Category: Travel Guide

Renting a car in Rome is the ideal way to explore the Eternal City and the surrounding countryside regions of Tuscany, Umbria, and Puglia. The iconic city streets can be overwhelming at first, but having your own vehicle makes it easier for you to visit attractions near and far. And to make your journey even smoother, this guide presents useful information on local driving rules, rental prices, practical tips, and more to help you book the right car for your travel needs in Italy.

🚘 Should You Rent a Car in Rome?

A car hire in Rome can prove highly useful for travellers planning day trips or moving further through Italy. They can easily access countryside towns, vineyards, beaches, and small hill villages that are harder to reach by train.

But if you are only staying in central Rome, you would rather be without a car. The historic centre has restricted zones (ZTLs) where most vehicles aren’t allowed to enter without a permit, and even outside those areas, parking spaces are scarce and hard to find. So driving there is more of a hassle than a help.

💳 Popular Car Types & Rental Costs

Rental prices in Rome vary by season, car type, availability, and other booking personalizations. The expected average daily rates across popular categories are as follows:

• ✔️ Economy cars: €25 – €55 per day
• ✔️ Compact cars: €30 – €65 per day
• ✔️ SUVs & passenger vans: €60 – €110 per day
• ✔️ Luxury cars: €100+ per day

A lot of people travel from June to September, which is when prices go up. And the same goes for public events and holidays. An extra drop-off fee of €50 to €300 further applies to one-way rentals. Charges for that are based on your chosen car and route to other popular cities, such as Venice and Florence.

🏢 Where To Rent a Car in Rome

You can rent and collect a car from convenient locations across the city, including:

➜ Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO)

Once you arrive at the airport, take a short walk from the terminal to the multi-story parking in the Office Tower 2. In this building, you can locate on-site local and international supplier desks. Booking at FCO Airport offers the widest selection of vehicles for travellers of all kinds.

➜ Rome Ciampino Airport (CIA)

Ciampino Airport has a single terminal, making pickups and returns quick and easy. You can find the car hire counters of some companies within the terminal, while others are reachable on foot near the dedicated parking area.

➜ Termini Train Station

Roma Termini is the city’s main train station, where you can pick up a car for city stays and travel onward later. Most rental companies have offices either inside the station complex or a short walk away. Check the route before you drive off, as some nearby streets may fall within ZTL restricted areas, entering which can get you fined.

➜ Rome City-Centre

You can collect the car from city-centre rental offices, especially if you don’t need the vehicle for your entire stay. Sometimes travellers explore Rome on foot or by metro to avoid driving in ZTLs and parking hassles. Once done touring, they simply pick up the car on the day they leave the city. Booking at city locations also allows them to get relatively cheaper rates.

✅ Top Car Rental Companies in Rome

While the list of available local and international rental companies can vary by location, a vast collection of quality cars throughout all segments remains unchanged. Meaning that when you search for deals in Rome, you can always rest assured and book reliable vehicles for as long as you need from the following leading brands:

Domestic

• 🗸 Locauto
• 🗸 Maggiore
• 🗸 Noleggiare
• 🗸 Sicily By Car
• 🗸 RentSmart24
• 🗸 C Rent

International

• 🗸 Europcar
• 🗸 Hertz
• 🗸 Avis
• 🗸 Sixt
• 🗸 Budget
• 🗸 Enterprise

⚠️ ZTL (Zona Traffico Limitato) Rules & Avoiding Fines

In most Italian cities, especially in denser regions, an area designated as ZTL is a limited traffic zone. By reading each car’s license plate at entry and exit points, local police and automated cameras keep an eye on these areas. Even if you enter ZTLs unintentionally, vehicles without special permits are prohibited from doing so and may be fined.

What this means for rental vehicles

If you enter the restricted zone without authorization and are caught, the fine will be sent to the supplier. And each entry will lead to an individual penalty. Your supplier will charge an extra fee to process fines, whether you’re a local or an international traveller.

How to avoid ZTL fines

• Look for ZTL signs, which are usually marked as a red circle or an LED panel.
• Try not to follow vehicles in front of you blindly. They may be authorized cars or locals.
• In Rome, fully electric vehicles (EVs) may enter ZTL areas after their licence plates are registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles. If you have hired an EV (not a hybrid), ask the supplier whether the vehicle’s licence plate is registered, and also if you can register it yourself with Roma Mobilità online.
• EVs without prior registration are also subject to ZTL fines.
• Use apps like Waze and Mat to get real-time updates or read detailed info on ZTL on the official Roma Mobilità website.

🅿️ Parking in Rome – Where and How Much

Following is a quick overview of the types of available parking and how they work in different parts of Rome.

💡 Useful Tips

• Pay at nearby meters or using apps. Read signage for allowed parking hours and restrictions, which may vary by area and the time of the day.
• White zones usually have limited spots, which may require a resident’s permit in certain areas.
• Avoid parking in reserved yellow-lined car parks.
• Reserve a spot in convenient garages or private lots near the historic centre and attractions to avoid driving into restricted areas.
• Arrive early to secure a parking space and walk or take public transport to reach busy sites like the Colosseum or the Vatican.

