OT: GPS in Italy

[Madsol]

I am going to be in Italy for 4 weeks and would like to have GPS. I have a Samsumg Galaxy S5 but will not have a data plan over there. I've read a little bit about using my Google Maps app and offline maps but I'm not sure I really understand that. The cheapest stand-alone GPS unit I found with European maps is $150, which seems a little steep for a one-time (albeit 4 week) use. Does anyone have any suggestions? I'm not quite technically illiterate but I'm not a geek either so please keep your suggestions somewhat simple. Thanks so much in advance for the help.

 

[Pitt is #1]

Try finding a used one or off brand in eBay. Or this one on Amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00WP...ps+for+car&dpPl=1&dpID=5118rY30sfL&ref=plSrch

 

[pandaczar12]

Can't you just buy European maps for any regular old GPS? NOTHING is better on road trips than a real, dedicated GPS, especially in a foreign country. Using a smart phone is a huge pain. Spending a little money to reduce the stress on your vacation would be totally worth it.

 

[JBDLion]

Offline maps don't really work well for GPS on Google Maps, especially if you're travelling any distance. Can you find an old gps online or borrow from a friend? You can download the Italy & Greece maps from Garmin for $69.99.

https://buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/map...e/c452-c454-atFILTER_REGION_EUROPE_01-p1.html

 

[kgilbert78]

If you are renting a car, they often come equipped with GPS or you can add it for a small fee.

 

[bdgan]

I am going to be in Italy for 4 weeks and would like to have GPS. I have a Samsumg Galaxy S5 but will not have a data plan over there. I've read a little bit about using my Google Maps app and offline maps but I'm not sure I really understand that. The cheapest stand-alone GPS unit I found with European maps is $150, which seems a little steep for a one-time (albeit 4 week) use. Does anyone have any suggestions? I'm not quite technically illiterate but I'm not a geek either so please keep your suggestions somewhat simple. Thanks so much in advance for the help.

GPS doesn't require data service but you do need internet access to download a map (like google maps). I was in Italy last month and I downloaded my map using the hotel wi-fi before I left. Unfortunately you would have to slip into a café with free wi-fi if you wanted a new route.

ATT offers an international plan for $30/mo that gives you a small amount of data and unlimited texting. I assume other carriers offer something similar. I didn't buy it since I was only gone a week. I downloaded KIK texting app that can be used for free when in a wi- area.

 

[psuro]

I guess an old fashioned paper map is out of the question.

 

[TTman]

Unless you are traveling with a passenger who is good with maps, can read signs in Italian, and a good sense of direction, you really should get a GPS, especially for in & around urban areas. Roads are not as well marked as you are use to.

 

[Madsol]

Offline maps don't really work well for GPS on Google Maps, especially if you're travelling any distance. Can you find an old gps online or borrow from a friend? You can download the Italy & Greece maps from Garmin for $69.99.

https://buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/maps/on-the-road-maps/europe/c452-c454-atFILTER_REGION_EUROPE_01-p1.html

This looks to be the best option. I think I can borrow a GPS from my in-laws. Thanks all for the help.

 

[Columbus_Lion]

I have rented cars through AutoEurope.com and you can rent a GPS. You let them know which countries you will be traveling and they will ship you the GPS along with return boxes and postage. Very easy. Just don't leave the GPS behind!

 

[Michael.Felli]

I am going to be in Italy for 4 weeks and would like to have GPS. I have a Samsumg Galaxy S5 but will not have a data plan over there. I've read a little bit about using my Google Maps app and offline maps but I'm not sure I really understand that. The cheapest stand-alone GPS unit I found with European maps is $150, which seems a little steep for a one-time (albeit 4 week) use. Does anyone have any suggestions? I'm not quite technically illiterate but I'm not a geek either so please keep your suggestions somewhat simple. Thanks so much in advance for the help.

Have you ever been to Italy, before? If you have, then you KNOW the dangers of driving, right?

Why do you NEED a car?

 

[#OneTeam#NextLevel]

So here's an idea. Just post here every time you need turn-by-turn directions. Just tell us where you are....and where you want to go, and someone here will look it up and post the directions. We're here for you buddy!

 

[Blueblood4eva]

Just remember the first rule of Italian race car driving. Rip out the rear view mirror. What's behind you is not important!

 

[pmjoe]

Have you ever been to Italy, before? If you have, then you KNOW the dangers of driving, right?

Why do you NEED a car?

I have to wonder that too. Some of the popular tourist towns in Italy are basically restricted from driving, and the ZTL fines are expensive.