Is There Uber in Italy? Ask a Local • Anthony in Italy

The short answer? Sort of, but not in the way you might be used to. Uber in Italy isn’t as widespread or convenient as it is in other parts of the world. Let me break it down for you.

As someone who has been living and traveling in Italy for over three years, I’ve learned a thing or two about getting around. I don’t own a car, so I’ve navigated Italy’s cities, countryside, and everything in between relying on public transport and taxis. In fact, I’ve only used Uber once or twice here—both times in Rome. By the end of this post, you’ll understand why. Here’s what you need to know.

How Uber Works in Italy

The first thing to understand is that Uber drivers, as we know them in places like the U.S. or the U.K.—average folks with a car and a smartphone looking to make extra money—don’t exist in Italy. It’s illegal.

In Italy, running a business of any kind requires a permit, and the permit to operate a taxi service can cost as much as $80,000 in cities like Rome. Because of this, Uber in Italy doesn’t operate with freelance drivers. Instead, the app connects users to licensed taxi services or private drivers who have the appropriate permits.

If you open the Uber app in Rome or Milan, here’s what you’ll see:

screenshot of uber in rome — What you see for Uber in Rome

Your options are:

Taxi: Standard city taxis booked through the app.
Uber Black, Van, and Luxury: High-end services operated by professional drivers.

These options are reliable and convenient but limited to Rome and Milan. You can book through the app, pay with your credit card, and expect the same level of service as you would in any major city where Uber operates.

I’ve personally used Uber Black a couple of times in Rome when I needed a quick, reliable ride after dinner with friends. While it was convenient, I quickly realized it wasn’t the most budget-friendly way to get around. That’s why I rarely use Uber in Italy—it’s limited and expensive compared to other options.

Outside of Rome and Milan: What Are Your Options?

Beyond Rome and Milan, Uber’s presence is virtually nonexistent. But don’t worry—you still have options:

1. Local Taxi Companies

In most Italian towns and cities, taxis or buses are your best bet—if you actually need to take a car. You’ll need to call them directly or head to a taxi stand, often located near train stations or busy squares. If you’re in a similar situation, don’t be afraid to ask for help—locals are usually happy to assist.

2. The ItTaxi App

This app functions like Uber but connects you with Italy’s local taxi networks. It’s widely used in many cities and has saved me a few headaches when I needed a ride fast. Plus, it lets you pay by card, which is a lifesaver in Italy, where cash is still king.

3. Buses and Public Transport

Italy’s bus network is extensive, and in cities like Rome or Milan, the subway and tram systems are solid options. In smaller towns, buses can be less predictable, but they’re often the only way to get around. Google Maps is your friend when it comes to seeing bus routes. Just be prepared in a busy city like Rome – the buses will come but probably not on time.

4. Walking

Walking is by far my favorite way to explore Italy. Not only for the exercise, but it’s how you get the full experience and really take in the atmosphere. If you’re in a city like Florence or Naples, walking will get you almost everywhere you need to go—and you’ll take in so much more of the local charm along the way.

5. Rental E-Bikes or Rideshare Bikes

For longer distances in cities, I love renting e-bikes or rideshare bikes. They’re fun, affordable, and often faster than sitting in traffic. A few weeks ago I took a Lime e-bike to go see the Trevi Fountain and Colosseum at sunrise to beat the crowds (spoiler alert: there was already a crowd at the Trevi Fountain at 6:30am).

The Realities of Getting Around in Italy

Here’s the truth: getting around Italy can be one of the more frustrating aspects of traveling here, especially for first-time visitors. But with a bit of preparation, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Walking Is Key

Italian cities are built for pedestrians. Rome, for instance, feels like an open-air museum, where every street has something worth seeing. I’ve walked upwards of 20,000 steps in a single day in cities like Rome and Venice. While it can be tiring, it’s also incredibly rewarding.

Public Transport Works Well [Enough] in Cities

Milan’s subway and bus systems are efficient and easy to navigate. Rome’s public transport can feel chaotic, but it will get you where you need to go. Florence and Naples are small enough that walking is usually enough, but buses and trams are there if you need them.

Taxis Are Necessary for Some Situations

If someone in your group has limited mobility or if you’re traveling late at night, taxis or private car services are essential. Plan to rely on ItTaxi or Uber’s premium services in the bigger cities.

Traveling Beyond Cities Requires Planning

If you’re heading to smaller towns or rural areas, buses are often the only option. Taxis can be expensive, so make arrangements with a driver in advance or get their contact information for a return trip.

For the Amalfi Coast specifically, let me offer a pro tip: get the name and WhatsApp number of a driver before you even arrive. You’re going to need them—a lot. Just know that you’ll be paying a premium for every ride. The winding roads and tourist-heavy areas make for expensive fares, but having a reliable driver on call is worth every penny.

Final Tips for Navigating Italy Without Uber

Download the ItTaxi app before you go. It’s the closest thing to Uber in most of Italy.
Get comfortable with public transport—it’s often your most affordable option.
Wear comfortable shoes! Walking isn’t just a necessity; it’s part of the Italian experience.
Ask your hotel or host for taxi recommendations. They often have trusted drivers they can call for you.
Always carry cash. Not all taxis or small-town services accept cards, especially in southern regions like Sicily or the Amalfi Coast.

Italy’s charm lies in its old-world feel, but that also means modern conveniences like Uber are limited. With a bit of preparation and the right mindset, you’ll find that getting around Italy is part of the adventure—and who knows, you might even discover something wonderful along the way.