🛡️ Rome Car Rental Insurance

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection, and Third Party Liability are typical standard insurance in Rome car hire deals. Despite that, travellers may still be liable to pay some costs in case of any damage. You can opt for full coverage or zero-excess insurance to protect yourself against potential expenses. But before you do that, read the terms to know what is covered in the policy and what isn’t.

👨‍✈️ Driving Rules in Rome & Italy

Rules may vary across areas and Italian regions, but a couple of basic ones to remember when driving in and out of Rome are summarized in the table below for travellers.

➡️ One Way Rentals from Rome

One-way rentals offer convenient options for travellers to move from Rome to major Italian cities such as Florence, Venice, and Milan. These deals save time by allowing you to return the car to a different location besides the pickup point. A drop-off fee generally applies to such bookings, depending on the chosen car type and the distance between the pickup and drop-off locations.

✔️ Cross-Border Travel

Travelling to selected cross-border destinations may be permitted with prior authorisation and added charges. In some cases, extra insurance may also be required to hire a car one-way. Remember to confirm service availability beforehand.

📝 Documents Required to Rent a Car in Rome

A complete list of the documentation that you would need to hire and pick up a car in Rome is as follows. Suppliers often cancel or deny bookings that lack proper documents. 

• Passport/Proof of ID
• Original Driver’s Licence
• Valid Credit Card in the main driver’s name
• Rental Confirmation Voucher
• International Driving Permit (IDP) or an official English translation if the original licence is not in the Latin alphabet

🔞 Age Limits

Both local and international rental companies generally accept drivers aged 21 and over to make bookings. But as the age limit may vary by company, so does a traveller’s eligibility to reserve different car categories. As a result, a Young Driver Surcharge applies to those below the required minimum age.

Tips to Find the Best Car Hire Deals in Rome

• Enjoy maximum availability across diverse car categories to get affordable rates, even in peak seasons.
• Ensure unlimited mileage in your preferred deal so you don’t have to think about daily kilometer limits on long road trips.
• Opt for a full-to-full fuel policy to avoid the trouble of checking fuel levels when you pick up and drop off the car.
• A compact car would be best for going around Rome if that’s all you plan to do.

Renting a car in Venice can be confusing for many travellers, mainly because the city is car-free and transportation is primarily by private water taxis and gondolas. Limited parking, ZTL rules, and the airport pick-up process can further leave some even more stressed. Use this guide as your go-to reference before booking a car rental, and to understand local driving rules, prices, practical tips, and common traveller concerns about your trip to Italy.

Why Rent a Car in Venice?

Renting a car in Venice offers you comfort, convenience, and the flexibility to explore the city and attractions both nearby and far at your own pace. Having a car gives you the utmost freedom to travel at any time of day and offers easy access to other parts of the Veneto region for multi-city adventures.

It is especially ideal for travelling with families and large groups, as you all can travel together without switching between taxis or ferries. You get complete control and privacy throughout the journey, unlike on public transport or tourist buses.

Where to Pick Up & Return a Rental Car in Venice?

Travellers can easily pick up and return a rental car at multiple convenient locations in Venice, including:

➜ Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE)

Venice Airport is undoubtedly the primary car hire pick-up location for both local and international travellers arriving by air. Upon landing, they can simply take a short walk to the P1 multi-storey parking and collect their vehicle from the dedicated ‘Rent a Car’ centre on the rooftop. In the event of an after-hours pickup, you must return the contract and car keys to your supplier’s desk or key box.

➜ Venice Downtown

In Venice downtown, Pizzale Roma is the closest area to the historic island with road access, after which no cars or buses are allowed. Here, you can book a rental vehicle from trusted companies like Europcar and Keddy by Europcar.

➜ Train Stations

Mestre and Santa Lucia Railway stations are two significant car hire pick-up points besides Venice Airport. Making a reservation at any of these locations is ideal for travellers staying on the mainland. Additionally, they can choose from a broader selection of vehicles from local and global rental providers, including Alamo, Autovia, Ecovia, Europcar, Hertz, Sicily By Car, and Sixt.

➜ Venice Port

Although not exactly at the terminal, reputable car hire providers such as Sixt, Hertz, and Europcar offer services near Venice Port. You can collect or return your vehicle at their offices, which are conveniently located and are close to Piazzale Roma. Please book ahead of time to ensure availability for your desired car rental.

➜ Returning a Car Hire

Before returning a rental car in Venice, make sure to refuel the tank according to your selected fuel policy and drive to the drop-off location specified in your booking receipt. Park the car in your rental company’s bay. Remember to take pictures of the vehicle before you leave to avoid any disagreements with the supplier about its condition. Hand over the keys and documents at the desk or in the key drop-off box. Please drop off the vehicle on time to avoid late fees.

🏢 How to Choose the Right Rental Company in Venice

You can choose from a reliable network of international and Italian companies to find car hire deals. These include but are not limited to Alamo, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Thrifty, Maggiore, Noleggiare, Sicily by Car, SurPrice, and Viaggiare Rent.

