I am trying to decide if I should rent a car and drive to Roccomorice where my grandparents were from. I’ve never driven in a foreign country, however, and I’m unfamiliar with the topography. Will I be on mountain roads and how difficult will the drive be?
Thank You!
Posted by
5834 posts
I would plug it into Google Maps and Viamichelin to get detailed info on the drive.
You could make it less arduous by taking a train to a different city from Rome, and renting from there (versus a long drive from Rome).
Driving in Italy is similar to driving elsewhere. You need to obtain an IDP from AAA and be aware of ZTL.
Posted by
San Francisco Bay Area (USA)
16656 posts
It is all 4 lane freeway (A24) from Rome to Torre de Passeri (or to Scafa, the next freeway exit). Then the last 10 or so miles from the freeway exit to Roccamorice it's regular two lane highway with some curves since it's a mountainous area.
The SS487 from via Scafa (the Scafa-Alanno freeway exit) is only slightly longer, but maybe better road.
This is the rank of roads (### is the number, 1 to 3 digits):
A-### (Autostrada) - best freeways (toll). Take them when possible, tolls are not too high.
SS ### (Strada Statale or State Road) - generally very good, several are 4 lane divided freeways (no toll).
SR ### (Strada Regionale or Regional Road) - generally decent 2 lane road.
SP ### (Strada Provinciale or Provincial Road) - they are a hit or miss. Some are decent, others are not in such great condition and may be very narrow two lane highways. Drive with caution and slow.
If you exit at Torre de Passeri you will be on a Strada Provinciale (SP63) for a short distance until you reach SS487. That SP63 is not bad at all.
Don't take the route through Lettomanoppello, as that road from Lettomanoppello to Roccamorice is really bad and narrow. I don't even know why Google Maps includes that as a route.
Posted by
13 posts
Hey there! I've actually been to the Abruzzo region where Roccomorice is located. The town is in a somewhat mountainous area, but it's not like the Alps or anything super intimidating. The roads getting there will have some winding sections and elevation changes, but they're generally well-maintained.
If you've never driven abroad before, here are a couple things to keep in mind:
- Italian drivers can be... let's say enthusiastic - They might tailgate a bit if you're going slower than they want
- The roads to smaller towns like Roccomorice get narrower as you approach, sometimes just one lane for both directions
- Watch out for ZTL zones (limited traffic zones) in historic centers where only authorized vehicles can enter
- Parking in small towns can be informal - just follow what locals do
Honestly, I think connecting with your family roots is totally worth renting a car! I recommend checking out Tripiamo before your trip - they have really helpful guides specifically for Italy that cover all the road rules, signs, and common situations you'll encounter.