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Best car rentals in Italy: Comprehensive guide
Explore the best car rental companies in Italy, explaining where they operate, how to book, and what services they offer.
Italy is one of those countries where the journey itself is part of the experience. While trains and buses connect major cities quite efficiently, they don’t always take you to the place that truly makes Italy special. Hilltop villages in Tuscany, coastal drives along the Amalfi coast, small vineyards in Piedmont, or hidden beaches in Sardinia are often far easier to reach when you have your own vehicle.
For frequent international travelers, digital nomads, and long-term visitors, renting a car can offer a level of flexibility that public transport simply cannot match. Instead of adjusting your schedule to train timetables or tour groups, you decide when to leave, where to stop, and how long to stay.
Renting a car becomes especially convenient when exploring multiple regions, traveling with family, visiting rural destinations that trains and buses rarely reach. It also allows travelers to combine city visits with scenic road trips, which is one of the best ways to experience Italy’s diverse landscapes.
In this guide, we’ll walk through some of the best car rental companies operating in Italy. You’ll learn where they operate, what services they offer, whether you can book online, and how flexible their rental options are. Whether you plan to pick up a car at a major airport or inside a historic city center, this guide will help you understand the options available.
Which are the best car rental companies in Italy?
Italy has a well-developed car rental market, with both international brands and strong domestic providers operating across the country. Most of these companies maintain offices in major cities, tourist destinations, and international airports, making it relatively easy to pick up or return a vehicle wherever your journey begins or ends.
International companies often provide standardized service, multilingual support, and large fleets, while local companies may offer competitive pricing and a better understanding of regional travel needs. Many travelers combine both approaches, comparing providers before deciding which rental company best fits their itinerary and budget.
Below are some of the most reliable and widely available car rental companies in Italy.
Europcar
Europcar is one of the most established car rental companies in Europe. Founded in 1949 in Paris, the company gradually expanded across the continent and eventually built a global network serving travelers in more than 140 countries. Because of its long history in Europe, Europcar is particularly well integrated into Italy’s tourism and transport infrastructure.
Offices across Italy
Europcar operates in most major Italian cities and tourist hubs. Travelers can find offices in Rome, Milan, Florence, Venice, Naples, Bologna, Turin, Palermo, and Catania. In addition to city locations, the company maintains branches in popular tourist regions where road travel is common, including coastal areas and major cultural destinations.
Booking options: Online and in person
Renting a vehicle in Europcar can be done either online or directly at one of its rental offices. Online reservations are widely used because they allow travelers to compare vehicle categories, check availability in specific cities, and secure pricing before arrival. However, travelers already in Italy can also rent in person at Europcar counters.
Additional services available
Europcar offers a broad range of vehicles, from compact cars designed for navigating historic city streets to larger SUVs and family vehicles suited for longer road trips. Travelers can also request optional services such as GPS navigation systems, child seats, extended insurance packages, and additional driver registration.
Presence in Italian airports
One of Europcar’s biggest advantages is its strong presence in international airports. Travelers arriving in Rome Fiumicino, Milan Malpensa, Venice Marco Polo, Florence airport, and Naples international airport will usually find Europcar counters in the arrivals area or nearby rental facilities.
One-way rentals between cities
Europcar supports one-way rentals between many Italian cities. This means travelers can pick up a car in one destination and return it in another, which is particularly useful for road trips through multiple regions in Italy.
Hertz
Hertz is one of the oldest car rental companies in the world. Founded in 1918 in the United States, the company has grown into a global brand with operations in more than 150 countries. In Italy, Hertz has developed a broad network that serves both international tourists and domestic travelers.
Offices across Italy
The company operates branches in major Italian cities including Rome, Milan, Florence, Venice, Naples, and Turin. In addition to large urban centers, Hertz also maintains offices in smaller tourist destinations and regional transport hubs.
Booking options: Online and in person
Travelers can book Hertz vehicles online through its website or mobile application before arriving in Italy. This approach is often preferred because it allows travelers to review availability and rental conditions in advance. For those who prefer more flexibility, rentals can also be arranged directly in person at Hertz counters.
Additional services available
Hertz provides a diverse fleet that includes economy vehicles, midsize sedans, SUVs, and Luxury cars. Some Italian locations also offer electric or hybrid vehicles. Additional services may include roadside assistance coverage, GPS navigation, child safety seats, and premium insurance packages.
Presence in Italian airports
Hertz maintains offices in many of Italy’s busiest airports. Travelers can find Hertz rental desks at Rome Fiumicino airport, Milan Malpensa airport, Venice Marco Polo airport, and Naples international airport, making it convenient to begin a road trip immediately after landing.
One-way rentals between cities
One-way rentals are commonly available with Hertz. Travelers frequently use this option when planning routes that start in one city, such as Milan, and end in another destination such as Rome and Florence.
