I was looking for some advice on the best directions and time of day to drive from Orviento to Venice.
Ideas?
Thanks!
Posted by
US Pacific Northwest
10344 posts
Minimum of 4.5 hrs + the time needed for stops for gas, rest stops, and all other stops. Minimum because the above time assumes no unusual traffic conditions and in Italy there are often unusual conditions.
Posted by
OP
Urbana, Il, USA
19 posts
Is there a 'good' time of day to drive?
Posted by
bergamo
401 posts
It depends what day you go. Sundays can have more traffic, but trucks aren't allowed to drive which frees up the roads quite a bit. Middle of the day would be better to avoid the rush hour, especially if you are taking the highway through Bologna.
Posted by
OP
Urbana, Il, USA
19 posts
hmmm I don't know if that is good news or bad. We are traveling on Sunday. If we left around noon it sounds like it would be ok?
The driving directions on google are:
http://tinyurl.com/3p4qax
I can never tell what web site give you the 'best' directions.
Posted by
Mansfield, GA
850 posts
viamichelin.com is a good site for directions.
Posted by
Danville, California, USA
139 posts
Why would you want to drive. Just jump on a train. You don't need a car when you get there.
Posted by
OP
Urbana, Il, USA
19 posts
For this leg it seemed like a good idea. we are ditching the car in Venice and taking the train the rest of the way. Do you really need an international license?
Posted by
The Hague, NL (AMS)
2207 posts
Maryalice - there are many posts about needing on International Drivers License in Europe. Living here, and working with Embassy folks, here's what I've been told - and it's worked for us.
To drive in Italy you will need a current US driver's license and an International Drivers Permit - not a license, a permit. It's simply a translation of your American driver's license. You can pick one up - for each driver - at your local AAA for $15 each. They are good for one year. You will need 2 passport photos signed on the back, a completed IDP form, (available at AAA or on-line) and your driver's license.
To rent a car in Italy you are required to have an IDP. Some agencies check, some do not. But better safe than sorry. If your's does, you would be hard-pressed to find another rental car at the same "pre-arranged" rates as you booked from the States. So get the IDP and be prepared!
Also, buy the SDW insurance coverage... the extra insurance will be a lifesaver if something happens.
Ciao,
Ron