Lugano Airport is a regional airport 4km west of Lugano in the south of Switzerland bordering Italy. It is actually closer to the village of Agno and is therefore sometimes known as Lugano-Agno. The airport has a stunning location in a river valley with over 200,000 passengers passing through every year.
We have worked with all the major car rental services at the Airport to ensure you get the best car hire rates available including agents such as Avis, Europcar, Sixt, and Hertz, all from whom you can collect your rental car which you have pre-booked with Rhino. Ensure you request additional special equipment provisions for example snow chains and ski racks for the car at the time of booking.
Collecting a Hire Car from Lugano Airport, Switzerland:
-
Documentation: Ensure you have your driving license (an International Driving Permit if necessary), passport, and booking confirmation. Many rental companies might also ask for a credit card as security.
-
Vehicle Inspection: Before driving away, inspect the vehicle for any pre-existing damages. Check for scratches, dents, or any other issues. It's advisable to take photos as evidence. Ensure all lights and signals are functioning correctly.
-
In-Car Equipment: Swiss law requires cars to have a reflective safety vest, which should be provided by the car rental company. Also, check if the car has a motorway vignette (sticker) which is necessary for driving on Swiss motorways.
Routes from Lugano Airport:
- Lugano city center is around 6 km from the airport, a drive of about 15 minutes.
- Como in Italy is around 30 km away, approximately a 40-minute drive.
- Milan, a major city in Italy, is around 80 km away and can be reached in about 1 hour 15 minutes.
EV Points: If you're renting an electric vehicle, Lugano and its surrounding areas have several charging stations. Apps like "ChargeMap" or "PlugSurfing" can be handy to locate them.
Tolls: Swiss motorways require a vignette, which is a toll sticker that allows you to drive on all motorways. Most rental cars should come with one already affixed. If you plan to drive into Italy, be aware that they have separate toll systems based on distance traveled.
Fuel: There are numerous petrol stations in and around Lugano. Many operate self-service, so familiarize yourself with the system. It's generally recommended to return your rental car with a full tank unless your rental agreement specifies otherwise.
Road Types: Roads in Switzerland, including around Lugano, are well-maintained. The region has a combination of motorways, main roads, and narrower alpine roads. Always check local driving conditions, especially if heading into the mountains, as weather can change rapidly.
General Driving Tips:
- In Switzerland, driving is on the right-hand side of the road.
- Speed limits are typically 50 km/h in cities, 80 km/h on main roads, and 120 km/h on motorways unless otherwise signposted.
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
- Always give way to trams and buses.
- Watch out for cyclists and pedestrians, especially in city areas.
- Don't use mobile phones while driving unless you have a hands-free system.
Emergency Number: The general emergency number in Switzerland is 112.
Having a car in the Lugano region will provide you the flexibility to explore the picturesque surroundings, including the lakeside, the alpine landscapes, and the Italian border region at your own pace. Safe travels!