Since they can all be accessed in one place, you can compare prices, inclusions, and added features at once and rent the best one for your travel requirements and budget. Once booked, you can pick up or drop off your vehicle at mainland Venice or downtown locations.

🅿️ Parking in Venice

• For parking in the mainland areas of Venice, you must arrive early to avoid crowds and secure a spot during high season.
• Use the private garages, such as Garage San Marco or Autorimessa Comunale, to park your car near Piazzale Roma. Parking here is usually charged on an hourly or per-day basis.
• Avoid ZTL zones in Mestre and park the vehicle at designated spaces to enjoy hassle-free overnight or extended stays on the Venice island.
• Although credit/debit cards help make payments, always carry some cash in case you need it at tolls on long road trips across different routes.
• Local driving rules may vary by city or region, so you must keep an eye on the roadside signage to avoid fines.

📘 Venice Driving Rules

Though there aren’t many roads in Venice due to its canal-based layout, travellers planning to rent a car at Venezia Mestre or VCE Airport must be aware of Italy’s driving rules. It is particularly essential for travelling across mainland routes beyond the city’s historic centre.

Keep an eye on the local signposts, as rules may vary by city or region.

⚠️ Venice ZTL (Zona Traffico Limitato) Guide

What is ZTL?

An area marked as ZTL is a restricted traffic zone in most Italian cities, particularly in more crowded areas. Local police and automatic cameras supervise these zones by scanning the licence plates of all cars at entry and exit points. Vehicles without special permits are barred from entering ZTLs and can face fines, even if you do so by mistake.

Must Remember

• ZTL signs can be confusing; always slow down and check the light/panel.
• Though not a ZTL, cars are just not allowed on the historic island of Venice. You may drive from Venice Airport to Piazzale Roma via Mestre and the causeway. Watch out for ZTL in certain parts of Mestre.
• Each unauthorised entry can cost you a fine ranging from $85 to $325. Think multiple penalties for multiple unauthorised entries.
• Do not mindlessly follow cars driving ahead of you. They might be locals or permitted vehicles.
• Active ZTL zones are indicated by a red circle or an LED panel, which means you should not enter.
• Confirm ZTL timings with your rental company or accommodation to ensure you do not accidentally enter restricted zones during prohibited hours.
• If unsure, it is best to park outside ZTL zones to avoid heavy fines that can follow you to your home country.
• Suppliers often charge an extra fee to process any fines.
• If it’s green, access may be allowed during specific hours, so always confirm with signage.
• Use a dedicated app like Waze or ZTL radar to get traffic and regulated area updates.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Venice

You must meet the following requirements to hire and pick up a car in Venice. Your rental company will either deny or mark your booking as ‘No Show’ if any of the requirements are not fulfilled.

🪪 Age and Driver’s License Requirements

You must be at least 21 years old to rent a car with most suppliers in Venice or anywhere in Italy. However, age requirements for booking different vehicle categories may vary by supplier. For this, a Young Driver Surcharge usually applies to drivers under 25.

Make sure you possess a valid original driving licence held for at least a year to hire a car. In case your original licence is not printed in the Latin alphabet, you must provide an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an official certified English translation to go with it.

Keep in mind that any additional driver(s) are subject to the same age and licence requirements as the main driver.

📄 Documentation

Apart from the driving licence, the standard list of documents necessary for hiring a car in Venice is as follows:

• Passport/Proof of ID
• Credit Card in the main driver’s name
• Rental Confirmation Voucher
• International Driving Permit (IDP), if applicable

🛡️ Insurance

Car hire deals usually include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection, and Third Party Liability (TPL) as basic insurance. Your financial liability might still be high for damage to the rental vehicle or for injuries to others while driving. To reduce the payable amount, you can purchase a Super CDW, Zero Excess, or Full Protection coverage when you make a reservation in Venice.

Before ordering any insurance, please check to see if your current policy already covers the same risks.

➡️ Venice One Way Rentals & Cross Border Rules

Hiring a car is a convenient and flexible way for travellers to plan a one-way journey from Venice to other Italian cities. Be aware that a drop-off fee always applies to these deals, depending on your selected car type and locations. Additionally, some vehicle segments may be restricted for one-way travel. Therefore, you must always review the related terms and policies before making a reservation.

Several suppliers let you travel to specified cross-border destinations, such as Austria, Croatia, and Slovenia. The list of permitted locations and the associated cross-border fees may differ between companies.

Given that cars are banned in Venice’s historic centre, only selected rental companies offer ferry transfers. The service is only available upon prior request and at an extra charge. Getting the ferry ticket for the hired car will also be your responsibility. Allow some extra time for potential delays, as timings can change depending on the weather and wave conditions.

💰 Costs & Seasonal Pricing in Venice

Car rental booking costs tend to vary by vehicle categories, location, season, and other factors. While these depend mainly on your travel needs, the following table can help you estimate the prices you might expect when booking.

Please note that the prices shown in the table are approximate and may change for each specific booking. Always use your travel information to find accurate quotes for suitable deals.

