Someone suggested the train - but you stated specifically you want to drive thru three countries. Therefore, you have to pay the price to do so. In addition, different countries have different taxes and insurance regulations - all of which adds to the price.

One potential alternative is to do multiple rentals, one for Italy, one for France, then one for Spain. It may reduce the price, but maybe not. Try Europecar.com.


We want to spend some time driving along the Amalfi coast and thenm into france across to Barcelona

This is a very circuitous route.