Using our last post to guide you if you have chosen one of our outstanding villas in Italy for your next holiday and were looking into renting a car, you might now know all you need to get your vehicle sorted but what about when you have actually hit the road? What do you need to know about driving in the country in order to stay safe and enjoy your vacation in Italy?
In order to help you out, we've compiled some key things that we think you should keep in mind:
1. Important rules that you should be aware of and always follow when driving in Italy include:
- You drive on the right side of the road in Italy.
- It is illegal to turn right on a red light.
- Seatbelts must be worn in front and back (if a vehicle has them, which they will unless it is, perhaps, a vintage car).
- Headlights must be on outside of urban areas.
- When coming on to a roundabout, you must yield to cars already on it, and to exit, you must signal to indicate and move to the outside lane.
- At intersections, always yield to the car on the right.
- It it illegal to text or even hold your phone and use it while driving – hands-free devices must be used instead.
- The blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, which is not very much alcohol so be sure to have a designated driver or an alternative way back if you are going somewhere and are intending to consume alcohol.
- It would be a good idea to look into the rules of the road of Italy in detail at least once before your arrival as it will make your holiday in Italy less stressful overall if you are somewhat familiar with any differences to driving in your home country.
2. At gas stations, you’ll be able to fill up with gasolio (diesel) and benzina (gas/petrol). Ensure you know which kind you need before filling up or you could have a serious problem on your hands as your vehicle will not drive and may be damaged.
3. Be careful of ZTLs (Zona a Traffico Limitato, or Limited Traffic Zones), specific areas within cities, typically the historic centres, where driving without special permits is prohibited. If you drive into these areas, you will be fined (it will be sent to the rental company who will forward it home to you as an unwelcome souvenir so be sure to keep an eye out for the signs. Using the park and ride bus services that are offered in cities like Pisa will allow you to completely avoid having to think about where you’re driving and enjoy your day peacefully so it is worth considering if planning a trip to a historic city.
4. In general, parking can be tricky, especially in older towns. Be sure to only park in designated spots as you don’t want to have to spend your vacation dealing with bureaucratic headaches. If in doubt, google parking in the area before leaving your vehicle behind.
5. Don’t be intimidated! Many people have heard tall tales about driving in Italy but as long as you understand the rules of the road of the country, pay attention and stay sharp, and drive carefully, you’ll be fine to drive all throughout your vacation in Italy.
So, book your villa in Italy, enjoy your time exploring the country, and, above all else, be sure to drive safely!