Italy is a beautiful place with a lot to offer, from historic cities to peaceful countryside. Many people dream of visiting, but the crowds can be unbearable. This is leading people to get off the beaten path and explore the country by car. However, driving in Italy can be intimidating. 

The busy streets, new road signs, and different driving styles can be confusing. But driving in Italy is not as hard as it seems. Once you know what to expect, it gets easier. In this article, we will go over some tips to help you drive a car in Italy and survive.

1 - Prepare for the trip

Before you start your trip to Italy, it's important to plan ahead. There are several things you should research before leaving, such as needing to compare travel insurance, how to plan an off the beaten path itinerary, and how to book hotels. If you plan to drive, then this research phase is even more important. 

First, you need to get an International Driving Permit (IDP). This permit lets you drive in Italy if your license is not from the European Union. You can apply for an IDP at your local automobile association. If you are coming from the US, then the only place you can get an official one is from AAA. You still need a driver’s license to go along with this.

Learn about Italian road signs and rules before you drive. Spend some time understanding the basics, like the meanings of different signs and common traffic rules. 

2 - Navigating Italian roads

Driving in Italy is an adventure, and knowing about the different types of roads can help. Italy has various roads, each with its own challenges.

The autostrada, or highway, is the fastest way to travel between cities. These roads are in good condition and have tolls you pay with cash or card. The speed limit is usually around 130 km/h (about 80 mph). 

State roads, called strade statali, connect smaller towns and cities. These roads can be busy and often go through towns, so the speed limit is lower, usually about 90 km/h (about 55 mph). 

Driving in cities like Rome, Florence, or Milan can be hard because of heavy traffic and limited parking. Many city centers have ZTL zones (limited traffic zones) where only residents and authorized vehicles can enter. 

City driving is different from driving in the countryside. In rural areas, there is less traffic but more winding roads and sharp turns. Take your time and enjoy the scenic routes. These drives can take you to charming villages, beautiful vineyards, and hidden spots that most tourists miss.

3 - Driving etiquette

Driving in Italy is different, and knowing some basic rules and habits can help. Italian drivers are often assertive and may seem aggressive, but they’re just used to driving that way. 

Roundabouts are common. Cars inside the roundabout have the right of way. Slow down when approaching, yield to those already in, and signal just before you exit.

Parking can be tough, especially in cities. Pay attention to parking signs and colors. Blue lines mean paid parking, white lines are free, and yellow lines are for special vehicles. Parking in the wrong place can get you fined or your car towed.

Drive defensively. Always be aware of what's around you and be ready for sudden changes in traffic. Keep a safe distance from the car ahead, especially in heavy traffic or on roads you don’t know well.

If you have an accident, remember the emergency number is 112. Stop and exchange information with the other driver, like your name, address, and insurance details. Taking photos of the accident scene can also be helpful.

4 - Navigational tools

Having the right tools can make driving in Italy much easier. Modern technology offers several helpful options to make sure you don't get lost and can find the best routes.

Using a GPS is one of the easiest ways to navigate Italian roads. Most rental cars have built-in GPS systems, but you can also bring your own device or use a navigation app on your smartphone. Google Maps and Waze are popular choices that give real-time traffic updates and alternate routes. Download offline maps before your trip in case you lose internet access in remote areas.

Mobile apps can also help you find parking, gas stations, and rest stops. These apps can save you time and reduce stress during your travels. Make sure to consult the apps before you plan your route so you can optimize your travel. 

Finally, having a paper map can be very useful as a backup. If your GPS or phone runs out of battery or loses signal, a detailed road map can help you find your way. Maps are available at bookstores, gas stations, and tourist information centers.

Disclosure: Contributor's content.