This guide provides all the necessary information to navigate car rental procedures in Italy effortlessly. By the end, you'll understand the requirements, best practices, and key tips to enjoy a smooth driving experience. Explore confidently!
Yes, Japanese travelers can legally drive in Italy with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.
Form of ID:
A valid passport.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
or
• EU/EEA Driving License
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, and AMEX.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be aged between 19 and 90. Young drivers aged 19-21 incur a fee of US$ 26.04 per day (capped at US$ 468.83 per rental), while those aged 22-24 incur a fee of US$ 14.20 per day (capped at US$ 255.73 per rental).
Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.
Consider reputable global chains or distinctive local providers for your car rental needs in Italy.
Global Chain Companies
Local Brands
Europcar
Locations:
860Prices:
$$-$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Leisure travelers and eco-conscious customers
Hertz
Locations:
660Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Avis
Locations:
958Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking convenience and flexibility
SIXT
Locations:
577Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers looking for flexibility and variety in vehicle choice
Hertz
Locations:
1213Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
NOLEGGIARE
Locations:
497Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
RentSmart24
Locations:
32Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
Sicily By Car
Locations:
692Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking budget-friendly options with reliable service
Rental Plus
Locations:
36Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local residents
Felirent
Locations:
73Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and localsChoosing the right rental car can make your travel in Italy more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.
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 Italy
Manual transmission
Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
Most Japanese drivers prefer automatic for Italy road trips
Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and automatic cars
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 Japanese 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
Rome, Milan, VeniceMid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Tuscany, Amalfi CoastConvertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Sicily, Sardinia
Compare with Confidence on QEEQ
Italy boasts a variety of scenic routes and vibrant cities perfect for travelers. From the historic streets of Rome to the picturesque Amalfi Coast, you can explore Italy's charm with convenience. Consider one-way rentals to maximize your journey.
You'll need at least basic insurance to legally drive in Italy, but for peace of mind during your travels, additional coverage is highly recommended. Insurance requirements and coverage vary, so understanding what's included in your rental agreement is crucial.
Covers damage to the rental car caused by collision or theft, reducing your financial responsibility.
Protects against losses from theft of the rental vehicle, minimizing your liability.
Covers damages and injuries caused to third parties and their property.
Provides coverage for medical expenses for you and your passengers in case of an accident.
Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Italy. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Planning ahead and being informed can help Japanese travelers save significantly on car rentals in Italy. These tips aim to ensure you get the best deals while enjoying a smooth driving experience in this beautiful country.
Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Italy.
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.
Japanese and Italian traffic rules differ in aspects like priority at intersections, speed limits, and signage conventions, while sharing similarities in seatbelt usage and mobile phone regulations.
Intersection Priority
Priority is given to vehicles coming from the right unless otherwise indicated.
Priority is indicated by road markings and signage.
Speed Limits
Urban areas: 50 km/h; highways: 130 km/h.
Urban areas: 40-60 km/h; highways: 100 km/h.
Road Signage
Signage uses universal symbols with Italian text.
Signage uses universal symbols with Japanese text.
Driving Side
Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
Drive on the left-hand side of the road.
Seatbelt Laws
Mandatory for all occupants.
Mandatory for all occupants.
Mobile Phone Use
Hands-free use only.
Hands-free use only.
Parking Rules
Parking in designated areas only; specific rules vary by city.
Parking in designated areas only; specific rules vary by city.
