We are undecided if we should drive or take a train from the Florence area to Milan. There are 4 of us so the train would be more expensive & we'll already have a car that will be picked up in Florence. (We'll be spending the previous week in the Tuscany area). The problem that I am having is that I hate returning a car in a big, busy city. The traffic, the one way roads, the after hours drop off, not knowing where to go etc. We've done that in Paris & Zurich & it was pretty stressfull. The train will arrive in the train station, we'll take the metro into the old town & that's it. At least if we return the car back into Florence, we'll know where to return it to. The train may be a hassle also. We are just trying to minimize the hassle. (We each just have a carry on size suitcase).
Has anyone had a problem returning a car into Milan? (Not the airport). Or any problems with the train? Any ideas or experiences will help.

<<The problem that I am having is that I hate returning a car in a big, busy city.>>

With that stated, I don't really know why you are asking the question.

<<Or any problems with the train?>>

No - - though I have only taken it the other direction, from Milan to Florence; a pleasant enough 2.5 hour trip.

Best wishes,

Rex

Hi Db

Can you return the car to the airport and take the bus or train into town?

The train from Florence to Milan should be a pretty straight forward undertaking. I can't imagine what problems you'd expect.

It seems like you've already answered your own question in the post. Loads of reasons NOT to return the car in Milan. If it was stressful for you in Paris and Zurich, I can only guess it would be similar for you in Milan.

Spring for 4 train tickets... and relax!!!

Another vote for the train. It takes less than 3 hours from Florence to Milan and if you take the Eurostar in first class it's comfortable and there are racks where you can put your suitcases (even if, as the train comes from Rome or naples, they can be already full, but you can try to fit them between 2 lines of seats (there is a triangular space where I usually put my suitcase, rather than using the rack)). Racks are also in 2nd class, by the way, but first class is less crowded, larger room between the seats, less seats, and the difference in price is not that big.

Hello Dbacks, although my late DH always picked up the rental car in Milan and returned it in Milan I certainly wouldn't. My DH had no problem driving in Milan, Rome, Naples etc. but don't think most people enjoy the experience. And from your comment about the stress you had regarding Paris and Zurich I would take advantage of the train. That would be so relaxing in comparison to returning the rental car. Train travel in Italy is easy and IMO relaxing. Have a beautiful and safe trip. Best wishes.

Since you already have the car, and since four people can ride in the car more economically than in the train, I'd recommend you keep the car and drive to the Milan Malpensa airport, which is north of town and is absolutely no problem in terms of finding it or turning in a car. From there you can drive into Milan, if that is your objective, via bus, shuttle, or train.

Milan's Linate airport is even closer if you want to turn in the car there. I assume you have rented it in Italy and won't be charged a dropoff fee. Good luck.