This guide provides clear answers to these questions, ensuring Italian travelers can rent cars confidently in Hungary. Additionally, you'll find practical tips summarized in a table for quick reference.
Yes, Italian travelers can rent and drive cars in Hungary with the proper passport, driving licence, and payment card. Age limits and young/old driver surcharges may apply depending on your age.
Form of ID:
Foreign renters must present a valid physical passport at the rental counter.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
or
• EU/EEA driving licence (including Italian licences), valid for car rental across the EU/EEA, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
Accepted cards:
At pick-up, foreign renters must present Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Visa and MasterCard are generally accepted; some offers also accept Diners Club, JCB, AMEX, Discover, and UnionPay credit cards. Certain rates additionally accept UnionPay/Visa/Master debit cards as deposit cards.
Age requirements:
Depending on the vehicle/rate, the permitted driving age ranges between 18–26 years minimum and 69–100 years maximum. Young driver surcharges may apply, for example: 18–25 years from about US$ 21.24/day; 19–24 years from about US$ 10.62/day (sometimes capped for the rental); or 21–24 years from about US$ 14.98/day. For some offers, additional fees may also apply to older drivers (e.g., 70–100 years from about US$ 4.72–30.68/day). Exact age limits and fees depend on the selected car and supplier.
Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.
Explore a variety of car rental options in Hungary tailored to suit Italian travelers. Whether you prefer major international chains or local Hungarian providers, these companies offer diverse services to meet your travel needs.
Global Chain Companies
Local Brands
SIXT
Locations:
36Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers looking for quality vehicles at reasonable prices
Hertz
Locations:
62Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Hertz
Locations:
12Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Green Motion
Locations:
13Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Eco-conscious travelers and budget-friendly options
Europcar
Locations:
62Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Leisure travelers and business trips
Alamo
Locations:
7Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
KLASS WAGEN
Locations:
4Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking luxury and local service
Dryyve
Locations:
6Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking convenience and flexibility
Schiller
Locations:
13Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers
Wheego
Locations:
5Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Eco-conscious travelers and budget-friendly optionsChoosing the right rental car can make your journey more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Consider your travel group, destinations, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare various car types and policies to find the one that best suits your needs.
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
Perfect for city driving and short trips
Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
Comfortable for longer distances
Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
Ideal for families and group travel
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
Automatic transmission
Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in Europe
Manual transmission
Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
Consider your comfort level with manual driving, especially in unfamiliar areas
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
Basic liability
Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
Theft protection
Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
Personal insurance
Check if your Italian insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Understand booking flexibility and fees
Free cancellation
Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
Change fees
Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
Travel insurance
Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
Unlimited mileage
Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
Limited mileage
Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Understand fuel requirements and costs
Full-to-Full
Return with same fuel level, most economical option
Full-to-Empty
Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
Same-to-Same
Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
Pre-purchase fuel options
Compare costs with local gas station prices
Quick Decision Guide
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Budapest, Szeged, DebrecenMid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-country HungaryConvertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Lake Balaton, Eger, Pécs
Compare with Confidence on QEEQ
Hungary is a treasure trove of cultural landmarks, historic cities, and scenic countryside that offers rich experiences for travelers. Renting a car allows you the flexibility to explore iconic destinations like Budapest, Lake Balaton, and the picturesque villages of the countryside.
To legally drive in Hungary, you must have at least basic insurance. However, for added protection and peace of mind, it's advisable to consider additional coverage. Insurance requirements in Hungary may differ from those in Italy, so ensure you understand the terms and conditions included in your rental agreement.
Covers damage to the rental car from collision or theft.
Protects against theft of the rental vehicle.
Covers injury or damage to others and their property.
Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers.
Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Hungary. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Discover how to save money and make the most of your car rental experience in Hungary. These tips are tailored for Italian travelers and focus on cost-effective strategies.
Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Hungary as an Italian traveler.
Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.
While Italy and Hungary share some traffic regulations, key differences include speed limits, use of headlights, and alcohol tolerance levels.
Speed Limits
General limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on main roads, 130 km/h on highways.
General limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on main roads, 110 km/h on highways.
Headlight Usage
Daytime running lights mandatory at all times outside urban areas.
Daytime running lights mandatory on highways only.
Alcohol Limit
Blood alcohol limit is 0.00% for all drivers.
Blood alcohol limit is 0.05% for regular drivers.
Seatbelt Usage
Mandatory for all passengers in the car, regardless of seating position.
Mandatory for all passengers in the car, regardless of seating position.
Mobile Phone Use
Only hands-free devices are allowed while driving.
Only hands-free devices are allowed while driving.
Parking Regulations
Parking rules are strictly enforced. Pay attention to signage.
Parking rules are strictly enforced. Pay attention to signage.
