We will be traveling to Italy in a couple of weeks. We have rented a car for a portion of our stay. Are the roads self explanatory as in other countries, or do I have to learn something about them before we go? Thanks for any help.
Posted by
United States
223 posts
Elle -
Super great! I see now the blue lines, where I was afraid to park (missed a great dinner out of fear), and the first two traffic signs that look like underwear - how I stiffled the giggles! Thanks!
Posted by
San Francisco Bay Area (USA)
16234 posts
The road signs in Italy are the same used throughout Europe and are based on the International Convention of Road Signs and Signals signed in Vienna in the late 1960's. Below is a comprehensive refresher. Most are self explanatory but some are not to most Americans, since there is nothing similar in the US (in the US most signs are English words, rather than symbols), so learn those well: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Road_signs_in_Italy In particular, the ZTL warning sign is very important to learn. This is it: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Italian_traffic_signs_-_divieto_di_transito.svg As mentioned in Elle's excellent post:
No cruising on the left lane (passing lane only) on freeways. Also, no turn on red light signal, ever.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32402 posts
Linda, Don't forget that EACH DRIVER will require an International Driver's Permit, which is compulsory for driving in Italy. These are used in conjunction with your home D.L.