Sixt
Sixt is a German mobility company founded in 1912. Originally established with a small fleet of vehicles, the company has grown into one of Europe’s largest car rental providers and is known for maintaining a modern fleet with premium vehicle options.
Offices across Italy
In Italy, Sixt operates in several key cities including Rome, Milan, Florence, Venice, Bologna, and Turin. The company’s offices are typically located near major transportation hubs such as airports and train stations, which makes them accessible to travelers arriving from abroad.
Booking options: Online and in person
Sixt allows travelers to reserve vehicles online through its websites or mobile application. This system makes it easy to compare car categories and prices before traveling. Cars can also be rented in person at Sixt counters, although availability may vary depending on demand.
Additional services available
One of Sixt’s distinguishing features is the modernity of its fleet. Many of its vehicles are newer models and include well-known European brands such as BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz. The company also offers additional services such as GPS systems, child seats, winter tires, and expanded insurance coverage.
Presence in Italian airports
One of Europcar’s biggest advantages is its strong presence in international airports. Travelers arriving in Rome Fiumicino, Milan Malpensa, Venice Marco Polo, Florence airport, and Naples international airport will usually find Europcar counters in the arrivals area or nearby rental facilities.
One-way rentals between cities
One-way rentals are available across many Sixt locations in Italy, making it easier for travelers to design flexible road trip itineraries without needing to return to the original pickup location.
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Enterprise Rent-A-Car was founded in 1957 in the United States and has since grown into one of the largest vehicle rental networks worldwide. In Italy, Enterprise operates through a mix of company branches and partnerships with local providers.
Offices across Italy
Enterprise locations can be found in several major cities including Rome, Milan, Florence, Venice, and Naples. These offices are often located in central districts or near transport hubs where travelers are likely to need rental vehicles.
Booking options: Online and in person
Cars can be reserved online before arrival through Enterprise’s website, which allows travelers to review vehicle options and rental policies in advance. Rentals can also be arranged directly at Enterprise branches throughout Italy.
Additional services available
Enterprise provides a range of vehicles suitable for different travel needs, including compact city cars, family sedans, SUVs, and vans for larger groups. The company also offers optional services such as roadside assistance packages, additional driver coverage, and navigation systems.
Presence in Italian airports
Enterprise operates in many major airports across Italy such as Rome Fiumicino, Milan Malpensa, Venice Marco Polo, Florence airport, and Naples international airport, making it convenient for international travelers to pick up vehicles shortly after arrival.
One-way rentals between cities
One-way rentals are generally available between Enterprise locations, though additional fees may apply depending on the distance between pickup and return points.
Locauto
Locauto is a well known Italian car rental company founded in 1979. Over the years, it has developed a strong domestic reputation and has partnered with international networks, which helps connect Italian rental services with global travelers.
Offices across Italy
Locauto maintains offices in numerous cities including Rome, Milan, Florence, Venice, Bologna, and Naples. The company is also present in several train stations and major travel centers.
Booking options: Online and in person
Travelers can reserve vehicles through the company’s online platform or directly at rental counters. Online booking is generally recommended during busy travel seasons.
Additional services available
The fleet includes compact city vehicles, sedans, SUVs, and larger vans suitable for group travel. Optional equipment such as seats and navigation systems can be added during booking.
Presence in Italian airports
Locauto operates counters in many Italian airports like Rome Fiumicino, Milan Malpensa, Venice Marco Polo, Florence airport, and Naples international airport as well as domestic airports between cities.
One-way rentals between cities
One-way rentals are available in many cases, though travelers should verify availability and potential fees when making reservations.
Leasys (Fiat Group)
Leasys is the official mobility brand of the Fiat Group, one of Italy’s most recognized automotive manufacturers. Created to provide flexible vehicle access solutions, Leasays focuses on short-term rentals, long-term leasing, and car-sharing services built around Fiat’s automotive ecosystem. Because of its connection to the Fiat Group, Leasays has grown rapidly in Italy and has become a recognizable option for travelers who prefer driving Italian-made vehicles.
The company has expanded steadily across the country in recent years, integrating traditional car rental services with digital mobility platforms. For visitors interested in experiencing brands such as Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Jeep, or Lancia, Leasys offers a fleet that reflects Italian automotive design and engineering.
Offices across Italy
Leasys operates rental locations in many major Italian cities including Rome, Milan, Turin, Florence, and Bologna. Since Fiat’s headquarters are located in Turin, Northern Italy tends to have a particularly strong Leasys presence, though the network extends throughout the country.
The company’s offices are often located near transportation hubs such as train stations, central city districts, and airports, making them accessible for travelers arriving through multiple modes of transport.
Booking options: Online and in person
Leasys emphasizes digital mobility, so many travelers choose to reserve vehicles online through the company’s website or mobile platform. This system allows users to browse vehicle categories, check availability, and arrange pickup times before arriving
For those in Italy, rentals can be also arranged directly at Leasys offices where staff assists customers with vehicle and documentation.
