Car rental in Italy: Your Expert Guide

Documents and regulations

When going to rent a car in Italy it is necessary to take into account the regulations and required documents.

Minimum Age

To drive in Italy you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driving licence. However, various car rental agencies may have additional rules and only rent cars to drivers who are 21 years of age or older. To save yourself from surprises, you should do your research beforehand and choose an agency whose age policy matches your conditions.

Driving Licence

A valid driving licence is a mandatory requirement. Foreign tourists from the EU and the European Economic Zone can use their national driving licence in Italy, but for others, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required. An IDP may also be useful for EU citizens, especially in situations where there may be a language barrier or when communicating with local authorities.

Insurance

Understanding insurance coverage is critical. Basic insurance is usually included in the rental price and covers liability and damage to the rental car. However, it often comes with a deductible. Travellers can opt for additional insurance such as Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Theft Protection (TP) to reduce or eliminate the deductible. To make an informed decision, it is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of the insurance offered by the rental company.

Best car rental companies

Choosing the 'best' car rental company in Italy depends on various factors, including individual preferences, budget and specific needs. There are several reputable international and local car rental companies operating in Italy, providing travellers with a variety of options. Here are some well-known car hire companies that are often considered among the best in Italy:

• Kayak: As a travel search engine, Kayak allows users to compare prices and options from various car rental companies in Italy. It's a convenient tool for travelers to find and book rental cars from different providers, including the ones listed below, ensuring they get the best deal suited to their travel needs.
• Hertz: This world-renowned brand has a significant presence in Italy, offers a wide range of cars and has rental outlets in major airports and cities.
• Avis: Another large international company popular in Italy. It offers a variety of car options and has convenient pick-up and drop-off points.
• Europcar: A European car hire company with an established network in Italy, offering a wide range of cars, from compact to luxury models, and known for their flexibility.
• Sixt: A German company operating worldwide, including Italy. It is known for its modern rental car pool and often offers premium cars.
• Budget: A well-established rental company present in Italy that targets budget travellers and offers different types of cars.

Looking to compare prices? Check car rental prices in Italy

How to pay tolls in Italy with a rental car

Paying tolls in Italy with a hire car is not as complicated as it might seem, and there are several ways to ensure a smooth journey on the country's toll roads, also known as autostrada. In addition, many car hire services in Italy offer features to make paying road tolls easier.

Looking to compare prices? Check car rental prices in Italy

Methods of payment

• Cash: Traditional toll booths in Italy accept cash. To pay your fare, carry enough local currency, preferably in small denominations.
• Credit/Debit Cards: Most toll booths on Italian highways accept major credit and debit cards. Make sure your card is compatible with an international payment system and inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid problems.
• Telepass: Telepass is an electronic toll collection system widely used in Italy and Europe in general. Rental cars equipped with Telepass devices can drive in dedicated lanes without stopping. Check with the rental company if your chosen car is equipped with Telepass.

Toll payment services by rental companies

• Autostrade website: Some car hire companies cooperate with the official Autostrade per l'Italia website, which allows you to prepay your fare online or sign up for a service that automatically transfers the fee from your credit card.
• Telepass: Rental companies can provide access to the Telepass service, which allows you to manage your toll payments through a dedicated app.
• Toll Pass Service: Some rental car companies offer a toll service, which involves a device in the car that automatically records tolls and deducts them from your rental account.

To ensure a smooth toll payment, check with the rental company in advance. Ask about the availability of electronic toll devices in the car and the payment options available. If you use cash, carry small denominations to pay at toll booths. Familiarise yourself with the toll collection points along your route and plan necessary stops at the toll booths.

How much is a rental car in Italy

The cost of a rental car in Italy depends on factors such as the duration of the rent, the type of car, the rental company and the time of year. As a rule, rental prices are higher during the high season, usually in June, July and August, when tourist activity peaks.

Looking to compare prices? Check car rental prices in Italy

During the low season, which runs from November to early March, rental prices tend to be more affordable. During this period, demand is lower and rental companies may offer discounts or promotions to attract customers.

On average, the daily cost of renting a compact car in Italy can range from 30€  to 70€ or more, depending on the factors listed above. Luxury and customised cars are more expensive. To get better prices and guarantee availability, it is essential to book cars in advance, especially during high season.

In addition, although the base rental price covers the cost of the car, travellers should take into account other costs such as fuel, road tolls, possible insurance coverage, and a deposit which may contribute to the total cost of renting a car in Italy. Always check for additional charges and read the terms of the rental agreement carefully to avoid surprises when paying the final bill.