Driving in Italy can be intimidating for a foreigner, but it is safe if you prepare and follow Italian rules. While it is easier to travel between big cities by train, sometimes renting a car is the best option.
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As an American, driving in Europe can be a bit of an adjustment, but it's easy to get the hang of it quickly if you know what to expect. This article goes into a few key differences you need to be mindful of when driving in Europe, like unique road rules and having the right documentation for renting a car.
Most rental companies prefer drivers to be at least 21 or 25 years old, but it depends on the rental agency. You need a valid driving license, identification (i.e. a passport), and a valid credit card too. You also need an international driver's permit as well as your regular driver's license. This isn't optional!
Tourists may also use their valid American driver's license if accompanied by an official translation in Italian. Americans registered as residents with the local Vital Records Bureau (known as Anagrafe) must apply for an Italian license within one year of the date of registration.
It's maze of one-way streets, strictly enforced pedestrian-only areas, narrow roads and lack of parking. Plus, everything you'll want to see is within walking distance, so driving in Florence ill-advised. Still, if you arrive to Florence in a rental car, you need to know how to get into the city and where to park.
The best way to travel around Italy, if you mainly want to visit the cities like Rome, Florence and Venice, is by train. Italy has an extensive network of both fast speed inter-city trains and regional services that connect the smaller cities and towns.