Car Rental in Locarno | Book at Unbeatable Prices

1. How much does it cost to rent a car in Locarno?

The price for renting a car in Locarno can depend on several factors such as the type of car, rental duration and season of the year, but it typically starts from about 30-40 CHF per day. Compare prices on different car rental websites for the best deals.

2. Which car model is the most rented in Locarno?

The most commonly rented car in Locarno is a mini or compact model due to the city's narrow and busy streets. These models are not only easy to park, but also fuel-efficient, making them ideal for navigating in this romantic Swiss city.

3. What are the most popular locations to rent a car in Locarno?

Most car rentals in Locarno are located in the city center, close to the train station and tourist attractions. Additionally, many travelers choose to rent a car directly at the Milan Linate Airport, which is a short journey from Locarno.

4. Is there a 24-hour pick-up and drop-off service?

Most car rental companies in Locarno offer a 24-hour pick-up and drop-off service. However, it's advisable to check this in advance with the specific car rental company.

5. Is there a minimum rental period?

Yes, typically car rental agencies require a minimum rental period of one day.

6. What is the minimum age requirement to rent a car in Locarno?

The minimum age to rent a car in Locarno is usually 21 years old. However, some car rental companies may apply a surcharge for drivers under 25 years old.

7. What documentation do I need to rent or drive a car in Locarno?

To rent a car in Locarno, you'll need a valid driver's license (international if from outside the EU), a credit card, and in some cases, a passport or ID card.

8. When is the best time of year to visit Locarno by car?

The best time to visit Locarno by car is from late spring to early fall when the weather is the warmest. However, driving in the winter can be a unique experience due to the beautiful snow-covered mountain views. Nevertheless, always check the weather forecast and road conditions beforehand.

9. What are the main airports in Locarno?

The closest airport to Locarno is Lugano Airport, but most international travellers land at Milano Malpensa Airport in Italy which is just a 90 minutes drive away.

10. Can I pick up the car in Locarno and drop it off in another city?

Many car rental companies in Locarno offer the option of one-way rentals, allowing customers to pick up a car in one city and drop it off in another. Additional fees may apply, so it's best to inquire directly with the rental company.

1. Locarno - Lugano: A 47.4 km journey on the E35 road, taking approximately 1 hour. The drive is scenic, running along Lake Lugano.
2. Locarno - Zurich: A 208 km drive, largely on the A2 highway, taking nearly 3 hours. Roads are generally in good condition, although traffic can increase during peak hours.
3. Locarno - Bern: Stretching 150 km on the A2 and A1 roads, typically takes around 2.5 hours. Road condition is excellent but expect some possible traffic.
4. Locarno - Milan: A 98.4 km journey on the A2 road, taking approximately 2 hours. This drive offers a slight change of scenery, crossing the border into Italy.
5. Locarno - Como: A 2-hour drive covering approximately 65.1 km via the A2 route. This route offers beautiful views of the lakes and mountains.
6. Locarno - Basel: A 226 km route that takes around 3 hours, traveling mostly on the A2. Road conditions are generally good.
7. Locarno - Geneva: 393 km via the E35 and A1, usually takes about 5 hours. The route provides a scenic drive along Lake Geneva.

1. What side of the road do we drive on in Locarno?

In Locarno and the whole of Switzerland, you drive on the right-hand side of the road, while the driver’s seat and controls are located on the left-hand side of the car.

2. What is the speed limit in Locarno?

In built-up areas like Locarno, the speed limit is typically 50 km/h, on open roads it's 80–120 km/h, and on motorways, it's 120 km/h.

3. Is a foreign driver’s licence sufficient for driving in Locarno?

Yes, a foreign driver’s license is accepted in Switzerland, as long as it is written in Latin script or accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP).

4. How are traffic violations monitored?

Traffic violations are monitored using radars and automatic cameras. These are especially common on main roads and motorways.

5. Are there many toll roads in Locarno?

Switzerland has a toll for motorways, and this includes the region of Locarno. Rather than paying on individual roads, drivers must buy a “vignette”, a toll sticker, which allows the car to travel on all motorways across the country.

6. What general road safety rules should I be aware of while driving in Locarno?

Basic road manners and regulations must be followed: Keep a safe distance from the car in front of you, use the right-hand lane except when overtaking, and respect the speed limits and road signs.

7. What times are the busiest on the roads in Locarno?

Peak traffic in Locarno generally corresponds with commuting hours, typically between 7-9 in the morning, and 5-7 in the evening.

8. How is parking managed in Locarno?

Parking regulations in Locarno are similar to the rest of Switzerland. Parking spaces are usually marked by white, blue and yellow lines which represent public, resident and private parking respectively.

9. What should I know about pedestrian crossings in Locarno?

At pedestrian crossings in Switzerland, drivers must give way to pedestrians who are waiting to cross the road, or who have already set foot on the crossing.

10. Are the roads in Locarno generally safe?

Yes, Switzerland has one of the best road safety records in the world. However, drivers should stay cautious particularly in winter due to extreme weather conditions and frequent fog.

1. Piazza Grande: Known for hosting the Locarno Film Festival, this large square is a lively hub of shops, cafés, and bars.
2. Lido Locarno: An impressive pool complex with thermal baths, spas, and views across Lake Maggiore.
3. Madonna del Sasso: A pilgrimage church located on a hill above Locarno, it offers stunning views over the city and the lake.
4. Castello Visconteo: A 13th-century castle-turned-museum, home to a collection of Roman artifacts. Just a short car ride from the city center.
5. Cardada-Cimetta: Accessible by cable car, this mountainous area provides panoramic views, hiking trails, and a restaurant.
6. Lake Maggiore: Perfect for boat trips, swimming, and picnics, with beautiful surrounding towns to explore by car.
7. Verzasca Valley: A 30-minute car drive from Locarno, this picturesque valley offers hiking, bird-watching, and the famous Verzasca Dam.
8. Botanical Garden Gambarogno: An exquisite garden filled with a variety of exotic plants and flowers, situated on the opposite side of Lake Maggiore, accessible by car and ferry.

1. Locarno to Lugano: This 50-kilometer route takes you from the beautiful town of Locarno to the picturesque city of Lugano. Enjoy stunning lake views while you drive.
2. Magadino Plane: An easy 37-kilometer round trip through the Magadino Plane lets you explore the Canton of Ticino's nature and agriculture.
3. Locarno to Ascona: A short 8 km's drive but full of breath-taking sceneries. Explore the medieval old town in Ascona and enjoy the lake beach.
4. Scenic Drive to Verzasca Valley: With 14 kilometers one way, this excursion takes you through the Verzasca Valley to the Verzasca Dam and the ancient village of Sonogno.
5. Locarno to Bellinzona: This 30-kilometer drive takes you from Locarno to Bellinzona, home to three of Switzerland's best-preserved medieval castles, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site.
6. Lake Maggiore Tour: This 92-kilometer drive takes you around picturesque Lake Maggiore, passing through Italy and Switzerland, offering an international road trip experience.
7. Gotthard Panorama Route: On this 174 kilometers tour from Locarno, you drive along the Gotthard Pass to Lucerne, enjoy breathtaking mountain views out your car window.