Italy Car Hire

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Top destinations to hire a car in Italy

A historic stone wall with a tower, a boat with passengers, and a clear blue water canal.
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Sirmione

Sirmione

What you need to know for your Italy car rental

Reasons to book a car hire in Italy

Renting a car in Italy enhances your travel experience by offering freedom and flexibility to explore the country at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create a travel itinerary that suits your interests. This is particularly appealing for those seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and scenic views. You can visit iconic attractions like the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain in Rome, both integral parts of Italy's rich history and culture. For nature lovers, the Dolomites provide breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. Additionally, exploring popular destinations such as Florence, with its stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, or Sirmione, known for its Scaliger Castle, is convenient with a car. The flexibility of having your own vehicle allows you to travel between these cities and attractions without the constraints of public transport schedules. Whether you're keen on historical landmarks, picturesque landscapes, or vibrant city life, renting a car in Italy allows you to truly experience the charm and diversity of this beautiful country.

Most popular car hires in Italy

  • Midsize SUV: This car option accommodates up to 5 travellers and has space for up to 3 large suitcases. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups who appreciate a bit of extra room and comfort during their travels. The Midsize SUV provides a robust driving experience and is ideal for exploring Italy's beautiful landscapes at your own pace, making it a popular choice among tourists.
  • Compact: The Compact car accommodates 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is well-suited for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for a balance of space and fuel efficiency. With its manageable size, the Compact car is excellent for navigating Italy’s charming towns and cities while maintaining flexibility in your travel plans.
  • Economy: The Economy car option is designed for up to 5 travellers and can hold up to 2 medium suitcases. Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families, this car type is often the most cost-effective choice for those looking to save on rental fees and fuel costs. Its smaller size makes it easy to park in crowded areas, allowing you to explore Italy with ease.

Where to stay in Italy

  • Rome: A bustling metropolis, Rome is perfect for those seeking a cultural and family-oriented experience. You'll find yourself near iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and Spanish Steps, all offering a glimpse into the city's rich history. The area is also dotted with shopping centres and restaurants, providing excellent options for food and drinks, including local wineries. Ideal for visiting during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, Rome presents a vibrant blend of history and modernity.
  • Sirmione: Located on the picturesque shores of Lake Garda, Sirmione is renowned for its outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. Key attractions include the enchanting Scaliger Castle and the thrilling Gardaland amusement park. For relaxation, the Center Aquaria Spa and Wellness Center offers soothing body treatments. The area is also known for its delectable cheese and winery options, making it a delightful spot for food lovers. The summer months are particularly popular, attracting visitors looking to enjoy the lake and outdoor pursuits.
  • Florence: A cultural hub, Florence is ideal for travellers interested in art, history, and family experiences. The stunning Piazza di Santa Maria Novella and the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore are must-see landmarks, alongside the historic Ponte Vecchio bridge. Florence is home to vibrant shopping areas and theatres, as well as an array of wineries and restaurants to savour local cuisine. Spring and early autumn are the best times to visit for comfortable weather and fewer crowds, allowing for a more enjoyable exploration of this beautiful city.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Italy

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary significantly based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance often leads to lower prices and a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come with lower rental costs and are easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size options strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age criteria before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most convenient option. Other policies may be full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable—just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payments.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can shield you from unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind should the unexpected occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in Italy

The best value period to rent a car in Italy is November, when prices are slightly low and demand is at its lowest. This month offers excellent opportunities for affordable rentals. Nearby months, such as January and March, also feature slightly low prices with low to average demand. Conversely, July tends to be the most expensive month with high demand, while June and August also see slightly high prices and busy rental conditions. September to October show average prices with steady demand.

Why rent a car in Italy?

Italy is a country that’s rich in tradition, heritage and ceremony. It’s also an incredibly varied place, from the high fashion of Milan to the commanding ruins of Rome, via the gasp-inducingly beautiful Amalfi coast and pomp and circumstance of Vatican City. Whichever side of Italy you choose to visit, you’ll be rewarded with friendly, passionate locals, a warm and sunny climate, and a national cuisine so good it’s taken over the world.

Book a hire car in Italy and you can spend your days taking in everything this country has to offer. The boot of Italy stretches about 730 miles from Switzerland in the north, all the way down to the sparkling Mediterranean. From there, it’s easy to hop on a ferry to Malta, Cyprus or one of the other islands that dot the Med’s calm blue waters. Or, take your rental car over the border and visit the boulevards of Monaco, Switzerland’s epic mountains, or the underappreciated beauty of Croatia.

