Experiencing Italy's Wonders by Car

Experiencing Italy’s Wonders By

Car

Having your own car for your Italian vacation gives you maximum flexibility and freedom to explore at your own pace and schedule.

It is most economical to rent a car ahead of time, before you leave for Italy. Almost all big-name rental companies have offices in Italy.

An international driver’s license is required to drive in Italy. This can be obtained through AAA in the United States and through CAA in Canada.

Most cars in Italy have manual transmission. Renting an automatic transmission car can be difficult and is more expensive.

Observing the speed limit for urban areas, secondary roads and the Autostrada is strictly enforced.

The Italian Highway Code follows the Geneva Convention and Italy uses international road signs.

Gasoline and diesel fuel are significantly more expensive than in the United States. Be prepared to pay at least €1.50/per liter.

Look for signs with a large blue “P.” There are well-marked parking lots with plenty of parking in most tourist towns.

Look out for the large red “A” and stop at an Autogrill. There are clean bathrooms, trinket shopping and excellent coffee and food.

While traffic and restrictions make driving in Rome and Florence a bit difficult, outside of the big cities are some of the world’s most scenic routes.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the SS163 or more popularly known as the Amalfi Drive, connects the towns of Sorrento and Salerno in the Amalfi Coast.

Positano beach along the Amalfi Coast

Fall under the spell of symmetrical rows of cypress trees, green hills and charming hill towns from San Gimignano to Bagno Vignoni in Tuscany.

The Tuscan countryside during summer

The South Tyrol region of Italy is a bridge between Mediterranean and Alpine Italy.

Begin your easy drive to the famous city of Verona heading out towards the Prosecco and Valpolicella vineyards.

Plan a stop along one of the towns bordering Lake Garda. You have castles, churches and ancient glacial walls to choose for a visit.

As you head further north you will see the majestic Dolomite mountain range with lots of picturesque towns to visit.

The city of Bolzano is home to Ötzi the Iceman, a rich musical tradition and during the holiday season, famous Christmas markets.

For more information about travel to Italy,

visit our website www.touritalynow.com

or call our travel experts at 800.955.4418.