Italy is a country located in southern Europe, known for its rich history (like the Roman Empire and the Renaissance), vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. The nation is shaped like a boot, is bordered by France, Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia to the north, it stretches into the Mediterranean Sea, and it includes two major islands known as Sicily and Sardinia. Rome is not only the capital of Italy, but it is also one of the most historically significant cities in the world. Referred to as the "Eternal City" by its long and influential past (like once being the heart of the Roman Empire). Housing famous landmarks like The Colosseum, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain, and the independent city-state Vatican: the spiritual centre of the Roman Catholic Church and the residence of the Pope.
UTC+1 daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October.
Due to the country's geographic position and geological features, Italy is prone to various natural disasters including floods, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, and forest fires.
Italy has many heritage and local rules, depending on which city you are in, which can lead to fines costing hundreds on average if violated. Here are some examples:
Rome:
Venice:
Florence:
Capri:
Portofino:
Historic city centres (e.g., Rome, Florence) often have Restricted Traffic Zones (Zona Traffico Limitato - ZTL), camera-monitored areas where non-residents are fined if they enter during active periods. Fines (approx. €83 – 332) can be issued even months after the trip; rental companies may charge additional admin fees. To avoid this, park outside ZTL zones and use public transport or walk. Also, be cautious of fixed and mobile speed cameras and stricter penalties for smartphone use. Fines can range from €250 to €1,000 plus license suspension. And beware of scams as some tourists report being flagged down with fabricated minor accidents to extort cash, especially in rural areas like Tuscany.
UK citizens do not need a visa to travel to Italy if they're staying for at most 90 days, since they are covered by a visa-free travel arrangement for short stays in the Schengen area. But for stays longer than 90 days, or for purposes other than tourism like visiting family or friends, a visa may be required.
In Italy, vehicles drive on the right and overtake on the left, but right turns on red are illegal. The minimum age to drive is 18, but it is 21 to rent a car. Drivers under 25 are often charged extra. UK drivers don't need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Italy, provided they hold a valid UK photocard driving licence. However, it's always recommended to check the specific requirements of the car rental company, as they may have their own policy regarding IDPs.
Diesel (Gasolio) and petrol (Benzina) are the most common at Italian stations, available in different octane levels (e.g., Super 95, Super Plus). LPG (Liquified Petroleum Gas), also known as GPL, is also available at many stations.
Autostrade (motorways) predominantly use tolls, payable by cash, card, or via Telepass.
The limit is 0.05% for most drivers, while it is 0.00% for new and professional drivers.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
Children under 12 (or under 1.5 m) require suitable car seats. Rear-facing seats aren't allowed in front seats with active airbags.