Driving in Umbria

Lamborghini Murciélago coupé

Italy’s automobile history is long and glamorous, with A-list car manufacturers including well-known names such as Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati.
The timeless styling of Italian cars can often be attributed Pininfarina, an Italian design house, which has been responsible for creating the looks of many famous super-cars.
The iconic Alfa Romeo Spider is the work of Pininfarina as is the Maserati Birdcage which took its inspiration from new, futuristic ideas rather than re-working features from past classic models.
With such an impressive automobile history, there really is no better place to think of for a driving holiday than Italy.

The region of Umbria in particular has diverse countryside, perfect for enjoying long drives along winding roads which pass rows of olive trees, vineyards, pretty villages and Aleppo pine groves. Furthermore, the Apennines provide beautiful mountain terrain, equally perfect for exploration.

Jean Paul Sia from the Umbrian Tourist Board says “Away from the big crowds, this small piece of land blends art, food, nature and culture in perfect harmony. Driving is a wonderful way to get to know this fascinating region”.

For the ultimate driving holiday rent your favourite Italian car, whether it is a dependable Fiat Grande Punto or a flashy Lamborghini Murciélago coupé, and relax as you soak up the fantastic sights of Umbria.

Car Driving Guide for Italy

• If you have a UK issued driving license, you do not need an international driving permit to drive in Italy.
• You must be over 18 to drive in Italy
• Keep right and overtake on the left
• Trams and trains have right of way
• Seatbelts are compulsory for both front and rear seats, failure to comply with this rule can result in fines for both the driver and the passengers
• Vehicles approaching from the right have right-of-way at crossings

Speed limts for

• Urban areas is 31mph (50kmph)
• Minor out of town roads 56mph (90kmph)
• Major out of town roads 68mpm (110kmph)

It is compulsory to carry a spare tyre, triangle and reflective safety jacket
Third-party insurance is compulsory
Tolls are levied on the more popular motorways
In urban areas, horns are only used for emergencies
It’s compulsory to use dipped headlights during the day on two-lane motorways.

Article by Stephanie Sheehan

A final word. These are the laws for driving in Italy but with the Italian’s reputation and my own experience including driving in Rome I would add this side note.
(Not to be taken seriously):
To drive like the Italians and be able to keep up with the traffic flow: –
“Put your foot to the floor, ignore everyone else, and don’t worry about the dents.”

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Cliff Chapman
www.traveljunkies.com
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