Rome combines ancient landmarks, Renaissance architecture, lively neighbourhoods and some of Europe's most famous historic sights. A hire car is rarely necessary for exploring the historic centre, but it can be very useful for travelling beyond the city into Lazio, Tuscany and the surrounding countryside.
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Rome Quick Facts
- Region: Lazio
- Country: Italy
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Driving side: Right
- Main airport: Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO)
- Other airport: Rome Ciampino Airport (CIA)
- Popular areas: Historic Centre, Trastevere, Monti, Prati and Testaccio
Pickup Locations in Rome
Popular Rental Types in Rome
Why Visit Rome?
Rome offers an extraordinary concentration of history, architecture, art and culture. Visitors can explore the Colosseum and Roman Forum, walk through historic piazzas, visit the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain or cross into Vatican City. Much of central Rome is best explored on foot or by public transport, while a hire car becomes more useful for journeys outside the historic centre.
Top Attractions in Rome
Colosseum
The Colosseum is one of Rome's most famous landmarks and forms part of the archaeological area that also includes the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
Roman Forum
The Roman Forum contains the remains of temples, public buildings and monuments that once stood at the centre of ancient Roman life.
Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is Rome's best-known fountain and one of the most recognisable Baroque landmarks in the city.
Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of ancient Rome's best-preserved monuments and stands in the heart of the historic centre.
Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is one of Rome's most famous public squares, known for fountains, architecture, cafes and street life.
Vatican City
Vatican City is home to St Peter's Basilica, St Peter's Square and the Vatican Museums and is surrounded by the city of Rome.
Getting Around Rome
Rome has Metro, bus, tram and suburban rail services, and many major attractions in the historic centre can be reached on foot. Driving in central Rome can be challenging because of congestion, narrow streets, limited parking and restricted traffic zones. A hire car is usually more useful for travelling beyond the central districts or for continuing your journey elsewhere in Italy.
Why Rent a Car in Rome?
Hiring a car in Rome gives you the flexibility to explore destinations outside the capital, including Tivoli, the Castelli Romani, Orvieto and parts of Tuscany. It is particularly useful for rural destinations and multi-stop journeys where public transport may be less convenient. For sightseeing within the historic centre itself, public transport and walking are generally easier.
Popular Day Trips from Rome
- Tivoli — Around 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Castelli Romani — Around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the destination
- Orvieto — Around 1 hour 30 minutes
- Naples — Around 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes
- Southern Tuscany — Around 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the destination
Airport Information
Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO), also known as Leonardo da Vinci Airport, is the main international airport serving Rome. Car rental offices are located in Torre Uffici 2, which is connected to the terminal areas by pedestrian passages and tunnels leading towards the multi-storey car parks. Rome Ciampino Airport (CIA) also serves the city and is used by a number of European airlines. Always check which airport and collection location are shown on your booking.
Driving in Rome
Vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road in Rome and throughout Italy. Central Rome contains restricted traffic areas known as ZTL zones, where access may be limited to authorised vehicles during certain times. Entering a restricted zone without permission can result in a fine, so drivers should check current rules and follow their rental company's guidance. Traffic and parking can be difficult in the historic centre, making a car more suitable for journeys outside central Rome.
About Rome
Compare airport and city car rental locations in Rome. Book online securely and compare leading suppliers.
Exploring Rome by Car
Car rental in Rome gives you flexibility to travel between airport, city and surrounding areas without depending entirely on fixed transport schedules. It can be especially useful if you plan to visit multiple destinations during your trip.
Before booking, compare pickup locations, vehicle sizes, fuel policies and supplier terms. Booking online in advance can help you find better availability, especially during busy travel periods.
Car Hire Tips for Rome
- Compare airport and city pickup points before choosing your rental location.
- Check parking rules and local traffic restrictions before driving into central areas.
- Book early during holidays, conferences and peak travel seasons.
- Choose a vehicle size that suits your passengers and luggage.
Related Car Rental Destinations in Italy
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth hiring a car in Rome?
A car is usually unnecessary for sightseeing in central Rome, but hiring one can be very useful if you plan to explore Lazio, Tuscany or other destinations outside the city.
Can I hire a car at Rome Fiumicino Airport?
Yes. Rome Fiumicino Airport has car rental facilities connected to the terminal area, with offices located in Torre Uffici 2.
Do cars drive on the right in Rome?
Yes. Vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road in Rome and throughout Italy.
Does Rome have restricted driving zones?
Yes. Rome has restricted traffic zones known as ZTL areas. Access rules vary by location and time, so always check current restrictions before driving into central Rome.
Do I need a car to get around central Rome?
Not usually. Many famous attractions are within walking distance of each other and Rome also has Metro, bus and tram services. A hire car is generally more useful outside the historic centre.
Can I drive from Rome to Tuscany?
Yes. Rome is a convenient starting point for road trips into southern Tuscany, with many towns and countryside destinations reachable within a few hours.