OK,
it may be true that some Italians may drive like speed demons.
But
all told, it seems like most of the European continent is
on a faster track than on American highways. (Surely you've
heard of the autobahn in Germany? And let's not even
mention what it's like driving the streets of Paris.)
The
good news is that, like anywhere on the planet, the wide-open
countryside will afford you a lot more mellow driving experience
than in the big cities.
If
you are staying in Rome
or Milan,
by all means use taxis or public transporation. (In Venice,
don't even think about driving. Cars are not allowed).
On
the other hand, if you want to navigate by your own star
to see off-the-beaten path Italy, than hiring a car comes
highly recommended.
Practical
travel tips
In
Italy you'll find familiar car hire names like Hertz, Alamo,
Budget and Dollar rental car agencies and, as in most of
Europe, standard transmission is pretty, well, standard
- and higher rates will apply for automatics.
Save
money by going online to rent a car before your trip, or
see a travel agent who can find the best car rental deals
available. As elsewhere, you may want to consider collision
insurance for your car, but first check to see if your credit
card or existing car insurance policies covers this before
purchase. In Italy you will be required to purchase theft-protection
insurance.
Getting
around by car in Italy
In general, roads in Italy are easy to navigate and well-maintained.
Depending on how extensively you plan to travel by car,
Viacards are available that allow you to pay highway tolls
in advance. At autostrade toll booths simply insert the
card into a slot, and you're on your way.
You'll
find many rental cars in Italy running on diesel (gasolio)
so look for the signs at gas stations located frequentlly
along the autostrade open 24 hours a day, except Sunday.
Be
safe
As
in most Western countries, seatbelts are required and cell
phone usage while driving is prohibited. If you're traveling
with a child under three, be sure to tell your car rental
agency to book a required child protection car seat with
your vehicle.
DUI
fines are stiff, and the blood alcohol content limits stricter
(0.5 gr) than in the U.S. with fines of up to 5,000€
for driving while intoxicated.
More
about traveling by car in Italy on the Web:
Driving
Tips for Italy
In
the Driver's Seat: Italy
Car
Rental Tips
Driving
in Italy - Car Rentals
Italy
Car Hire Comparisons
Also
see -> Italy
by Train | Italy
Maps