💡 Useful Tips for Renting a Car

• Book online at least 3-4 weeks in advance to take advantage of maximum availability across different car segments.
• Compare deals from different companies on our platform to find the best available offer and secure the required car rental at the lowest price.
• Choose unlimited mileage to travel freely without worrying about daily kilometre limits on long road trips, and opt for a full-to-full fuel policy to avoid the hassle of tracking fuel levels at pickup and drop-off.
• If travelling one-way from Venice, carefully plan your route to save money on the drop-off fee.
• Consider adding a GPS navigation system to your booking from the list of available optional extras to save time and effort in locating.

EV (Electric Vehicle) Rentals & Charging

Electric vehicles are popular in Italy, and many rental brands in Venice also offer them to travellers for pickup at prime locations, including Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE), Venezia Mestre Train Station, and Piazzale Roma.

While the historic centre of Venice is car-free and has no EV charging stations, you can use the ones available at the following areas:

• Venice Marco Polo Airport
• Mestre city and the nearby districts
• Select shopping centres near Mestre
• Some Hotel garages with overnight charging 

For fast-charging options, you can also utilise the super-fast IONITY stations on the A4/A27 motorway and the Enel X Supercharges near the Mestre industrial area. Keep in mind that ZTL zones are off-limits for vehicles of all kinds, meaning that you must not enter them even when driving an EV. 

EV Charging Costs

Although the cost of charging an EV varies by service provider and charging speed, the estimated prices are usually:

• AC (slow charging): $0.37-$0.50 /kWh
• DC (fast charging): $0.63-$0.94 per kWh
• Ionity HPC (ultra-fast charging): $0.95-$1.00 per kWh

🚘 Renting a Car for the Amalfi Coast Drive

It’s not very hard to believe why tourists flock to Amalfi and expectantly wait to drive along the infamous Strada Statale 163. The charming towns atop cliffs, turquoise waters, and beautiful views make driving on the Amalfi Coast route an absolutely a once in a lifetime experience. It is often referred to as one of the most scenic drives in the world, so much so that travelers consider it a can’t-miss attraction within its own right.

Driving on this world renowned scenic route can be a feat, especially in a rental car. Freedom to explore hidden paths, taking your time to drive down the coast in a self drive car can perfectly complement your Italian seaside getaway.

This article focuses on the realities of hiring a car and dancing the drive that is the Amalfi Coast Road.

✅ What makes the Amalfi Coast Worth it?

The Costiera Amalfitana is a stunning 50-kilometer stretch of coastline in Southern Italy. Located in the Campania region, the highway connects towns like Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi to Salerno. Also known by the name Strada Statale 163 Amalfitana, it took nearly twenty years of blasting cliffs and carving tunnels by hand to complete this engineering marvel in the 1850s.

• Steep rock formations on one side and dramatic drop to the Mediterranean on the other, this spectacular route follows the twisting shoreline, resulting in winding stretches of roadway and sharp curves. This unique point of view makes it a destination worth exploring.
• Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the coast testifies to the harmony between man and nature. Exploring this unique location is an extraordinary cultural experience which keeps on continually inspiring travelers from across the globe.
• While visiting Amalfi Coast, one must try region’s coastal flavours by sampling signature dishes like Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare, Spaghetti alla Nerano, Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, Delizia al Limone, and Caprese Salad, alongside local treats like Mozzarella di Bufala, Torta Caprese, and Sfogliatella. The region sees abundant lemon growth, which makes dishes like limoncello (lemon liqueur), Amalfi cookies (made with a lemon icing), or delizie al limone, lemon sponge cake, a must try. 
• The Amalfi Coast drive encompasses some of the most unique attractions. Top unmissable activities while visiting are wandering Positano’s colorful streets, exploring Ravello’s gardens (Villa Cimbrone, Villa Rufolo), hiking the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei), visiting the Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Sant’Andrea), taking boat trips to Capri or the Blue Grotto, and relaxing at beaches like Marina Grande or Fornillo.

🛣️ Truth About Driving the SS163 Strada Statale

The reality is that driving the Amalfi Coast is frustrating and bit stressful in a nutshell. The views are most definitely worth it, but don’t expect a totally stress-free drive where you can relax and simply enjoy the views. There is hardly a straight stretch of road on the entire drive.

Here’s a list of pros and cons to weigh when planning to drive on one of the most stunning coastal roads in all of Europe in a rental car:

Verdict: If your trip is only limited to Amalfi Coast towns, then relying on ferries and buses offering guided tours might be the most practical choice. But if you plan on exploring the wider Campania region during off peak season and don’t really mind driving stress and high parking costs then hiring a car might just make the most sense.

🏢 Main Destinations along the Amalfi Coast Drive Route

The Amalfi Coast region stretches 34 miles down the west coast of central Italy, and there are multiple towns for travelers to explore. What all of the towns do share is the SS163 highway, otherwise known as the Amalfi Drive. This particular road can take travelers directly to the various towns that call the Amalfi Coast home. In total, there are thirteen Amalfi Coast towns: Positano, Praiano, Furore, Conca dei Marini, Amalfi, Atrani, Scala, Ravello, Minori, Tramonti, Maiori, Cetara, and Vietri sul Mare. See below for an Amalfi Coast map showing the location of each town.

There are a couple of routes ideal for exploring Amalfi Coast, but ultimately the best option for your individual trip will depend on the arrival destination. The most stunning part of the coast is the 36 km (22 mile) stretch between Positano and Vietri sul Mare. Our suggested itinerary below begins in Vietri sul Mare, travels north to Amalfi with a stop in Ravello, then continues on to Positano before catching the autostrada north to Naples or Rome. Encompassing one day, the recommended day drive route is great for travelers who don’t plan on staying overnight and finish the drive in a single day.

Useful Advice: Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport (QSR), Railway Station (Stazione di Salerno), and Downtown are strategic locations to begin the journey owing to their short distance from the Coast. And you can easily drop off the car hire at Naples Capodichino Airport, Sorrento Downtown, Fiumicino Airport (FCO), Ciampino Airport (CIA), Rome Termini, or other nearby locations.

💡 Practical Tips for a Worthwhile Trip

The SS 163 is not an easy road, requiring careful and cautious driving. We would recommend not underestimating the challenging logistics of exploring Amalfi Coast by car and researching properly. Understanding local driving etiquette is highly recommended for an uneventful trip. Here are a few considerations that one must keep in mind when planning to drive the infamous ‘Divine Coast’:

👨‍✈️ Driving Considerations:

When driving through curves, the best advice is to delay steering as much as possible to stay completely within your lane. Expect a slow journey encompassing numerous sharp curves and lengthy tunnels. Some of the off-the-beaten-path locations, like Furore, Conca dei Marini, Grotta dello Smeraldo might have limited access to vehicles. Hence, there might not be any other choice than walking on foot to your desired destination. This bumper-to-bumper chaos is particularly prevalent when renting a car in the peak tourist season.

🅿️ Parking Availability:

Check the availability of parking spaces in real time before beginning your journey. If you plan on parking on the streets, pay close attention to the color of lines for the parking spaces. The white lines indicate free parking, yellow lines indicate resident-only parking (also shown on vertical signs), and blue lines indicate paid parking areas (shown on vertical signs along with rates) with meters that accept cash or card. It is always advised to display your parking ticket clearly in your car. Especially in regions where parking is scarce, the renters might need to navigate the crowded streets on foot. This might not be the most ideal option for those carrying large suitcases or people with limited mobility

⚠️ Watch out for ZTLs:

Anyone planning to visit this beautiful region must check the updated regulations for Limited Traffic Zones (ZTLs) before setting out on the journey. The penalties for entering these restricted areas can result in hefty fines. ZTL zones are always marked with vertical signs, so pay close attention to those.

🚗 Vehicle Selection:

Hire the smallest car you can find to navigate the tight curves and narrow parking spaces. Opt for a Fiat 500, but you can hire even smaller ones. The narrow and winding roads of the drive might make maneuvering a larger vehicle a really difficult task. Especially avoid risky behaviours like speeding and overtaking. We would like to advise against hiring an electric or hybrid car, as recharging stations are still few and far between on the Amalfi Coast.

🚫 License plate number restrictions:

To limit congestion for this particular drive, changes to legislation have been introduced to levy restrictions on when cars can access the busiest stretch of the SS163 from Positano to Vietri sul Mare. Cars with a registration plate that ends in an even number cannot access the Amalfi road between 10am and 6pm on even-numbered days. For cars with a plate that ends in an odd number are banned between 10am and 6pm on odd-numbered days. This rule is exempted for Residents of the 13 towns, Taxis and NCC cars, Public transport, and Police and emergency service vehicles. However, rental cars are NOT exempt from the alternating license plate rules on Italy’s SS163 Amalfi Coast. It is therefore advised to double check your rental car’s license plate’s last digit and follow the alternating schedule, or risk fines.

A year in Florence is like a pleasant walk through lively festivals and vivacious events embedded in a fascinating historical backdrop. Florence’s festivals and events play a major role in keeping its ancient spirit young and pulsating with life. One such light filled festival is Festa Della Rificolona which is celebrated every year on 7th September on the eve of the Feast of the Birth of Virgin Mary.

It is said that the tradition has branched its way from early 16th century to the present times. Initially farmers from Florence’s countryside used to travel the day before Virgin Mary’s nativity with food and linen goods to sell during the festivities. They use to carry paper lanterns on the end of poles to light their trek at dusk and their night at the Piazza. Florentines used to mock the countryside people for their inelegant clothing and used to call them ‘rificolone’ whereas children used to hit their lanterns with seeds to knock down the candles within to set them on fire. Over the years Florentines began to make paper lanterns themselves which they named ‘rificolone’ after the country people. In present times, the paper lanterns are a way to honor of the first lantern bearers and to relive the tradition before Virgin Mary’s nativity.

