Driving to Italy

Driving to Italy – What to know before you go

Planning a road trip to Italy? Great choice! Travelling by car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace – especially if you’re heading to a beautiful region like Le Marche. We’ve put together some useful tips to help you on your way.
From the UK, most travellers take the Eurotunnel or ferry to France and then drive south via Switzerland or Austria. The total distance to southern Le Marche is around 1,500 to 1,700 km, depending on your route.
The Swiss route is shorter, but not always faster – especially in summer, when queues for the Gotthard Tunnel can be long. Many travellers prefer to break the journey with an overnight stay en route.
Don't forget: you'll need a motorway vignette to drive in Switzerland or Austria. You can buy these online or at petrol stations before entering the country. If you're travelling from the UK, the AA or RAC can also provide them.

Travelling by electric car

Thinking about travelling to Le Marche in an electric vehicle? No problem at all.
There are plenty of fast-charging stations along the main motorways, and in and around our holiday homes you’ll find more and more public chargers – sometimes even on a picturesque village square.
Most charge points accept UK and EU charge cards, and some motorway stations even accept debit or credit cards. Make sure to check in advance which charging card offers the best coverage in Italy.
Charging points are not always clearly signposted and in-car navigation systems aren’t always up to date – many new stations have recently been added. We recommend following your satnav anyway – it usually gets you where you need to go.

Driving in Italy

Driving in Italy can feel a little… different. Italians are known for their passionate driving style and often interpret road rules creatively. Don’t expect every turn signal to mean something – and don’t be surprised if someone forgets to cancel it altogether.
On the motorway, middle-lane driving is common and speed limits are more like guidelines to some. You'll also notice frequent use of mobile phones behind the wheel, so stay alert if a car is swerving or braking suddenly.
On rural roads, you may be overtaken by someone who thinks they're driving a Ferrari – just let them pass. But you’ll also find older locals driving slowly in vintage Fiats. Be patient and overtake safely when you can.
Speed limits in Italy are:
- Autostrada (motorway): 130 km/h
- Superstrada (dual carriageway): 100 km/h
- Provincial roads: 90 km/h

We recommend sticking to the rules as you would at home – it keeps things safe and hassle-free.

Parking in Italy

Parking can be a challenge – many Italian drivers don’t leave much room. Make sure you’re not boxed in and always leave enough space to get out easily. If in doubt, choose a spot that gives you a quick getaway.

Tolls and the Telepass

Italian motorways are toll roads. To avoid waiting in long queues at the toll booths, we highly recommend getting a Telepass. You can order one online before your trip – but be sure to do this early, as they tend to sell out in high season.
The Telepass allows you to use the yellow Telepass lanes at toll gates, where your license plate is scanned and the toll fee is automatically charged to your account. Fast, simple, and ideal for stress-free travel.
Italian motorways are generally well maintained. Provincial roads are also fine, though you might encounter the occasional pothole – so keep your eyes open, especially in rural areas.

Busy travel days in Italy

During the summer months, Saturdays are the busiest days on the Italian motorways. July is usually manageable, but August – especially the first and last weekends – can be extremely busy. This is when many Italians go on holiday themselves.
Traffic around Bologna is often particularly heavy in the morning, with jams in both directions. The best tip: leave early and you’re more likely to beat the rush.
Our suggestion: arrive in Le Marche a day earlier and book a hotel nearby. This way, you avoid traffic stress and start your holiday feeling relaxed.