Hertz car rental in Lugano

Car rental in Lugano gives you complete freedom to explore an intriguing city that boasts the best of two worlds – as well as the spectacular landscape beyond.

Situated in Switzerland’s southernmost Ticino region, close to the border with Italy, Lugano offers a unique blend of Italian influences and Swiss charms.

The residents here speak Italian, both Italian food and architecture are widely celebrated across the city, and the climate is even that little bit sunnier here. Switzerland’s distinctive charms aren’t lost either, however, with an abundance of natural wonders to explore and a laidback vibe to enjoy.

Reserve your Lugano car rental online in advance and choose from a wide range of vehicles, whether you are in need of a spacious family option or something a little sleeker. We have pick up points across the city, including at Lugano Airport, offering easy access to the Ticino region’s best attractions.

Driving in and around Lugano

Even though it is tucked away in a beautiful corner of southern Switzerland, Lugano has access to a fantastic road network. The major A2 highway runs along the outskirts of the city, offering travelers easy access to nearby towns as well as wider points of interest, and the rest of the country as a whole.

If you are arriving at the airport, simply collect your rental car and follow Via Piodella east towards the heart of the city. This journey usually takes just 15 to 20 minutes.

Driving around Lugano itself is relatively straightforward. Just be aware that there are some pedestrianized areas. There is plenty of paid parking in and around the city, including street parking and various lots, where you can conveniently leave your vehicle to explore on foot.

There’s plenty to see beyond the glistening waters of Lake Lugano too. The resort town of Locarno is the perfect base for exploring the Swiss Alps and is only an hour away via the A2 to the north. Meanwhile, the region’s capital Bellinzona is around a 40-minute drive away and promises castles and chateaux aplenty.

If you are wanting to transform your vacation into the perfect Swiss road trip, the journey to Switzerland’s more traditional north offers extraordinary scenery and spectacle. Travel on the A2 northward and join onto the A4 to reach the luxury hub of Zurich in just over two and a half hours. Here you can unwind amid the medieval walls with an indulgent mix of fashionable boutiques and decadent chocolates.

As in the US, you’ll be driving on the right-hand side of the road here. However, speed limits will be displayed in kilometers per hour (km/h). On the major highways, this is often 120km/h (74mph), but usually drops down to 80km/h (49mph) on standard rural roads outside of the cities. In towns and cities such as Lugano, the speed limit will usually be 50km/h (30mph) or lower. Simply check the signs for any changes.

A quick guide to Lugano

From its picturesque landscape to its historic landmarks, this destination offers its visitors the best of both Switzerland and Italy.

Here’s just a few ways you can make the most of your trip with a rental car in Lugano.

Enjoy a peaceful afternoon at Lake Lugano

Much of Lugano’s natural beauty can be found in its expansive lake, which spreads across Switzerland’s southern tip. Beautifully maintained, it offers a slice of paradise thanks to its calm waters and often warm climate.

Take a boat out on the lake to fully soak up the views of the nearby coastal villages and towering mountains. Alternatively, you can board one of the ferries which depart daily to enjoy a tour of the lake, stopping off at the quaint village of Gandria on the foot of Mount Bre, the picturesque Melide which floats on Lake Lugano and Brusino Arsizio on Monte San Giorgio.

If you prefer to keep your feet grounded, these locations can all be visited by car – and you can also relax in Parco Ciani along the edge of the lake. Just a short drive from the heart of Lugano, take a seat on one of the benches dotted around the park and enjoy the tranquility, as well as the impressive mountains looming tall beside.

Explore spectacular trails

Engulfed by a mountainous landscape, Lugano is a treasure trove of woodland trails and hiking adventures.

Just to the south of Lugano, Monte San Salvatore offers unparalleled views of the city and lake below. Take the cable car from the base of the mountain to reach the peak, then embark on one of the many scenic trails on your way back to the city, running through the small towns of Carona and Pazzallo.

To the other side of the city lies the famed Olive Grove trail, which runs along the coast from Castagnola across to Gandria. Drive to either in around 10 minutes and then make your way to the path on foot. Staying mainly on flat ground, journey through the winding trails to uncover the history, production and importance of the olive tree in Ticino.

Explore Lugano’s old town

Head to Lugano’s old town to fully experience the Swiss/Italian blend which gives the city its unique charm. Encompassing a series of winding streets and seemingly never-ending piazzas, let your senses lead you through the mini neighborhoods which call this part of the city home.

Seemingly plucked out of Tuscany, Lugano’s old town is overflowing with quirky cafés, historic churches and delicious food stalls. Sample fresh bread and pungent cheeses then stop off for an espresso while watching the world go by.

Once you’ve had your fill of Italian delights, head to Piazza della Riforma, the main hub of Lugano’s traditional center. More traditionally Swiss, this square is the beating heart of the city, home to the Town Hall and various events throughout the year.

Ensure you take in all the sights and sounds of this enthralling destination and its surrounding landscape with car rental in Lugano. Reserve direct today.