Traffic rules in Italy
Driving in Italy with a hire car will keep you flexible at all times, but don’t forget the stringent speed limits there - 50kmph (30mph) in towns, 90kmph (54mph) on country roads and 110kmph (66mph) on motorways, unless otherwise stated. Keep in mind that children under the age of 12 cannot sit in the front seat, otherwise you could receive a fine! Furthermore, headlights should be turned on when driving on motorways and main roads in Italy. Seat belts are compulsory and similar to most other European countries, the use of a mobile phone (without hands-free kit) is strictly forbidden.
CarDelMar car hire tips in Italy
The most straightforward way to enjoy Italy in all its glory is via the motorway. However, motorways (Autostrade) in Italy are toll roads but you can pay with either cash or credit card. Remember that on Continental Europe cars drive on the ride hand side, so keep to the right in Italy unless overtaking. When sweeping around the Alps or the rugged mountainous south, be aware that the car travelling upwards has priority and when you need to fill up, sit back and relax like a true Italian - many petrol stations are manned, so feet up and let the pump operator do all the work for you! Taking a trip out of the bustling cities and off the beaten path in Italy is a must, but it might be helpful to inform yourself of the traffic conditions first, by tuning into 104.4FM. Don’t worry if your Italian is a little rusty, because it is also occasionally broadcasted in English.
When in Rome…
…pay extra attention! Due to the rich ancient history of Italy, many historic centres in Italian cities are prohibited for cars. By all means, discover the sights of the impressive Roman architecture or the gorgeous sandy stretches of Sardinia or Sicily with the aid of your car, but ensure you check first at your hotel whether you need a pass to drive though any areas. Car hire in Italy is great for weaving in and out of narrow streets, but when in big cities, be aware that at weekends (especially Friday and Sunday evenings) roads can become exceptionally clogged in Italy, like that of the world famous Raccordo Annulare in Rome. Inexpensive car hire and the enchanting beauty of Italy – perfect for the holiday of a lifetime.
CarDelMar wishes you a pleasant and relaxing holiday with car hire in Italy.
