Electric cars are increasingly common on Italian roads, but one of the questions that still holds many drivers back is: where do I charge and how much does it cost? If you're considering renting an electric car — or simply want to understand how to get around without range anxiety — this guide is for you. Let's look together at how the charging network works in Italy, point by point.
How many charging stations are there in Italy and where are they
Italy's public charging network has grown considerably in recent years. According to the latest data from Motus-E, the association that monitors the sector, there are over 50,000 active public charging points in Italy, unevenly distributed across the territory: the North concentrates the largest share, while the South and inland areas still lag behind.
Charging stations are mainly found in municipal car parks, shopping centres, motorway service areas, hotels and rest stops along the motorways. In the big cities the density is considerably higher: anyone renting an electric car and moving between Milan, Rome or Florence will find plenty of choice, while in some smaller towns it's worth planning ahead.
To locate charging points in real time there are several apps and maps integrated into navigation systems: PlugShare, Nextcharge, A2A E-Moving and the operators' own apps (Enel X, BeCharge, Ewiva, Free To X) are among the most used. Many latest-generation electric cars already integrate this information into the onboard navigation system.
How charging stations work: the different types of charging
Not all charging stations are the same. The most important distinction concerns the charging speed, which depends on the power delivered and the vehicle's acceptance capacity.
Slow charging (Mode 2 and Mode 3 AC): delivers from 3.7 kW to 22 kW in alternating current; ideal for long stops, such as overnight or daytime parking.
Accelerated charging (AC 22 kW): common in shopping centres and hotels, lets you recover good range in 2-4 hours depending on the vehicle.
Fast charging (DC Fast Charging, 50 kW and above): brings the battery to 80% in 30-60 minutes; found mainly along the motorways and at dedicated charging stations.
Ultra-fast charging (DC 150-350 kW): present on the latest-generation networks like Ionity or Ewiva; compatible only with the most recent vehicles, it cuts times to 15-20 minutes.
To access a public charging station you usually need an RFID card (the operator's card) or an app on your smartphone. More and more stations also accept credit card or contactless payments directly at the charger, which is convenient especially for those travelling who haven't taken out subscriptions.
How much it costs to charge: the main cost items
Costs vary depending on the operator, the type of charger and the payment method. Generally, you pay based on the kWh consumed or on connection time (minutes), or a combination of the two. Those who take out a monthly subscription with an operator usually get lower per-kWh rates than occasional payment.
High-power direct-current charging (fast and ultra-fast) is more expensive per kWh than slow charging, but obviously saves you time. Some operators also apply an occupancy fee for the time the car remains connected after charging is complete: bear this in mind to avoid unexpected charges.
If you're renting an electric car, always check the charging conditions with the rental company: some offers include solutions or agreements with specific operators. On MoviQ you can compare the proposals of independent rental companies and ask the company directly for all the details before confirming the booking, with no intermediaries and no hidden fees.
Practical tips for stress-free charging
Planning well makes all the difference, especially if you have to cover long distances. Here are some concrete tips:
Download at least one charging-station mapping app before setting off and check availability along the route.
Register in advance with the main operators on your route (Enel X Way, BeCharge, Free To X on the motorways) to avoid hunting for the app at the last minute.
Aim to charge when the remaining range is between 20% and 80%: in that range charging is faster and protects the battery.
Make the most of stops you've already planned (lunch, coffee, a visit) to charge: 45 minutes at a fast charger is often enough to resume the trip calmly.
In urban centres, check the municipal charging stations: they're often cheaper than the private networks.
The situation in the main cities
The big Italian cities are increasingly investing in charging infrastructure. Milan has the most widespread network, followed by Rome and the main northern cities. Bologna too stands out for the density of charging points relative to its size, thanks to municipal policies geared towards sustainable mobility.
In the South the situation is gradually improving, but for a trip in those areas it's still worth planning more carefully, checking in advance the stations available along the itinerary.
Is it worth renting an electric car today?
If your trip takes place mainly in the city or along the main motorway routes, the answer is almost always yes. The Italian charging network has reached sufficient coverage for most common itineraries, and refuelling costs are generally lower than petrol or diesel. The important thing is to set off informed: choose the right vehicle for the route, plan your charging stops and check the rental conditions. If you want to search for a rental car among the proposals of independent Italian rental companies, MoviQ lets you do it transparently, talking directly with whoever hands you the keys.