The ancient Romans constructed vast roads and aqueducts as well as impressive palaces, forums, cathedrals and monuments, while their capital is dubbed Italy’s Eternal City. Mythology tells of the ancient god Romulus, who killed his twin brother Remus and named Rome after himself around 753 BC. Nowadays, the city’s pavements are awash with gelaterias, famous museums, designer flagship stores and a vibrant contemporary art and design scene, ranking it as the 14th most popular travel destination in the world.

Although summer is its busiest season for tourism, Rome enjoys year-round Mediterranean warmth, and many prefer to visit during spring and autumn to enjoy the more moderate temperatures and fewer crowds.

To bask in Rome’s rich history, allow plenty of time to delve into the city’s many architectural relics—survivors from the Renaissance and Baroque periods as well as its ancient Empire. Rome entertains with an abundance of world-renowned monuments, including the mystical Trevi Fountain, the grandiose Colosseum, and the Vatican’s St Peter’s Basilica and Sistine Chapel.

Relax at the beach in-between sightseeing sessions on the numerous white sandy stretches less than an hour’s drive from the city centre. Your hire car grants precious passage to private bays that aren’t otherwise accessible.

When you’ve had your fill of Rome’s intriguing landmarks, head out into the Lazio region. Its hilly landscapes are infused with romance, and offer ample opportunity to experience rustic Italian dining, tour lesser-known towns cast up in the hills and discover even more crumbling remains of ancient ruins.

The Scavi Archeologici di Ostia Antica, likened to a smaller version of Pompeii, on Rome’s sea port, and the World Heritage Sites in and amongst Tivoli’s Mannerist jewel-coloured frescoes, gracious Renaissance villas and tended gardens, are a welcome change of tempo.

Travel to the Castelli Romani, a striking vista of rolling hills and volcanic lakes to the south of Rome, to indulge in the region’s hearty cuisine. Porchetta (spit-roasted pork) and a refreshing glass of white wine, uncorked from one of the cantine (local cellars) in town, makes for a perfect laid-back evening.

Furthermore, Florence, Naples and Pompeii are each within comfortable driving distance if you rent a car with Avis in Rome.

• Mobile phones may only be used with a hands-free device
• Dipped headlights must be used in poor daylight visibility when driving on motorways, dual carriageways, and rural roads
• Use the outside lane to overtake on motorways and dual carriageways
• Do not use the horn in a built up area unless in danger
• There are historical areas in which you cannot drive. Look out for “Zona traffico limitato”

• Urban roads: 50 km/h (31 mph)
• Urban highways: 70 km/h (44 mph)
• Secondary extra-urban roads: 90 km/h (56 mph)
• Main extra-urban roads (Expressways): 110 km/h (68 mph)
• Motorways: 130 km/h (80mph)

• It is compulsory for the driver and all passengers to wear a seatbelt
• Children aged under 12 and less than 150cm tall must be seated in an appropriate child restraint for their size
• Children weighing up to 9kg must be seated in a rear-facing child restraint, in the back of the car only