Which side of the road does Italy drive on?

Italy drives on the right-hand side of the road—not the left. Like most of continental Europe, vehicles have the steering wheel on the left, slower traffic keeps right, and overtaking is typically on the left. There are no regional exceptions; the enclaved microstates of San Marino and Vatican City also drive on the right.

What this means for travelers

Visitors arriving from left-driving countries (such as the UK, Ireland, Australia, or Japan) will need to adapt to right-hand traffic patterns immediately upon entering Italy. Road signs use international symbols with Italian wording, roundabouts generally require yielding to traffic already circulating, and speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour. In cities, expect dense traffic and clearly marked restricted zones (ZTL) that fine unauthorized vehicles.

A brief historical note

Italy’s roads follow the right-hand convention established across much of mainland Europe. While some Italian cities historically drove on the left, the country completed its transition to right-hand traffic in the early 20th century to align with continental norms. Today, the rule is uniform nationwide.

Key facts at a glance

The following points summarize how Italy’s right-hand traffic setup affects everyday driving and navigation for residents and visitors alike.

• Driving side: Right-hand traffic across the entire country.
• Vehicle layout: Steering wheel on the left; manual and automatic transmissions both available.
• Overtaking: Usually on the left; slower vehicles keep to the right lane on multi-lane roads.
• Roundabouts: Yield to traffic already in the circle (typically approaching from your left) unless signs indicate otherwise.
• Speed units: Kilometers per hour; observe posted limits and conditions.
• Microstates: San Marino and Vatican City also drive on the right.

Taken together, these points mean most drivers from right-driving countries will find Italy’s road conventions familiar, while left-driving visitors should plan a short adjustment period, especially in urban settings and on roundabouts.

Practical tips for first-time drivers in Italy

For travelers planning to rent a car or drive across borders into Italy, the following tips can help you adjust smoothly to right-hand traffic and local norms.

• Before setting off, take a few minutes in a quiet area to recalibrate lane positioning and mirror views.
• Watch for ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato) signs in historic centers; unauthorized entry is camera-enforced and fined.
• Expect tolls on many autostrade (motorways); lanes are marked for cash/cards, tickets, or Telepass subscribers.
• On multi-lane roads, keep right except to pass; lingering in the left lane can draw enforcement.
• Roundabouts flow counterclockwise; ease in only after yielding to circulating traffic unless signs give you priority.
• Parking rules vary by color: blue lines usually indicate paid parking, white often free (check local signs), and yellow for permits or loading.

These habits will help you stay compliant with Italian traffic rules, avoid fines, and drive more confidently on the right.

Summary

Italy does not drive on the left—it drives on the right, with left-side steering wheels and overtaking on the left. The rule is nationwide and shared by San Marino and Vatican City. Visitors should be ready for right-hand roundabouts, toll motorways, and city-center ZTL restrictions, all of which are clearly signposted for those paying attention.