re: Anyone drive themselves around in Italy?

Watch for ZTL zones in towns to avoid fines. Parking is limited; use lots outside centers. A smaller van or SUV works best for tight roads. Have full insurance and cash for tolls and parking.

we returned from Italy.

Appreciate all the comments.

We had a Nissan X-Trail, seemed similar to a Nissan Rogue here. Actually a larger SUV for there it seemed. It was fairly new and an auto.

I split driving with BIL. The primary roads, like the Strada which is similar to our interstates but toll roads, were easy to drive for the most part. The non-Strada could get narrow and confusing in towns.

The exit/entries to the Strada could be confusing and throw in unattended toll boths.

Parking in towns was scarce unless there was a parking garage. and spaces are small.

Secondary roads were often narrow and switchbacks were common in the Dolomites and near Lake Como and Garda. These could still have buses and semis on them and more than once we had to stop and back up to let them go by.

Motorcycles and scooters pass anywhere they feel like and Italian drivers like to tailgate. Tons of cyclists everywhere, esp in the Dolomites so had to watch for them.

Fuel as about 1.73 euro/liter. Paid by credit mostly tho once the central pay kiosk didn't recognise US cards so we had to use cash. A number of pumps are now unattended with no store. Just pumps.

Also had to buy extra insurance as neither my CC nor car insurance would cover Italy.

Was a great trip... esp the food!

Did you stay in Ortisei? It was our base and we loved the town.

The Dolomites were all that they are alledged to be. Spectacular.

Yes, the rural areas have really narrow roads. And if you aren't driving 50km over the speed limit, stay out of the left lane. Use the wazz app, it tracks speed cameras pretty well. If the camera is green, it's working. A red x means the Italians either stole the camera, or painted the lens. Don't be surprised the Italians aren't afraid to tell gate and yell. They know you don't have a weapon. Look closely and you'll see most vehicles have scratches and dents, it's called the Italian kiss.

The roads in the Dolomites aren't really narrow. There are two full lanes everywhere. Vehicles also tend to drive under the speed limit in that region once in the mountains because of the switchbacks and curves everywhere. And tourists driving.