There's something utterly magical about exploring Italy by car. Whether you're winding through the cypress-lined roads of Tuscany, hugging the dramatic coastal curves of the Amalfi Coast, or ascending into the majestic Dolomites, a road trip through Italy promises adventures that trains and tours simply can't deliver. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the most spectacular driving routes that showcase Italy's diverse landscapes, cultural treasures, and gastronomic delights.
Essential Tips for Driving in Italy
Before we dive into the routes, let's cover some crucial basics. Hire your car from reputable companies like Europcar or Hertz, and opt for a smaller vehicle – Italy's ancient towns weren't built for SUVs! You'll need an International Driving Permit alongside your licence, and it's worth noting that most hire cars are manual transmission. Consider taking out comprehensive insurance, as those narrow village streets can be challenging.
The Amalfi Coast: A Coastal Paradise
The Amalfi Coast is arguably one of the most breathtaking coastal drives in the world. This 50-kilometre stretch of coastline winds along the southern edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Route:
- Start in Salerno and head west towards Positano, passing through charming towns like Vietri sul Mare, Cetara, and Amalfi.
Highlights:
- Positano: A picturesque village with colourful houses cascading down the cliffs
- Ravello: Known for its beautiful gardens and panoramic views
- Amalfi: The namesake town famous for its Byzantine-style cathedral
Tuscany's Chianti Wine Route
Tuscany's rolling hills, dotted with vineyards and medieval towns, make for an idyllic driving experience. The Chianti region, in particular, offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and gastronomic delights.
Route:
- Start in Florence and take the SR222, also known as the Chiantigiana, towards Siena.
Highlights:
- Greve in Chianti: The gateway to the Chianti region
- Castellina in Chianti: A charming hilltop town with Etruscan roots
- Radda in Chianti: Surrounded by vineyards and olive groves
Where to eat:
- Visit Osteria Le Panzanelle in Radda for authentic Tuscan cuisine and local wines.
The Great Dolomite Road
For those seeking a mountain adventure, the Great Dolomite Road offers a thrilling drive through some of Italy's most spectacular alpine scenery.
Route:
- Start in Bolzano and head east towards Cortina d'Ampezzo.
Highlights:
- Val di Fassa: A valley known for its ski resorts and hiking trails
- Passo Pordoi: A high mountain pass with panoramic views
- Cortina d'Ampezzo: A chic mountain resort town
Where to eat:
- Try the Rifugio Lagazuoi, perched at 2,752 metres, for traditional mountain fare and breathtaking views.
Sicily's Coastal Circuit
Sicily, the largest Mediterranean island, offers a diverse landscape perfect for a circular road trip. From ancient ruins to pristine beaches, this route has it all.
Route:
- Start in Palermo and follow the coast clockwise around the island.
Highlights:
- Cefalù: A picturesque coastal town with a Norman cathedral
- Taormina: An elegant resort town with Greek and Roman ruins
- Syracuse: Home to ancient Greek and Roman archaeological sites
Where to eat:
- Don't miss the street food in Palermo's markets, especially the arancini (stuffed rice balls) at Ke Palle.
The Italian Lakes
The Italian Lakes region in the north offers a combination of stunning alpine scenery and Mediterranean charm.
Route:
- Start at Lake Como and make your way east to Lake Garda.
Highlights:
- Bellagio: A charming town on Lake Como known as the "Pearl of the Lake"
- Sirmione: A historic town on a peninsula jutting into Lake Garda
- Bergamo: A beautiful hilltop city between Lake Como and Lake Iseo
Where to eat:
- Try the Michelin-starred Lido 84 in Gardone Riviera for innovative Italian cuisine with lake views.
Puglia's Coastal Drive
Puglia, the "heel" of Italy's boot, offers a less touristy but equally beautiful coastal drive.
Route:
- Start in Bari and head south along the Adriatic coast to explore the views.
Highlights:
- Polignano a Mare: A dramatic clifftop town with beautiful beaches
- Alberobello: Famous for its unique trulli houses
- Otranto: A historic coastal town with a stunning cathedral
Where to eat:
- Stop at Grotta Palazzese in Polignano a Mare, a restaurant set in a cave overlooking the sea.
The Stelvio Pass
For thrill-seekers and driving enthusiasts, the Stelvio Pass in the Italian Alps is a must-drive route.
Route:
- The pass connects Bormio and Prato allo Stelvio.
