Rent A Car In Messina, Italy And Explore Sicily For Less
Compare competitive prices across top rental companies and use this step-by-step guide to pick the right location, avoid hidden fees, and drive confidently around Messina and beyond.
What do you need to rent a car in Messina?
Renting a car in Messina is quite convenient, but there can be some specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.
- Form of ID: A valid physical national photo ID is required (Portugal, New Zealand, Japan, or Italy, depending on pick-up country). Passport is generally not used as local ID.
- Driving licence: Main and additional drivers must present a full, original physical driving licence with no major endorsements. Minimum holding period is typically 1 year, but can be 2–3 years for some vehicles/countries (e.g., up to 3 years in Italy, 2 years for some rentals in Japan and Italy). Provisional/limited licenses (e.g., New Zealand provisional or Pink licence indicating Limited/Alcohol Interlock/Zero Alcohol) are not accepted where specified. For certain higher-category cars (e.g., specific models in Italy), driving licence and ID must be issued by the same country.
Notes: Check your specific car group: some premium/luxury or specific models may require longer licence holding periods (2–3 years) and that your ID and licence are issued by the same country. In New Zealand, provisional or Pink licences indicating Limited, Alcohol Interlock, or Zero Alcohol Limit may not be eligible with some suppliers.
- Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required where credit cards are accepted. Accepted credit cards (vary by supplier/country) include Visa, MasterCard, AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, JCB, and sometimes UnionPay. Some locations also accept debit cards (often Visa/MasterCard, sometimes UnionPay) and, in Japan, cash. Deposit (pre-authorization) cards may be accepted where indicated. E‑voucher or printed voucher may be required for some offers.
- Age requirements: Across all offers, minimum driving age typically ranges between 18 and 25, and maximum between 65 and 120, depending on country and supplier. Many standard offers allow drivers roughly 21–80 years old without surcharge. Young driver surcharges apply when within the specified age bands, for example: 18–20 or 19–22 or 20–24 or 21–25 (bands vary). Fees are charged per day and sometimes capped per rental, e.g., around EUR 10–26 per day in Europe (with some caps), NZD 20–25 per day in New Zealand (sometimes capped), and about USD 25 per day in some locations. Always check the exact age limits and the ‘young driver’ fee reference for your specific offer.
- Driving licence: Main and additional drivers must present a full, original physical driving licence with no major endorsements, usually held at least 1 year (some offers require 2–3 years). Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP) – IDP is a translation only; original licence must also be shown; IDP must match UN/1949 convention and vehicle category
or
• EU/EEA Driving Licence (valid across EU/EEA, Switzerland, UK where stated)
or
• Original driving licence + NZTA Translation (New Zealand rentals)
or
• Original South Korea Driving Licence (English version, with English on the back, where accepted)
or
• For Japan: Original driving licence + IDP (1949 Convention) / Taiwan (or specified EU states/Monaco) licence + official Japanese translation (from JAF/embassy/approved bodies); some suppliers also accept full Japanese licence or Hong Kong licence + IDP. Driving License of the People’s Republic of China is not accepted in Japan.Notes: IDP is never valid on its own; you must carry your original licence plus the IDP/translation. Some Japanese rentals require official Japanese translations from JAF, ALADDIN, ADAC, or embassies. Licence holding periods vary by offer (typically 1 year, but up to 2–3 years for some vehicle classes). Ensure your licence category and seat capacity match the rented vehicle.
- Form of ID: A valid passport is required for all foreign renters.
- Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required where credit cards are accepted. Commonly accepted credit cards include Visa, MasterCard, AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, JCB, and sometimes UnionPay. Some locations also accept debit cards (Visa/MasterCard and, in some cases, UnionPay) and, in Japan, cash. Deposit cards may be accepted where indicated. An e‑voucher or printed voucher may be required for some bookings.
- Age requirements: Across all offers, minimum driving age typically ranges between 18 and 25, and maximum between 65 and 120, depending on country and supplier. Many standard offers allow drivers roughly 21–80 years old without surcharge. Young driver surcharges apply when within the specified age bands, for example: 18–20 or 19–22 or 20–24 or 21–25 (bands vary). Fees are charged per day and sometimes capped per rental, e.g., around EUR 10–26 per day in Europe (with some caps), NZD 20–25 per day in New Zealand (sometimes capped), and about USD 25 per day in some locations. Always check the exact age limits and the ‘young driver’ fee reference for your specific offer.
Best Car Rentals for Exploring Messina and Beyond
Discover the perfect vehicle for your Sicilian adventure around Messina, Taormina, and Mount Etna. From compact city cruisers to scenic coastal drives.
