Italy’s Toll Roads: A Complete Guide

Driving in Northern Italy is an incredible experience. Well-maintained roads, breathtaking scenery, and the freedom to stop wherever you want. But there’s one detail that can catch newbies off guard: toll roads in Italy. If you’ve never driven there, it’s good to be prepared so you can avoid surprises—and, most importantly, unwanted fines.

We learned this the hard way ourselves: we made a mistake at the first toll booth and got an automatic fine, which the rental company charged straight to our card. So you don’t have to go through the same hassle, we’ve put together this complete guide with everything you need to know about Italian toll roads. That way, you can focus on what really matters: enjoying the trip without worries!

The Different Types of Roads and Tolls in Italy

Not all roads in Italy work the same when it comes to tolls. Depending on the region and road type, charges vary. Here’s a detailed overview:

1. Autostrade (Rodovias de Alta Velocidade com Pedágio Variável)

• These are the main highways in the country, similar to our federal toll roads.
• They’re managed by different operators, like Autostrade per l’Italia and Serenissima, each running various sections. Autostrade per l’Italia e a Serenissima, que operam diferentes trechos.
• In most cases, you take a ticket when you enter and pay when you exit, based on the distance you drove.
• Some smaller highways, especially in Liguria and southern Italy, have fixed-rate tolls—no ticket required.
• Speed limits usually range from 110 km/h to 130 km/h. 110 km/h e 130 km/h.

2. Superstrade (Rodovias Expressas, Geralmente Sem Pedágio)

• These are high-speed roads but usually without tolls.
• Examples include the SGC Firenze-Pisa-Livorno, connecting Florence to the Tuscan coast, and some roads in Veneto.
• While free, they can have heavier traffic and variable road quality.
• Speed limits usually range from 110 km/h to 130 km/h. 90 km/h e 110 km/h.

3. Estradas Regionais e Secundárias (Sem Pedágio, mas Mais Lentas)

• They connect smaller towns and are great if you’re in no rush and want to soak in incredible scenery.
• Many of Italy’s most scenic routes, like the Via Chiantigiana (SR 222) in Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast Road (SS163)are free.
• Since these are smaller roads, expect sharper curves, lower speed limits, and local traffic.
• Speed limits usually range from 110 km/h to 130 km/h. 50 km/h e 90 km/h.

4. ZTL (Zona de Tráfego Limitado – Pedágio Urbano Disfarçado)

• Found in many Italian cities, ZTLs restrict vehicle access in central areas.
• They’re not traditional tolls but fees for driving in restricted zones without authorization.
• Milan, Bologna, Florence, and Rome have strict ZTL systems. Cameras automatically record unauthorized vehicles, and fines are mailed later.
• If you’re renting a car, check with the rental company about permits before driving into city centers.

Now that you know the different types of roads, let’s dive into how to pay those tolls without mistakes!

Read also:
Car Rental in Europe: Everything You Need to Know

How Do Tolls Work in Italy?

Unlike in Brazil, where you pay at the booth and keep going, Italy’s system works a bit differently:

1. Entering the Autostrada
   When you enter the toll road, you pass through a gate and take a ticket. This ticket records where you got on—it’s essential for paying when you exit.

2. Exiting the Autostrada
   When you’re done, you hand over your ticket at the exit toll booth and pay for the distance traveled.

Step-by-Step Guide to Paying Tolls Correctly

Step 1: At the Autostrada entrance, slow down and head for a lane marked “BIGLIETTO.” Press the button, take the ticket, and hold onto it! (If you lose it, you might be charged the maximum fare.)

Step 2: When exiting, choose the right booth:

• Cash (Cassa) (white sign) → If paying with cash, look for the booth with money symbols.

• Card (Carte) (blue sign) → If paying by card, use the booth with the credit card symbol.

• Telepass (yellow sign) → If your rental car has Telepass (Italy’s equivalent of “Sem Parar”), go through the yellow lane. But only use it if your car is equipped for it!

Step 3: If paying by cash or card, insert the ticket first, then your cash or card. The barrier will open automatically—off you go!

Common Questions About Italian Tolls

1. What if I pick the wrong lane when paying?
   If you realize it in time, turn on your hazard lights and wait for a staff member or use the intercom for help. If you’ve already passed, keep going and sort it out with the rental company later.

2. What if the barrier doesn’t open after I pay?
   Stay calm and press the intercom help button. An attendant will check the payment and lift the barrier (though not all attendants speak English!).

3. Are there any fixed-fee tolls?
   Yes, some smaller roads use a fixed-fee system paid directly at the booth. You’ll see signs showing the price before you enter.

4. What’s the best option if I’ll be driving a lot in Italy?
   If you’re planning lots of driving, it might be worth renting a car with Telepass. That way, you skip lines and avoid manual payments.

5. Can foreigners with rental cars use Telepass?
   Yes, some rental companies offer this option—just ask when you pick up your vehicle, as prices vary.

Essential Tips to Avoid Fines (and Headaches)

1. Don’t lose your ticket! If you do, the system may charge you the maximum fare. If this happens, find a staffed booth and explain.

2. Don’t use the Telepass lane without Telepass! Cameras record your plate, and the fine will be sent to you or the rental company later.

3. Watch your speed near toll plazas! Some have speed cameras—don’t rush through them.

4. Need help? There’s always an intercom button by the booths to speak with an attendant.

How Much Do Tolls Cost in Italy?

Rates depend on the distance traveled. To calculate the approximate cost for your trip, you can use the official Italian highways site: https://www.autostrade.it

Example fares for popular routes:

• Milan → Venice €20

• Florence → Rome €20

• Milan → Lake Braies €25

Tip:Tolls can be paid by credit card (Visa/Mastercard), so if you’re out of cash, don’t worry.

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Save with a Global Card

If you’re planning to pay tolls and other expenses by card, consider using a global cardIt lets you pay in multiple currencies with lower fees and helps you avoid surprises on your bill. Many also offer ATM withdrawals abroad without crazy charges. Check out our recommendation for a global travel card..

Renting a Car in Italy? Read This First!

If you haven’t rented your car yet, check out our complete guide on car rentals in Europe. It covers everything you need to know for stress-free driving in the Old Continent!

Is Driving in Italy Worth It?

If you love the freedom to explore stunning scenery, charming towns, and even get delightfully lost—yes, it’s absolutely worth it! The roads are well-maintained, and the landscapes… well, they’re worth every toll!

Now that you know how to handle Italian toll roads without stress, all that’s left is to plan your itinerary and hit the road!

Have you driven in Italy? Got any funny (or nerve-wracking) toll booth stories? Share with us in the comments!