Italy · City Rental
Car Rental in Rome, Italy
Rome is Italy's capital and the country's busiest international gateway, served primarily by Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport to the southwest of the city. Car rental is widely available at Fiumicino, at Ciampino Airport, and at city center locations including Roma Termini railway station. Driving within Rome's historic center is subject to Zona a Traffico Limitato (ZTL) restrictions, which operate through camera enforcement — entering a ZTL without authorization can result in fines issued to the registered vehicle. A rental car is most valuable in Rome as the starting point for road trips rather than for city use: Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, Umbria, and the Castelli Romani hill towns are all within comfortable driving distance.
Traffic Side
Drive on the right
Minimum Age
18+ years
Currency
EUR
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Driving in Rome
Key information before you set off.
Traffic Side
Drive on the right
Min. Driver Age
18+ years
Currency
EUR
Road Rules in Italy
Traffic drives on the right in Italy. Speed limits are 130 km/h on motorways (autostrade), 90 km/h on secondary roads outside built-up areas, and 50 km/h in urban areas. Many Italian historic city centers operate Zona a Traffico Limitato (ZTL) restricted traffic zones with camera enforcement. Entering a ZTL without authorization may result in fines. Always check ZTL restrictions before driving into historic city centers.
Tolls and Road Charges
Italy's motorway network (autostrade) is extensively tolled. Tolls are paid at casello stations by credit card, debit card, or cash. The Telepass electronic toll system is widely used and available through some rental suppliers.
Fuel
Petrol (benzina) and diesel (gasolio) are widely available. Many fuel stations outside business hours require a credit card with a chip for self-service payment. Electric charging infrastructure is present in cities but less developed in rural areas.
Parking in Rome
Parking zones in Italian cities are colour-coded: blue lines indicate metered paid parking, white lines indicate free parking, and yellow lines are reserved. Parking in ZTL zones is generally prohibited for non-residents.
Rental Tips
Car Rental Tips for Rome
Practical advice to help you get the best rental experience in Rome.
Book in Advance
Rental availability in Rome is strong, but booking ahead secures better rates and your preferred vehicle category, especially during peak travel periods.
Check Insurance Options
Review what coverage is included in your rental. Some credit cards offer supplemental coverage, so check your card benefits before purchasing extra protection at the counter.
Understand Fuel Policy
Most rentals come with a full tank and ask you to return it full. Confirm the fuel policy at pickup and note the nearest fuel station to your return location.
Bring a Credit Card
A credit card in the primary driver's name is required by most suppliers for the security deposit. Some suppliers do not accept debit cards for the deposit even if they accept them for payment.
Carry Your Documents
You will need your driving licence, passport or national ID, and booking confirmation. If your licence is not in English or the local language, carry an International Driving Permit.
Inspect Before You Drive
Walk around the vehicle with the rental agent before driving away. Note any existing damage on the inspection form and photograph it to avoid being charged for pre-existing issues.
FAQs
Car Rental in Rome — Common Questions
Can I drive a rental car into the center of Rome?
Most of Rome's historic center is a Zona a Traffico Limitato (ZTL), meaning access is restricted to authorized vehicles only during certain hours. Cameras enforce these zones automatically. Rental car drivers should avoid driving into ZTL areas unless they have confirmed authorization. Your rental supplier should be able to advise on current ZTL boundaries and operating hours before you depart.
Where should I pick up my rental car in Rome?
Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) is the most practical pickup point for international arrivals, with a dedicated car rental area accessible from the terminal. Roma Termini, the city's main railway station, also has rental desks and is convenient if you are arriving by train. Picking up outside the city center generally avoids the complications of driving in Rome's heavily restricted historic areas.
What are the best road trip destinations from Rome?
Rome is an outstanding base for road trips. Tuscany and the hill towns of Chianti are around two hours north by car. The Amalfi Coast is approximately three hours south. Umbria and Orvieto are under two hours away. The Castelli Romani, a cluster of historic hill towns popular with Romans on weekends, are less than an hour from the city center.
Travel Guides
Car Rental Guides for Italy
Essential information for renting a car in Italy.
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