When planning a trip to Florence, Italy, the birthplace of the Renaissance, there's no shortage of breathtaking sights to explore. From the iconic Duomo to the Uffizi Gallery, each corner of this enchanting city tells a story of history, art, and culture. While Florence itself is a relatively compact city that can be explored on foot or by public transport, the real allure of renting a car lies in the opportunity to venture beyond its borders. Picture yourself cruising through picturesque Tuscan landscapes, exploring hidden gems tucked away in the countryside, and embarking on unforgettable day trips to neighboring cities and towns. To experience the real beauty of Tuscany, car rental in Florence Italy is an excellent idea.
Here are things to consider about renting a car in Florence Italy with tips and tricks
Pros of Rental Cars in Florence Italy:
Freedom and flexibility to explore
More luggage capability
Your own AC during summer
A car is usually the only way to get to the most beautiful villages in the Tuscan countryside
Cons of Rental Cars in Florence Italy:
Driving in Florence can be tricky
Parking places can be a problem if you’re not familiar with it
Gas can be expensive compared to some countries.
Decided to rent a car in Florence? Good choice! Here are some tips that can save you time and money:
Tips for Renting a Car in Florence Italy
1. Book in Advance and COMPARE the Prices
To secure the best rates and availability, it's advisable to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Online booking platforms often offer discounts and exclusive deals, so be sure to compare prices from different providers. Sometimes a smaller local company might have amazing prices. Using a third party service like Carla can help instead of checking all the companies.
2. Choose the Right Rental Car for Florence and Italy
When choosing a rental car in Florence, Italy, think about your group size, how much luggage you have, and what you'll be doing. Compact cars work well for narrow streets, while larger ones are better for longer trips or if you have a family.
3. Familiarize Yourself with Driving Regulations
Driving in Italy with a rental car may differ from your home country, so take the time to familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and regulations. Pay attention to speed limits, parking restrictions, and ZTL (limited traffic zones) in Florence to avoid fines and penalties. You can find the ZTL map of Florence here
4. Check the transmission of the Car
In Italy, most cars have manual transmission. Pay attention to the transmission of your rental car if you are not familiar with manual transmission and prefer to rent a car with automatic transmission.
Let’s say you’ve decided to rent a car in Florence Italy. Where to go with that car?
Top Destinations to Explore by Rental Car in Florence
Here is a very popular road trip route to take with your rental car from Florence Italy:
Stop 1: Florence · Stop 2: Lucca · Stop 3: Pisa · Stop 4: San Gimignano · Stop 5: Siena · Stop 6: Val d'Orcia · Stop 7:Montepulciano · Stop 8: Arezzo.
Lucca: Explore this charming walled city, known for its well-preserved medieval streets and towers.
Pisa: Marvel at the famous Leaning Tower and explore the Campo dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
San Gimignano: Discover the medieval towers that define the skyline of this picturesque hilltop town.
Siena: Experience the historic Palio horse race and stroll through the beautiful Piazza del Campo.
Val d'Orcia: Take in the breathtaking landscapes of rolling hills, vineyards, and cypress trees.
Montepulciano: Explore this hilltop town known for its Renaissance architecture, medieval streets, and delicious Vino Nobile wine. Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding Tuscan countryside from its elevated position.
Arezzo: Wander through the ancient streets and visit the Basilica of San Francesco to see Piero della Francesca's famous frescoes.
Conclusion
Car rental in Florence opens up a world of possibilities for travelers eager to experience the beauty and charm of Tuscany at their own pace. With the freedom to explore scenic landscapes, historic towns, and renowned wineries, renting a car provides unparalleled convenience and flexibility for your Italian adventure. By following these tips and recommendations, you'll be well-equipped to embark on an unforgettable journey through one of Italy's most captivating regions. Buon viaggio!