City Driving & Narrow Streets
Small
5
2
AutoMessina's historic downtown features tight medieval streets and limited parking that make larger vehicles cumbersome. A small car like the Fiat 500 or similar compact hatchback offers superior maneuverability through Piazza Duomo and along the Porto Canale waterfront. Italian city driving demands quick steering response and a small turning radius, which only a compact vehicle can deliver with confidence. Parking in central zones becomes stress-free when you can slide into narrow Renaissance-era spaces thatSUVs cannot access. US travelers will appreciate how these zippy compacts handle hairpin turns on the Via Garibaldi without the anxiety of opposite traffic.
Volcanic Mountain Roads
SUV
53AutoThe winding SP4 and SP92 roads climbing toward Mount Etna's southern crater require a vehicle with elevated ground clearance and robust handling. An SUV provides the stability needed when navigating volcanic rock surfaces and sudden elevation changes above 2000 meters. Spring and early summer bring loose gravel from winter erosion, plus occasional fog banks that reduce visibility to under 30 meters. The lateral strength and weight distribution of anSUV prevent sliding on ash-covered descents that plague smaller vehicles during these seasons. American drivers unfamiliar with European mountain switchbacks gain an extra margin of safety from the higher seating position and panoramic visibility.
Coastal Scenic Routes
Convertible
42AutoThe A18 highway east of Messina toward Taormina reveals sweeping Mediterranean vistas that deserve to be experienced with the top down. Summer temperatures in July and August regularly exceed 32°C, making a convertible the most enjoyable way to catch sea breezes while cruising the coastline. The road between Giardini Naxos and Letojanni offers unobstructed views of the Ionian Sea that convertibles showcase far better than any hard-top vehicle. US visitors often underestimate how much Sicilian coastal driving becomes a sensory experience rather than mere transportation. A convertible lets you smell the lemon groves, hear the waves crashing below, and feel the warm Mediterranean air as you traverse this stunning corridor.
Choose Your Ride
Find the perfect vehicle for your trip. Compare options below.
Choose Airport Pickup For More Cars, Longer Hours, And Easy One-Way Options
Picking up at a nearby airport (most often Catania CTA, sometimes Reggio Calabria REG) typically offers the widest vehicle selection, longer operating hours, and simpler one-way rentals. It’s ideal if you want to drive straight to Messina or start a Sicily road trip immediately, but expect airport fees and possible wait times during peak arrival waves.
Discover Top Car Rentals Near Catania Airport (CTA)
Find the best car rental deals in Messina area and read authentic reviews from real travelers to ensure a smooth Italian road trip.
| Rental company | Rating | Avg. Daily Rate | Pickup Method/Distance | Security deposit | Accepts Debit Cards | Key Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Best Overall | 4.7 193,000+ reviews | $118 | 1.4 mi from Messina Downtown | Low deposit |
| |
 Best Overall | 4.4 45,000+ reviews | $73 | 0.4 mi from Messina Downtown | $234 - $1,168 |
| |
 | 3.6 4 reviews | $75 | 0.3 mi from Messina Downtown | $234 |
| |
 | 3.1 15000+ reviews | $85 | 0.4 mi from Messina Downtown | $467 - $584 |
| |
 | 2.1 3300+ reviews | $77 | 0.3 mi from Messina Downtown | $1,094 - $1,107 |
| |
 | 1.5 1100+ reviews | $94 | 0.3 mi from Messina Downtown | - |
| |
 | 1.3 980+ reviews | $77 | 0.3 mi from Messina Downtown | Low deposit |
| |
 | 1.2 100+ reviews | $77 | 0.3 mi from Messina Downtown | $1,094 - $1,107 |
|
*Rating and review data are sourced from Trustpilot. Policy details may vary by location and vehicle type. Please confirm at the time of booking.
Platform Insights
Car Rental Expert Advice
By QEEQ Platform Expert Team
Expertise Metrics
Platform Recognition
Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2023&2024
Booking Volume
Review Quality
10,000+ verified 5-star reviews
Market Experience
Data Authority
Expertise Verification
QEEQ data verified against local official data sources
Key Expert Insights
Platform Analysis
"Catania Airport dominates Sicily car rentals at 45-50% share, while Messina port and Centrale station each capture 15-20%. Airport pickups preferred for 65% of tourists citing convenience and ferry connections. City center locations account for 10-15% of pickups."
Booking Patterns
"Economy vehicles lead Messina rentals at 35-40%, compact at 30-35%. Summer peak (June-August) sees 60-70% higher demand vs winter. Average rental duration is 3-5 days for cruise travelers, 5-7 days for touring. SUV demand grew 10-12% annually for Mount Etna excursions. Advance booking averages 2-3 weeks ahead."
Customer Pain Points
"40% of Sicily renters report ZTL zone fine confusion, the top complaint. Insurance coverage misunderstandings affect 36% (CDW vs Super CDW distinction). Hidden airport surcharges cited by 33%. Fuel policy disputes frustrate 28% of first-time Sicily renters. Ferry schedule conflicts affect 22% of Messina-area renters."
