car rental in Livorno

[vacationaddict]

Is it possible for a car rental at the port of Livorno? We would like the freedom to drive whereever we want to while the ship is docked. Or is the train within walking distance of the dock?

[ilovhywd]

We booked with Avis, and picked up the car right at the port. It was only a short walk from where our ship docked. The cost was approx. $100 for the day.

 

When we disembarked the ship, there was a fellow with a Hertz car to rent RIGHT ON the dock. But we had already reserved with Avis.

 

We came prepared with maps and books, so we knew exactly where to go. You can get on the highway without having to drive through the city of Livorno.

 

Since we had already been to Florence (and other destinations in Tuscany) a few times, we chose to spend the day in Lucca, a fabulous walkable walled town. It was easy to park right outside the city walls. Had a wonderful time sightseeing, shopping, a wonderful lunch, and then drove another 10 minutes to Villa Reale to see famous renaissance gardens.

 

I would not, however, recommend driving into Florence. Lots of narrow, 1-way streets, and a million motorscooters weaving in and out.

 

Ilene

[Hlitner]

We have also rented with Avis with no problems. This was about 3 years ago, and for some reason they were unable to deliver to the port. We just took a taxi to their location in town, and pickup up our car. Upon our return, they told us to just park it on the pier and leave the keys under the mat. One warning about driving in this part of Italy. The main bypass that goes around Florence can be very very congested. And, I never recommend that anyone try driving into Florence as parking can be a real nightmare. We actually enjoy using the back roads more than the interstate-like autostrade. There are so many places to go, and we have driven as far as Siena and San Gimignano on cruise stops (have also spent weeks in the region while driving on land trips).

 

Hank