Yes, you can rent a car on a Sunday in Italy, but your options will be more limited, and it often requires planning. Major rental locations at international airports like Rome Fiumicino (FCO) or Milan Malpensa (MXP) are typically open 7 days a week. However, many smaller neighborhood branches in cities and towns are closed. The key is to book online in advance to guarantee vehicle availability and avoid surprises. You'll also likely encounter a weekend or Sunday surcharge.
Be prepared with the required documents: a valid driver's license from your country of residence (holders of non-EU licenses need an International Driving Permit), a passport, and a major credit card in the primary driver's name for the security hold.
The table below compares the Sunday operating status of different rental location types:
| Rental Location Type | Typical Sunday Status | Key Considerations |
|---|
| Major International Airports | Open 24/7 or with extended hours | Highest availability; often have higher base rates and surcharges. |
| Central Train Stations (e.g., Roma Termini) | Likely open, but with reduced hours | Convenient for city pick-ups; check specific closing times. |
| Downtown/City Center Branches | Often closed or open for limited hours | Never assume they are open; advance booking is critical. |
| Small Town Local Branches | Frequently closed | Very difficult to rent on Sunday; plan to pick up Saturday or Monday. |
Your best strategy is to use the rental company's website or app to select your desired pick-up location and date. The system will clearly show if the branch is open and available for booking on that Sunday. Relying on just showing up without a reservation is highly discouraged and will likely leave you without a vehicle.
