week |
|---|---|---|
| Off-Season (Nov–Mar) | €15–25 | €80–150 |
| Shoulder Season (Apr–May, Oct) | €25–45 | €150–280 |
| High Season (Jun–Aug) | €45–90 | €280–550 |
ZTL Zones — Italy's Biggest Tourist Trap
The Zona Traffico Limitato (ZTL) is the dreaded term for every driver in Italy. Almost every historic city center has cameras that register every entry. The penalty: €80–100 per entry — and you only find out weeks later by mail. Affected are, among others: Rome, Florence, Milan, Bologna, Siena, Verona, Naples, Palermo, Pisa. Always ask your hotel if it is in a ZTL and if it can register your license plate.
Highway (Autostrada)
Italy's highways are toll roads. Payment at toll booths: cash, card (also contactless), Telepass (electronic). Guidelines: Rome–Florence about €18, Rome–Naples about €14, Milan–Venice about €19. The speed limit is 130 km/h, 110 km/h in rain. Tutor system (average speed measurement) on many sections.
Refueling
Gasoline (Benzina): about €1.75–1.90/liter (2025). Diesel (Gasolio): about €1.65–1.80/liter. Attention: Many gas stations have mandatory service (Servito) — fuel is significantly more expensive there than at self-service (Self-Service/Fai da te). Always use the self-service pump!
Achtung
Driving on the Amalfi Coast in summer is a nightmare: single-lane roads, tour buses in oncoming traffic, hardly any parking. From June to September, it's better to take the SITA bus or a boat from Salerno/Naples. If you drive, start as early as possible (before 9 AM).