Auto Europe makes renting a car quick, easy and affordable.
The International license you refer to is really an International Drivers Permit, which merely translates your state drivers license into another language. It is NOT optional. It is required by Italian law. Kent is right about obtaining it at AAA.
Shop the rental agencies for the best rate and rent your car in ADVANCE regardless of the agent nationality. Request a diesel with auto transmission. You may get it.
Ask your local insurance agent if you are covered where you will be. And ask what he recommends you do about the CDW. I always ask my agent each time I go and in the past he has always told me NOT to buy because I am covered. If I have a problem he tells me to give it to him.
Avoid driving a car in a large city. There is very little parking and traffic will drive you nuts. Take local transportation such as bus, subway or train.
Yes, rent a car for Tuscany; Florence is a good base. Take your car at a Florence suburban office if possible. Visiting those small towns will be much more convenient than riding the train or bus. Buy a good highway map when you arrive in Florence. You will be glad you did.
And buy the GPS if available for your car. In Italy it is well worth the expense:
RENTAL INCLUDES
* Sales tax as of Booking Date: 22-Aug-2008. * Unlimited mileage and fire insurance. * Liability Insurance for injuries or damages to persons or things outside the vehicle.
* Rental includes Theft Protection for the vehicle. Rental limits potential vehicle loss liability to deductible of approximately $955 USD..
* Rental includes Collision Damage coverage Rental limits potential vehicle damage liability to deductible of approximately $955 USD.
* Airport surcharge for rentals commencing at an airport location.
RENTAL DOES NOT INCLUDE
* Gasoline or Diesel. Client is advised to return the vehicle with a full fuel tank and to retain copies of gas receipts.
* A road license fee of $2.65 USD/day, with a maximum charge of 18 days.
* Local toll, highway fees or travel stickers which may be required by local authorities
Please Note: Equipment may not be available at all locations and is on request only. Additional charges may apply and are charged locally at time of pick-up.
*GPS units come with a free map for one destination country. Rental cost is determined by the date of departure from the US and return date to the US. If you select this option, we will advise of all costs before any charges are made.