What to know before hiring a car with DoYouItaly
Italy is one of the most visited countries year after year, and no wonder why: its universal gastronomy, with pasta and pizza as icons, its beautiful landscapes, its historical monuments, and the charm of each of its regions; it’s easy to understand why it’s a perfect destination to enjoy a getaway.
To travel around it in the most comfortable and flexible way, it is essential to hire a car. That’s where DoYouItalycomes in: a trusted platform that’s become a favourite among travellers for its reliability, ease of use, and low prices.In this article, we will show you everything you need to know before hiring a car in Italy, from the basic requirements to practical driving tips, insurance, fuel policies, and the advantages of booking in advance.
When planning a trip, transport is usually one of the biggest concerns: from how to get from the airport to the city, to how to move around the different cities and regions of Italy. Although it’s true that Italy has an excellent railway and bus network, this falls short if you want to get around quickly, without having to depend on public transport.
DoYouItaly is a car hire comparison site that partners with the main rental companies in Italy, from the industry’s big names to local suppliers, offering the lowest prices by comparing in real time.
- Lowest prices guaranteed: always shows the cheapest available option.
- Wide coverage: you can hire a car practically anywhere in Italy.
- Great variety of vehicles: from small cars to get around cities to SUVs or vans.
- Simple process: booking takes just a few minutes and comes with immediate confirmation.
It is basically the fastest and cheapest way to find a low-cost hire car in Italy.
1. Minimum and maximum age
- The minimum age to hire a car is usually 21 years old.
- Drivers under 25 may be charged a “young driver fee.”
2. Valid driving licence
- EU citizens can use their regular driving licence.
- Travellers from outside the EU will need an International Driving Permit along with their national licence.
3. Required Documentation
- A valid ID card or passport.
To be able to hire a car, it is essential to present a card in the name of the main driver. Normally, companies request a credit card, although in some cases the conditions may vary, so it’s advisable to always check the booking terms before confirming.
The card is used to hold the deposit for the full duration of the rental. Keep in mind that, as a general rule, debit cards aren’t accepted for this purpose, unless in very specific cases and under extra conditions.
Quick tip: check that your card has enough available credit before your trip. It’ll help you avoid any issues when picking up the vehicle.
Insurance is one of the most common concerns when hiring a car in Italy. With DoYouItaly, you’ll see exactly what each rate includes before confirming your booking, making the process clearer and more transparent.
- Basic insurance. All vehicles come with third-party insurance that includes an excess. This means that if the car is damaged, the driver is responsible for covering part of the cost, up to the excess amount.
- Platinum insurance. During the booking process, you can add extra coverage that protects the excess. If the car is damaged and the company charges you, you’ll be able to claim that amount back. This coverage also includes protection for windows, mirrors, wheels, and tyres. It’s often more affordable than the insurance offered at the rental desk and gives you peace of mind from the start.
- Company insurance. Alternatively, you can purchase additional coverage directly at the office when you pick up the vehicle.
Tip: If you want to drive worry-free, it’s best to choose a policy that reduces the excess. That way, you’ll avoid unexpected charges when returning the car.
Another important point when hiring a car with DoYouItaly is the fuel policy:
- Full/Full: you pick up the car with a full tank and return it full. It’s the most cost-effective and transparent option.
- Full/Empty: you collect the car full and return it empty, having paid for the fuel in advance along with a handling fee.
As for mileage, most hire cars in Italy come with unlimited kilometres. However, some low-cost deals may include a daily limit. It’s always wise to check the terms before confirming your booking.
DoYouItaly allows you to collect your hire car at airports, train stations, or central offices in major Italian cities. Popular pick-up points include Rome Fiumicino, Milan Malpensa, Venice Marco Polo, Florence, and Naples.
- Inspect the car before driving off: check for any existing damage and make sure it’s noted in the rental agreement.
- Keep the handover report: it can help avoid problems when returning the vehicle.
- Return the car on time: Late drop-offs may incur extra charges.
While our website has a dedicated section for common queries, here are answers to some of the most frequent ones:
What if I arrive late to collect the car?Car hire offices usually hold your booking for a limited time. If your flight is delayed, it’s best to notify the company in advance.
Can I add additional drivers?Yes, extra drivers can be added to the contract, though this often comes with a small surcharge.
How does roadside assistance work?Most rentals include basic roadside assistance. You can also purchase extra cover for added peace of mind.
Hiring a car in Italy is the best way to discover the country with total freedom. From the lakes of the north to the Amalfi Coast, through historic cities and hidden villages in Tuscany, everything becomes more accessible with your own vehicle.
DoYouItaly offers cheap, easy-to-book car hire with reliable service, thanks to its real-time price comparison system and extensive network of offices in airports and cities across Italy.
If you want to experience Italy without limits, don’t hesitate: book your car with DoYouItaly and start planning your adventure today.
