Rent a car in Italy, should I do it?

Question

We want to rent a car for the 12 days that we are in Italy. We want to go to Rome, Florence and Venice and one country side. Is it worth it to rent a car or is it better to travel by train and how much does it cost to rent a car?

Where can I find the list of all cheap motels?

Answer 1

Personally, I have always preferred to rent a car while in Italy.  The train system is fine, however, a train won't stop when you want it to.

Now, there are some things you should know about renting a car in Italy.  

First of all, it is probable that your credit card will not cover you for collision damage waiver when you rent in Italy.  So, I advise you to take the extra insurance.  Also, you will probably be required to take the anti-theft insurance.  That can run about $100 a week.

If you are going to Rome first, I suggest you wait until you are ready to leave Rome before renting your car.  The traffic in Rome is legendary.  Also, it is a huge city and it is very easy to get lost.  If you land at Fiumicino Airport, there is a train that will take you into Rome for a very reasonable price.  Then, I suggest you take the train back to the airport to get your car.

Driving in Italy is not as bad as people say once you get outside of the big cities.  The Autostrada System is fast, efficient, and expensive.  So, if you have time, I recommend you take the "state" roads.

If you plan to drive into some of the old cities in Tuscany, I recommend you pay the extra money for an automatic transmission.  There is nothing more unnerving (for me, at least) then to get to the top oif a hill and have to wait for a red light or a stop sign.  You can burn out a clutch rather easily.

It is easy to find your way around Italy by map.  The directions to the cities are usually well-marked.  Just follow the arrows.  When you get a larger city, e.g., Florence, follow the signs that say "Centro."  That will take you to the center of the city.

Most of all, have fun.

ADDENDUM:  One thing I forgot to say, but is important.  If you decide to rent a car and drive to Venice, you will have to leave your car in the large garage outside Venice proper.  You will need to take water transportation to Venice.  However, if you take a train, you will also have the same need for water transportation.

Answer 2

Big city driving can be harrowing.  A car is great for rides in the country, and unless you can deal with some real speed avoid the Autostrada.  Speeds of over 150 MPH are not uncommon.  It took me several months to get used to driving what I was there twenty years ago.  

My suggestion is a travel pass and limited car rental for areas outside of big cities.  Eurorail has some good, safe deals.  Watch for local rental companies who prey on tourists!

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Answer 3

Have you seen Italian drivers.You are better of traveling by trains.