Rent a Car Italy

There's no better way to see Italy than by car

See Italy from the comfort of your Avis hire car. Enjoy Italy at your own pace and soak up the breath-taking countryside, traditional small towns and the historic cities of Rome, Florence and Venice.

So what are you waiting for? Start your Italian adventure with Avis car hire today.
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Popular airport locations in Italy

Popular car hire locations in Italy

Plan your trip in Italy

Famed for its history, culture and cuisine, Italy is also one of the most scenic countries in the world.

The Amalfi coast is a beautiful drive, famed for its rugged coastline and towering cliffs alongside turquoise waters – potentially one of the most beautiful stretches of road in the world.

In northern Italy, driving around Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy, is highly recomended. The Italian lakes offer breath-taking hillside panoramas, sparkling waters and idyllic little towns on the lake's edge.

Or how about a trip to the Italian capital, Rome? Visit the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum and Colosseum, and the masterpiece of St Peter's Basilica and the Vatican . Experience the 'dolce vita' lifestyle, relaxing in the street cafes and trattorias.

If you are a lover of art and architecture then Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, is another must see . It is home to numerous museums, palaces and churches and some of the world’s greatest treasures. Continue on through the countryside of Tuscany for sunflower fields, medieval cities, and the vineyards of Chianti.

Road trips in Italy

The Amalfi Coast - Salerno to Sorrento
This 60 km route along the western coast of Italy is one of the most beautiful and scenic drives in the world. Clocking in at around 2.5 hours, the drive along the Amalfi Coast will fly by as you take in the gorgeous coastline and stop off at the charming and unique cafes and restaurants along the way. Take your time and make the most of it all.

Wind your way past the famous towns of Positano, Maiori and Ravello, each with their own rich history and unique sights, and take in the sweeping views from each stunning viewpoint.

Genova to La Spezia
The trip from Genova to La Spezia (Riviera Ligure) takes you through some of the most beautiful stretches of road in all of northern Italy.

Not only will you be enjoy breath-taking views, gorgeous fresh sea air and gleaming turquoise waters but you’ll also pass through Portofino, famous for its picturesque harbour.

With only 500 permanent residents you would be excused for thinking not much happens in this idyllic little town but when the sun is out (and that’s a lot of the time), Portofino becomes a bustling hub with boutiques, art galleries, cafes and more.

The trip takes 1.5 hours driving straight, but you won’t want to. We recomend building in time to spend a few hours enjoying the scenery and a few more for Portofino itself. A true Italian gem.

Driving rules in Italy

Which side of the road?
In Italy, please drive on the right side of the road.

Country driving laws

Mobile phones may only be used with a hands-free device
Dipped headlights must be used in poor daylight visibility when driving on motorways, dual carriageways, and rural roads
Use the outside lane to overtake on motorways and dual carriageways
Do not use the horn in a built up area unless in danger
There are historical areas in which you cannot drive. Look out for “Zona traffico limitato”

Speed limits

All speed signs will be in km/h.

For a standard Avis rental vehicle with no trailers:

Urban roads: 50 km/h (31 mph)
Urban highways: 70 km/h (44 mph)
Secondary extra-urban roads: 90 km/h (56 mph)
Main extra-urban roads (Expressways): 110 km/h (68 mph)
Motorways: 130 km/h (80mph)

Unless indicated by road signs.

Be aware of changes to speed limits displayed on road signs due to adverse weather conditions.

Child safety / Seatbelt laws

It is compulsory for the driver and all passengers to wear a seatbelt
Children aged under 12 and less than 150cm tall must be seated in an appropriate child restraint for their size
Children weighing up to 9kg must be seated in a rear-facing child restraint, in the back of the car only

Please note - It is the child’s parent / guardian or vehicle renter’s responsibility to fit the child seat.

This road rules information is for provided for general guidance only. We endeavour to keep the information up to date and accurate, but any reliance you place on this information is at your own risk.