Your Avis pick-up point is in the heart of Milan, right near its star attraction – the Duomo. This mammoth cathedral is a gothic masterpiece that took six centuries to complete and is one of the largest in Italy.

Much of the city, including parts dating back to Roman times, was destroyed during Allied bombings during World War II. Following years of growth and redevelopment, Milan offers a fantastic mix of old and new, preserving its history, but always moving forward.

World-class attractions are dotted all over Milan and just by wandering the city’s winding streets you’re likely to stumble across some. The Castello Sforzesco, a huge red brick fortress that was home to Milan’s rulers during the Renaissance era, now houses seven museums. Admire an exceptional collection of ancient art at the Civiche Raccolta d’Arte Antica and visit the Furniture Museum and Picture Gallery, among others. Art lovers must stop by the Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie. Displayed in its refectory is Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper.

Milan is a city known for its style and fashion, so be sure to spend time browsing the many shops and the breathtaking Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This 19th-century shopping mall features a soaring glass dome covering arcades full of high-end designer boutiques.

Fine dining is also a big draw for visitors to Milan. Ingredients typical of northern Italy – like rice, gorgonzola cheese and veal – feature on many menus, while a huge variety of cuisine is available across the city. Nightlife options are plentiful too, with bars and outdoor piazzas in areas like Corso Como popular with locals and tourists.

With your Avis rental car, the rest of Northern Italy is a stone’s throw away.

 

Northern Italy offers a contrast to the beach resorts and seaside towns of the country’s south. Beautiful hillside villages, verdant countryside and an array of historical sights typify the Lombard region.

Lake Como

Accelerate 90 minutes north on the A9 to Lake Como, a popular holiday destination in the Italian Lake District. Surrounded by numerous towns – like Lecco, Mandello del Lario and Lierna – and lush mountains on the northern end, it’s a fantastic getaway from the hustle and bustle of Milan. Boating, swimming and other waterfront activities are popular here, as is gelato, available in just about every town on the lake.

Bergamo

An hour east on the A4, Bergamo is split between the upper and lower towns in the Alpine foothills. A funicular connects the two. Beautiful piazzas and architecture built over many centuries make it one of the most picturesque towns in the region.

Pavia

Just 50 minutes south on the A7, this university town is a stark contrast to Milan. Laid-back and relaxed, Pavia is a quaint, old town with a striking bridge – the Ponte Coperto – among many sights to see. It’s most famous attraction is the Certosa di Pavia, a Renaissance-style monastery founded in 1936.

With an Avis car hired from Milan Piazza Diaz, Italy’s Lombardy region is yours to freely roam. All you need to do is buckle up and drive.