Italy has an excellent network of motorways (autostrada), designated by the letter ‘A’. The main north–south link is the Autostrada del Sole, which links Milan with Reggio Calabria in the toe of Italy. Speed limits on motorways are 130kph (81mph) for cars of 1100cc or more and 110kph (68mph) for smaller cars. All motorways are tolled – driving from Florence to Rome will cost approximately €13. Visitors on a budget may prefer the strade statali (designated by ‘SS’), which are toll free and are often fast, multi-lane carriageways. The speed limit on these roads is 110kph (68mph) – too slow for the speed obsessed Italians and therefore a more leisurely drive for the rest of the world. Strade bianche, small country roads, abound in the countryside around Florence and are well worth exploring for their picture postcard views of the Italian countryside. By law, both driver and passenger must wear their seatbelts, if fitted, or face an on-the-spot fine of €30. Random breath tests can be imposed and the penalties for drink driving are severe – the maximum legal alcohol to blood ratio is 0.08%. Speeding fines follow EU standards and are levied between €30.50 and €303, depending on the speed, while driving through a red light costs €60.50. The minimum age for driving is 18 years old. All those without an EU licence must carry an International Driving Permit. EU nationals taking their own car will need an International Insurance Certificate, also known as a Green Card (Carta Verde). Autostrade (tel: (055) 420 3200; website: www.autostrade.it) provides information on motorway traffic in Italy, while Automobile Club Italiana – ACI (tel: (06) 49981 or 4477 for 24-hour information) provides general information for drivers.