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With its historical sights, dramatic scenery and globally beloved cuisine, Italy draws in visitors from all over the world. If you want to see as much of this unique country as possible, renting a car is a must. Whether you’re drawn to the lakes and mountains of the north or the coastal roads of the south, having your own set of wheels lets you get off the beaten track and create your own adventure. You can pick up an Avis rental vehicle from any of the country’s major airports, train stations and city centres (including on the islands of Sardinia and Sicily), and leave the hustle and bustle of city life behind as you set off in search of the rolling hills of Tuscany or the crystal-clear waters of Lake Garda. Take a look at these popular road trips for inspiration, and get ready to enjoy a taste of la dolce vita…
1. Amalfi Coast
When it comes to classic road trips, the Amalfi Coast is right up there with Route 66. This part of southern Italy is characterized by colourful hillside towns, beaches backed by towering cliffs, and the kind of views you’ll want to splash all over Instagram. Collect a car from Naples International Airport or Naples Central Train Station, and drive south for just over an hour to either Sorrento or Ravello (depending on which direction you want to travel in). From there, take your time hopping between popular coastal towns including Positano and Amalfi. This part of Italy is also home to Mount Vesuvius and the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, which are situated halfway between Naples and Sorrento. Take the time to explore the ruins that were buried in ash during the volcanic eruption of AD 79.
2. Tuscany
If your idea of an Italian vacation involves rustic villages, fields of olive groves and roads lined with tall cypress trees, Tuscany won’t disappoint. Start your trip in Florence or Pisa, taking a couple of days to soak up the art and architecture, before making the short drive into the Tuscan countryside. Popular destinations in the region include the picturesque towns of Siena, Lucca and Arezzo (all just over an hour’s drive from Florence), with their lively piazzas and medieval towers. Every drive in this part of the country is a scenic one, but for the crème de la crème of views, make your way south towards Val d'Orcia (1 hour 45 minutes from Florence). The entire valley has been declared a UNESCO world heritage site thanks to the spectacular countryside that’s inspired countless paintings over the centuries.
3. The Italian Lakes
With their crystal-clear waters, imposing mountainous backdrops and exclusive waterside resorts, the Italian Lakes are the ideal destination for some R&R. There are four main lakes to explore – Lake Garda, Lake Como, Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta – all within a 2-hour drive of Milan. Spend a few days at each or base yourself in one spot and use your rental car to head out on day trips. If you’re looking to be in the heart of the action, Lake Garda, the biggest of the bunch, is your best bet. Almost 100 miles of shoreline provide ample hiking, cycling and watersport opportunities, and the main towns offer up plenty in the way of boutique hotels and gourmet restaurants. Plus, if you fancy a spa day, the town of Sirmione, on the southern shore of the lake, boasts some of the best thermal springs in Italy. For a bit of a quieter vibe, Lake Orta, the smallest of the four, is a great place to stay – especially outside the busy summer months.
4. Sicily
The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily combines classic Italian culture with its own distinct character and charm. If you want to pack historical sites, great beaches and delicious food into one trip, look no further. It’s easy to tag on a visit to Sicily with some exploration of other parts of Italy. Direct ferries run from ports in Naples (8 hours 30 minutes) and Rome (14 hours 30 minutes) and you can take your hire car on with you. Alternatively, you can travel as a foot passenger and pick up a vehicle at an Avis station in Palermo or Taormina. Highlights of a vacation to Sicily include hiking mighty Mount Etna and working your way through the glut of street food stalls in the chaotic capital city, Palermo (popular local delicacies include arancini and cannoli).
5. Puglia
The heel of Italy’s boot doesn’t usually top the list of the country’s most popular road trips, but that’s exactly its appeal. This up-and-coming region showcases the best of Italy, with the added bonus of fewer crowds and lower prices. Pick up a rental car from Bari (there are Avis rental stations at the airport and downtown) and enjoy a leisurely drive south. Within 45 minutes, you’ll reach the charming coastal town of Monopoli, with its pretty whitewashed old town and traditional fishing harbour that looks out over the bright blue waters of the Adriatic Sea. From there, continue your hop down the coast before heading inland for a taste of culture and history in Lecce, dubbed the Florence of the South (1 hour 55 minutes from Bari) and Gallipoli (2 hours 15 minutes from Bari).
Book Your Car Rental to Explore Italy
Enjoy these beautiful Italian destinations with the freedom of a car rental.