Car rental in Italy, cheap & hassle-free

Why arrange your rental car in Italy through SunnVio

In Italy the rental conditions vary greatly by region and rental company. We compare the offers and arrange a reliable car at a clear all-in price, so you are not faced with surprises.

• All-inclusive insured: all mandatory insurance is included in the price as standard.
• No excess: we have bought it off for you; any charge from your deposit we refund within 30 days.
• Free cancellation until pick-up: you are not tied to anything.
• Only reliable rental companies that we have vetted ourselves.

Popular pick-up locations in Italy

We arrange your rental car at almost every airport and in every major city. Popular in Italy:

ZTL: the biggest trap in Italy

Almost every Italian town centre has a ZTL, a zona a traffico limitato. Only residents and cars with a permit may enter. Cameras register every car that drives into the zone, even if you take a wrong turn or are just looking for your hotel. The fine often arrives months later via the rental company, which adds an administration fee.

• Look out for the sign with the red circle and the text "Zona Traffico Limitato". If it says "varco attivo" underneath, the zone is active. Do not drive in.
• Staying inside a ZTL? Give your hotel your number plate after pick-up. Many hotels can then register you, so you do not get a fine.
• Park outside the old centre and walk or take the bus in. In Florence, Pisa and Siena that is almost always the best choice.

More tips on ZTLs, tolls and mountain roads in car rental in Italy.

Tolls on the autostrada

Most Italian motorways are toll roads. You take a ticket when you join and pay by credit card or in cash when you leave. Choose a lane with the card or coin symbol; the yellow Telepass lane is only for cars with a toll device. Driving on to Switzerland or Austria? You need a vignette there. Read more in tolls and vignettes in Europe.

Driving in Italy: the key rules

• Speed limits: 130 km/h on the autostrada (110 km/h in rain), 110 km/h on dual carriageways, 90 km/h on other roads outside built-up areas and 50 km/h in towns.
• Dipped headlights: outside built-up areas you drive with dipped headlights on, day and night.
• Alcohol: the limit is 0.5 g/l. If you have held your licence for less than 3 years, the limit is zero and your top speed on the autostrada is 100 km/h.
• Phones: hands-free only. Since late 2024 the penalties have become much stricter.

Refuelling in Italy

Many petrol stations have two kinds of pumps: "fai da te" (self-service) and "servito" (attended). Attended service costs noticeably more per litre. Petrol is "benzina", diesel is "gasolio". Along the autostrada fuel costs more than in the village next to it.

Sicily, Sardinia and the Amalfi Coast

On Sicily and Sardinia it is easiest to pick up your car at the airport, for example in Catania, Palermo, Olbia or Cagliari. Most rental companies do not let you take the car on the ferry to the mainland, or only with permission in advance. On the Amalfi Coast and in the Dolomites the roads are narrow and winding. A small car is much easier to park and turn there.

Frequently asked questions about car rental in Italy

What happens if I drive into a ZTL by mistake?

You get a fine, often months later via the rental company. If you enter the zone more than once, each entry can mean a separate fine. Not sure about a route? Send us a WhatsApp and we will help you work it out.

Do I need an International Driving Permit?

Not with a licence from an EU country or a UK photocard licence. With a licence from outside Europe, for example from the US, you do need an International Driving Permit.

How old do I need to be to rent a car?

With most rental companies at least 21, and you need to have held your licence for at least a year. Under 25 you often pay a young driver surcharge. Read more about renting a car under 25.

Can I take the rental car to Switzerland or France?

Often yes, as long as it is in your rental contract in advance. For Swiss motorways you need a vignette. Mention your route in your request and we will include it in your quote.