Last summer was a pleasant surprise for tourism in Italy: with well 134 million arrivals (+2,3% compared to pre-pandemic values) e 451 million admissions (+3,3% compared to pre-pandemic values) we have seen the famous light at the end of the tunnel. Today, however, we are truly in the open air: the first months of 2024 consolidate the data. Tourism is booming. And be careful: it's not a "hit and run" thing, but a mature love. Tourists increasingly want to spend time in the Italian lifestyle: eating, living, moving freely without being slaves to timetables. For this reason, more and more people are choosing to discover the Bel Paese at the wheel of a rental car. Do you want to experience Italy like real Italians? Then get ready to fill up on freedom, autonomy and authenticity. But be careful: for a smooth journey, you need to know a few things: and, if you come from abroad, have an international driving license. Ready to go? Italy awaits you, and we tell you everything you need to know.
4-wheel tourism: Italy as you've never seen it
Foreign tourist friends, forget about the usual bus tours and queues interminable and the times to be respected. With a rental car, Italy is waiting for you to discover pace and second your wishes. You can enter the most hidden villages, stop in a small square for a coffee, get lost in the streets of a city of art. And then off you go new running, towards the next adventure. You understand it and you like it, right?
The data says so. Those of the National Tourism Board, according to which in 2024 Italians rented 30% more cars compared to 2019 and even foreigners 50% more, with peaks of +80% among Americans. But how do you rent a car in Italy? Don't worry, it's easier than you think.
Driving a car in Italy: what you need to know about rental and international driving licence
If you are Italian, you are at least 21 years old, a patent valid and a credit card, you are good to go. So get out and get into a rental car. You can book online or in the agency, choose the model which is right for you (a romantic spider? A practical minivan?) and that's it. However, be careful of hidden costs: insurance, deductibles, extra services. The advice is to read the contract carefully before signing and carrying out all the necessary steps relevant questions. Don't be fooled by offers that are too tempting: they often hide nasty surprises.
If you come from abroad and want to drive in Italy, in addition to the national license you need an international license. Nothing complicated: get a International Driving Permit in Italy it's easier than you think. The international driving license translates your license into the language of the country you visit, in this case Italian. But be careful: the international driving license does not replace the national one, but complements it. So, when you are stopped by the police (let's hope not!), you will have to show both documents. And don't think you can get by with a homemade translation: in Italy bureaucracy is a serious thing! Last note: in Italy fuel is never included in the price. But since it costs less than in other European countries, don't complain too much.
The Belpaese as we like it
Trust me: with a rental car and the license in your pocket, Italy is waiting to be discovered. From the Alps to Sicily, passing through the Amalfi Coast, Tuscany and Puglia, the Bel Paese awaits you with its breathtaking landscapes, its enchanted villages, its cities of art. Let yourself be won over by its timeless charm, its delicious food, its welcoming people. Lose yourself in its streets, stop to chat with the locals, taste the typical products. And if you happen to puncture a tire or take a wrong turn, don't worry: it's part of the game. The important thing is to enjoy the journey, with the knowledge that you are experiencing Italy like a true Italian.
After all, you know, Italy is not a destination, but a state of mind. And if on your return you feel a little Italian too, don't be surprised: it's the Belpaese effect, a spell that no one can resist. See you soon!
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