renting a car for driving in Europe

Make arrangements here before you go. You have time on your side and can shop for the best deal. Once you're there, you don't want to be wasting half a day trying to compare things.

The only advantage I can see to making your arrangements once you're there is that you wouldn't have to be locked-in to a specific day. But that's a small price to pay, and unless you really do not plan out your trips much, I can't think of any good reasons not to make arrangements well before leaving.

Hessie,

I'd strongly advise renting the car from the U.S. You might want to speak with a travel agent, as they can sometimes get some good deals.

I've used both methods and in my experience it always costs more if renting in Europe.

Where in Europe were you planning to drive?

Cheers!

Make arrangements before you go. Check out AutoEurope at www.AutoEurope.com for online rates. You can always call them and change the dates or cancel the rental.

I, too will be renting a car in Europe - to drive around Tuscany for the week and then plan on using it for the drive with 6 adults to Venice. Does anyoone know where is the best place to plan on dropping the rental car off once we get to Venice?

Ken is correct... it's almost always MORE expensive to book a rental car once you are here in Italy. Booking through a US site, even AutoEurope, seems to always be cheaper. Sometimes I can get a decent walk-up fare but we primarily try to book through US sites. If you are driving in Italy, do not forget to get your IDP before you come - IT IS THE LAW here in Italy.... this post might help explain the IDP: CLICK HERE