train vs car: Milan Malpensa/Varenna/Pesaro?
 

What do you think? Rent a car and drive the routes or take the trains? With a quote I received from one of the rental companies, we actually save money on the rental vs train tickets, however, once we add tolls and gas, it would probably even out or be a bit more expensive with the car.

A few of the places we're looking at staying in Varenna are up the hill or just out of town so a car may be convenient?

Hard to answer:
How many people?
What time of year?
How many days in Varenna?

Good Questions
Two people, flying into Milan via DFW Boston and London.
End of May
Three nights in Varenna. Going to Pesaro and dropping car there because my sis and her hubby live near there and we'll be with them the rest of the trip.

In that part of the world 'up the hill' can have any meaning. Those hills rise 4,000+ feet.
Conversely, 'just out of town' is a short distance (Villa Monastero or Villa Cipressi).
As far as rental car pricing goes, CDW insurance is mandatory in Italy. Make sure that CDW is included in your qoute.

With 2 I would train to Varenna and then get your car in the city of Como when you leave--you can ferry to there. You will not neeed the car at the lake and parking is a hassle.

Have fun !

Hi Wug - Are you planning several days for the drive from Varenna to Pesaro?

If you're doing it in just one day, it's much easier (- and cheaper) just to take the train IMO.

Steve

Thanks everyone,

I'm thinking I'm talking myself out of the car. Going into Milan and then changing to the train to Varenna was just sounding like a pain but, I think it may be easier than driving from Malpensa? And, maybe the same amount of time in the end? I'm really just trying to get to Varenna as quickly as possible after flying so long.

'I'm really just trying to get to Varenna as quickly as possible'

Driving Malpensa-Varenna will certainly be quicker than bus/train* via Milan. If speed/convenience is the main priority, a pre-booked limo/taxi transfer - or hire car - will be the best option.

* There is a frequent shuttle bus (- every 20 mins) to Milano Centrale (1 hr approx). But -
N.B. Trains to Varenna are not frequent (- about every 2 hrs).
Journey time: 1 hr approx. For timetables see -
www.trenitalia.com

Steve