Italy Car Navigation

Use the GPS and buy the maps.

I also use Via Michelin and print out each leg of the trip.

Sounds redundant, but works if GPS doesn't.

Use the GPS and buy the maps.

I also use Via Michelin and print out each leg of the trip.

Sounds redundant, but works if GPS doesn't.

TomTom is generally considered to be more accurate in Italy...at least that is what we found in our research. You can buy a new TomTom with lifetime maps for less than $90 on Amazon. TomTom will also tell you where traffic cams are, speed limits, etc. Very useful. We especially have enjoyed it in Tuscany, but be sure if you stay at an agriturismo they give you latitude and longitude coordinates. Those country roads are not always findable by the TomTom. For some sites -- like finding your way to a agriturismo -- do download detailed driving instructions as a back up.

If you decide to use your phone, make sure you have a car charger to sustain your battery.

Try to avoid cities or towns, as much as possible.
Regular maps and your travel companion - not worth the stress.
Tom Tom gps works well there and can be used here too.
Hard copy Michelin maps as a last resort backup if your GPS isn't working for some reason, plus sometimes it's nice to have the bigger view that only a map can give.

Garmin will work in most cases. Although all the Italian Consumers' publications rankings I checked place TomTom on first place, however Garmin Nuvi comes closely behind as second or third in their ranking, therefore it's not that bad. It worked for me and was accurate about 90% of the times.

You can find Garmin EU maps microchip for less on Amazon. I bought mine for about $30 something.
A paper map (or paper map booklet) is very useful, especially for planning your day trip, therefore get one. Also as a last resort when GPS technology fails you.

Remember that in Italy road signs nearly always indicate TOWN NAMES not highway numbers. Therefore when you plan your trip on the paper map, mark the towns you will be hitting along the itinerary you choose. If you do that, you won't even need the GPS, just follow the blue signs to the town next in your list.

You can also ask the locals. Even if you don't speak Italian, just learn:
DESTRA (right), SINISTRA (left), DIRITTO (straight ahead), and you're in business.

I'd also suggest using the GPS. I have good luck using a Garmin in Spain, Ireland and the UK, and will be using it in Italy this summer. You can find the maps cheaper, I also got mine from Amazon, and also paid about $30.

Depending on the class of car you rent, you may also get one included in the car and not have to rent, The last few (compact and intermediate class) rentals in Europe had in-dash GPS, but it would be risky to assume yours will have one.