Introduction: Exploring Italy Behind the Wheel
Italy is a land of rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural marvels. From the canals of Venice to the vineyards of Tuscany, and from the ruins of Rome to the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, there is an endless array of wonders waiting to be discovered. But what’s the best way to explore Italy at your own pace? The answer: renting a car. And one of the most recognized names in the car rental industry is Hertz.
In this detailed 2025 review of Hertz Italy, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the car rental experience—from booking and pricing to vehicle selection and customer support. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a solo road trip across the country, this guide will help you decide if Hertz Italy is the right rental partner for your journey.
Why Choose Hertz Italy?
Hertz is a globally renowned car rental company with a robust presence in Italy. Their wide range of locations, modern fleet of vehicles, and established brand reputation make them a top choice for tourists and business travelers alike.
Extensive Network
Hertz Italy has more than 200 rental stations spread across major cities, airports, railway stations, and even smaller towns. This extensive network ensures convenience and accessibility wherever your travel plans take you.
Reliable Fleet
The company offers a wide variety of cars to suit different preferences, budgets, and travel requirements. Whether you need a compact car for city driving or an SUV for mountainous terrain, Hertz has something for everyone.
Modern Technology
Hertz’s mobile app and website make booking, managing, and modifying reservations simple. Their systems are integrated with major travel platforms and offer real-time availability and pricing.
Eco-Friendly Options
With rising awareness around sustainability, Hertz Italy now includes hybrid and electric vehicles in its fleet. This allows environmentally-conscious travelers to reduce their carbon footprint while enjoying the scenic Italian roads.
How to Book a Car with Hertz Italy
Booking a rental car with Hertz Italy is a user-friendly process, whether you’re doing it online, through their mobile app, or directly at one of their physical locations.
Online Booking
Go to the Hertz Italy website or mobile app, enter your pick-up and drop-off locations and dates, and browse the available options. The system also allows for add-ons such as GPS, Wi-Fi, child seats, and extra insurance.
Booking Tips
- Book early during high travel seasons (May through September).
- Compare offers on aggregator platforms but finalize the reservation directly on the Hertz site for the best deals and loyalty points.
- Join the Hertz Gold Plus Rewards program to access benefits like discounts, faster check-outs, and free upgrades.
Vehicle Options Available
Hertz Italy offers an impressive selection of vehicles catering to various traveler needs:
- Economy Cars: Fiat Panda, Opel Corsa — great for navigating narrow city streets.
- Sedans and Compacts: VW Golf, Peugeot 308 — suitable for couples or small families.
- SUVs: Jeep Renegade, Ford Kuga — ideal for rural or mountainous regions.
- Luxury Vehicles: BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class — for those looking to travel in style.
- Electric and Hybrid Models: Tesla Model 3, Fiat 500e — eco-friendly and increasingly supported in major cities.
- Vans and People Carriers: Opel Vivaro, Ford Galaxy — excellent for group travel or large families.
Extras such as ski racks, snow tires, or child safety seats are also available upon request.
Driving in Italy: Things to Know
Before you hit the road, it’s important to understand a few key driving rules and norms in Italy:
- International Driving Permit (IDP): Required for non-EU citizens and must be carried along with your national driving license.
- ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato): Restricted traffic zones in city centers. Only authorized vehicles are allowed, and entering these zones without a permit can lead to hefty fines.
- Tolls: Most highways (Autostrade) are toll roads. You can pay using cash, card, or a Telepass.
- Parking: Look for blue lines (paid parking), white lines (free, usually limited time), and avoid yellow lines (reserved for residents).
- Speed Limits: Generally 50 km/h in cities, 90 km/h on secondary roads, and 130 km/h on highways unless otherwise indicated.
Customer Service Experience
Customer service is a mixed bag based on online reviews. Here are some common themes:
What People Like:
- Fast check-in and check-out procedures at major airport branches
- Friendly and English-speaking staff
- Clean and well-maintained vehicles
- Efficient returns with digital confirmation
Common Complaints:
- Long waiting lines during peak hours
- Additional charges for minor damages — always inspect and document the vehicle
- Insurance upselling at the counter
Travel Tip: Always take photos of the vehicle (interior and exterior) before and after your rental to avoid disputes.
Pricing & Insurance
Hertz Italy is typically not the cheapest, but it provides value through its professionalism and vehicle quality.
Sample Daily Rates (as of 2025):
- Economy: €35–€50
- SUV: €70–€120
- Luxury: €100–€200
- Electric: €60–€100
Insurance Options:
- Basic Insurance: Usually included but comes with a high excess fee
- SuperCover: Eliminates excess and gives peace of mind
- Personal Accident Insurance: Covers medical costs for the driver and passengers
Review your travel insurance policy before purchasing additional coverage.
Hertz Gold Plus Rewards
Hertz’s loyalty program offers significant benefits for frequent renters:
- Free membership
- Earn points for every rental
- Priority service and faster check-ins
- Complimentary upgrades when available
Members can also access special promotions and exclusive vehicle classes.
Comparison with Other Car Rental Companies
| Feature | Hertz Italy | Europcar Italy | Avis Italy | Sixt Italy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Locations | 200+ | 190+ | 180+ | 170+ |
| Vehicle Variety | Excellent | Good | Excellent | Good |
| Customer Service | Mixed-Positive | Mixed | Mixed | Positive |
| Pricing | Moderate-High | Moderate | High | Moderate |
| Loyalty Program | Yes (Gold Plus) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Pros and Cons of Hertz Italy
Pros:
- ✅ Wide coverage and location access
- ✅ Large, reliable fleet including electric vehicles
- ✅ Online and app-based reservations
- ✅ English-speaking staff at most major branches
- ✅ Loyalty program with tangible rewards
Cons:
- ❌ May be more expensive than local or budget options
- ❌ Long wait times during holiday periods
- ❌ Potential for unexpected charges (fuel, cleaning, damage)
- ❌ ZTL violations if not properly briefed
Top Locations for Hertz Rentals in Italy
- Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) – Gateway to Rome and Central Italy
- Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) – Ideal for exploring Northern Italy and the Lakes
- Florence (Peretola Airport) – Great starting point for Tuscany tours
- Venice Mestre – For travel after exploring the car-free city
- Naples Capodichino Airport – Perfect for Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and Sorrento
- Catania & Palermo (Sicily) – Start your Sicilian road trip
Conclusion: Is Hertz Italy Worth It in 2025?
If you’re looking for a reliable, professional, and widely accessible car rental service in Italy, Hertz Italy is a top-tier option. It offers a well-maintained fleet, convenient booking, and extensive location coverage. While it may not be the cheapest, the peace of mind, availability, and customer support can be well worth the price, especially if you’re covering large distances or traveling during peak seasons.
That said, always be cautious of additional fees, read your contract carefully, and inspect your vehicle thoroughly. With the right preparation, Hertz Italy can be your trusted companion for a smooth and unforgettable Italian road trip.
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