Additional services available
Because Leasys is connected to the Fiat Group, the fleet primarily consists of vehicles produced by Fiat and its associated brands. This includes compact urban vehicles such as Fiat 500, larger family models, and SUVs from Jeep or Alfa Romeo.
The company also integrates short-term rentals with flexible services such as subscription-style mobility plans and car-sharing options in certain cities. These options can be appealing for travelers who do not need a car every day of their trip.
Presence in Italian airports
Leasys operates rental points in several major Italian airports, including locations in Rome, Milan, and Turin. This allows international visitors to begin their journey quickly after landing.
One-way rentals between cities
Depending on the location and vehicle category, Leasys allows travelers to pick up a car in one city and return it in another. Availability can vary by location, so confirming the return policy during booking is recommended.
Avis
Avis is one of the world’s most recognized car rental companies, founded in 1946 in the United States. Over the decades, the company has developed a large international network and now operates in more than 165 countries. Italy represents one of its strongest European markets due to the country’s high tourism volume.
Offices across Italy
Avis operates throughout Italy with branches in major cities such as Rome, Milan, Florence, Venice, Naples, Bologna, and Turin. The company also maintains offices in numerous tourist regions, and positioned near train stations and central districts making it accessible for travelers planning to explore different parts of the country.
Booking options: Online and in person
Vehicles can be reserved online through Avis website, which allows customers to compare categories, select insurance coverage, and confirm pricing before arriving in Italy.
Travelers who prefer more flexibility can also rent vehicles directly at Avis counters in city locations or at airports. However, during busy travel periods, advance booking is often recommended to ensure availability.
Additional services available
Avis offers a wide selection of vehicles ranging from compact cars to luxury models and SUVs. Some locations also provide hybrid or electric vehicles for travelers seeking environmentally conscious options.
Additional services may include GPS navigation systems, child safety seats, extended insurance packages, and additional driver options. Avis also offers loyalty programs that frequent travelers may find useful.
Presence in Italian airports
Avis maintains a strong presence in many major Italian airports including Rome Fiumicino airport, Milan Malpensa airport, Venice Marco Polo airport, and Naples international airport.
One-way rentals between cities
Avis supports one-way rentals between many Italian cities. Travelers frequently use this option when planning routes that start in one destination and end in another, such as driving from Milan to Rome or from Florence to Venice.
Sicily by Car
Sicily by Car is an Italian car rental company founded in 1963. Originally established in Palermo, the company began by serving travelers visiting Sicily and gradually expanded its operations across Italy.
Today it has become one of the country’s best known domestic rental brands, particularly popular among tourists exploring southern Italy and the Islands.
Offices across Italy
Although the company began in Sicily, its network now extends to many Italian cities including Rome, Milan, Florence, Venice, and Naples. However, it remains especially strong in southern regions such as Sicily and Sardinia.
Booking options: Online and in person
Travelers can reserve vehicles online through the Sicily by Car website, which allows them to compare prices and categories before arriving. Rentals can also be arranged directly at local offices, particularly in airports and tourist areas.
Additional services available
The company offers a wide range of vehicles suitable for different travel styles. These include small city cars, family sedans, SUVs, and larger vehicles for group travel. Optional services include insurance packages, additional driver registration and navigation systems.
Presence in Italian airports
Sicily by Car operates in several Italian airports including Palermo, Catania, Rome, Milan, and Venice. Its strong presence in Southern Italy makes it a more convenient option for travelers exploring Sicily and nearby regions.
One-way rentals between cities
The company generally allows one-way rentals between many of its occasions across Italy. This option is frequently used by travelers planning road trips that begin on the mainland and end in Sicily or vice versa.
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Choosing the right car rental in Italy for your trip
Renting a car in Italy can transform the way you experience the country. While trains and buses connect the major cities efficiently, they rarely reach the small villages, countryside landscapes, coastal drives, and rural wineries that many travelers dream of visiting. Having your own vehicles allows you to travel at your own pace, stop whenever something catches your attention, and explore regions that are often overlooked by traditional tourist routes.
In this guide, we explored eight reliable car rental companies operating across Italy. International providers such as Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, Enterprise, and Avis offer extensive fleets, strong airport presence, and standardized service. Meanwhile, Italian companies like Locauto, Leasys, and Sicily by Car bring valuable local expertise and often competitive pricing, particularly in regional destinations and Southern Italy.
Choosing the right provider usually comes down to factors such as vehicle availability, pickup location, and whether you plan to return the car in the same city or a different one. With options available in major airpots and cities across the country, these rental companies make it easy to start exploring Italy on your own terms.
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English Copywriter at Holafly, I'm committed to sharing tips that will make your travel experiences memorable. Over the years as a writer and strategist, I've managed teams across multiple industries - SaaS, tech, real estate, and personal brands. I wrote my first book as a child and have been writing ever since, cooking and reading are a few ways I explore my world.
