Driving in Italy. Any tips?

Question

Driving in Italy. Any tips?

Answer 1

italians drive like maniacs over there. no offense, i'm italian anyway  

Answer 2

I have driven throughout Italy many times.  I can offer the following:

If you are going to rent a car, you should buy the accident insurance.  Major credits will not cover you for the collision damage waiver in Italy.  You will also be required to take the mandatory anti-theft insurance.

If you plan to drive in hilly or mountainous areas, pay the extra money to rent an automatic transmission.  There is nothing more unnerving than getting to the top of a hill and having to stop on the incline for a red light or stop sign.

The signs you see on the side of the road that resemble speed limit signs serve no purpose other than to give the sign painters a job.  At best, Italian drivers consider the numbers to be a suggestion.

The lines in the road don't mean anything as far as how many lanes there are in a particular road.  In Italy, the number of lanes is determined by how many cars will fit across it.

If you can avoid it, don't drive in major cities such as Rome or Naples.  Believe me, your nerves will appreciate it if you park outside the city and take a taxi into the city.

On the Autostrada, don't get into the far left lane unless you plan to drive at least 100 mph.

The Autostrade system in Italy is fast, efficient, and expensive.  If you have the time, take the state roads.

Answer 3

haha, don't. the traffic laws and speed limits are considered more suggestions. the streets in the cities are very crowded, there are no lanes, and parking is extremely hard to find. I would reccomend public transportation, it is very good in Italy and will get you where you want to go.