Car hire Malpensa Airport
Milan’s largest airport is Malpensa International Airport, located 48km from the city centre. This major air hub provides easy access to northern Italy and Milan from airports across Europe and numerous other major international destinations. Its two terminals, Overst and Nord, are connected by a free shuttle and the airport itself has direct train and bus transport into the centre of Milan. Passengers will find an impressive array of amenities inside the airport including car rental.
Car hire
Malpensa’s Terminal 1 handles the bulk of flights and provides car hire service on level 1 from several major international rental firms including Budget, Thrifty, Dollar, Hertz and Europcar. Terminal 2 also has car hire desks from Europcar and Avis as well as a handful of local outfits. Operating hours are typically 07:30 to 23:00; roughly following the main flight schedule. For the best deals on rentals at the airport, book online ahead of time after you compare car hire prices.
Discovering Milan
Milan is one of Europe’s most cosmopolitan travel destinations and features a world-class mixture of cultural and historic treasures as well as numerous trendy shops and restaurants. Milan’s main plaza is dominated by the Duomo, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Climb to the top for panoramic views stretching all the way to the snowy Bergamo Alps. Castello Sforzesco is home to several important art museums, while the Piazza Cordusio is the heart of Italy’s financial district.
Daytripping by car
With the Bergamo Alps being just a short drive to the north, renting a car in Milan is the ideal way to explore this beautiful part of Italy. Crystalline lakes like Lago Maggiore lie along the road to the mountains, where travellers can explore the Parco dell\'Adamello and Parco Nazionale dello Stelvio; both stunning national parks. Closer to Milan, check out the charming town of Pavia along the Ticino River.
When to go
Northern Italy is very cold and often grey during winter, making summer an obvious choice for anyone hoping to spend time outdoors in Milan. Peak holiday months like July and August are actually quiter in Milan itself, as residents flock to rural vacation spots.
Check Malpensa Weather Forecast
Driving rentals in Italy
Expect some rather crazy driving in Milan and throughout Italy in general. The speed limit is 50kph in cities and 130kph on the motorways. Be aware that driving takes place on the right side of the road and be sure to carry your International Driver’s Licence at all times when utilising car hire.