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Buses
Sometimes bus service between Italy's major cities can be more convenient
than trains, especially in the south. The major Italian bus company that
operates throughout the country is called SITA, 39 055 47821 or
www.sita-on-line.it
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You may also choose to use the bus to get around one of Italy's major cities
or to take a day trip outside the city. Be sure to validate your ticket
(insert it in the big orange box) when you get on or you could face a fine.
Taxis
Taxis are available in all of Italy's cities and even less-populated areas
as well. Look for a meter inside the taxi and be sure to look for a card
listing sample fares and surcharges (nights, Sundays, holidays, luggage).
For taxi trips outside the city boundaries, fares will be based on distance
and be sure to settle on the fee before you go. Don't expect to just hail
a cab as you might back home. Ask your hotel to call one for you or proceed
to a designated taxi stand. You will see the word "TAXI" on the sign.
Car
If you are a confident driver, you should have no trouble driving in Italy,
just avoid driving in the major cities. It is not worth the headache and the
cost of parking in a lot can be high, about 30 euros per night in Florence,
for example.
The majority of rental cars are manual transmission and you will pay extra
for standard cars, but it is worth it if you are not comfortable with a stick
shift. Italian highways (called autostrada) are well-maintained and offer easy
drives from city-to-city, although the tolls are high. The speed limit is
130 km per hour. Be sure to keep your headlights on, wear your seatbelt and
stay to the right unless you are driving fast. There are plenty of Autogrill
along the highways where you can stop at for food and gas.
For more information: www.autostrade.it
Driving in the Italian countryside can be daunting if you are not used to
steep hills and narrow streets in ancient towns. If you are just making a
stop, you may want to park just outside the town. You must do this for
instance in San Gimignano.
You need an International Driver's Permit (IDP) to drive in Italy. The IDP
is a translation of your American driver's license. You can get one for
$10 through AAA (American Automobile Association) at www.aaa.com. While
you do not need to show the IDP when you rent a car, but might if you are
stopped by the police. Also bring your regular driver's license from home,
you must show this at the rental counter.
Another good resource for driving in Italy is the Automobile Club d'Italia
(ACI) at 39 06 49981 or www.aci.it.
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