Renting a Car in Italy: Drive a Convertible Along Scenic Roads


André Freitas September, 2025

Enjoying the journey, not just the destination. That’s the mantra of many travelers who explore the world. In fact, what better way to do that than behind the wheel of a luxury car, like a convertible? Especially when driving through Italy’s most iconic landscapes. Therefore, with that in mind, here’s a guide to the country’s most enchanting roads, where renting a car in Italy turns into an unforgettable experience.

Tuscany: Golden Hills and Medieval Villages

Viale dei Cipressi in Bolgheri

Towering cypress trees lining this road turn your drive into pure poetry. Although not very long, the scenery is breathtaking, connecting San Guido to the medieval village of Bolgheri. For that reason, each year, thousands of visitors travel this route, marveling at its unique, almost surreal beauty.

SR 222 – Via Chiantigiana

Stretching for about 100 kilometers, this road starts in Florence and ends in Siena. In other words, you can drive it in roughly two hours. The route looks like a film set, with rolling hills covered in olive groves and cypress trees. Moreover, you’ll find medieval hamlets, castles, fine restaurants, and charming shops selling local products, making the journey even richer.

Amalfi Coast: Curves, Cliffs, and Colorful Villages

SS163 – Amalfi Drive

Often ranked among the most beautiful roads in the world, the SS163 is a series of hairpin curves carved into cliffs that plunge straight into the turquoise Mediterranean. Meanwhile, colorful villages like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello are nestled between mountains and sea, creating a cinematic backdrop.

Here, renting a car in Italy means more than just moving from place to place. On the contrary, you’ll feel the warm breeze, smell the lemon trees, and fall under the spell of every viewpoint. In a convertible, the experience becomes even more immersive, letting you savor every detail of this natural and architectural masterpiece.

SP366 (Agerola – Praiano)

The SP366 winds down from the mountains to the coast, linking Agerola with Praiano and Positano. Along the way, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the deep-blue sea and the colorful cliffside houses. As a result, this road is perfect for travelers seeking excitement, this road combines dramatic curves, panoramic viewpoints, and the charm of alpine villages infused with Mediterranean flair.

Ravello – Scala – Minori Road

For travelers renting a car in Italy, the climb up to Ravello and Scala is an invitation to explore towns perched high above the sea. Indeed, vineyards, historic gardens, and flower-filled terraces frame the landscape. Then, on the way down to Minori, unforgettable panoramas combine culture, nature, and the authentic flavors of the Amalfi Coast.

Piedmont: Wine Routes and Gourmet Journeys

SP3 – Strada Provinciale Alba–Barolo

In Piedmont, driving is a sensory journey that goes far beyond the landscapes. Here, winding roads lead you through hills blanketed with centuries-old vineyards, historic castles, and villages frozen in time. Therefore, if you’re renting a car in Italy, stops in Barolo and Barbaresco are a must, birthplaces of some of the world’s most prestigious wines.

At every turn, you’ll be tempted by local cuisine: Alba’s white truffles, artisanal cheeses, and fresh handmade pasta. In addition, in a convertible, the aroma of the vineyards and the crisp air make the drive even more memorable. Here, the road itself becomes as important as the destination.

SP58 Barolo – Monforte d’Alba

The SP58 meanders through Piedmont’s hills, offering panoramic views of the Barolo and Monforte d’Alba vineyards. Meanwhile, in the distance, the Alps frame the scene, creating postcard-worthy moments. This is the ideal route for travelers eager to pause for photos, tastings, and breathtaking views.

SP125 La Morra – Barolo

Short but charming, the SP125 links La Morra to Barolo, crossing terraced vineyards and historic villages. Along the way, it’s perfect for exploring boutique wineries, tasting local vintages, and capturing images of the region, this road blends rustic charm with culinary luxury, delivering a unique Piedmont experience for anyone renting a car in Italy.

Northern Lakes: Como, Garda, Maggiore

Strada Regina (SP583) – Lake Como

The Strada Regina hugs Lake Como’s eastern shoreline, connecting Como to Colico. Along the way, it offers sweeping views of turquoise waters framed by mountains. So historic villas, lush gardens, and hidden coves make for perfect photo stops. Especially in a convertible, each curve reveals picturesque panoramas and elegant architecture, blending nature with sophistication.

Via Gardesana Occidentale (SS45bis) – Lake Garda

This road follows Lake Garda’s western shoreline, linking Limone sul Garda to Salò. Famous for its smooth curves and scenic viewpoints, it offers unforgettable vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains. Moreover, along the way, travelers can explore charming towns, vineyards, and lakeside restaurants, turning the trip into a feast for the senses.

SS34 del Lago Maggiore – Lake Maggiore

On Lake Maggiore, the SS34 is a panoramic route that connects several lakeside towns and offers views of the Borromean Islands. Blending history, culture, and nature, it invites you to explore historic villages, stroll through gardens, and relax in lakeside cafes. Consequently, this cinematic route is ideal for travelers seeking luxury and exclusivity while renting a car in Italy.

Sicily and Sardinia: Coastal Roads and Seaside Towns

SS113 (Cefalù – Taormina) – Sicily

The SS113 runs along Sicily’s northern coast, linking Cefalù to Taormina. For that reason, you’ll find dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and the shimmering Mediterranean. Furthermore, renting a car in Italy allows you to explore historic towns and culinary stops, turning the trip into a complete luxury travel experience that blends driving, scenery, and culture.

SS125 Orientale Sarda – Sardinia

In Sardinia, the SS125 stretches along the island’s eastern coast, offering access to secluded beaches, traditional villages, and natural wonders like the Gorropu Gorge. Here, the drive combines adventure and relaxation, with authentic towns, breathtaking viewpoints, and untouched landscapes. Therefore, it’s perfect route for those dreaming of renting a car in Italy.

Discover Italy’s Iconic Roads with Cieli di Toscana

The travel designers at Cieli di Toscana have the expertise and passion to craft the perfect itinerary for travelers wishing to rent a car in Italy and drive through Tuscany or beyond. Contact us and uncover Italy’s cinematic roads on a tailor-made journey.

André Freitas is a copywriter and has traveled to 28 countries, always juggling to include Italy in the itinerary, which resulted in 19 cities and a list of tips.