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How Our Self-Drive Tours Work

Tell us about your trip

Share your dates, interests, and comfort level with driving through our form or a quick call. Not sure where to start? Browse our 10 best road trips in Italy for ideas.

According to your preferences, we design the ideal itinerary with all the must-visit attractions and scenic stops along the way, with a special attention to times and distances. This insider knowledge ensures you get an authentic taste of Italy.

You will love all the well-kept secrets that our enthusiastic team has included: out-of-the way places, breathtaking sights, hidden treasures, and great spots for a meal known only to locals.

Finalise the route

We fine-tune the itinerary together, add any destination or activity, choose the model of your preference.

After you confirm the tour, we share a detailed map of your route with your accommodations, the activities you have selected and other activities and points of interest along the route.

Before you arrive, we send you a detailed itinerary with all indications and share your itinerary with you on an easy-to-consult APP.

Your Rental Car

We can arrange your car with a trusted rental company, or you can book your own and we will plan everything else.

Included when we arrange your rental:

  • Unlimited mileage
  • Two authorized drivers
  • GPS navigation
  • Mandatory third-party liability insurance
  • Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  • Theft protection

Optional:

  • Reduced or zero deductible
  • Automatic transmission (limited availability: book early)
  • One-way rental to another city (drop-off fee applies)
  • Extra drivers, child seats, winter equipment

Not included: fuel, tolls, parking, traffic and ZTL fines.

Driving in Italy – Rules and Tips

Driving in Italy is easier than many travellers expect, once you know a few local rules. Here is what you need to know before you get behind the wheel.

What are ZTL zones?

Most historic centers are “Zona a Traffico Limitato” (limited traffic zones), monitored by cameras. Entering without authorization means a fine, often sent to you months later through the rental company with an extra admin fee. Where your hotel is inside a ZTL, we arrange for your plate to be registered.

How do tolls work?

Motorways (autostrade) have tolls. Take a ticket when you enter and pay by card or cash when you exit. Avoid the yellow lanes marked “Telepass”: they are for cars with an electronic device.

What are the speed limits?

Unless signs say otherwise:

  • 130 km/h (81 mph) on motorways, 110 km/h (68 mph) in rain;
  • 110 km/h (68 mph) on main highways;
  • 90 km/h (56 mph) on secondary roads;
  • 50 km/h (31 mph) in towns.

Speed cameras are common, including average-speed systems on motorways.

Where can I park?

Blue lines mean paid parking, white lines are usually free, yellow lines are reserved. Many hotels in historic centers have no parking of their own: we always tell you where to leave the car.

How do I refuel?

Check whether your car takes “benzina” (gasoline) or “gasolio” (diesel). At many stations, “Fai da te” (self-service) pumps are cheaper than “Servito” (attended service).

What should I do in case of an accident or breakdown?

Call 112 for emergencies. For a breakdown, call the rental company’s roadside assistance number, which you find in the car documents. If you stop on a road outside town, put on the reflective vest before getting out and place the warning triangle behind the car. For a minor accident, fill in the accident report form (CAI) with the other driver.

What is the alcohol limit?

0.5 g/L of blood alcohol, lower than in most US states. The limit is zero for drivers under 21 and for those who have held their license for less than three years. Penalties are severe, so the safest choice is not to drink if you drive.

Do I need my headlights on during the day?

Yes, outside towns. Dipped headlights are mandatory day and night on motorways and on all roads outside built-up areas. Most rental cars switch them on automatically, but it is worth checking before you set off.