Data Sources
- QEEQ internal booking databse
- Assessorato Turismo Regione Siciliana - Sicily Tourism Statistics
- ANIASA - Italian Car Rental Association Annual Report
- Catania Airport - SEA Catania Passenger Statistics
- Italy Car Rental Market Report - Technavio
- ENIT - Italy Tourism Statistics 2024
- European Travel Commission - Mediterranean Tourism Trends
- European Consumer Complaints Analysis - Car Rental Sector
- Italian National Tourism Board - Visitor Feedback Report
- Trustpilot Italy Car Rental Reviews Analysis
Road Trips
One-way rental routes starting from Messina
Plan your ultimate road trip with these popular one-way routes departing from Messina
Popular Self-Drive Routes & Day Trips From Messina
Top Routes To Drive From Messina:
Messina → Taormina & Isola Bella Coastal Drive
A classic Sicilian coastal drive along the Ionian shore to Taormina. Expect beautiful sea views, hillside towns, and a convenient base for exploring Taormina’s historic center and the beach cove at Isola Bella.
Messina → Nebrodi Mountains Loop (Montalbano Elicona & Floresta)
Trade the coast for cooler air and forested ridgelines in the Nebrodi range. This loop is ideal for drivers who want medieval hill towns, panoramic viewpoints, and a quieter, rural Sicily feel.
Messina → Catania Waterfront & Baroque Core (A18/E45)
An easy highway run to Sicily’s second city for markets, baroque streetscapes, and a lively food scene. Great for travelers who want an urban day out and flexible stop-and-go planning.
Popular Trips (Half-Day To Full-Day) From Messina:
Taormina Highlights + Isola Bella Swim Stop
Drive to Taormina for viewpoints and strolling, then head down to Isola Bella for a beach break. Best in shoulder season or early starts to avoid peak traffic and parking crunch.
Milazzo & Capo Milazzo Scenic Peninsula Day
A short drive to Milazzo for seaside promenades and dramatic coastal views around Capo Milazzo. A relaxed trip that pairs well with lunch by the harbor.
Nebrodi Villages: Montalbano Elicona + Floresta
A mountain day focused on medieval streets, sweeping panoramas, and forest landscapes. Bring layers—temperatures can be noticeably cooler than the coast.
Catania Food & Architecture Day Trip
Spend the day in Catania for markets, historic squares, and an easy DIY food crawl. Plan parking in advance and avoid the tightest lanes in the old center if you’re not comfortable with city driving.
Car Rental Planning Tips For Messina & Northeast Sicily
Bring the right documents: Carry your driver’s license, passport/ID, and a credit card in the main driver’s name. If you’re visiting from outside the EU, confirm whether an International Driving Permit is required by your rental company.
Choose the smallest car that fits your needs: Sicilian historic centers and village streets can be narrow with tight parking. A compact car is usually easier (and less stressful) than a larger sedan or SUV.
Plan for highway vs. local-road timing: A18/A20 highways are faster, but local coastal or mountain roads add time. Build buffer time for traffic near Taormina and Catania, and for slower mountain driving in the Nebrodi area.
Research parking before you arrive: Popular towns often have paid lots at the edges of the center. Save a couple of parking options in your map app so you’re not circling congested streets on arrival.
Know fuel rules and refueling options: Confirm whether your car is gasoline or diesel and the required return level. In smaller towns, stations may close mid-day—refuel earlier if you’re heading into the mountains.
Understand insurance, deposits, and ZTL zones: Review collision coverage, excess/deductible, and deposit holds before pickup. Avoid driving into ZTL (limited traffic) areas in historic centers unless you have authorized access—fines are common.
Driving in Messina, Italy: Essential Travel Guide
Everything you need to know about driving, car rentals, fuel costs, and traffic rules in beautiful Messina, Sicily
LANGUAGES
Italian
CURRENCY
EUR
DRIVE ON
Right-hand side
COUNTRY CODE
+39
AVERAGE CAR RENTAL PRICE
$50 per day
AVERAGE CAR RENTAL LENGTH
7 days
SPEED LIMIT WITHIN TOWN
50 km/h
SPEED LIMIT OUT OF TOWN
130 km/h
ACCEPTABLE LIMIT OF BAC
0.05% (Strictly Enforced)
AVERAGE GAS PRICE
$2.26/L
LOWEST / HIGHEST GAS PRICE
$1.58/L - $2.55/L
TRAVELER RATING
8.0 / 10
Driving in Messina
Essential car rental and driving tips for exploring Messina and Sicily by road
QEEQ Platform Awards
Recognized globally for excellence in car rental booking services and customer satisfaction.
Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2025
Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2024
Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2023
Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2022
Best Business Partner Award of ABG 2023 & 2024
Business Excellence Awards 2024
The Magellan Awards in Car Rental Service Category
The Travolution Awards for Best On the Road
Recommended by our customers
Trusted by customers worldwide and we're always working to improve.
