What You Need to Know About Bike/Car Rental in Naples, Italy

If you’re planning to travel across the old European streets of Naples in Italy in a rented vehicle, you have landed on the right page. Yes, bike/car rentals are easily available in the city. Spare a few minutes to go through this blog post, and you will know everything you need to know about bike/car rentals in Naples, Italy.

In this blog, I have spilled all the beans on how to book vehicles, the best places to drive in Naples, whether an international driving permit is required, traffic rules, parking, and so on. To put a full stop to all your worries and have a hassle-free driving experience in the birthplace of pizza – Naples, keep reading till the end.

To learn about solo travel experience in Naples, you can read my blog post on My Ultimate Solo Travel Guide to Naples, Italy.

Is it a good idea to rent a bike/car in Naples?

A big YES to that! It is not only a good but a great idea to rent a bike/car for travel in Naples. Even though I loved walking around the streets of Naples and taking public transportation, having my wheels made my stay in Naples much more enjoyable and convenient.

Now, let me debunk the myth: renting a car in Naples is not as expensive as it appears. In fact, it is less expensive than hiring a cab. Aside from that, renting a vehicle will give you more freedom and flexibility on your solo female trip to Italy. You can save time on public transport and explore the city the way you want. To top it off, driving through the Mediterranean city with the wind in your hair is way too much fun and a one-of-a-kind experience.

I can sense that you’re already convinced to rent a vehicle in Naples. But whether it is a bike or a car, make sure to inspect everything before renting it.

Where to find bike/car rentals in Naples, Italy?

So, now that you’re going to have the time of your life driving in Naples let’s see where to find such rentals in the city. Well, it is a relatively easy task as many rental agencies are in and around the city. However, the ones located at the international airport are the best.

For renting cars in Naples, you can rent one in the airport’s main terminal or take a quick shuttle ride to the stop. Car rental in Naples starts from a minimum of 25 Euros. Some of the best car rental agencies are as follows:

1. Avis

Address: Ret, Lev-1, P.za Giuseppe Garibaldi, 137, 80142 Napoli NA, Italy

2. Hertz

Address: P.za Giuseppe Garibaldi, Piano -1, 80142 Napoli NA, Italy

3. Europcar

Address: Corso Meridionale, 60-62, 80143 Napoli NA, Italy

4. Sixt

Address: Viale F. Ruffo di Calabria, 80144 Napoli NA, Italy

If you want to rent a bike, there are several options too. You can choose between a motor scooter and an electric scooter. Or even the classic Italian scooter, the Vespa. You must have heard about the Vespa craze. This iconic traditional scooter is so well-known that it inspired an entire Hungarian film.

Now that you know which bike to ride, here are some bike rentals you can look into without burning a hole in your pocket:

1. Napolirent

Address: Calata Trinità Maggiore, 28, 80134 Napoli NA, Italy

Contact no: +39 081 1925 9711

2. Noleggio Scooter – Alfa Rent

Address: P.za Giuseppe Garibaldi, 92c, 80142 Napoli NA, Italy

Contact no: +39 081 1816 8139

3. Rent Vespa Sprint SRL

Address: Via Santa Lucia, 32, 80132 Napoli NA, Italy

Contact no: +39 339 830 6592

Important documents required for car and bike rental in Naples, Italy

If you’re above 18 and have all the required documents, renting a bike or car will be a cakewalk for you in Naples. Make sure to carry the following documents:

• Carry your updated driver’s license from your homeland. It is the first and most important document that makes or breaks rental deals. 

• Not a European resident? Make sure to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) as per European law. You might not have to show it in rental agencies, but if pulled by the police, there’s a high possibility of paying a hefty amount as a fine (probably the last thing you want to do). Check the process of getting an IDP (you may have to pay around $20 as a registration fee) and get it done before you start steering through the streets.

• It is always wise to carry your passport 24X7, as it works as your international ID.

• A credit card is required to make the payment. But talk with the rental companies as there are no refunds (sadly)!

What is driving and traffic like in Naples?

The old streets of Naples are my absolute favourite. But driving in Naples is a challenge. I’m not trying to scare you in any way. The roads are just narrow and filled up with roundabouts. It may initially perplex you. I have seen even pro drivers take time to get the hang of it. 

Traffic in Naples is always hectic, especially in the city centre. But once you know the rules and are conscious of the congestion, you will be fine. Keep in mind the speed limit (30km/h) and keep your eyes open for the ZTL zones – Zona Traffico Limitato (limited traffic zones). These areas are delineated in red and white. You will have to park your rental vehicle outside the area and explore the places on your foot (the best way to explore Naples). 

Pro tip: If you mistakenly enter the zone, do not panic. Stay calm and inform the police officer to avoid paying any fines.

Where can you park your rented vehicle in Naples, Italy?

You can park your rented vehicle in any paid parking or ANM parking in Naples. You can even park your vehicles for free in your hotel’s parking. But remember that parking your vehicle in the free area might be unsafe. The safest place to park in Naples has to be a place with official attendants. The paid parking can cost you around 1.50 to 25 euros per day.

Is Naples more bike or car-friendly?

You might need clarification about whether a car or a bike will be appropriate for your time in Naples. All I can say about this is it depends upon the mode of vehicle you prefer. If you love a sense of adventure, opt for a bike. In case you are on a leisurely solo vacation, a car is the best option. 

However, bikes are a better choice for exploring the narrow alleys of Naples.

Here are some tips to have the best bike/car rental experience in Naples, Italy!

• Compare the prices and read the reviews online to make sure to book the right one (that’s what I did).

• Another thing you must look out for is whether the company requires an initial payment or not. 

• Check the mileage the company is offering. Many people tend to overlook this part and end up paying way more. If you’re planning to roam around Naples and take multiple day trips to Amalfi Coast, Caserta – Royal Palace of Naples, Vesuvius National Park, etc., I would advise you to choose –unlimited mileage.

• Make sure to rent a car with a full-fuel policy. It is available in many rental companies, i.e., you’ll receive the car on a full tank and have to return it on a full tank. This way, you will not have to pay for any extras (no extras=happy pocket, isn’t it?)

• Lastly, go through the pick-up and drop-off policies in detail. And discuss your requirements with the rental companies beforehand to avoid any inconvenience.

With that, we have come to the end of this blog post. Now that you know how easy and safe it is to rent and drive in Naples, I hope all your concerns have faded. 

Keep in mind these points and have all your documents handy, and you’ll be good to go. So without pondering any further, pack your bags and explore the Italian city of Naples on your own set of wheels. Read my ultimate guide if you want to make planning your vacation in Naples easy. 

Until next time, stay happy and keep travelling.