I'm hesitant to rent cars while we are in Provence & Tuscany areas. I've heard stories about agressive drivers, thieves & narrow roads. We want to see some of the hard to get to areas, but is it worth the stress of driving? Any advice/suggestions would be appreciated.
Posted by
winston salem, nc, usa
1078 posts
Have used rental cars in both areas, and, yes, the roads are narrow and you don't want to leave anything visible in the cars, however, have never had any real trouble, other than getting used to a stick again. The best part is stumbling on a local vineyard or cheese factory, and stopping in a tiny village to get food for a picnic!
Would suggest you buy a GPS here, and load the maps, and check www.expedia.co.uk for rentals. It's my choice for good rates, however, you will get lots of advice and opinions.
Posted by
Los Angeles, CA, USA
1449 posts
We've driven in the Tuscany and Umbria areas. No question that a car lets you get easily between hilltowns and out into the countryside, and to stop at local fairs and other spur-of-the-moment things you see while driving along. The car you rent will probably be a lot smaller than you're used to, so pack light! Don't leave anything visible in the car. But in a few weeks of car rental total we never had a problem; in fact the roads are very well marked although they can be narrow, especially if you're staying in a hilltown and parking at the hotel instead of leaving the car outside of it.
I second the advice about bringing a GPS loaded with country maps; its easy to get between towns without one, but once inside them the streets are a dizzying array. The GPS will keep working with you if you miss a turn, and many have features that either show parking lots on the map or will actually let you choose them as an attraction of the town. Since the screen is small, I'd recommend also getting a Michelin map of the area so you can get a sense in your head of where you're going before you set out.
Get the full insurance coverage offered by the car company. To drive in Italy you must have an International Drivers Permit; $15 at your local AAA, plus photo. And look up "ZTL italy" so you know how to avoid restricted areas with expensive fines and speed-trap cameras (which actually have signs saying you're approaching one!)