To fully enjoy Milan and its surroundings, choosing the right rental car is an important step. Whether you plan to explore the city, venture into the Lombardy countryside, or visit the nearby lakes, there is a car to suit your needs. Consider the size of your group and how much luggage you will be carrying. A small city car may be sufficient for a couple exploring the center, while a family will need more space.
The best car hire deals in Milan
Luxury car and van rentals
If you’re looking for a more refined driving experience, Milan offers a range of luxury cars. These vehicles allow you to travel around the city in style. For larger groups or those who need more luggage space, renting a van is an excellent option. Minivans are particularly convenient for families or groups of friends, offering increased comfort and the ability to carry more without sacrificing everyone’s space.
Practical tips for renting a car in Milan
Renting a car in Milan requires a little preparation to ensure that everything goes smoothly. It is important to know that Italy has its own driving rules, and Milan is no exception. One of the most important things to know about is the Limited Traffic Zones, or ZTL.
These zones are found in the center of most Italian cities, including Milan, to limit pollution and noise. If you enter without authorization, you risk a hefty fine, often between €100 and €200. It is therefore essential to identify these zones before setting off.
Several restricted traffic zones are in force in Milan. We do not recommend using your car without the support of a navigation system, even in the form of an app, which flags these zones.
The city center is part of Zone C, which requires the payment of a permit to enter with a non-electric vehicle. This zone operates from Monday to Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., but is expected to be extended to weekends in 2025.
Parking spaces along the streets are marked with colored stripes. Yellow spaces are reserved for residents, blue spaces are paid, and white spaces (very rare) are free.
Please note! In the most central streets, it is not possible to park for more than two consecutive hours, even if you pay.
Other tips for renting
To avoid unpleasant surprises, it is advisable to check the rental conditions carefully, especially if you plan to venture off the beaten track or cross borders, such as to Switzerland, where a vignette is required.
Also remember to check that your bank card is accepted, as some agencies prefer credit cards to debit cards. To find a good deal, it is often useful to compare prices and book well in advance, especially if you are traveling during busy periods.
Don’t forget to check reviews of rental companies to avoid overbooking issues, which can really ruin the start of your vacation. It’s also important to know that you’ll need an international driver’s license to drive in Italy, in addition to your regular license. This is a legal requirement and not having one can result in fines.
Remember to check that you are of the required age, which is usually 21, but this may vary and surcharges may apply for young drivers. To help you avoid scams, there are guides that give advice on how to avoid getting caught out when renting your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Milan?
To rent a car in Milan, you generally have to be 21 years old. But be aware that some companies accept drivers as young as 18, but you will often have to pay a surcharge if you are under 25. It’s a bit like a little extra to pay for being younger behind the wheel.
Can I return the rental car to another city?
Yes, you can rent a car in Milan and return it to another city in Italy or even another European country. This is very convenient if you are taking a long trip and don’t want to retrace your steps to return the car.
When is the best time to book a rental car in Milan?
It’s a great idea to book your car well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the holidays or when the weather is nice, say from April to October. The earlier you book, the more likely you are to find a really good price. It’s like buying train or plane tickets: the earlier, the better!