Driving in Emilia-Romagna – Road Rules, Tips & Local Driving Culture
Driving around Forlì and the wider Emilia-Romagna region is generally stress-free and enjoyable. The roads are well-maintained, signage is clear, and traffic is light compared to larger cities. Expect scenic drives through rolling hills, olive groves, and historical villages.
Vehicles drive on the right-hand side, and most rental cars are manual unless you specifically book an automatic. Italy’s national speed limits apply here:
50 km/h (31 mph) in towns and urban areas
90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads
110 km/h (68 mph) on divided highways
130 km/h (81 mph) on motorways (autostrade)
The main motorway in the region, the A14 Autostrada Adriatica, runs parallel to the coast and connects Forlì with Bologna, Rimini, and Ancona. It is a toll road — tolls are paid at booths with cash or card.
Local roads (SP and SS routes) are scenic and connect you with lesser-known destinations, but in rural areas, be cautious of sharp turns, tractors, and cyclists.
ZTL zones (Zona a Traffico Limitato) exist in most town centers, including Forlì. These areas restrict car access to residents and permitted vehicles. Entering a ZTL without authorization results in automatic fines, so use parking areas outside the restricted zones.
Parking is available via blue-marked paid zones, with machines or apps, and white-marked free spots on side streets. In smaller towns, parking is usually easy and inexpensive.
Always carry your driver’s license, passport, rental agreement, and insurance documents. If your license is from outside the EU or not in Latin characters, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
Fuel stations are easy to find, though rural ones may close during midday hours and Sundays. Self-service options are common and may require cash or chip-enabled cards.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers, and using a mobile phone without a hands-free system is prohibited. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, so avoid drinking before driving.
If you need help while driving in Italy, please don't hesitate to contact us! In an emergency, dial 112 for police, ambulance, or fire services.