Should I drive or train in Italy?

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.



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Getting around Italy by train is a great option. The Italian train system is pretty efficient and one of the least expensive in Europe. Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane runs trains under the brand name Trenitalia, operating a large network across the country.

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My personal favorite way of getting around Italy is traveling by train. Most cities are connected to a local train station making train travel convenient, easy, and relatively fast. While regional and intercity trains get you where you need to go, faster trains also exist that allow you to travel Italy in style.

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With the modernization of trains, Italy boasts one of the best travel systems in Europe. Italy's two largest cities, Rome and Milan, are now connected by just a few hours on a superfast train that reaches up to 200 MPH!

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If you do not hold a full EU driving license, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to be able to rent a car in Italy. This includes UK, US, Australian, and New Zealand driving license holders. An IDP costs $15/£12.50.

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Traveling Italy by train is more cheap and convenient than by car. In fact, traveling by car can be quite expensive for tourists.

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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.

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The speed limits in Italy are similar to other countries in Europe. Thus, the speed limits to follow are 50km/h (30 mph) in cities and towns, 90 km/h (55 mph) on single carriageways, 110 km/h (about 68 mph) on dual carriageways and 130 km/h (80 mph) on motorways. Posted signs inform you of the speed limit.

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Checklist for Driving in Italy
  1. Driver's license (required)
  2. IDP (recommended)
  3. Proof of liability insurance (required)
  4. ID/passport (required)
  5. Reflective safety vest (required to have in car)
  6. Reflective triangle (required to have in car)
  7. Spare tire (recommended)
  8. Fire extinguisher (recommended)


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Overall, Florence is one of Italy's best cities to visit for first timers who love to immerse themselves in new cultures. Wondering where to stay in Florence (or where to stay in Tuscany, Italy's famous countryside)? Our guides offer a rundown of the best places to stay.

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First port of call for many travelers is Rome, Italy's charismatic capital. You'll never be able to cover all of its monuments and masterpieces but there are some you won't want to miss. The Colosseum and Pantheon are obvious highlights, along with the Roman Forum and Palatino.

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