GPS in Italy?

On this website, RS has a lengthy discussion on this topic that will likely be of help to you. On the home page, choose "Travel Tips," then choose "Transportation," then under "Driving" choose "Maps and Apps." Good info about GPS, downloadable apps, maps and more.

I would never rent one. I would buy a Garmin in the US and load it with the maps for Italy. Use it at home for a while to get used to it. I usually use my phone now in the US for directions, but keep my Garmin for trips abroad. I do not want to use data on my cell phone in Europe. Just have a decent paper map too and you will be fine.

If you already own a GPS, buy the European maps for it. If you don't, you can buy a GPS with both North American and European maps (for instance, from Amazon).

Either way, you can pre-load the places you are going (hotels, towns, etc), and get used to using the device before you go.

There are ways to use your cell phone as a GPS without using data, but be sure to research this carefully. If you just use it as you do in the US, you'll come home to a huge bill, or it may not work if you exceed your data allotment.

After much research, we determined that a TomTom provides better service in Italy than a Garmin, but ny all means, buy one, do not rent one! Be sure you update the maps (they send out frequent updates), and the speed camera function is wonderful! :-)

I found the GPS to be useful only for local addresses and streets. For a curious traveler, they add nothing to your trip. You'll miss possible detours to nearby pretty towns, and won't get a hint there's a mountain valley nearby. I go for Touring Club Italiano 1:200,000 paper map (Amazon $14.), 2nd choice Michelin paper map, 3rd choice Google Maps offline.

get a GPS here at home. unless you are a day or less you can cover the cost of buying a GPS here. Make CERTIAN that he has EUROPE maps loaded or you will be SOL. Don't leave it in your check in bag but rather carry it on.
enjoy your trip

Regaring the choice of a TomTom vs Garmin. What convinced you that the TomTom was best.
I am going to the Tuscany region in June and and want to purchase a GPS over here. I understand
the download fee for maps of Italy are costly. Would appreciate any information. One feature I
want to be sure to have is for the GPS to have the ability to recalculate, if I make a wrong turn!

A smartphone and Google Maps. Download area maps before you leave or anytime while connected to WiFi. That is all you need. Turn by Turn use Here! maps

THANKS SO MUCH, too all that have replied. We truly appreciate all the help!