Driving In Italy

Cypress lined road in TuscanyItaly has one of the most extensive network of roads and highways in Europe. The country’s famous super highways, “autostrade”, connect every corner of the peninsula, are toll roads and you can pay by credit card (look out for the credit card symbol at the toll gates . These toll roads are supported by an excellent network of secondary roads, classified as national highways (’strade statali’), provincial roads (’strade provinciali’) and municipal roads (’strade communali’).

Do I really need a car in Italy? - Yes, if you are staying in the countryside. No, if you are staying only in cities. The cities are difficult to drive in and parking is scarce (or expensive), plus most cities have good public transportation, so you do not need a car if you are staying in the cities. The train and bus systems are extensive in Italy, so you can move between cities easily without a car. If your trip is only to the larger cities, you will not need a car. If you want to explore the countryside, you will need a car. Buses and trains to the smaller towns and villages are not frequent. If you rent a place in the countryside, you will need a car to get to the nearby towns and villages for supplies and to explore the area.

Current Road Laws

Speed Limits - Since 2003, new speed limits came into effect and are being enforced more than before.

  • 50 kph in cities - 90 kph outside of cities - 110 kph on highways - 130 kph on autostrada

General Rules of Traffic - Driving in Italy is generally different from the US as roads vary and driving habits are different.

  • Most national and provincial roads only have one lane in each direction, so passing cars and being passed is a part of every driving experience, roads can also be narrow and winding.
  • The concept of space is quite different here so cars will travel closer that what you are used to at home. So expect cars to get too close and start flashing at you if you go too slow (according to Italians) on the autostrada, so keep to the right.
  • Traffic lights are generally respected, though you will be expected to be quick off the starting line as soon as the lights change.
  • Use of hand-held cellular phones (without ear phone) is also prohibited while in motion
  • You must keep to the the right, left lanes are only for overtaking and you must re-enter as soon as you have passed the slower vehicle
  • On the autostrada, you must drive with your lights on.
  • You must always wear a seat belt.
  • Drunk driving laws are strict - do not drink and drive.
  • It is best to carry an International Driver’s License (see below).
  • Traffic is usually very heavy leaving big cities late on Friday and returning late on Sunday, sometimes creating huge jams, on the main roads leading into the town and on the ring roads (like the raccordo annulare in Rome). During summer vacation periods, from the end of July to the end of August, vacationers also move in great mass.
  • Many gas stations close for a somewhat leisurely lunch (12:30 - 15:00) although most have at least one self-service pump. Gas stations on the motorways offer 24-hour service. They also have convenient snack bars
  • Parking is a problem, especially in the major cities. In most cities there is road side parking (blue lines) which are metered.Tickets are obtained from nearby street meters and must be placed on the dashboard.
  • It is a good idea to leave your car in a supervised car park, especially if you have luggage. Try not to leave anything that can be easily spotted from the outside or you car will be most probably broken into.

International Driving Permit (IDP) - Travelers driving in Italy need their driver’s license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) is reccommended. The IDP is just a translation of your driver’s license- not a substitute - and you can get it at your local AAA. If you are stopped by the police for a traffic violation or at a checkpoint, showing your IDP will make everything easier. Car rental companies have also been told to check for it when you pick up your car.

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Also tagged with: Independent Journeys, Europe, Italy, Self Drive


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