Italy is one of those destinations that fill a lifetime of memories: art everywhere, unique cities, alpine lakes, dream coastlines and, of course, the best food in the world. Exploring it by motorhome is a delight, though it has a few quirks (especially city ZTLs) worth knowing about to avoid nasty surprises. Here are ideas and warnings.
Route ideas from north to south
- North: the lakes (Como, Garda, Maggiore), the Dolomites for the mountains, and cities like Venice, Verona or Milan.
- Centre: Tuscany (Florence, Siena, its hills and vineyards), Rome and Umbria.
- South: the Amalfi Coast, Naples and Pompeii, Puglia and its trulli.
- Islands: Sicily and Sardinia, worlds of their own.
The big warning: ZTLs
Italian cities have ZTLs (limited traffic zones) in their historic centres, monitored by cameras. Entering without a permit means a guaranteed fine (and sometimes several, for driving through). With a motorhome, don't even go near the centre: park on the outskirts and go in on foot or by public transport. [Note: how ZTLs work and their penalties under current Italian regulations.]
Areas and overnight stays
Italy has a decent network of designated areas (the "aree di sosta"), though not as many or as cheap as France. Free overnight parking is more regulated depending on the region. Use the apps to find areas and campsites; we cover them in the best apps.
Other practical tips
- Tolls on motorways; consider alternative routes to see more.
- Heavy traffic in urban areas of the south; patience and a calm attitude help.
- Don't try to cover too much: Italy is worth several trips; pick one area.
- Enjoy the local food in each region; it's half the point of the trip.
In summary
Italy offers top-tier art, landscape and gastronomy for a motorhome trip, with the key caution of never driving your vehicle into a city's ZTL. The step you can take today: if you're planning Italy, find out about the ZTLs in the cities you'll visit and always park outside them; it's the mistake that causes travellers the most fines. Link it with the routes through Europe.