How to get to and around Italy?

Italy has a variety of airports to choose from. The most popular are Leonardo Da Vinci Airport, just outside of Rome, Venice Marco Polo Airport, or Florence Airport. Whichever you choose, you’ll find it easy to get about the country – plenty of motorways make navigating the relatively large nation (by European terms) a cinch.

What brands are available?

Il Bel Paese has plenty of top-quality rental providers to choose from. Book a hire car in Italy and you can choose from trusted brands like Europcar, Hertz and Firefly, and reliable local providers like Sicily by Car.

Must-sees within an easy drive of Italy

No visit to Italy is a complete without a few days spent in Rome. Italy’s ancient capital was once the centre of the world, and an incredible amount of that Roman past is still standing. The Colosseum is the big draw, and the nearby Pantheon is another must-see. Vatican City also offers plenty to those interested in history and architecture. Visit the Vatican Museum to learn more about the role this tiny nation-within-a-nation has played in global history.

Italy is famous for its romance, and perhaps no city on earth is as romantic as Venice. It’s easy to spend a few days simply walking the canalside paths and eating in the many excellent osterias and ristorantes (head for side streets away from the tourist traps to find the best), but the city also holds many of the best examples of Renaissance artworks in the world. St Mark’s Basilica is perhaps the finest, with an interior that features a dazzling dome, ancient sculptures and more than four square kilometres of gold mosaics.

Tips and tricks for driving in Italy

Italy is a pleasant place to drive, but navigating your way through a city can sometimes be a white-knuckle experience. Italian motorists can be a little forceful – make sure to use your indicators, but be aware that other motorists may not use theirs and never assume that anyone will respect your right of way.

Ready to plan your Italy city break?

Ready to plan your trip to Italy? Start planning with this Rome city guide, and use the Expedia search tool to find the very best deals on flights and hotels, and to research popular attractions and activities.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Italy car reservation?
Subject to your hire policy, you may be eligible for your money back. Many bookings provide a total refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pick-up time. Got any questions? If you can't find the answer in your booking details, our Customer Service Portal is available 24/7.
What types of cars can I rent in Italy?
Bustling city streets and tight parking spots are no issue for an economy car — the most in-demand rental type in Italy. Hop behind the wheel of one of these and manoeuvre around traffic like a dream. Reliable, affordable and good on fuel, these small cars pack plenty of punch. But Italy can be explored in almost any sort of hire you like. Compact, full-size and premium vehicles are other options to consider.
How do I find the best car hire deals in Italy with Expedia?
Expedia makes it quick and easy to compare fees, offers and rental providers, and to check reviews. Bundle your Italy car hire with hotel or flight bookings and you'll make even bigger savings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Italy?
In most cases, the requirement is 18 years and over in Italy. It's worth noting that most outlets have a young driver surcharge. Check before you sign up, as different rules may apply between hire car providers. Bear in mind that if you're planning to hire a luxury ride or a large car like a premium SUV, you may need to be older than 18.
What do you need to rent a car in Italy?
Your driver's license and a credit card in the same name are two essentials. Opting out of the company's insurance plan? If that's the case, you may need proof of your own coverage. The requirements may differ from hire company to hire company, so be sure to read through your policy.
Can I hire a car for a month or longer in Italy?
Yes, so you won't have to rebook a rental vehicle in the middle of your holiday. Visit our long-term car rental deals page, enter your travel dates and lock in a set of wheels that's all yours for the length of your escape.
Where can I find an Italy hire car if I am younger than 25?
Age policies differ between hire suppliers, so be prepared to do a little research. Found an Italy outlet that does hire to under 25s? That's great! Just keep in mind that some companies charge additional fees to drivers between 21 and 24. The fine print of each hire car you're considering will have all the details you need.
Why should I rent an Italy car with Expedia?
From short business trips to cross-country jaunts, Expedia has cars to suit every style and adventure. Choose from multiple quality hire companies in Italy. And with our competitive offers and discounts, you'll always get an amazing deal on your shiny set of wheels. Did you know you can bundle your bookings into a package? Add a flight or hotel to your hire car and see how much you save! Plus, when you become a member of our free One Key™ rewards programme, you can collect OneKeyCash™* and redeem it on eligible hotels, activities, flights and more. *OneKeyCash disclaimer - OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia.

Car Hire Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation