Top 20 Car Rental Services in Italy in 2024

by Buky Feed Team — August 13, 2024 in Automobile / Travel

Planning a trip to Italy? Get ready for an amazing adventure! Italy is a country filled with beautiful sights, tasty food, and a rich history.

One of the best ways to see everything Italy has to offer is by renting a car. This gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and visit places that might be hard to reach by public transport.

In this guide, we’ll look at the top car rental companies in Italy for 2024. We’ll also answer some common questions about renting and driving a car in Italy.

Whether you’re planning to cruise along the stunning Amalfi Coast, explore the rolling hills of Tuscany, or visit charming small towns, this article will help you make the best choice for your Italian road trip.

Car Rental Services in Italy

Let’s dive in and discover how you can make the most of your Italian adventure on four wheels! You can rent a car to explore Italy easily.

Top 20 Car Rental Services in Italy in 2024

Here’s a rundown of the best car rental companies in Italy, ranked by their overall scores:

Rent4You.it (9.8/10)
Locauto (9.4/10)
Enterprise (9.0/10)
Sicily by Car (8.6/10)
Europcar (8.2/10)
Autovia (7.9/10)
Drivalia (7.2/10)
National (7.1/10)
Noleggiare (7.0/10)
Sixt (6.8/10)
Hertz (6.7/10)
Ecovia (6.5/10)
Thrifty (6.3/10)
Dollar (6.2/10)
Optimorent (6.0/10)
Alamo (5.8/10)
Budget (5.0/10)
Green Motion (4.6/10)
Maggiore (3.5/10)
Avis (3.0/10)

Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these companies:

1. Rent4You.it (9.8/10)

Rent4You.it takes the top spot with an impressive score of 9.8 out of 10. This Italian company stands out for its:

Great customer service
Wide range of vehicles
Easy-to-use website
Clear booking process
Competitive prices
No hidden fees

Customers love Rent4You.it for its reliability and quality vehicles. They offer flexible pickup and drop-off locations across Italy, making it easy to plan your trip.

2. Locauto (9.4/10)

Locauto comes in second with a score of 9.4 out of 10. This company is known for:

High-quality car rental services
Wide selection of vehicles
Modern and well-equipped fleet
Transparent pricing
Helpful staff
Convenient locations at major airports and city centers

Locauto’s quick and efficient pickup and drop-off procedures are a big plus for travelers who want to start their Italian adventure without delay.

3. Enterprise (9.0/10)

Enterprise scores a solid 9.0 out of 10. This well-known company offers:

Reliable service
Good customer support
Wide range of vehicles
Emerald Club loyalty program
Convenient pickup and drop-off locations

Enterprise is a good choice for both business and leisure travelers. Their loyalty program can be especially useful for frequent renters.

4. Sicily by Car (8.6/10)

Sicily by Car earns an 8.6 out of 10. This company specializes in:

Rentals tailored for exploring Sicily and beyond
Good understanding of local areas
Competitive Pricing
Straightforward rental terms
Quality customer service

If you’re planning to explore Sicily or other parts of southern Italy, Sicily by Car could be a great choice.

5. Europcar (8.2/10)

Europcar scores 8.2 out of 10. This international company offers:

Wide selection of vehicles
Convenient booking process
Flexible rental terms
Locations at major airports and urban centers
Eco-friendly car options

Europcar is a solid choice for travelers who want a mix of international standards and local expertise.

6. Autovia (7.9/10)

Autovia scores 7.9 out of 10. This Italian company focuses on:

Eco-friendly mobility
New and modern fleet
Wide range of vehicle types
Competitive pricing
High-quality customer service

Autovia is a good option for environmentally conscious travelers who don’t want to compromise on quality.

7. Drivalia (7.2/10)

Drivalia earns a 7.2 out of 10. This company stands out for:

Straightforward rental experience
Value-driven approach
Good customer satisfaction
Competitive Pricing
Reliable fleet of vehicles

Drivalia is particularly good for those new to renting cars in Italy, thanks to its simple and transparent approach.

8. National (7.1/10)

National scores 7.1 out of 10. This company is known for:

Efficient rental process
Emerald Club loyalty program
Wide range of vehicle options
Regular fleet updates
Convenient locations across Italy

National is a good choice for frequent travelers who can benefit from their loyalty program.

9. Noleggiare (7.0/10)

Noleggiare earns a 7.0 out of 10. This Italian company offers:

Friendly interface
Transparent pricing
Attentive customer service
Wide range of vehicles
Flexible rental options

Noleggiare is a good option for those looking to explore Italy’s diverse landscapes and historical sites.

10. Sixt (6.8/10)

Sixt scores 6.8 out of 10. This global company provides:

Premium rental experience
Wide selection of high-quality vehicles
Modern and well-maintained fleet
User-friendly booking platform
Flexible rental policies

Sixt is a good choice for those looking for a mix of quality vehicles and good customer service.

11. Hertz (6.7/10)

Hertz earns a 6.7 out of 10. This well-known company offers:

Wide-ranging fleet
Options for various budgets
Efficient service
Presence at key locations throughout Italy
Clear rental agreements

Hertz is a reliable option with a long-standing reputation in the car rental industry.

12. Ecovia (6.5/10)

Ecovia scores 6.5 out of 10. This company focuses on:

Eco-friendly vehicle options
Competitive Pricing
Variety of vehicles available
Transparent rental experience
Locations at major airports and tourist spots

Ecovia is a good choice for environmentally conscious travelers.

13. Thrifty (6.3/10)

Thrifty earns a 6.3 out of 10. This budget-friendly option offers:

Affordable car hire solutions
Straightforward and efficient service
Variety of vehicles
Clear terms and conditions
Locations at major airports and tourist destinations

Thrifty is a good choice for cost-conscious travelers.

14. Dollar (6.2/10)

Dollar scores 6.2 out of 10. This company provides:

Competitive Pricing
Wide range of vehicles
Straightforward rental process
Convenient locations
Options for various travel needs

Dollar is another good option for budget-conscious travelers.

15. Optimorent (6.0/10)

Optimorent earns a 6.0 out of 10. This company offers:

Affordable car hire solutions
Straightforward booking process
Transparent pricing
Reliable vehicles
Convenient pickup and drop-off locations

Optimorent is a good choice for those looking for basic, no-frills service at a good price.

16. Alamo (5.8/10)

Alamo scores 5.8 out of 10. This company provides:

Friendly and efficient service
Focus on international travelers
Straightforward booking process
Competitive rates
Transparent pricing structure

Alamo is a solid option for international visitors to Italy.

17. Budget (5.0/10)

Budget earns a 5.0 out of 10. This company offers:

Competitive Pricing
Range of vehicles for different needs
Presence at major transportation hubs
Straightforward rental process
Options for economical travel

Budget is a familiar name for many travelers and can be a decent choice for those prioritizing cost.

18. Green Motion (4.6/10)

Green Motion scores 4.6 out of 10. This company focuses on:

Eco-friendly vehicle options
Fuel-efficient, hybrid, and electric vehicles
Commitment to sustainability
Options for environmentally conscious travelers
Presence in key Italian locations

Green Motion is a unique choice for those prioritizing environmental responsibility.

19. Maggiore (3.5/10)

Maggiore earns a 3.5 out of 10. This Italian company offers:

Local touch to car rental experience
Range of vehicles for various needs
Understanding of navigating Italy’s diverse regions
Personalized service
Selection of latest Italian car models

Maggiore could be an option for those looking to support a local Italian brand.

20. Avis (3.0/10)

Avis scores 3.0 out of 10. This globally recognized brand provides:

Widespread presence across Italy
Diverse fleet of vehicles
Options for various travel needs
Locations in major airports, cities, and towns
Familiar brand for many international travelers

Despite the low score, Avis remains an option for those who prefer renting from a well-known international brand.

Is it recommended to rent a car in Italy?

Renting a car in Italy can be a great idea, especially if you want to explore rural areas, small towns, or regions with less frequent public transportation. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros of renting a car in Italy:

Flexibility: You can travel at your own pace and make spontaneous stops.
Access: You can easily reach places that are hard to get to by public transport.
Convenience: No need to worry about train or bus schedules.
Scenic routes: You can enjoy beautiful drives like the Amalfi Coast or Tuscan countryside.

Cons of renting a car in Italy:

City driving: In big cities like Rome, Milan, or Florence, parking can be hard to find and expensive.
Traffic: City traffic can be heavy and stressful.
ZTL zones: Many Italian cities have Zona Traffico Limitato (restricted traffic zones) where driving is regulated. Fines for entering these zones without permission can be high.
Manual transmission: Most rental cars in Italy have manual transmission. Automatic cars are less common and more expensive to rent.

When to rent a car in Italy:

If you’re planning to explore rural areas or small towns
If you want to take scenic drives
If you’re traveling with a group or family and need flexibility
If you’re comfortable driving in potentially challenging conditions

When not to rent a car in Italy:

If you’re only visiting major cities with good public transport
If you’re not comfortable driving in heavy traffic or on narrow roads
If you’re on a tight budget (remember to factor in costs like parking and tolls)

What are the popular cars for rent in Italy?

In Italy, the most popular rental cars are usually small to medium-sized vehicles. This is because they’re easier to drive on narrow roads, especially in historic city centers and rural areas.

Here are some of the most popular types of rental cars in Italy:

Compact and Economy Cars
- Examples: Fiat 500, Fiat Panda, Lancia Ypsilon
- Why they’re popular: Easy to maneuver, good fuel efficiency, perfect for navigating tight and winding roads
Mid-size Cars
- Examples: Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus
- Why they’re popular: Good balance of space and maneuverability, comfortable for longer drives
Luxury Cars
- Examples: Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi models
- Why they’re popular: Offer a more upscale driving experience, popular in fashion-conscious cities like Milan
Convertibles
- Why they’re popular: Great for enjoying scenic coastal drives, popular in areas like the Amalfi Coast or Italian Riviera
SUVs and Minivans
- Why they’re popular: Good for families or groups, provide more space and comfort for longer trips

Here’s a quick comparison table of popular rental car types in Italy:

Car Type	Best For	Pros	Cons
Compact (e.g., Fiat 500)	City driving, couples	Easy to park, fuel-efficient	Limited space
Mid-size (e.g., VW Golf)	All-round use	Balance of space and maneuverability	Higher rental cost than compact
Luxury (e.g., BMW)	Comfort, style	High-end features, smooth ride	Expensive, harder to park in cities
Convertible	Scenic drives	Fun, great views	Limited practicality, higher cost
SUV/Minivan	Families, groups	Spacious, comfortable for long trips	More expensive, harder to park

When choosing a rental car in Italy, consider:

Where you’ll be driving: City streets or country roads?
How many people are traveling: Do you need extra space?
Your budget: Remember, smaller cars are usually cheaper to rent and run
Your driving comfort: Are you okay with manual transmission?
The season: In summer, you might want air conditioning

Is it difficult to drive in Italy?

Driving in Italy can be challenging, especially if you’re not used to European driving conditions. However, it can also be a rewarding experience that allows you to explore the country at your own pace.

Here’s what you need to know:

Challenges of driving in Italy:

City driving

Heavy traffic: Italian cities can have intense traffic, especially during rush hours.
Narrow streets: Historic centers often have very narrow, winding streets.
Limited parking: Finding a parking spot in cities can be difficult and expensive.

ZTL zones (Zona Traffico Limitato)

Many city centers have restricted traffic zones.
Entering these zones without permission can result in hefty fines.

Aggressive driving style

Expect close tailgating and frequent horn use.
Lane discipline may be less strict than you’re used to.

Road signs

- Most road signs are in Italian.
- Some signs may be unfamiliar to non-European drivers.

Roundabouts

- Very common in Italy, but rules may differ from other countries.

Toll roads

- Many highways (autostrade) are toll roads.
- You need to collect a ticket when entering and pay when exiting.

Easier aspects of driving in Italy:

Rural driving
- Driving in the countryside is often more relaxed.
- You can enjoy scenic views and less traffic.
Well-maintained highways
- Autostrade (highways) are generally in good condition.
- They allow for efficient travel between cities.
Freedom to explore
- Having a car lets you discover hidden gems off the beaten path.

Tips for driving in Italy:

Learn basic Italian road signs before your trip.
Rent a GPS or use a reliable map app.
Be aware of speed limits:
- 130 km/h (80 mph) on highways
- 90-110 km/h (56-68 mph) on main roads
- 50 km/h (31 mph) in towns
Always carry your driver’s license, rental agreement, and insurance documents.
Be prepared for tolls on highways – keep cash or a credit card handy.
In cities, park in designated areas or parking garages to avoid fines.
Be extra cautious of pedestrians and scooters in urban areas.

Here’s a quick comparison of driving in different areas of Italy:

Area	Traffic	Parking	Road Conditions	Overall Difficulty
Big Cities (Rome, Milan)	Heavy	Very Limited	Congested	High
Small Towns	Moderate	Limited	Narrow streets	Medium
Countryside	Light	Usually available	Winding roads	Low to Medium
Highways (Autostrade)	Can be heavy	N/A	Well-maintained	Low

While driving in Italy can be challenging, many visitors find that the freedom and flexibility it offers outweigh the difficulties.

With proper preparation and a cautious approach, driving can greatly enhance your Italian experience.

How much is average car rental in Italy?

The cost of renting a car in Italy can vary widely depending on several factors. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

Average daily rental costs:

Economy/Compact car: 30-50 EUR per day
Mid-size car: 50-80 EUR per day
SUV/Luxury car: 100+ EUR per day

Factors affecting the price:

Type of car: Smaller cars are cheaper, and luxury cars are more expensive.
Rental duration: Longer rentals often have lower daily rates.
Time of year: Prices increase during peak tourist seasons (summer, holidays).
Booking time: Last-minute bookings are usually more expensive.
Pickup location: Airport pickups often cost more than city center locations.
Transmission type: Automatic cars are less common and more expensive than manual.

Additional costs to consider:

Insurance:
- Basic insurance is usually included, but additional coverage can cost 10-20 EUR per day.
- Some credit cards offer rental car insurance – check before you travel.
Extra features:
- GPS rental: 5-15 EUR per day
- Child seat: 5-10 EUR per day
- Additional driver fee: 5-10 EUR per day
Fuel policy:
- “Full to Full” is common – you return the car with a full tank.
- Prepaid fuel options are available but often more expensive.
Mileage limits:
- Many rentals offer unlimited mileage but check the terms.
- Limited mileage options may be cheaper if you don’t plan to drive far.
Cross-border fees:
- If you plan to drive to another country, there may be additional fees.
Young driver surcharge:
- Drivers under 25 often pay an extra fee.
Deposits:
- A significant deposit (often 500-1000 EUR) is usually required on your credit card.

Here’s a sample comparison of rental costs for a week in summer:

Car Type	Base Rate/Day	Insurance/Day	GPS/Day	Total for 7 Days
Economy	40 EUR	15 EUR	10 EUR	455 EUR
Mid-size	70 EUR	15 EUR	10 EUR	665 EUR
SUV	120 EUR	20 EUR	10 EUR	1050 EUR

Money-saving tips:

Book in advance: Prices are usually lower when you book early.
Compare different companies: Use comparison websites to find the best deals.
Look for package deals: Sometimes booking car rentals with flights or hotels can save money.
Check for discounts: Some companies offer discounts for AAA members, seniors, or certain credit card holders.
Avoid airport pickups if possible: City center locations are often cheaper.
Choose a smaller car: Unless you need a larger vehicle, smaller cars are cheaper to rent and run.
Watch out for upsells: Be cautious of unnecessary add-ons at the rental counter.

Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Consider factors like the company’s reputation, included services, and terms and conditions when making your choice.

FAQs:

Here are some frequently asked questions about renting a car in Italy:

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Italy?
- If your license is not from an EU country, you need an IDP along with your regular license.
- Get your IDP before leaving your home country.
What’s the minimum age to rent a car in Italy?
- Usually 21, but some companies require drivers to be 25 or older for certain car types.
- Drivers under 25 often pay a “young driver surcharge.”
Is it better to rent a car with manual or automatic transmission?
- Manual transmission cars are more common and cheaper to rent.
- If you need an automatic, book well in advance and expect to pay more.
What kind of insurance do I need?
- Basic insurance is usually included, but consider getting additional coverage.
- Check if your credit card offers rental car insurance.
How do I handle ZTL zones in Italian cities?
- Avoid driving in city centers where possible.
- If your hotel is in a ZTL, inform them of your car details so they can register it.
What do I do if I get a traffic ticket?
- The rental company will likely charge your credit card for any fines.
- They may also charge an admin fee for processing the ticket.
Can I take my rental car to other countries?
- It depends on the rental company’s policy. Always inform them if you plan to cross borders.
- There may be additional fees for cross-border travel.
How do toll roads work in Italy?
- Take a ticket when you enter the highway.
- Pay when you exit (cash or credit card).
- Some roads use an electronic system – ask your rental company about this.
What should I do if the car breaks down?
- Call the emergency number provided by your rental company.
- Don’t try to fix the car yourself unless instructed to do so.
Is it safe to leave luggage in the car?
- It’s best not to leave valuables visible in the car.
- If you must, use the trunk and park in well-lit, busy areas.

Conclusion:

Renting a car in Italy can be a fantastic way to explore this beautiful country at your own pace.

From the winding roads of the Amalfi Coast to the rolling hills of Tuscany, having your wheels gives you the freedom to discover Italy’s hidden gems.

When choosing a rental company, consider factors beyond just price. Look at customer reviews, included services, and the company’s reputation.

Top-rated companies like Rent4You.it, Locauto, and Enterprise offer a good balance of quality service and value for money.

Remember that driving in Italy can be challenging, especially in big cities. Be prepared for narrow streets, limited parking, and different driving styles.

However, with some preparation and caution, the rewards of driving in Italy – scenic routes, charming villages, and off-the-beaten-path discoveries – can far outweigh the challenges.

Consider your itinerary carefully when deciding whether to rent a car. If you’re mainly visiting big cities, public transportation might be a better option.

But if you’re exploring rural areas or want the flexibility to make spontaneous stops, a rental car can be invaluable.

Lastly, always read the rental agreement carefully, understand the insurance coverage, and be aware of additional costs like tolls and parking fees.

With the right preparation, renting a car can be the key to unlocking an unforgettable Italian adventure.

So, get ready to hit the road and create your Italian journey. Whether you’re cruising along the Mediterranean coast, winding through mountain villages, or exploring the vast countryside, your Italian road trip awaits. Buon viaggio!

Top 20 Car Rental Services in Italy in 2024

Car Rental Services in Italy