Compare prices and check availability to find the cheapest car hire in Como and save on your trip today.
Table of Contents
Do You Need a Car in Como
A car helps when you plan day trips around Lake Como, or travel with family and luggage. Public transport is good for the town centre but limited for remote villas and mountain roads.
Como city centre is compact. Walking and the funicular to Brunate handle short trips. A hire car is useful for hiking trails, view points, and exploring smaller lakeside towns.
Where to Find Car Hire at Como
Most rental desks are near Como S. Giovanni station and along the waterfront. You will also find offices a short walk from Porta Torre.
Booking online gives pick-up options at city locations. Some firms offer hotel collection. Expect desk staff to ask for ID, licence and a credit card at collection.
Driving in Como – What to Expect
Roads around the lake are scenic and narrow. The SS340 runs close to the shore. Expect slow moving traffic in summer and tight bends on the lakeside road.
Brunate and the hill villages have steep streets and limited passing places. Some lanes are cobbled. Allow extra time for short journeys in busy periods.
Parking and ZTL Rules in Como
Como operates a Zona a Traffico Limitato or ZTL rules in the historic centre. Cameras monitor entrances and fines are issued automatically.
On-street paid bays use blue markings. White bays are usually free, but read local signs. Yellow bays are for residents and authorised vehicles only.
Typical prices for public garages near the station and waterfront are around €1.50–€3.00 per hour. Weekend and event parking can be harder to find.
Picking Up Your Rental Car at Como
Bring a valid driving licence, passport or EU ID, and the credit card used for the booking. International licences may be checked.
Inspect the vehicle with the clerk and photograph any damage before you drive away. Note tyre condition and fuel level. This avoids disputes at return.
How to Get the Cheapest Car Hire at Como
Book with a flexible cancellation policy and reserve earlier for peak months. Choose a smaller car for narrow streets and lower fuel use.
Compare suppliers across city desks rather than only airport providers. Milano area offices may be cheaper but factor in transfer time and motorway tolls.
Car Hire Cost by Vehicle Type
Approximate daily rates vary with season and vehicle size. Use these ranges to budget for your trip.
| Car Type | Typical Daily Cost (Low Season) | Typical Daily Cost (High Season) |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | €30–€50 | €50–€90 |
| Compact | €40–€60 | €60–€110 |
| Estate | €50–€80 | €80–€140 |
| 7 Seater / MPV | €80–€120 | €120–€220 |
Smaller cars are usually the best value on narrow lake roads. Book automatics early as they cost more and are less common.
Hidden Fees to Watch Out For
Check terms for extra driver fees, one-way charges, and young driver surcharges. These add up quickly on short hires.
Common Extra Charges
Typical extras and whether you can avoid them with advance planning.
| Extra | Typical Cost | Can It Be Avoided? |
|---|---|---|
| Young driver fee | €10–€30/day | Sometimes. Choose older drivers. |
| One-way fee | €20–€80 | Often. Return to same location to avoid it. |
| Additional driver | €5–€15/day | Sometimes. Add only essential drivers. |
| Airport pickup supplement | €10–€40 | Yes. Collect in town to save money. |
| Refuelling charge | €30–€80 | Usually. Return full to avoid it. |
Read the fuel policy and the damage waiver terms. Carry proof of purchase for any extras bought locally.
Final Tips Before Booking Your Car Hire
- Book early for July and August. Availability falls and prices rise then.
- Choose compact cars for easier parking in Como town.
- Confirm ZTL coverage with the company. Some insurers exclude fines.
- Keep change for parcometers and use parking apps where accepted.
- Photograph the car at pick up and return. Time-stamp images if possible.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a car to visit Como?
A car is useful for island hopping, villa visits and mountain roads. It is not essential for the town centre.
Where are the main rental desks in Como?
Most desks are near Como S. Giovanni station and along the lakeside. Some offices are close to Porta Torre.
Are there ZTL zones in Como?
Yes. The historic centre has ZTL zones with camera enforcement. Check access times to avoid fines.
How much does parking cost in Como?
Expect about €1.50–€3.00 per hour in city garages. Street parking varies by zone and time.
Can I drive a hire car into Switzerland?
Crossing is usually permitted. Confirm with the rental company and declare it when booking. You may need extra insurance.
Is automatic transmission widely available?
Automatics are available but limited. They cost more. Book early if you require one.
What documents do I need to hire a car in Como?
Bring a valid driving licence, passport or EU ID, and the credit card used for the booking. International licences may be checked.
How far is Como from Milan by car?
The A9 motorway connects Como with Milan. Journey time is about 40–70 minutes. Traffic and tolls can affect total time and cost.
Are child seats required?
Italian law requires appropriate child restraints. Bring your own or pre-book a seat with the rental company.
What should I inspect before driving away?
Check for scratches, dents, tyre condition and fuel level. Record damage in writing and take photos.