Cross-border route
Switzerland Italy
Switzerland 
ItalyDriving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Switzerland into Italy, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Italy expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the Both format. Both countries drive on the right, so there is no change of driving side at the border. The Gotthard Road Tunnel on the A2 is the main Alpine crossing toward Milan.
Last reviewed June 2026
Route at a glance
FromSwitzerland
ToItaly
IDP in ItalyRequired
Accepted formatBoth
Driving sideright (no change)
Currency in ItalyEUR
Switzerland → Italy
Crossing the border
The Gotthard Road Tunnel on the A2 is the main Alpine crossing toward Milan.
Driving rules in Italy
- ZTL (limited-traffic) zones in city centres are camera-enforced — heavy fines.
- Headlights required on motorways at all times.
- Carry a reflective jacket and warning triangle.
- 0.05% alcohol limit; zero for drivers under 21.
What to see when you arrive in Italy
- the Colosseum in Rome
- the canals of Venice
- Florence's Duomo and Uffizi
- the Amalfi Coast
- the ruins of Pompeii
Common questions
01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Switzerland to Italy?
Yes — Italy requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Italy recognises the Both format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Switzerland and Italy?
No. Both Switzerland and Italy drive on the right.
03
How quickly can I get an IDP for this trip?
International Driver Licence issues your digital IDP in as fast as 8 minutes, so you can have it ready before you set off.
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