Is it safe to hire a car in Sicily?
We found driving safe and easy and we highly recommend renting a car in Sicily.
What do I need to know about renting a car in Italy?
Requirements for Renting a Car in Italy
- You must be at least 18.
- You must not exceed the maximum age outlined by the rental company (commonly 70-75 years)
- Most drivers under 25 will be charged an additional rental fee.
- All drivers must present a driving license and an international driver’s permit.
- Insurance is essential.
Is it worth renting a car in Italy?
I recommend against renting a car in Italy if you: Plan on visiting large cities such as Venice (car-free), Rome, Bologna, Florence, Milan or Naples. They are all well connected by high-speed trains and very difficult to explore by car, with crazy traffic and hard-to-grasp parking rules.
Do I need a car in Porto Portugal?
A car is not needed in Lisbon and Porto but there are lots of other amazing places to explore in Portugal. Once you go outside Lisbon and Porto public transportation options are limited. If you want full freedom to explore any area that interests you, then a car rental is really the best option.
How difficult is driving in Sicily?
Driving in Sicily is fairly difficult and frustrating. It’s definitely not for the faint of heart! Think heavy traffic, narrow and poorly maintained roads, crazy drivers, lack of parking, and bad street signage.
Is driving in Italy Easy?
Driving in Italy for many foreigners is like a nightmare.
Sometimes we must admit that could be tough, but this happens mostly in the biggest city, such as Rome, Naples or Florence. Too many cars and a not efficient urban system are the problems. Driving in Italy may be also tricky because of us, the Italians.
Do I need extra insurance when renting a car in Italy?
Everyone knows that, unlike in many other European countries, basic CDW car rental insurance is mandatory in Italy. That is, you are legally required to have this coverage while driving a rental car in Italy, and the rental companies won’t let their car off the lot until they are sure you’re covered.
How do I pay a rental car toll in Italy?
Italy has a system called Telepass, which allows drivers to pay tolls electronically via a transponder placed on their windshield (similar to the E-ZPass and FasTrak systems used in parts of the U.S.).
Can I rent a car in Italy without an international drivers license?
An IDL (International Driver’s License) is legally mandatory if you plan on driving a rental car during your visit to Italy. Travelers should take heed to this rule, as you will be fined if you get pulled over and do not have one!
Is it safe to drive a rental car in Italy?
Car Rental Insurance
Italian law requires CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) and theft insurance. Check with your credit company to see if they offer CDW car insurance for Italy. Many people say credit cards NEVER cover CDW in Italy.
Is it better to travel in Italy by car or train?
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.
Is driving in Rome difficult?
Is driving in Rome difficult? Many first-time visitors to Rome will find driving in the city to be a bit challenging. The streets are narrow and congested, and it can be difficult to find parking. However, if you take a few precautions and plan ahead, you can make your experience of driving in Rome a lot easier.
Is a car needed in Sicily?
If you are visiting Sicily for 2 or 3 days and staying in Palermo or Catania, more than likely you will not need to rent a car. Public transport is readily available and there is so much to do in the larger cities you will spend most of your time without a need to travel further.
Do you need a car to get around Sicily?
The best way to get around Sicily is by train, as it allows you to quickly and affordably get from the island’s various cities while still enjoying the scenery. Be sure to validate your ticket before boarding to avoid fines. Buses are another affordable transportation method and may be your next best option.
Do I need a car to explore Sicily?
Yes, it is possible with public transportation, and I will tell you how in this blog post. Spending seven days in Sicily without a car is perfectly doable if you can manage the train, buses, and local Taxis on Sicily Island. Also, by using local public transportation, you will see a different side of Sicily.
Do I need to hire a car in Sicily?
If you are visiting Sicily for 2 or 3 days and staying in Palermo or Catania, more than likely you will not need to rent a car. Public transport is readily available and there is so much to do in the larger cities you will spend most of your time without a need to travel further.
Is driving in Palermo difficult?
Palermo is exceptionally difficult to drive because of the lack of rules (or following rules), along with the aggressive and disrespectful drivers.
Do you need a car to get around Sicily?
The best way to get around Sicily is by train, as it allows you to quickly and affordably get from the island’s various cities while still enjoying the scenery. Be sure to validate your ticket before boarding to avoid fines. Buses are another affordable transportation method and may be your next best option.
Is it easy to get around Sicily?
Getting around Sicily is not as easy unless you are familiar with all the bus companies running on the island, besides the public train and car renting options. This is to say that there is not a central bus network or booking place where you can buy your ticket or check your route, unfortunately.
Where to stay in Sicily if you don’t have a car?
If you are looking for where to stay in Sicily without a car, I recommend you consider staying in the northern town of Cefalu. The town is small enough to comfortably explore on foot, but still has plenty to keep you occupied, as evidenced by the millions of tourists who visit each year.
How many days should I spend in Sicily?
Sicily can be experienced in as little as 3 to 5 days if you are short on time and interested in a quick coastal retreat. However, it’s much better to spend at least a week discovering this Mediterranean paradise. If you have 7 days you can explore a meaningful section of the island.