On June 5, 2025, we're staying atop Brunate in Lake Como for 3 nights then traveling to Tirano to catch the Bernina Express to Chur. It looks like renting a car and driving is our best bet (84 miles, 2 hours). I've never driven in Italy before. Are my New York driver's license and passport enough? I need an automatic transmission, assume that won't be a problem. Is it also possible to hire a driver to take us to Tirano? Any suggestion, advice are greatly appreciated.
Posted by
San Diego, California
5834 posts
One option is a ferry to Varenna, where you can catch a train to Tirano. ( I think there's some track work currently, but not by June.)
You need an international drivers permit, easily secured from AAA.
Italy is not the best experience for a first time driver, based on reports here of unexpected tickets arriving months after your trip.
I'm sure others will chime in.
Have a great trip.
https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/italy/international-drivers-license-required
Posted by
Firenze, Italy
1773 posts
I do not know if there is a rental agency in Tirano to return the car; please check, it is not a big city. Also, do not assume an automatic won't be a problem.
The easiest train itinerary is Como San Giovanni-Monza-Tirano, it takes 3h 15min.
Posted by
OP
NYC
3 posts
How much is a car service from Como to Tirano, Italy? Any recommendations?
Posted by
11697 posts
We hired a driver : DavideGuerrera.com/en
He is based in the city of Como but the covers the whole area.
Driving in Italy shouldn’t be a problem for you. You need to get an International Driving Permit, available at any AAA. They will take your photo to attach to it. Total cost should be around $30.00.
Posted by
264 posts
We needed to travel from Varenna to Tirano, back in September.
The plan was to use the train, but due to track work it was going to end up train, bus, train and more bus, all with our luggage.
We hired a driver, which was not cheap at about 400 Euro from memory, but worth every penny. Not only did we get there in 90 minutes or so (it will obviously be longer from Como town), but it was a very interesting drive with a local who gave us so much interesting information about the Valtellina area and the wonderful food and wine of the region.
We then got to try those things at a great dinner in Tirano that evening.