Oh wow, thats good to know. Appreciate the advice. Isn't insurance really steep on rentals in EU, like $25/day?

I am using Hertz actually, is it really the case that Hertz in Europe would operate differently and charge for even minor damages / scratches that would be ignored in the US? When you rented a car in EU did you accept the insurance that was offered at the counter?

Thats a great relief, thanks for the feedback. Regarding insurance coverage, I have Geico, which doesn't extend to Europe, however, my Visa credit card has an added benefit of collision insurance. Should that be all that I need or will I be forced to purchase additional liability insurance at the counter? Basically, I am certain I have a good car damage and theft insurance, but thats all I have.

@PatriciaShanahan, also, I don't plan on driving the car into the city centers for obvious reasons - but having a car will allow me to be more flexible and mobile should I decide to move around in/out a particular country.

I actually prefer a manual transmission, so thats no issue :D Great point though, rental cars are manual transmissions by default in Europe.

Since I am stopping in Europe from traveling elsewhere for a few weeks, I won't be packing light unfortunately..

@JimMacKenzie, I'm actually from Florida :D