Free ‘rificolone’ are distributed to children on the morning of 7th September. The eve offers street parties, theatre, a buzzing market scene and a feast that ends with a parade which marks the beginning of the festival. As anyone can join the festival, children and their families take part with either a lantern or a clay blow guns- for aiming the lanterns. The parade covers Piazza Santa Felicita, Piazza del Duomo and end in Piazza Santissima Annunziata where children and adults throng the streets to recreate the age old tradition.

Event Details

Date: 7th September

Venue: Piazza Santissima Annunziata square around 9:30 pm

Matera Balloon festival is scheduled in the European Capital of Culture, Matera. Spanning over a period of four days, this first ever International Festival of Ballooning takes participants on a never before felt experience up above in the sky. Murgia Timone is the prime location chosen this year. The park of Murgia Materana has been selected to host thrilling sports and cultural events, food fests, walking tours, art, culture and high-fly fights of balloons. As part of festival, you get to touch stones, pass by gigantic cliffs, experience rock churches up-close and catch glimpse of tuff houses.

In this edition of MBF, 20 crews of hot air balloons from all over Europe will color the sky into a beautiful portrait. The balloons will be flying high twice a day over Sassi. The simultaneously held events in the park include archery, cycling, trekking, horse riding and climbing, etc. There will be educational workshops for school children on healthy eating, paper art, glass recycling and other interesting activities. The other two eminent events are Taste Workshops by Slow Food and an art based show titled ‘Urban Street Art’. The World-famous German artist, Jim Avignon will grace this magnificent festival.

The end to the festival will be marked by a show of hot air balloons (‘Night Glow’) that will be held after sunset, when these majestic balloons will light up sky and there will be music in the air! Aura of this fascinating festival is an experience worthwhile.

The most crowded sailing regatta of Mediterranean has arrived. Scheduled for 12th October 2025, the 47th edition of Barcelona Sail Race is expected to be the most unique show in World that will take place in Trieste. Bringing together the highest ever number of sailing boats, this magnificent event is a crowd puller. For the real adventure seekers, this international event is an experience not to be missed. Involving amateur racers, World-class helmsmen and cruisers; this massive race better be addressed as a sailing festival that will witness nearly 2000 boats lined up along the start line. Around 35000 participants and over 4000 spectators will be part of this event. The race covers a distance of around 16 miles across the Gulf of Trieste. As for viewers, they can follow the race from any point as suggested.

What makes this event all the more special is that the serious sporting spirit of a healthy competition is very well complemented by a carnival-like atmosphere, which is truly captivating. The Barcelona Sail Race can rightfully be called a magical experience worth being lived. Plan a visit or you may miss out on the gala event of the year.

Note- A small briefing session regarding the event will be held on 10th October at around 6pm at the presentation area in Piazza Unità d’Italia.

In Umbria region Italy, Christmas celebrations are a mix of culture and innovation. Home to the largest Christmas Tree in World, the Italian region’s month long festivities are experienced by people World over. However, in light of the horrendous terrorist attacks in Paris this year, switching on to the celebration mode has become much more valuable. This is why, the slopes of Mt Ingino in Gubbio will once again be decked up this year with over 3000 lights using electric cables of several kilometers in length.

The event begins every year on Immaculate Conception Eve, the evening of December 7 and continues till 10th January. There are other notable celebrations as well, such as the huge shooting star in Miranda and the Feast of the Translation held in Valnerina.

However, it is the light spectacle of Mount Ingino Christmas Tree that has earned global recognition. The tree is easily visible from a distance of around 50Km. Another important aspect is that solar light is being used to lit it up since the year 2010.

It was lit up for the very first time in the year 1981, when residents of Gubbio decided to celebrate Christmas differently. In 1991, it earned the spot of ‘World’s Largest Christmas Tree’ in Guinness Book of World Records.

When visiting this beautiful country, a stopover in Umbria is must in December. There are so many attractions around the Umbria and easily accessible with a car. Rent a car from Cars Rental Italy and explore unlimited fun this December.

Nativity crib scenes, illuminated Christmas trees and decorated houses and streets are the highlight of Christmas festivities and celebrations in Italy. Cribs are considered to be the ultimate way of telling the famous Christmas story and Naples being the crib capital of the world, garners a lot of attention from both Italians as well as international tourists. Tourists arriving in any part of Italy can book reasonably- priced rental cars through CarsRentalItaly.com and arrive in the city of Naples for participating in the true spirit of Christmas here.

Christmas being one of the major festivals across the globe, is celebrated with huge pomp and zeal in Italy as well. Italian Christmas is a three- week deal which commences 8 days before the occasion of Christmas Eve, which is also known as Novena and it concludes only after the famous Feast of the Epiphany.

Across all prominent destinations in Italy, the arrival of the Holy Season is announced from the Castle of Saint Angelo in Rome by firing cannons. Exactly eight days before the arrival of the Christmas Eve, all churches begin a special prayer which only concludes with the arrival of Christmas.

If you happen to be arriving in Italy during the Holy Season, there are a plethora of activities and Christmas rituals that you can become a part of. Italian Christmas markets and nativity cribs bring the entire country to life across both the metropolitan cities as well as the countryside.

