Google maps say 2:45 via A-1 to Parma---I would allow more.
I would take A-26 down and stop in Camogli for lunch---that routing will take about :15 more but is more interesting.

Bobthenavigator: Thank you so much for your prompt and informative reply. On departure day to have an 11:45 AM flight back to U.S.from Malpensa. Would we take the same route? My husband said we must be on the road by 7:Am. Do you think this will allow us enough time? By the way, do you know how many miles it is between Malpensa and Forte dei Marmi. Thank you.

See Google Maps or viamichlin.com
I would take the other route back but I would be out by 0600 if I have to drop the car. Or, stay at MXP at Hotel First the nite before.

I looked at viamichelin.com. They say 186 miles and 3 hours 13 minutes for the fastest route. You have to allow time to drop off the car and get to the airport. You also have to allow time for traffic jams.

I strongly recommend staying at or near the airport the night before your flight. What happens if you miss your flight? Do you have to buy new full fare tickets? Will you have to wait for a flight with open seats?

I've made that trip back to MXP, and I would NEVER consider driving there when I have a morning plane to catch!!!

While you are in Forte dei Marmi, don't miss Eno-Trattoria da Beppino for a big lunch or dinner!! It's in Pietrasanta (Via Valdicastello Carducci 34, tel. 0584790400). It's a large, rambling restaurant with some seating outside, lots of old wood-and-glass cabinets with wine in them, a fave place for local businessmen and families. The antipasto for two was huge!! And good. The main courses are excellent old traditional Italian cuisine. I wish we could get there on our next trip!

http://www.dabeppino.it/index.html

...here's some advice from our experience last month in
getting to Malpensa - as Bob said - stay at the First Hotel
and do not attempt to drive to the airport and expect to make
your flight. The A1 is BRUTAL! and slow...

Thank you all for replying to my post. Our flight back to the U.S. does not depart until 11:45AM and it is on a Saturday. We are anticipating that there will be less traffic. Your opinions regarding this info would be appreciated.

Grazie Mille

I'm no math whiz but if your flight is at 11:45 a.m. and for
an international flight you are supposed to be there 3 hours
before and you are leaving at 7 a.m. for a drive that will
take at least 3 hours if all works like clockwork plus the
car drop-off then the trek to the right terminal. Well,
good luck!

Saturday or not. Don't try it!

Thank you to everyone who helped us make the right decision.
We changed our plans and we now plan to drive to Milan the day before our return flight to the USA. We will spend the night at the Hotel Duca Di York in Milan.
Giuseppa

...VERY wise of you!