Car Hire Elba Italy: What you Need to Know
Are you looking to explore the Italian island of Elba by car? In this article, I’ll share all the details about car hire in Elba Italy. From finding the best car hire deals to navigating the rental requirements, I’ve got you covered.
Whether you want to find cheap car rental prices or tips for renting a car in Elba, I’ll help you make the most of your journey around this exquisite island.
When you rent a car in Elba you can enjoy the flexibility of exploring the island at your own pace. Ready to explore the beautiful island of Elba by car? Let’s go.
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In a hurry and want to rent a car on Elba? Check out Rental Cars. Compare the prices of car hire companies in one place. They have free cancellation up to 48 hours before your car rental starts.
Car hire Elba Italy: what you need
It’s crucial to be aware of the essential requirements for renting a car in Elba. You’ll need the following:
- A full, valid driving licence. UK, EU and EEA country licences are accepted.
- Many car hire companies will require that you’ve held your licence for at least a year and sometimes more.
- A second ID document e.g. passport.
- A credit or debit card.
- To be aged 18 or over. However, most hire companies will apply a higher age threshold of a minimum of 21 years to rent a car in Elba.
Rental Cars are a car hire site where you can compare prices and book car rentals in Elba.
What side of the road do they drive on in Elba?
Elba island is a part of the country of Italy so you will need to drive on the right-hand side. This will be easy if you come from many other European countries or the USA.
If you’re from the UK, you’ll need to adjust to driving on the opposite side of the road. This can be especially tricky at roundabouts and junctions.
Driving in Elba: speed limits
Speeds and distances are measured in kilometres (km) and metres on Elba.
Speed limits in Elba are:
- Built-up areas speed limit: 50 km/h – 70 km/h (according to local signs)
- Outside built-up areas speed limit: 90 km/h – 110 km/h
- Large motorways speed limit: 130 km/h
The above is a general guide, always check local signage.
What’s it like driving on Elba
Elba may not be well known amongst some parts of Europe but it’s very popular in Italy and many Italians head over on weekends to enjoy the stunning Elba beaches. This means that during summer and even early autumn the roads on Elba are busy with cars.
The island is small, so a journey from the northeast coast to the westernmost point only takes around one hour and fifteen minutes by car. The island measures 223 square km.
There’s a Limited Traffic Zone in operation in Marina di Campo, a popular beach town on the south coast of Elba. This is in place from May until September. See the ZTL website for more details.
Interestingly, if you get fined for a serious offence on Elba, if it happened overnight (10 pm to 7 am) the fine will automatically increase by 30%.
Parking in Elba
The popularity of Elba and the short ferry ride to Elba from Piombino means that there are a lot of cars on Elba. A lot of cars means a lot of competition for parking.
Whilst there are organised paid for car parks at key sights, like Monte Capanne and Capo Bianco beach, you’ll also find many cars parked up on roadsides.
Different colours are used to indicate parking:
- White stripes are free parking spaces.
- Yellow stripes are reserved spaces (e.g. disabled spaces).
- Blue stripes are for paid parking.
If you’re planning on car rental in Portoferraio, the main city on Elba, there are several official car parks and petrol stations conveniently spread throughout the city. You can find their exact location on the Michelin website.
Cheap car rentals in Elba
Elba is a popular destination for Italians in summer so if you’re planning to hire a car on Elba between June and late September, book in advance to have the widest choice.
The price of rental cars in Elba can vary based on your specific needs. Securing your booking ahead of time offers the best chance of finding a cheap option. Factors like the duration of the rental and the type of vehicle will impact the price.
For instance, reserving a compact car for a three-day rental in June 2024 could start from £178 when booked in advance, averaging £59 per day.
Remember that prices may fluctuate, so check the most recent rates on Rental Cars. Additionally, keep in mind that extra expenses such as insurance, fuel, and optional add-ons may apply.
Fuel costs
The price of fuel in Italy is one of the most expensive in Europe. In fact, at the time of writing, Italy has the 5th most expensive cost of petrol, at £1.59 per litre (according to RAC, March 2024). This is higher than the UK, Spain and Germany.
Tips for car hire in Elba Italy
- The number to call the emergency services is 112.
- Everyone in the car must wear a seat belt (front and back of the car). The fine for not doing this is between €80 and €323.
- The blood alcohol content limit is lower than in England, at 0.05%, (but if you’re designated driver, it’s better to avoid alcohol all together, there are high fines and criminal punishments in Italy). If you’re a new driver the limit is 0.0% for the first 3 years you hold your licence.
- Use of mobile phones whilst driving in Italy is prohibited and there are fines in place.
- You will need to carry your ID, licence, registration and insurance papers when driving in Elba.
- Take photos or a video of the inside and outside of the car you hire, at the start and end of the rental, in case of issues.
- Ask the company rep to do a walk around with you to confirm the state of the vehicle.
- A large car isn’t necessary on Elba, go for the smallest vehicle you’re comfortable driving, as journeys are short, and it’ll make parking easier.
- Rental cars should contain a reflective jacket (red or yellow) and a warning triangle, for use in the event of a breakdown.
Car Hire Elba Italy FAQs
Can you visit Elba on a day trip by car?
Yes, you can visit Elba island on a day trip by car. Car ferries make the journey regularly. There is plenty of stunning natural scenery, and beaches like Padulella and Fetovaia to take in on the island as you enjoy your road trip.
Is it expensive to rent a car in Elba?
The price of car rental on Elba will vary depending on the time of year you want to visit and the size of vehicle you hire. To ensure the best deal, book in advance.
Do you need a car on Elba Island?
Although Elba is small, there are a lot of beaches and plenty of sights to see. It’s possible to reach many of these by bus, foot, bike or boat but renting a car will mean you can make more of your time on this sparkling jewel of an island.
Disclaimer
This article provides general information, which should not be construed as professional, legal, financial, tax or medical advice. These are my personal opinions only. By visiting and using this website you agree to be bound by this disclaimer.