Highlights:
- 48 hairpin turns on the northern side
- Stunning views of the surrounding Alps
- Bormio: A charming alpine town known for its thermal baths
Where to eat:
- Try the local specialities at Agriturismo Rini in Bormio, including pizzoccheri (buckwheat pasta) and bresaola.
Tips for Driving in Italy
- Familiarise yourself with Italian road signs and rules before your trip.
- Be prepared for narrow roads, especially in rural areas and small towns.
- In cities, look out for ZTL (Zona Traffico Limitato) areas where driving is restricted.
- Consider renting a smaller car for easier navigation on narrow roads and in small towns.
- Always carry cash for toll roads and parking.
Exploring Italy's Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Scenic Routes
Italy is renowned for its iconic sights and bustling tourist hotspots, but the country also boasts a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. For those who prefer to veer off the beaten path, this guide highlights some lesser-known scenic routes and destinations that showcase Italy's stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delectable cuisine. Perfect for a long drive with your rented car.
1. The Valsugana Valley
Nestled in Trentino, the Valsugana Valley is home to Lake Levico, a tranquil spot perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities. This area is often overlooked in favour of more popular lakes like Garda and Como.
Route Highlights:
- Lake Levico: Enjoy swimming, kayaking, or simply soaking up the sun by the crystal-clear waters.
- Cima Vezzena: A hiking trail that offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the region's World War I history.
Dining Tip:
- Stop at Ristorante Al Lago for local dishes made with fresh ingredients from the surrounding area.
2. Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa
Located in Basilicata, these two picturesque towns are perched high in the Dolomiti Lucane mountains. Known for their dramatic landscapes and historical charm, they are connected by the thrilling Flight of the Angel, a zip line that offers stunning aerial views.
Route Highlights:
- Castelmezzano: Explore its narrow streets and enjoy panoramic views from the surrounding cliffs.
- Pietrapertosa: Famous for its ancient castle ruins and breathtaking hiking trails.
Dining Tip:
- Try local delicacies at Ristorante Il Faggio for an authentic taste of Basilicata.
3. Comacchio and the Po Delta
Often referred to as "Little Venice," Comacchio in Emilia Romagna is a charming town with canals, colourful buildings, and fewer tourists. The nearby Po Delta Nature Park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Route Highlights:
- Comacchio: Stroll along its canals and sample local seafood dishes.
- Po Delta Nature Park: Rent a bike to explore this unique ecosystem, home to flamingos and other wildlife.
Dining Tip:
- Enjoy fresh eel dishes at Trattoria Al Ponte, which overlooks the canals.
4. Garfagnana Region
Located in northern Tuscany, Garfagnana is characterised by its stunning scenery, traditional villages, and outdoor activities. This region is perfect for those seeking adventure away from the crowds.
Route Highlights:
- Devil’s Bridge (Ponte del Diavolo): A stunning medieval bridge surrounded by lush forests.
- Borgo a Mozzano: A charming town with picturesque streets and local markets.
Dining Tip:
- Visit Agriturismo La Rocca for farm-to-table meals featuring local produce.
5. Lago di Orta
Lago di Orta is one of Italy's most serene lakes, located in Piedmont near Lake Maggiore. It’s less frequented by tourists but offers stunning views and charming villages.
Route Highlights:
- Orta San Giulio: A quaint village on the lake's shores with narrow streets and beautiful architecture.
- San Giulio Island: Take a short boat ride to explore this peaceful island with its historic basilica.
Dining Tip:
- Dine at Ristorante Villa Crespi for an exquisite culinary experience in a stunning setting.
6. Brisighella
This enchanting village in Emilia Romagna is known for its three hills topped with a fortress, clock tower, and church. Brisighella offers a taste of authentic Italian life without the tourist crowds.
Route Highlights:
- Historic Centre: Wander through picturesque streets lined with cafes and shops.
- Via degli Asini (Donkey Path): A scenic walking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Dining Tip:
- Enjoy local wines and traditional dishes at Trattoria La Botteghina.
7. The Trabocchi Coast
Located in Abruzzo, the Trabocchi Coast features unique wooden fishing platforms called trabocchi that have been converted into restaurants. This coastal route offers stunning sea views and delicious seafood.
Route Highlights:
- Trabocchi Restaurants: Dine on fresh seafood while enjoying panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea.
- Scenic Beaches: Explore hidden coves and sandy beaches along the coast.
