Rome Trip II (Driving)
 

Before I get the usual dire warnings, let me state that I learned to drive in Bombay, and that I have driven myself around many foreign cities, including Rio, Tokyo and Bangkok. I can drive as badly as the best of them! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

My question is: if I don't have any problem with the actual driving, would I be able to find free or paid parking near most points of interest? I'd rather have a car handy than worry about finding cabs or public transportation. Oh, and most of my sightseeing will be on the weekend, so I won't be dealing with weekday traffic and parking restrictions.

Thanks for any advice.

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Vasant

Italy has instituted regulations in many cities that do not allow visitors to drive into the central part. This is true in the bid cites such as Rome, Sienna, Florence, Parma, Reggio and smaller ones such as Gubbio and Citavechio. Therefore, one is forced to find parking in a pay peripheral lot and walk or public transport from there. Rates are usually in the range of 1 Euro per hour.

This said, I firmly believe that driving is the best way to see most of Italy. The exceptions would be Rome and Florence. Just drive defensively, driving in Italy is easier than in Thailand or New York City with the exception of Rome once again.

Enjoy.