Naples

Naples is a great place to visit in Italy during Christmas if you are a fan of Nativity cribs. Some Christmas traditions and rituals are unique to this part of Italy such as the iconic Christmas Eve dinner as well as the decoration of streets, houses and shops with lights, stars and Christmas- specific ornaments. In Naples, flute players and bagpipers are a traditional part of the holiday season who dress up in their festive best in white stockings, sheepskin vests and dark cloaks and they are often seen traveling from the mountainous regions of the Abruzzo to perform in front of the prominent city squares and churches in the city.

Rome

Much like the Christmas celebrations and rituals in Naples, Rome also sees bagpipers and flute players performing at large during the holiday season. Nighttime Christmas markets, gigantic Christmas trees and nativity cribs on display mark the beginning of this festival in Rome.

Milan

Snow covered streets and dropping temperatures fail to stop people in Milan from decorating the streets with lights, ornaments, ribbons and stars. The entire city wraps itself in a warm ambience with shop windows and houses decorated with lights and stars. The festivities start much before the Christmas Eve and continue till 6th January (Day of the Befana) with several performances and fun activities adding to the zeal of both locals and tourists in Milan. You can also find plenty of Christmas stands located behind the Duomo as well as in the main square.

Florence

Florence turns from a modern- day city to a traditional one with the decorations and lights marking the beginning of the festival season here. Florence’s Christmas markets are popular all over Italy, particularly for people who visit these with their families. There are a number of exciting activities, shows as well as concerts arranged for the public across all the streets in Florence with several different kinds of cakes ad eateries available to be tasted for free.

Venice

Winters are usually cold and damp in Venice; however, Christmas brings the magic back to this Italian city. Hot- spiced wines and plethora of lip- smacking holiday dishes are sold in the Christmas markets here as well as prepared at homes. Tourists particularly enjoy the sight of the Father Christmas arriving by a gondola for distributing goodies. This is followed by the Christmas Eve mass which is held at the St. Mark’s Basilica, which makes visiting Venice during Christmas a great experience for all visitors.

Vatican City

Probably one of the greatest Christmas Eve celebrations takes place in the Saint Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City where the Pope himself graces the gathered people with the popular midnight mass. Locals and tourists gather in the Saint Peter’s Square here to watch the mass on big screens where the Pope also delivers Christmas message during noon time straight from his apartment overlooking the St. Peter’s Square. You can also see a large Christmas tree as well as the nativity crib scene here which is erected right in the middle of the square.

Torino

Torino is located in the Piemonte region towards the north of Italy and this city gets illuminated with lights and stars with the arrival of the Christmas season. More than 20 kilometers of the town square and streets in Torino are decorated with colorful Christmas lights by some of the most celebrated illumination artists in Europe from the beginning of December through January.

Verona

Popularly known as the city of Romeo and Juliet, Verona comes to life with the advent of the holiday season here. The Christmas market here is illuminated with decorative lights with a star and illuminated arch pointing towards the night market. With the Roman Arena displaying nativity scenes and some of the highest Christmas trees, Verona is a great place to visit with your families during Christmas.

If you are looking forward to spending this New Year amidst colorful fireworks, parties and events, then Rome is the best place for you to visit this year. All tourists can head straightway to this Italian destination and make the most of this festive season with events, parties and stage shows which are arranged across every nook and corner of Rome. With Cars Rental Italy, you can also make sure that you do not miss out on any party destination in Rome. Book all- inclusive and budget- friendly rental cars through us and explore the best of Italy this festive season. Rome is popularly known as the city of romance and it is one of the best destinations to celebrate the New Years Eve given to its historic relevance, the celebratory events as well as its magnificent beauty. With all the historical monuments and churches here decorated with illuminating lights and decorations, the markets of Piazza is also a great place to explore the best of Roman culture this New Years Eve. Travelers arriving in Rome for bringing in the New Years Eve can also select from the widest list of accommodation options including both budget as well as luxury hotels.

One of the most spectacular sights in Rome during the New Years Eve is the colorful fireworks which grace the beauty and charm of some of the most renowned historical buildings in the backdrop, including the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, the iconic Colosseum, Piazza di Spagna as well as the Monuments of Vittorio Emanuele II among others. All these iconic places take part in the midnight countdown which is followed by mesmerizing sights of fireworks across the entire visible sky.

New Years Eve in Rome- Best Parties, Countdown and Fireworks

Italy is particularly known for its zest for carnivals and festivals and the New Years Eve here is also known as La Festa di San Silvestro. In the Italian culture, New Years Eve is celebrated in a number of different ways and includes a set of rituals as well. While some tourists prefer to take a walk down the Via della Conciliazione towards the St. Peter’s Square here, others may find it more alluring to go to the live music events or more traditionally raise a toast to bring in the New Year at some of the best eateries in Rome.

There are several places in Rome worth exploring during the New Years Eve. One of the best and most iconic New Years Eve celebrations in Rome takes place in Piazza del Popolo. Here you can catch a glimpse of innumerable tourists and locals who gather to enjoy the dances, live music concerts as well as the breathtakingly beautiful fireworks.

