The ultimate guide: Roadtrip to Italy

Why Italy is perfect for a road trip

Italy isn’t just a destination, it’s a full-on la dolce vita experience. From cozy trattorias in Umbria and quiet monasteries in Assisi to street fashion in Naples and art galleries in Rome, every region radiates style, flavor and history. You don’t just visit the culture, you taste it, hear it, feel it. That’s why Italy is a dream for anyone who loves driving and a sense of freedom. You’ll effortlessly move from peaceful countryside to vibrant city life.

Amalfi Coast

Colorful villages, steep cliffs and views made for your feed. Start in Naples and cruise via Sorrento to Positano and Amalfi. On the way? Stop by the ruins of Pompeii or climb Mount Vesuvius for a fiery panorama. Ravello offers peace, charm and unforgettable coastal views. Wander through villa gardens with ocean views and catch open-air classical concerts.

Tuscany

This is the Italy you picture: cypress-lined roads, vineyards and medieval towns. Begin in Florence or Pisa, then pass through Lucca, Siena and Arezzo. Val d’Orcia, with its golden hills and quiet villages, is a standout. It feels like stepping into a painting. Stop for wine tastings at family-run estates and stay at an agriturismo tucked in nature. Tuscany was made for slow travel, Italian style.

The Italian Lakes

Just two hours from Milan, you’ll find sparkling lakes and chic resorts. Choose the elegance of Lake Como or the action-packed Lake Garda, perfect for sailing, hiking or relaxing in the thermal baths of Sirmione. Looking for peace and quiet? Lake Orta is a hidden gem. Visit charming villages like Bellagio or enjoy dinner by the water at sunset. With short drives and endless views, this route is ideal for lovers of calm and class.

Sicily

An island with its own rhythm, where wild nature and rich history meet. Rent your car in Palermo or Taormina and explore baroque Syracuse, Palermo’s buzzing markets and the mighty Mount Etna. Don’t skip local staples like arancini and cannoli. This is where nature meets culture, from Roman mosaics to black lava beaches. A perfect road trip for travelers who crave variet. Think adventure, flavor and deep history.

Puglia

Italy’s heel is full of surprises: whitewashed towns, turquoise seas and laid-back charm. Start in Bari and head to seaside towns like Monopoli and Polignano a Mare. Drive inland to Lecce, the “Florence of the South,” and wrap up in Gallipoli, where beach life meets history. On the way, see the iconic trulli houses in Alberobello and try fresh orecchiette in a local osteria. This is Italy in its purest form: sun-drenched, welcoming and slightly off the beaten track.

What to know before hitting the road in Italy

ZTL-zones: Many cities have restricted traffic zones where you need a permit. Check your route in advance to avoid fines.
Toll roads: Most highways require tolls. You can pay by card or cash. Consider a Telepass for quicker access.Most highways require tolls. You can pay by card or cash. Consider a Telepass for quicker access.
Gas stations: Gas stations in small towns may have limited hours. Self-service pumps don’t always accept foreign cards. In rural areas, service is often provided by staff—sometimes with a small fee.
Required gear: You must carry a warning triangle, reflective vest and first-aid kit. Avis vehicles are fully equipped.
Parking: Blue lines = paid parking, white = free, yellow = restricted or reserved. Best bet? Use garages outside city centers and street parking apps like EasyPark or MyCicero.
Driving style: Expect a more assertive driving style than in the Netherlands. Keep your distance and stay alert.
Speed limits: 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h outside, 110 km/h on main roads and 130 km/h on highways. Limits are lower in rain or wet conditions.
Navigation & driving: Apps like Google Maps or Waze are useful, but watch out for ZTL alerts. Be extra cautious in mountain areas and village traffic. Pro tip: Use ViaMichelin for toll estimates and planning. Autostrade.it provides real-time traffic updates.