I am renting a car in Lucca on a Friday and returning it to Malpensa on Sunday (1:45pm flight to London). I booked online through holidayautos.com but the rental car supplier is listed as SIXT. Any tips on driving from Lucca to Malpensa or tips on returning a car there? What about topping off the tank before I return the car? Thanks
Posted by
Portland
3643 posts
You are very wise to scope this out ahead of time. We did it 2 years ago, and it was a bit of a white knuckle experience. We were coming from Lago Maggiore, so not the same direction, but here are some things we experienced. First of all, the exit labeled, "Malpensa," left us about 10 minutes away from the airport. We then had to drive on secondary roads, through lots of intersections and roundabouts, constantly trying to read the (not very large) signs. It did give us the opportunity to fill the tank, however. There are no service stations right at the turnoff to the airport. I can't remember which terminal is the one for car rental returns, but you don't get much warning before you have to choose the turn to one or the other. Try to find out when you pick up the car or by checking the airport website. I also have a vague recollection of hearing another person asking the attendant where a different company's return place was, and hearing him say that she was in the wrong terminal. Most of them are in one place; but I think it's Europcar that isn't. I would do a viamichelin itinerary and then add a substantial amount of time. Our hotel told us it was a 1/2 hour drive. Good thing we're super cautious and allowed 90 minutes to take into account filling and returning time. The drive itself was 45 or 50 minutes.
Posted by
dallas, tx, usa
1358 posts
Based on my use of Garmin here and what I have read from other travelers, I would request a GPS in your car. It will help you in many amazing ways which you can't anticipate.
I especially appreciate it warning me in advance to change lanes as I approach an exit or a "Y". That will prevent your having to turn back and correct a mistake.
I have rented from sixt.com and you will be happy with their service.
Posted by
Portlandia
3313 posts
It's pretty easy. You drive to Terminal 1 and leave your car in the parking garage. I assume the SIXT rental car counter will be open on a Sunday - Malpensa is busy enough. The signage for rental car drops is pretty clear. If it's closed, you'll need to leave your keys in the slot in the parking garage. I take pictures of the car in case there's any dispute about its return condition.
Topping off with gas is a little more of a problem. I would do it at a rest stop on the Autrostrada as you near Somma Lombardo, the town close to Mal[ensa.