Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Make sure you understand what is included in the price (unlimited kilometres, tax, insurance, collision
damage waiver and so on). Also consider vehicle size carefully: high fuel prices, extremely narrow streets
and tight parking conditions mean that smaller is always better.
MOTORCYCLE
Agencies throughout Tuscany rent everything from small Vespas to larger touring bikes.
Most agencies will not rent motorcycles to people aged under 18. Many require a sizeable deposit, and
you could be responsible for reimbursing part of the cost of the bike if it is stolen.
You don't need a licence to ride a scooter under 50cc. The speed limit is 40km/h, you must be 14 or over
and you can't carry passengers. To ride a motorcycle or scooter between 50cc and 125cc, you must be aged
16 or over and have a licence (a car licence will do). For motorcycles over 125cc you will need a motor-
cycle licence.
On a motorcycle, you can ride freely in the heart of cities that have Zona a Traffico Limitato (ZTLs; Lim-
ited Traffic Zones), including Florence.
Driving Licence
All EU member states' driving licences are fully recognised throughout Europe. Drivers with a non-EU li-
cence are supposed to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) to accompany their national licence,
though anecdotal testimonies indicate that this rule is rarely enforced.
Fuel & Spare Parts
Italy's petrol (gas) prices are among the highest in Europe and vary from one service station
(benzinaio,
stazione di servizio)
to another. During the time of research, lead-free gasoline (
senza piombo;
95 octane)
averaged €1.73 per litre, with diesel
(gasolio)
averaging €1.61 per litre. Many petrol stations are unattended
at lunchtime, at night and on weekends; at these times credit cards may be used for payment (note, though,
that not all foreign cards are accepted).
Spare parts are available at many garages or via the 24-hour ACI motorist assistance number (
803
116).
Insurance
Always carry proof of vehicle ownership and evidence of third-party insurance. If driving an EU-registered
vehicle, your home country insurance is sufficient. Ask your insurer for a European Accident Statement
(EAS) form, which can simplify matters in the event of an accident.
Parking
Parking spaces outlined in blue are designated for paid parking (look for a nearby ticket machine and dis-
play the ticket on your dashboard). White outlines indicate free parking; yellow outlines indicate that resid-
