Why you should lease instead of rent a car in Italy

Italy is well-known for its bustling metropolitan cities full of ancient heritage, but for an off-the-beaten-path experience, you are better off avoiding the crowds and visiting the smaller, more rustic towns that not even the trains can reach. By driving your own car in Italy, you have the freedom to explore any area that catches your eye, all at your own pace. You can stop to stretch your legs or catch the sunset from a special viewpoint- the choice is yours when you’re in control.

Now that you’ve decided you want to drive through Italy, the first question is: which car hire should I choose? Of all the considerations to make, your priorities should be safety, cost, and convenience. For these reasons and more, read on to see why you should choose a short-term lease instead of a traditional car rental in Italy or anywhere else in Europe.

7 Reasons You Should Choose a Short-term Lease from Auto France

1. You get a brand-new car

Choose between multiple configurations of 11 brand-new Peugeot models direct from the factory. Ranging from small compact cars and touring sedans to passenger vans and SUVs available in either manual or automatic, you are sure to find an option that will not only be fun to drive but will get you to your destination safely and in style.

2. You will save money

The all-inclusive rate is shown up-front and drivers benefit from considerable savings, especially for reservations longer than 10 days. For more information on rates or for a quote, click here. 

3. You get unlimited mileage

The biggest advantage of driving your own car in Italy means you can be spontaneous and take as many detours as you please. With unlimited mileage allowances, you can happily take the scenic route without having to worry about extra fees when you return the car.

4. You get full comprehensive insurance

A traditional car rental reservation may advertise an eye-catching low price, but before you make your decision be sure to read into everything you will be responsible or liable for in the event of an incident. With a short-term lease through Auto France, your rate includes insurance coverage with no excess, and full coverage for third party liability and theft in 38 countries.

5. You get 24-hour roadside assistance

All Peugeot models are equipped with enhanced safety features and are rated for reliability, but if anything were to happen our drivers have access to 24-hour roadside assistance from Peugeot.

6. You get a full factory warranty

Should your car need any sort of repair, a short-term lease vehicle is covered under a full factory warranty. Though all brand-new Peugeots are thoroughly inspected and meet the highest standards, a full-factory warranty gives you, the driver, extra reassurance that you are covered whenever you need it.

7. You don’t get charged extra for one way drop offs or airport fees

Short-term leases are designed to delight the driver, rather than surprise you with unexpected charges and fees like many other traditional car rental companies often do. We encourage our drivers to enjoy their cars to the fullest and we understand that your travels may take you across the country or across the continent, giving you the convenience of one-way drop offs, no airport fees, and no fees for additional drivers.

Tips for Driving in Italy

• Be prepared for Toll Roads - In Italy, toll roads can be relatively expensive compared to other European countries. Always carry cash on you in case you come across a toll plaza that doesn’t accept credit cards. You can plan ahead by clicking here to check out rates and more info on the exact routes you will be traveling. 
• Pay attention to Driving Signs - Highways and Toll Roads in Italy display signs both for speed limits (kilometers per hour outlined in a red circle) and for speed minimums (kilometers per hour shown on a blue circle). Limited Traffic Zones or Zona Traffico Limitato “ZTL” signs are depicted by a white circle in a red circle. In these areas, cars and motor vehicles are not permitted. Even if a road looks like it has plenty of space for a car, look out for these signs because you can be ticketed by a camera without even getting pulled over.
• Don’t drink and drive - The blood alcohol limit is 0.05 in Italy, which is lower than is allowable in many states across the US. Even a glass of wine can take you over the limit, so if you are drinking it would be a good idea to take your time, stay the night, and sober up before getting on the road.
• Passing lanes - Drivers in Italy can have a reputation for being aggressive, but knowing what to expect as a visitor can make your experience safer. Especially on highways, slower traffic stays to the right, and if someone wants to overtake you while in the fast lane, the safest thing to do is to move to the right and let them pass on the left.
• Carry an International Driving Permit - Though it’s not always necessary to reserve or pick up a vehicle in Italy, an IDP can be helpful if you happen to get pulled over, are involved in an incident, or witness an incident. Read our blog post on International Driving Permits to read about what they are and how to apply for yours.

Planning a trip or a multi-city vacation in Italy can be an exciting but overwhelming experience. Let Auto France take care of arranging your on-the-ground transportation so you can focus on whatever it is that brings you to Italy, whether it be for fun or for work. Along with all of the benefits of a short-term lease comes piece of mind that you are in good hands. Click here to learn more about eligibilty for the Auto France Open Europe program, or click here to start your reservation.

Auto France has three locations in Italy: Milan Malpensa, Milan Linate, and Rome Fiumicino.

More on Italy:

The Ultimate Road Trip Through Northern Italy

How to Live in Italy for 3 Months, 6 Months, or 1 Year