Rented car from Florence, thru San Gimignano, Siena, Tivoli, Pompeii and returned at Rome Ciampino during our first trip to Italy for 40th wedding anniversary. Just came back yesterday. We wanted the schedule flexibility and stop-where-ever-interesting the car provided. We found it not much more difficult than driving in strange towns in the US. The GPS is a handy insurance but maps and road signs are clear. We only know 5 words in Italian. So for those considering driving, go ahead. I do agree NEVER in Florence and Rome center and we by-passed Naples.
Posted by
Portlandia
3313 posts
Thanks for the report! Where did you pick up the car in Florence, and if from downtown, was it easy enough to get out of town?
Posted by
US Pacific Northwest
10344 posts
Julie, from your post: "I do agree NEVER in Florence and Rome center and we by-passed Naples."
Yes, that's the standard advice we've been giving on this forum, to avoid driving in those three cities.
Posted by
OP
shen, ca, usa
111 posts
Doug: I read Kent's explaination about ZTL, google mapped the route and re-confirmed with the rental agency. It was much easier than expected. Just keep telling myself "cross the bridge" and head out.
Posted by
Lake Forest Park, WA, USA
365 posts
Exactly.