Is driving from Stuttgart for 4 active seniors with time on their hands a good ideas?we are staying in Germany for 2 weeks [Home exchange.com]..then driving to Rome Oct.19-27 and taking a cruise back to the states.We would like to see some of Switzerland...then to Lake como area..along the Italian coast and on to Rome.Should we book rooms or just find them as we go???
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32212 posts
Geri,
I'm not sure rental car will be the most cost effective option, as you'll be picking up the car in Germany and dropping it in Italy. There are often substantial charges for dropping a car in a different country.
For driving in Italy, you'll also require the compulsory International Driver's Permit (obtainable at any AAA office for very reasonable cost). This must be used in conjunction with your home D.L., and each driver must have an I.D.P.
You'll also need to be aware of the dreaded Zona Traffico Limitato zones that are now quite prevalent in many Italian towns (especially Florence). These operate with automated Cameras and if you unknowingly drive through one (or more) of these, you'll receive expensive ticket(s) in the mail a few months after you return home.
My preference would be to use well planned rail trips, as I'm sure it would be less stressful.
Good luck!