If you're looking to rent a car in Italy, then Catania is the cheapest city to do so as prices are just $3 per day. According to our data, it's 73% cheaper for a rental car in Catania as opposed to renting one in Venice (which costs $11 per day).

Generally, the cheapest locations to rent a car in Italy are major international airports such as Milan Malpensa (MXP), Rome Fiumicino (FCO), and Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY). These hubs feature the highest concentration of competitive rental companies, including both global brands and local budget operators. Among these, Northern Italy—specifically the Milan and Bergamo areas—often sees lower rates due to the sheer volume of vehicles available and the heavy competition among providers. In contrast, renting in popular tourist centers like Florence or along the Amalfi Coast can be significantly more expensive due to limited inventory and high demand. For those building a database on Italian travel, it's worth noting that while airports offer the best initial prices, "city center" locations might save you money on airport surcharges if you only need the car for a short time. However, to find the absolute lowest rates, booking well in advance and choosing an "off-airport" pickup via a shuttle is a proven strategy in 2026.