✈️ Can You Rent a Car After You Arrive in Rome?
Yes! Whether you’ve just landed at Fiumicino Airport, arrived by train at Roma Termini, or are staying in the city center, it’s completely possible to rent a car on the spot — though with some trade-offs.
✅ Same-day car rentals are very common, but availability, pricing, and conditions vary greatly depending on time, season, and location.
🛬 Where to Rent a Car Upon Arrival in Rome
1. Fiumicino Airport (FCO) – Leonardo da Vinci
- Open 7 days a week, 07:00–23:59
- Brands: Hertz, Avis, Sixt, Sicily by Car, Europcar, Locauto, and more
- Rental center located at Parking B, accessible via covered walkway
Pros:
- Wide selection of cars
- Easier access to highways (A91, A12)
- Staff usually speak English
- Flexible return options
Cons:
- Long queues
- More expensive than off-airport locations
- High traffic when exiting Rome
2. Ciampino Airport (CIA) – Budget Arrival Option
- Smaller airport with fewer rental brands
- Ideal if flying low-cost (Ryanair, Wizz Air)
- Quicker to get on the road than Fiumicino
3. Roma Termini Train Station
- Rental offices located on Via Giolitti or Via Marsala
- Brands: Avis, Maggiore, Hertz, Sicily by Car
Best if:
You’re arriving by high-speed train (Italo or Trenitalia) and want to explore outside Rome right away.
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4. Rome City Center Offices
- Locations around Piazza Venezia, Trastevere, or Vatican area
- Some allow hotel delivery for an extra fee
🧠 Pro tip: Use apps like EconomyBookings, Rentalcars, or Kayak to check which nearby branch has the best deal on the day.
📃 What You’ll Need
| Required Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Valid Driver’s License | Must be in Roman script. US/UK/Canada/Australia accepted |
| International Driving Permit (IDP) | Recommended for non-EU tourists – can be requested by police |
| Passport | Needed for identification |
| Credit Card | Most rentals require credit; debit may limit your options |
| Rental Voucher (if prepaid) | Optional but helpful |
💰 Same-Day Pricing Expectations
| Location | Economy (€) | SUV (€) | Automatic (€) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiumicino Airport | €55–€85 | €90–€140 | €75–€110 |
| Termini Station | €60–€95 | €95–€150 | €80–€120 |
| City Center | €65–€110 | €100–€160 | €90–€140 |
💡 Prices increase during weekends, summer (June–August), and on-the-spot bookings.
🧭 People Also Ask
- Can I rent a car at the airport in Rome after landing?
Yes, Fiumicino and Ciampino have on-site rental centers. - Do I need to book in advance or can I walk in?
Walk-ins are accepted, but expect higher rates and fewer car choices. - Where is the cheapest place to rent a car in Rome?
Usually outside the airport or downtown, booked online. - Can I rent a car with a debit card in Rome?
❓ FAQ
Q: Is it easy to rent a car in Rome after arrival?
A: Yes, at airports and stations you’ll find major rental desks. Just bring your documents and card.
Q: What are the best places to rent a car in Rome upon arrival?
A: Fiumicino Airport for flexibility; Termini Station if arriving by train; city offices for local pickup.
Q: Can tourists from the US/UK/AU rent without an IDP?
A: Technically yes, but an International Driving Permit is strongly recommended.
Q: Is it cheaper to book a car in advance or after arriving?
A: Always cheaper in advance. On-the-spot rates can be 30–70% higher.
📌 Final Tips
- 📱 Download rental apps before arrival (they show stock in real-time)
- 🕑 Try to avoid renting late at night — some desks close early or have kiosk-only pickup
- 🧾 Take photos of the car before leaving the lot (scratches, fuel level, mileage)
- 🧭 Plan routes ahead if driving directly from the airport (ZTL zones!)
- 📉 Booking a day in advance online can save you €40+ per rental
