Car Rental Florence

Hiring a car in Florence is essential for anyone keen on exploring the exquisite views and relaxed atmosphere of rural Tuscany.

To really get a taste of all things Tuscan, head south out of Florence on the SR 222 on what’s known as the ‘Via Chiantigiana’. One of the most scenic routes in the whole of Italy, this winding road takes you all the way down to Siena. You’ll pass by olive grove-lined hills and right through the middle of the idyllic Chianti wine region.

You can also head east to the landlocked microstate of San Marino, the world’s oldest republic. The three-hour drive is breathtakingly beautiful, while just over an hour’s drive west via the main SGC Firenze highway can find you gazing up at the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Other options include driving north on the E35 to Bologna  to enjoy the cafés and colonnades of the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region.

Since being awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status back in 1982, the very centre of Florence is out of bounds for drivers without a special permit. It's a Limited Traffic Zone ('Zona a Traffico Limitato' or ‘ZTL’). The restrictions are lifted on Sundays, so you can feel free to drive around then.

Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Giotto, Botticelli, Machiavelli, Donatello, Galileo – these sons of Florence helped create the most forward-thinking and culturally significant city in Italy. Their work combined to create a remarkable resurgence in art, philosophy and literature.

It's no exaggeration to say that Florence's museums, galleries, churches and palaces, house some of the world's most famous and significant artistic treasures.

Front and centre of the Renaissance

The historic centre of Florence is encircled by medieval walls, which tell the story of the city’s antiquated past.

The questions when exploring the Tuscan capital isn’t so much ‘what can I do?’ than ‘what will I have time to do?’ History buffs and culture vultures will find themselves spoiled for choice in Florence. Even better, The City of Lilies’ major sights and attractions are all relatively close to one another.

The main church of Florence is the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, nicknamed 'Il Duomo di Firenze' – the dome of Florence. The marbled exterior is an arresting sight, and it’s worth taking your time to walk around the façade to take in its full magnificence. Once you step inside, look down – the mesmerising mosaic floor is a stunning feat of design.

For a dose of serene greenery with a mix of Roman antiquity, make a beeline for Giardino di Boboli. Stroll around the pristine gardens spotting sculptural masterpieces as you go.

Work your way around the eye-catching, curved amphitheatre, adorned with sculptures, and climb the steps to discover the dramatic Neptune’s Fountain. A statue of Neptune, poised with trident in hand, stands proudly above emerald waters.

Pay a visit to the Ponte Vecchio Bridge and you’ll quickly realise this is not just your average picturesque bridge. As you head over the bridge you’ll stumble upon an array of shops with eclectic treasures to browse.

And… relax

Take a break from the enticing and energetic historical hub of Florence, and seek a little sanctuary in Italy’s biggest spa, Asmana Wellness World.

This 35,000 square foot site is dedicated to relaxation and renewal and you’ll find it off the A1 Autostrada, near the Campi Bisenzio area of the city.

Give your feet a well-deserved break from traipsing round in search of adventure, and soak them in a soothing footbath.

Take a refreshing dip in the luxe heated pools or stand beneath the warm indoor waterfalls and feel your cares melt away and be replaced by a sense of complete tranquillity. “Asmana” means “paradise” in Hindi – and the name could not be more apt.

Take a tour of Tuscany’s tiny Trequanda

Car hire in Florence gives you the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in all that Tuscany has to offer. Part of Tuscany’s true appeal comes from unearthing its smaller delights, like the diminutive and unspoilt medieval village of Trequanda.

Found 70 km southeast of Florence, this little dot on the map has an understated charm. Far from a tourist hotspot, you can explore the 13th century castle and Romanesque church at your leisure, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of the village’s hilltop piazza.

Discover more of Florence and its beguiling surroundings with car rental from Hertz.