Dining Tip:
- Visit Ristorante Da Michele for fresh fish dishes served right on the water5.
8. Civita di Bagnoregio
Perched atop a hill in Lazio, Civita di Bagnoregio is known as "the dying town" due to erosion threatening its existence. This medieval village offers breathtaking views and a rich history.
Route Highlights:
- Historic Centre: Explore cobblestone streets lined with ancient stone buildings.
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy stunning vistas of the surrounding valleys from various viewpoints.
Dining Tip:
- Try Ristorante Antica Bottega for traditional Italian cuisine made from local ingredients.
Driving Tips for Italy
Car Hire Advice: Book your car hire well in advance, especially during peak seasons such as summer and major holidays. If you're planning long journeys, consider renting a diesel vehicle for better fuel efficiency.
Road Types: Italy has an extensive road network, including:
- Autostrade (motorways, marked A) – These are toll roads, often well-maintained and ideal for covering long distances quickly.
- Strade Statali (SS) and Strade Provinciali (SP) – National and provincial roads can be scenic but vary in quality.
- Rural and mountain roads – Expect narrow, winding routes, particularly in regions like Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast.
Parking: In historic city centres, parking can be limited. It’s best to use designated car parks or garages and explore on foot. Many cities have "blue zone" parking (paid parking) and "white zone" parking (free, but often reserved for residents).
Speed Limits:
- 130 km/h on motorways (110 km/h in wet conditions)
- 110 km/h on main roads outside urban areas
- 90 km/h on secondary roads
- 50 km/h in towns and cities
Always check for signposted limits, as they may vary. Speed cameras and police checks are common.
ZTL Zones: Many Italian cities have Zona a Traffico Limitato (ZTL) areas, restricting vehicle access to historic centres. Driving in these zones without a permit can result in fines. Research ZTL zones before you travel and use public parking outside these areas.
The Importance of Car Hire Excess Insurance
When hiring a car in Italy, rental companies typically include basic insurance. However, this often comes with a high excess, meaning you could be liable for hundreds or even thousands of pounds if the vehicle is damaged or stolen. Car Hire Excess Insurance covers this excess, ensuring you’re not left with a hefty bill if something goes wrong.
Independent Insurance vs Car Hire Company Insurance
When securing Car Hire Excess Insurance, you have two options: purchasing directly from the car hire company or choosing an independent provider like Gigasure. Here’s how they compare:
Car Hire Excess insurance from the car hire company
Convenient – Available at the rental desk when picking up the car. 
Expensive – Often overpriced, adding unnecessary costs to your trip. Limited cover – May exclude key areas such as tyres, windscreen, or undercarriage damage.
Independent Car Hire Excess Insurance from Gigasure
More affordable – Get coverage at a lower cost. Better protection – Covers a wider range of damages, including key loss, misfuelling, and personal belongings. Flexible policies – Customise your cover based on your trip needs and duration.
What Does Car Hire Excess Insurance Cover?
With Gigasure, Car Hire Excess Insurance policy typically includes:
- Misfuelling Cover up to £2,000 to cover the costs of refuelling mishaps, such as accidentally filling your car with the wrong type of fuel.
- Excess Protection up to 10,000 protection against excess charges for damage to the bodywork, tyres, roof, windscreen, and undercarriage, as well as fire damage, vandalism, and theft.
- Rental Car Key Protection included as standard.
- Covers up to 9 named drivers on a single rental agreement.
- Gigasure’s policies offer up to 65 days of continuous cover on any single rental agreement with our annual multi-trip policies.
Why Travel Insurance is Also Essential in Italy
Car Hire Excess Insurance alone isn’t enough when travelling to Italy. It covers car excess costs – but what about medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage? That’s where Travel Insurance comes in.
The Importance of Travel Insurance
- Medical emergencies – Covers hospital bills and emergency treatments.
- Trip cancellations – Protection if you need to cancel due to unforeseen events.
- Lost or stolen belongings – Protects your valuables while travelling.
- Travel Delays – With GigaShield, you’re covered if your flight is delayed by 3 hours or more, or if your baggage doesn’t arrive on time.
The Best Solution: Get Both with Gigasure
With Gigasure, you can get both Car Hire Excess Insurance and Travel Insurance in one place – saving you time, hassle, and money. Plus, with our Gigasure app, managing your policies is effortless, giving you total peace of mind while exploring Italy.
Drive with confidence, Get covered with Gigasure today!