The happiness arising from the freedom of a road trip has no match. Especially after the end of a nationwide lockdown, you can plan a summer holiday or a weekend getaway to relax. The winding mountain roads, the coastlines, UNESCO heritage sites, architecturally stunning towns, driving through Italy is definitely going to bring a series of flukes. Also, as travel to and from other European countries is permitted, you can plan an 11 day long trip with Cars Rental Italy. There are many tourist sites like Milan Cathedral, the Colosseum, and the tower of Pisa that has begun welcoming visitors. So pack your face masks and hand sanitizers and you are good to go. Following is the travel itinerary that you can follow with your rental car.

From Florence to Bologna

Day 1 and Day 2

Though the government of Italy has allowed domestic travel between regions, maintaining social distancing and taking safety measures is highly essential. For this trip, you essentially have 2 options to choose from – You can rent one car for all the destinations while taking this Florence to Florence round trip OR in case you are planning to take only one or two destinations of the listed trip, you can rent a one-way car to save time. Go for one as per your need and let the journey begin!

Florence

You can start your adventure in Florence. Being the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, Florence is home to numerous masterpieces of Renaissance architecture and art. Discover it to the fullest by wheeling around the city in complete freedom. With Cars Rental Italy, you can visit The Duomo Cathedral, Pitti Palace, Uffizi Gallery, Bargello Museum, Accademia, and San Miniato al Monte in Florence. It is advised to check in advance whether these places are open for tourists.

You can also feed your taste buds by the best of Italian and multi-cuisine dishes at some of the famous cafes or restaurants such as SENZ’ALTRO Bistrot, Panini Toscani, etc.

Day 3 and Day 4

From Florence, leave at dawn for your next destination, Genoa. On your way, you may like to make stops at a few places such as Ponte Vecchio, Pisa and Cinque Terre for some breathtaking views and delicious food.

Genoa

One of Italy’s underrated gems, Genoa city is rich in architecture and art, offering an undiluted sense of history. Explore the city and beyond in complete freedom and total ease with a car rental. This off-beat location is one of the best destinations that you can visit during COVID-19. Some of the other must-see places here include Palazzo Blanco, Porto Antico, Genoa’s Royal Palace, Galleria Nazionale di Palazzo Spinola, Laghi del Gorzente, and Boccadasse.

Day 5 and Day 6

On day 5, with your rental car, leave for your next destination, Milan. Plan your driving itinerary in such a way that you don’t miss out Sunset at Duomo di Milano Cathedral in Milan. On your way to the destination, you may like to make a few stops at the nearby attractions such as Italian Riviera, Serravalle Scrivia, Pontecurone, and Versilia.

Milan

Drive yourself to the global capital of fashion and design and the financial hub of Italy known for high-end restaurants and shops. Duomo di Milano, Santa Maria Delle Grazie, Sforza Castle, Teatro Alla Scala, Pinacoteca di Brera, etc are some of the places you can visit while touring in the city. Due to the coronavirus outbreak, some tourist sites have restricted their visiting hours and the number of visitors as well. It is recommended to check with authorities before planning a trip.

Day 7 and Day 8

After staying up 2 days at Milan, get back into your fleet and head to the next destination, Venice. Plan your driving itinerary in such a way that you reach the city early morning to catch the scenic sunrise at the Lido and also to avoid crowded places.

Venice

The city of water, known by various other names such as Floating City, City of Bridges, Queen of Adriatic, etc., is a place you shouldn’t miss. The Lagoon and a part of the city have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Since the city has got no roads but canals, people commute using boats. Take all the precautions if you are travelling with a group of people. You can also visit Piazza San Marco, Doge’s Palace, Saint Mark’s Basilica, Burano, Lido Di Venezia, and Teatro La Fenice to complete your checklist.

Day 9 and Day 10

It’s time to say goodbye to the city of Venice. Get back in your car hire and head to the last destination left, the city of Bologna. Leave Venice early morning and reach Bologna by dusk, visiting and relaxing at a few places such as Padua and Ferrara, on your way.

Bologna

One of the wealthiest cities of Italy, Bologna is a famous tourist destination with many medieval and renaissance structures. Wheel around in total ease and explore

Piazza Maggiore, Palazzo d’Accursio, Basilica of San Domenico, Parco Gessi. Bolognesi e Calanchi dell’Abbadessa, Villa Ghigi, and Teatro Anatomico with the comfort of your car hire.

Day 11

Get back to your car rental as early as possible and head to your pick-up city, Florence. This 11-day long trip would be a lifetime thing that can be best enjoyed with a car rental. Reserve one for yourself in advance at carsrentalitaly.com, and get a car of your choice.

Book a Car at Cars Rental Italy

Also keeping the situation in mind, renting a car is the safest option, rather than using public transport for travel. Also, suppliers at Cars Rental Italy provide fully sanitized cars to all its customers. So, don’t worry and keep travelling.

Points to keep in mind while travelling during Covid-19:

• Travel to and from other European countries is permitted.
• 14 days quarantine is not mandatory.
• Non- European travel is off-limits.
• For safety measures, some tourist sites have restricted the number of visitors.