Renting a car in Florence is one of the best ways to explore Tuscany with freedom and ease. While the city itself is a masterpiece to be discovered on foot, having your own vehicle gives you access to charming hill towns, scenic wine roads, and coastal escapes that are difficult to reach by public transportation. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family trip, or a solo adventure, a rental car offers flexibility that transforms your entire experience.
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Why Renting a Car in Florence is Worth It
Florence is strategically located in central Tuscany, making it the perfect launching point for unforgettable road trips. Within a one to two-hour drive, you can reach iconic destinations like Chianti, Siena, San Gimignano, Lucca, Pisa, or the rolling hills of Val d’Orcia.
But the real magic of Tuscany often lies beyond the typical itineraries. With a rental car, you can easily explore lesser-known gems like Certaldo, a medieval village that feels suspended in time, or San Galgano, where the ruins of an ancient abbey house a mysterious sword in the stone.
Along the road between Florence and Pisa, San Miniato is another delightful stop—famous for its truffles, panoramic views, and quiet charm.
Another rewarding detour is Vinci, the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci, where visitors can dive into the life and genius of the Renaissance master through interactive museums set among olive groves and vineyards.
You might head south to Pitigliano, the dramatic “Little Jerusalem” carved into volcanic rock, or take a scenic drive west to the Tuscan coast and relax in places like Castiglione della Pescaia, a charming seaside town popular among Italians but still overlooked by most international travelers.
Or, for something entirely different, consider heading north into the Mugello region. This area remains under the radar for most tourists and offers tranquil countryside views, curvy roads, and authentic Tuscan life.
You can spend a peaceful afternoon by the Lago di Barberino di Mugello, browse the Barberino Designer Outlet, or explore historic villages like Scarperia, known for its handmade knives, and Borgo San Lorenzo, where time seems to move a little slower. It’s a refreshing detour for those craving a quieter, more local experience of Tuscany.
Renting a car lets you leave the crowds behind and discover the authentic, quiet corners of Tuscany that make the region truly unforgettable.
If you’re planning to stay overnight in the countryside, don’t miss our selection of 7 charming hotels in the Tuscan countryside—perfect for making the most of your rural escape.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Florence
To rent a car in Florence, you’ll need a valid driver’s license and a credit card under the name of the main driver.
Visitors from outside the European Union, including the United States, should carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their home license.
Most rental companies require the driver to be at least 21 years old, and often apply additional fees to drivers under 25.
Make sure to read the rental conditions carefully. Pay attention to insurance coverage, fuel policies, mileage limits, and the amount that will be blocked as a security deposit. Booking in advance through Discover Cars allows you to compare options and secure better prices.
Choosing the Right Vehicle
Your choice of car should reflect your travel plans.
Compact cars are ideal for city driving and short day trips. If you plan to stay in the countryside or travel with luggage or family, consider a more spacious model.
For those looking for a sustainable option, electric vehicles are increasingly available in Florence. I tested this myself and shared my experience with renting an electric car in Tuscany.
Automatic transmission cars are available but limited in Italy, so if you don’t drive manual, be sure to reserve early.
Cost of Car Rental in Florence
Rental prices in Florence vary by season and vehicle type.
In low season, you can find rates starting at around €20 per day. During peak summer months, especially in July and August, prices may rise to €70–€90 per day or more.
Expect a refundable deposit between €200 and €1,000 to be held on your credit card.
Extras like GPS, child seats, additional drivers, and full insurance coverage will increase the total cost, but they may be worth the convenience and peace of mind—especially if you’re planning to drive long distances or park in tight Tuscan villages.
Check the best car rental rates in Florence through our partner Discovercars.com:
What to Do When Picking Up Your Rental Car
Once you’ve completed the paperwork and received your keys, don’t rush to drive off just yet. Taking a few minutes to carefully inspect your rental car can save you a major headache later on.
Before you leave the lot, check that the vehicle is in perfect condition—both inside and out. Look for any scratches, dents, or signs of wear, no matter how minor they seem. If you notice anything unusual, be sure to report it to the rental agent immediately and have it noted in your rental agreement.
To be extra safe, we recommend taking photos and a short video of the entire car—especially the front bumper, rear bumper, wheels, and side panels. Capture a full walk-around in good lighting, and don’t forget to photograph the dashboard showing the fuel level and mileage. This step takes less than five minutes but could be essential if there’s any dispute when returning the car.
While it’s rare, there have been reports of rental agencies trying to charge for damages that were already present. That’s why we suggest renting only from companies with strong reviews and high customer satisfaction scores.
