Lombardy Car Hire

Reasons to book a car hire in Lombardy

Renting a car in Lombardy provides the freedom to explore this diverse region at your own pace, making it a popular choice for tourists. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions like the magnificent Cathedral of Milan and the vibrant Piazza del Duomo, both located in the heart of Milan. If you venture a bit further, you can experience the historic Villa del Balbianello, renowned for its scenic views and romantic atmosphere.

The convenience of having a car allows for easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, perfect for families or groups. You can explore charming destinations such as Sirmione, known for its Scaliger Castle and wellness centres, without the constraints of public transport schedules. Additionally, the bustling metropolis of Milan and its surrounding areas are easily accessible, ensuring that you can enjoy everything Lombardy has to offer, from cultural experiences to stunning outdoor scenery. Overall, hiring a car in Lombardy enhances your travel experience by providing the flexibility to create your own itinerary and discover the region’s hidden gems.

Most popular car hires in Lombardy

• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a popular choice for travellers in Lombardy, comfortably accommodating up to 5 people and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is particularly ideal for families, couples, or small groups who require extra space for both passengers and luggage. With its robust build and versatility, the Midsize SUV is perfect for navigating both urban areas and scenic routes, ensuring a smooth journey throughout your trip.
• Compact: The Compact car is an excellent option for those looking for a balance of space and manoeuvrability. Capable of seating up to 5 travellers with room for 3 medium suitcases, it caters well to solo travellers, couples, and small families. Its smaller size makes it easier to park in Lombardy's bustling city centres and narrow streets, allowing you to explore freely without the stress of parking challenges.
• Economy: The Economy car is the most budget-friendly option, accommodating 5 travellers with space for 2 medium suitcases. Ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or families on a budget, this car type offers great fuel efficiency without compromising on comfort. The Economy car provides an excellent way to discover Lombardy while keeping costs down, making it an appealing choice for those looking to maximise their travel experience.

Where to stay in Lombardy

• Sirmione: Known for its outdoor adventures and family-friendly atmosphere, Sirmione is situated near picturesque lakes and historic sites. Visitors can explore the iconic Scaliger Castle, perfect for a romantic outing, and enjoy the thrills at Gardaland theme park, which caters to all ages. For relaxation, the Center Aquaria Spa and Wellness Center offers rejuvenating experiences. Sirmione is also renowned for its local wineries and cheese options, making it an excellent spot for food and drink enthusiasts.
• Milan: As a bustling metropolis, Milan is a hub for culture and business. The Cathedral of Milan stands as a stunning architectural marvel, ideal for culture lovers, while the vibrant Piazza del Duomo serves as a central gathering point. Visitors can indulge in retail therapy at numerous shopping centres and malls. For those seeking entertainment, the Teatro alla Scala offers a taste of the city's rich artistic scene. Milan is perfect for travellers looking to immerse themselves in urban charm and history.
• Metropolitan City of Milan: This province offers a blend of cultural and city-themed experiences. The area boasts attractions like the Cathedral of Milan and the grand Piazza del Duomo, both steeped in history. Shopping enthusiasts will find diverse shopping centres and areas to explore. Food and drink options, including fine wineries and restaurants, are abundant, allowing visitors to savour local flavours. The Metropolitan City of Milan is an excellent choice for those wanting to experience the vibrancy of the Lombardy region.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Lombardy

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for sunny days, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and benefit from better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced combination of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements may require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to evade extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in Lombardy

The best value period to rent a car in Lombardy is November, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. January and March also offer slightly low prices with average demand, making them ideal for budget-conscious travellers. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately high demand, closely followed by June and August, which are also busy and pricier.