Car Hire in Locarno Center

Locarno is Switzerland's southernmost city on the northern shore of Lago Maggiore in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino, known for its Mediterranean climate and international film festival. With 1 rental agency in the center, it's a unique base for exploring Ticino's beautiful valleys and reaching northern Italy. Lugano is 55 km to the south and Bellinzona, the canton's capital, just 25 km to the east.

Locarno's old town with Piazza Grande – the film festival's iconic open-air cinema – and the Madonna del Sasso monastery on the mountain above the town are the city's signature. With a rental car, you can explore Valle Maggia (40 km to the north) and Valle Verzasca with its emerald-green river and famous bungee jumping bridge (20 km). The border crossing to Italy at Brissago is just 15 km to the south along the lake.

Check that your rental car is permitted to drive in Italy if you plan to visit the Italian side of Maggiore Lake with Stresa and the Borromean Islands (45 km to the south). The Valle Verzasca road is narrow and winding – avoid it with large vehicles. The summer season is warm and sunny – park in the shade to protect your rental car.

Can I drive the rental car from Locarno to Milan? Milan is 130 km to the south via motorway A2 and A8, approximately 1.5 hours' drive. Check that your rental agreement permits driving in Italy and that the insurance is valid.

How do I get to Locarno from Zurich Airport? Zurich Airport (ZRH) is 230 km to the north, approximately 2.5 hours' drive via the San Bernardino Tunnel or the Gotthard Tunnel. Alternatively, the train via Bellinzona takes approximately 3 hours.

What is the best thing about renting a car in Locarno compared to Lugano? Locarno provides better access to the wild northern valleys (Valle Maggia, Valle Verzasca) while Lugano is better suited for southern Ticino and northern Italy. Choose based on your travel plans.

We compare prices from all major providers at Locarno Center so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.