Rome, the Eternal City, is a captivating destination brimming with ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and vibrant street life. I recently had the pleasure of visiting Rome, and I wanted to experience the city in a unique way. Instead of relying solely on public transportation, I decided to rent a car and explore at my own pace.
Booking through Lastminute proved to be an excellent decision, making my journey seamless and enjoyable. In this article, I’ll share my experience of renting a car via Lastminute, driving in Rome, and the incredible sites I was able to visit with the freedom of having my own vehicle.
Discovering Lastminute Car Rentals
Why Choose Lastminute?
When planning my trip to Rome, flexibility and convenience were high on my priority list. Renting a car would allow me to explore not just the bustling city center but also the surrounding countryside and less touristy spots. Lastminute, known for its user-friendly interface and competitive prices, was my platform of choice. I had previously used Lastminute for booking flights and hotels, and their car rental services were equally impressive.
The Booking Process
Booking a car rental through Lastminute was straightforward and efficient. After entering my travel dates and destination, I was presented with a variety of rental options from different companies. The platform allowed me to filter results based on price, car type, and rental company, which made it easy to find the perfect car for my needs and budget.
I opted for a compact Fiat 500, ideal for navigating Rome’s narrow streets and finding parking in the city. The booking process was completed in just a few clicks, and I received a confirmation email with all the necessary details, including the pickup location and instructions.
Picking Up My Rental Car
Arrival in Rome
Upon arriving at Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (Fiumicino), I was eager to pick up my rental car and begin my adventure. The rental car office was easy to locate, thanks to the clear directions provided in my Lastminute confirmation email. The staff at the rental office were friendly and efficient, processing my reservation quickly. After presenting my reservation details, driver’s license, and credit card, I was handed the keys to a sleek Fiat 500. The car was in excellent condition, clean, and equipped with a full tank of gas.
The Rental Experience
Driving in Rome can be both thrilling and challenging. The city is known for its bustling traffic, aggressive drivers, and complex road network. However, I was ready to embrace the adventure. The Fiat 500 was the perfect companion for the journey, small enough to navigate Rome’s narrow streets yet comfortable for longer drives to the outskirts.
Exploring Rome by Car
Ancient Rome and the Colosseum
The Colosseum
My first stop was the iconic Colosseum, a must-see for any visitor to Rome. Driving to this ancient amphitheater was an exciting experience. I parked in a nearby garage and walked to the site, arriving early to avoid the largest crowds. Standing before the Colosseum, I was struck by its grandeur and historical significance. The convenience of having a car allowed me to start my day early and fully immerse myself in the experience.
The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
After exploring the Colosseum, I drove a short distance to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Parking in this area can be challenging, but I found a spot in a small lot near the entrance. Walking through the ruins of the Forum, I felt transported back in time, imagining the bustling life of ancient Rome. The views from Palatine Hill were breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the city.
Vatican City and Trastevere
The Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica
On my second day, I drove to Vatican City. Although public transportation is available, having a car made the journey more comfortable, especially in the early morning. I parked in a garage just outside the Vatican walls and joined a guided tour of the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica. The art and history contained within these walls are truly awe-inspiring, and I was grateful for the flexibility my rental car provided.
Trastevere
In the afternoon, I headed to Trastevere, a charming neighborhood known for its narrow cobblestone streets and vibrant nightlife. Finding street parking was a bit of a challenge, but persistence paid off. I spent the evening wandering through the picturesque streets, enjoying delicious gelato, and dining at a local trattoria. The atmosphere in Trastevere is lively and welcoming, making it a highlight of my trip.
Day Trip to Tivoli
Villa d’Este
One of the greatest advantages of renting a car was the ability to take day trips outside of Rome. On my third day, I drove to Tivoli, a small town about 30 kilometers from Rome. My first stop was Villa d’Este, a stunning Renaissance villa famous for its terraced hillside garden and spectacular fountains. The drive through the Italian countryside was a refreshing change from the busy streets of Rome.
Hadrian’s Villa
After exploring Villa d’Este, I visited Hadrian’s Villa, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient Roman complex was the retreat of Emperor Hadrian and features impressive ruins and beautiful landscapes. The flexibility of having a car allowed me to explore these sites at my own pace, soaking in the rich history and serene surroundings.
The Appian Way and Catacombs
The Appian Way
On my final day, I decided to explore the historic Appian Way (Via Appia Antica). Driving along this ancient road, which once connected Rome to Brindisi in southeast Italy, was a unique experience. The road is lined with ancient ruins, tombs, and Christian catacombs. I parked at the visitor center and rented a bike to explore further, as some sections are better navigated on two wheels.
Catacombs of San Callisto
One of the highlights of my trip was visiting the Catacombs of San Callisto. These ancient underground burial sites are fascinating and slightly eerie. Guided tours are available, and I highly recommend them to understand the historical and religious significance of these catacombs.
My Lastminute Car Rental Experience
Convenience and Flexibility
Renting a car through Lastminute provided unparalleled convenience and flexibility. I was able to explore Rome and its surroundings at my own pace, without the constraints of public transportation schedules. This freedom allowed me to visit popular sites early in the morning before the crowds arrived and to venture off the beaten path to discover hidden gems.
Cost-Effectiveness
While renting a car can be more expensive than using public transport, I found it to be cost-effective for my needs. Lastminute’s competitive pricing helped me find an affordable rental, and the added expenses for parking and fuel were reasonable. Additionally, having a car eliminated the need for multiple taxi rides or organized tours, which can add up quickly.
Tips for Driving in Rome
- Be Prepared for Traffic: Rome’s traffic can be intense, especially during rush hours. Patience and defensive driving are essential.
- Use a GPS: Navigating Rome’s complex road network is much easier with a reliable GPS or smartphone navigation app.
- Park Wisely: Look for parking garages or designated parking areas, especially in the city center. Street parking can be limited and challenging to find.
- Watch for ZTL Zones: Rome has restricted traffic zones (Zona a Traffico Limitato) in the historic center. Make sure to avoid these areas unless you have a permit.
Recommended Hotels on Lastminute
In addition to car rentals, Lastminute offers a wide range of accommodation options in Rome. Here are some budget-friendly recommendations:
Hotel Artemide
Located in the heart of Rome, Hotel Artemide offers modern amenities, comfortable rooms, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore major attractions.
Hotel Santa Maria
Situated in the charming Trastevere neighborhood, Hotel Santa Maria provides a peaceful retreat with beautiful courtyards and comfortable rooms. The hotel’s proximity to lively restaurants and bars makes it a great choice for evening entertainment.
Generator Rome
For budget-conscious travelers, Generator Rome is an excellent option. This stylish hostel offers both private and shared rooms, a vibrant social atmosphere, and convenient access to public transportation.
Exploring Rome by car, booked through Lastminute, was an unforgettable experience. The convenience, flexibility, and affordability of renting a car allowed me to fully immerse myself in the city’s history, culture, and beauty.
From the ancient ruins of the Colosseum to the serene countryside of Tivoli, my journey through Rome was enriched by the freedom of having my own vehicle. I highly recommend using Lastminute to plan your next trip to Rome, whether you’re renting a car, booking a hotel, or both.
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