Car Rentals

while you are waiting for those answers is a good time to save you some money by avoiding very expensive fines.

The first is to understand the point of ZTLs, how to recognise them, how to avoid them, and particularly since you will be driving around Florence where they are a real hotbed, where you can go and where you can't.

Also learn where the bus lanes are and how to avoid them. Very expensive.

Learn the Italian road signs and memorize the national speed limits because the numbers are often not posted.

There is no grace in slowing down to the speed, you need to be slowed to the new speed by the time you pass the sign - that doesn't mean let off the gas here.

And, even if the kid behind the counter doesn't make you show it, you need both your current driving license and an IDP for each driver.

Understand the insurance policies and costs..

I only drive automatic. I've rented lately with Sixt and been very happy with them so far. I book directly through them. Not all roads are small in that area, and most are excellent and very easy to drive in the countryside; entering towns and cities is a little more challenging. I always get a car with GPS included. I'd take the smallest car that fits you comfortably. You do not need a tiny, tiny car.

The rural roads in Tuscany and Umbria are fine and are a pleasure to drive - you don't need to book a small car. Go with whatever is comfortable for you. Not so the Autostrada or driving in the cities which can be pretty nerve wracking.
Many here rely on AutoEurope for car rentals in Italy. Their rates are always competitive and from Florence you'll be able to shop several companies at a glance, including Sixt, although we've usually opted for Hertz ourselves. It's pretty easy to specify an automatic too.
One feature of AE that we particularly appreciate is the clear explanation of the insurance options. We thought their zero deductible coverage was reasonably priced for the convenience and peace of mind involved.

Look at Autoeurope. They give you prices for numerous rental companies that are, in my experience anyway, always cheaper than renting from the company. You can look at both and compare. I think you will find an equal number of complaints for any company and I have stressed myself out plenty reading reviews of specific pick up locations for specific companies. Someone above suggested Sixt, and that is one I have opted not to use, but you see what I mean. Ive always rented through autoeurope and I think Ive mostly rented with Avis because they tend to have the cars and prices I want at the locations I want.