Car Rental Rome
Rome seems to have a gravitational pull, attracting travelers and some of the most creative artists and thinkers of every era. There is so much that will surround a visitor, the stunning art and architecture, the magnificence of scale and the lively people. Rome will guarantee an unforgettable visit. A visit to Rome is not complete without a trip to St. Peter's, a view of the panorama from the top of the Spanish Steps at sunset, or a walk around the Colosseum to catch a glimpse of the Forum from the gates. Once you visit, it will become apparent why Rome is called the Eternal City. The language most widely spoken is Italian, but there is also many that can speak enough English to communicate basic information.
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory. Most of the time a service charge (servizio) is included in your restaurant bill. This should not be confused with the cover charge (coperta), which is a charge for bread and table settings. If the service charge is included and you are pleased with the service, it's customary to leave an additional 5%; if the service charge is not included, leave a 10% tip. Hotel staff typically receive 2.50 euros-5 euros. Tipping in taxis is not required either, but a tip of 1 euro or so is commonly given to the driver.
What to Wear
Italians are very conscious about their dress and have a very highly developed sense of style. Casual dress is acceptable for most occasions, but a suit and tie are recommended for business meetings. A jacket for men is advised for Italian restaurants. When visiting the Vatican or any major cathedral, men should wear long pants and women should wear skirts or long pants. Sleeveless shirts and shorts are not permitted in churches or the Vatican, including the Vatican museums.
Driving in Italy
The minimum age to drive in Italy is 18 years. Children under the age of 4 must be seated in a special restraint. The use of seat belts is mandatory both for front and rear seat passengers. Non European licenses and old-style green European licenses must be accompanied by an International Driving Permit.
Fines
Police have the right to revoke your license and to collect fines on the spot. For foreign-registered vehicles, police can collect one-fourth of the maximum fine on the spot. If you contest the fine, you must deposit half the maximum amount in cash for insurance.
Tolls
Tolls are charged on the autostrade. Tickets are obtained upon entry to the expressway system and paid upon exiting.
Speed Limits
| Area |
Limit |
| Expressways |
130 KPH |
| Main Roads Outside City |
110 KM/H |
| Outside the City |
90 KM/H |
| In the City |
50 KM/H |
Expressway speeds are reduced to 110 kph (68 mph) during Saturday and Sunday, the Thursday before Easter through the Wednesday after, midweek national holidays, 20 December to 7 January, and from the Saturday before the second Sunday in July through the first Sunday in September.
Drinking and Driving in Italy
The legal blood alcohol limit is 80 mg in all of Italy.
Parking
Parking is on the right side of the road. Blue Zone or Zona Disco parking has a limited time periods. When parking in these zones from 9am to 2.30pm and 4pm-8pm Mon-Sat (except holidays) your vehicle must display a parking disc. These parking spaces are usually limited to one hour. In Rome, a sign reading zona tutelato indicates that parking is prohibited from 7.30am to 6.30pm on weekdays. Although surprising to many North Americans, punishment for violating this ordinance may include a prison sentence.
Helpful Contact Numbers
Here are some telephone numbers you may find useful during your trip in Rome.
- Police: 113
- Carabinieri (Military Police): 112
- Questura (Police Headquarters): 055 49771
- Fire Brigade: 115
- Urban police Emergency calls: 055 328 333
- ACI car breakdown service: 116
- Medical emergency service: 118
HolidayCity Rome Hotels and Accommodation
Reservation for Rome hotels, accommodation and apartments at discounted rates.
|
