Holidays in Italy: places to avoid when driving
Driving around Europe is no small thing. There are differences in traffic lights, few signs and language barriers to contend with. At least in Italy you drive on the same side of the road as in the United States. Navigating traffic in […]
Driving around Europe is no small thing. There are differences in traffic lights, few signs and language barriers to contend with. At least in Italy you drive on the same side of the road as in the United States. Navigating traffic in cities like Rome and Milan can be tough, but the countryside presents its own set of obstacles. When planning a driving vacation, places along the way can be difficult to navigate. But, if you have your heart set on doing it yourself, don’t be discouraged!
If you’ve thought about driving in Italy, you’ve probably already heard horror stories about the streets of Rome. For starters, traffic during rush hour is bumper to bumper. In reality, there are no “lanes” for drivers to stick to, so they all pile into the streets trying to get to their own destinations. This can lead to frightening movement and movement. Before turning green, you should look both ways several times to make sure the coast is clear.
Car rental companies are well aware of the dangers of driving in Rome. If you decide to rent a car in the city, you can bet your insurance will be nearly double the cost of renting the car. In fact, you can save money by taking taxis or hiring a driver.
Experiencing the bucolic countryside is a must for many tourists. While driving in the countryside is much easier than in Rome or even Milan, there are still things you need to be aware of. Maps of the countryside do not provide much detail, and there is generally a lack of signage in rural areas. You should give yourself at least twice as much time to travel as you anticipate. If you don’t, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on the wine tasting you booked or lose your spa reservation.
Staying in a beautiful villa in Tuscany is the pinnacle of many people’s vacations. Places like San Gimignano, a medieval town nestled in the province of Siena, are sure to be unforgettable. However, you cannot drive inside the city walls. They do have parking areas, but they quickly fill up with tourists during the day.
Be aware of the facts before planning any driving trip in Europe. Places like Rome will be a huge hassle to get through and places like San Gimignano may not allow driving at all! With the proper research and planning, your trip could be the experience of a lifetime.