We are a group of seven (two families) traveling together to Italy and Switzerland during December and January for three weeks. Understanding that European rental rates are considerably higher than here in the US, we are looking to rent one large van/vehicle that will accomodate all of us, yet still be affordable. Any suggestions as to the most affordable auto rental companies in Italy? We'll be flying into Milan. Thanks!

Hi D,

Try www.novacarhire.com and www.autoeurope.com

A 7-person van is going to be far less convenient and, possibly, more expensive than 2 cars.

Are you going to return the car in Italy?

You are required to have an International Driver's Permit in Italy. See www.aaasouth.com/travel_drivers.asp#idp

You also have to buy the CDW. That's why car rental in Italy is so expensive.

You'll also need a vignette (road tax sticker) to travel the autobahns of Switzerland.

Try for a diesel for economy and I suggest contacting Andy Bestor at http://www.gemut.com for the rental.

dagil,
We had similar problem with the cost of a rental car in Italy a few years ago. At that time we took the train from Milan to Lucerno and picked up a much more affordable rental car there. We were able to drop it off at the Milan airport on our return. This may work for you if your intinerary can be adjusted. We always use Auto Europe.

Happy travels, Louisa

We leased through

http://www.renault-eurodrive.com/

Found the rates reasonable and the car was great. We picked it up in Frankfurt, drove to and around Italy for 3 weeks and dropped it off at Fiumicino on our way out. Great insurance and hassle free service.

There were only 4 of us so not sure what they might offer that would be comfortable for 7 people. Our car (a Scenic? I've already forgotten) had so many cubbyholes and hideyholes - it had excellent storage space for all of the acquisitions we made during our 3 weeks!