In short: document everything upfront, ask questions if something looks off, and drive away with peace of mind.
Driving in Florence and Tuscany
Driving in Florence presents specific challenges, mainly due to the ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato)—a restricted traffic zone in the historic center. Unauthorized entry can result in fines, even if done unknowingly. To avoid issues, it’s often easier to pick up your rental at Florence Airport (Peretola) or at locations outside the ZTL area.
Outside the city, driving in Tuscany is generally pleasant. Roads are well-maintained, and traffic is light compared to larger cities.
Just remember to carry your documents at all times and pay attention to speed limits: usually 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h on rural roads, and up to 130 km/h on highways.
Scenic Routes and Day Trips from Florence
One of the most iconic drives is the Chiantigiana Road (SR222), connecting Florence to Siena through rolling hills and vineyards.
You can also head south to the Val d’Orcia for postcard-perfect landscapes and stops in Montepulciano, Pienza, and Montalcino.
Alternatively, a westward route takes you to Pisa, Lucca, or the Etruscan Coast for a mix of history and sea views.
For those looking to escape the typical tourist trail, the Mugello region, just north of Florence, is a hidden gem. Known for its peaceful countryside, twisting roads lined with cypress trees, and authentic Tuscan villages, Mugello offers a slower, more intimate experience of the region. It’s perfect for travelers who want to discover Tuscany’s natural beauty beyond the postcard highlights.
Having a car gives you the freedom to build your own itinerary, stop spontaneously for photos, and enjoy roadside restaurants or farm stands along the way.
One great example is Fattoria Il Palagio, a family-run spot where you can taste traditional Tuscan dishes —an ideal detour for a truly local dining experience.
Fuel, Charging, and Parking Tips
Most gas stations in Italy are self-service and accept credit cards, although some only accept local payment systems. Keep cash on hand just in case.
If you’re driving an electric vehicle, plan your charging stops in advance using apps like Enel X or On the Road.
Check the average weekly fuel prices in Italy here. Remember that gasoline is called “benzina” in Italian. There are also vehicles that run on diesel—“gasolio”—as well as gas-powered cars using GPL or metano.
Parking in Florence can be difficult. Blue lines indicate paid parking (you’ll need coins or a local app like EasyPark), white lines are free, and yellow lines are reserved.
Many hotels offer private parking or can help you find nearby garages.
If you’re staying within the ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato), it’s essential to notify the front desk as soon as you arrive with a rental car. Most hotels located in restricted zones can register your license plate with the local authorities, allowing you to enter the ZTL legally without receiving a fine—but this must be done promptly and correctly.
Always provide your license plate number to the reception upon check-in or arrival. Outside Florence, parking is generally easier and more affordable, especially in small towns where street parking is more accessible and restrictions are less strict.
Toll Roads and Driving Costs
Calculate toll costs on the official Autostrade per l’Italia website.
Highways in Italy are not free. When you enter the highway (Autostrada), you’ll take a ticket, and upon exit, you pay based on the distance traveled. Most toll booths accept credit cards or cash. Some rental cars come equipped with a Telepass device, which allows you to use the dedicated fast lanes—but be sure to confirm this with your rental agency before assuming you can use it.
If your car doesn’t have Telepass, do not enter the Telepass-only lane. These lanes are clearly marked, usually in yellow with the word “solo Telepass”.
Entering without the device will block the system and force you to reverse—something that happens more often than it should and creates unnecessary traffic jams and dangerous situations. Always choose a lane marked for cash (“contanti”) or card (“carte”) if you’re not using Telepass.
Insurance and Safety Considerations
Italian rental cars usually come with basic insurance, but full coverage is highly recommended. It protects you from unexpected costs in case of damage, theft, or minor accidents.
Discover Cars offers coverage options that are easy to understand and book alongside your rental.
If something goes wrong, take photos, notify the rental company immediately, and fill out any required forms before returning the car.
Returning Your Rental Car
Before returning your vehicle, refuel to the agreed level, remove any trash or personal belongings, and check for visible damage. Taking a few photos of the car’s condition is always a smart move. Make sure to return the car on time—late drop-offs often trigger extra fees.
Final thought: Renting a car in Florence is your ticket to a more personal, flexible, and authentic Tuscan adventure. From quiet countryside drives to the vibrant rhythms of small-town life, a car lets you experience it all. I personally recommend booking through Discover Cars. If you’re planning to explore beyond Florence, there’s truly no better way to travel.
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