No visit to Como should be considered complete without a boat trip on the beautiful Lake Como.

Situated in the north of Italy, under the shadow of the Alps, the Lombardy region is home to some of the most spectacular sights in Italy.

From the banks of the shimmering Lake Como to the glitzy streets of Milan, car hire offers myriad magical touring possibilities. There are many reasons why renting a car in Italy makes sense. One good reason is that many of the country's most spectacular sights cannot be reached with public transport. By Fiona Hilliard

What's more, renting a car in Lombardy allows you to stop and start your journey wherever and whenever you wish. Enjoy the Dolce Vita at a pace that suits you. Car hire allows you to make the most of your Italy travel experience, especially if you haven't got much time to spend. Whatever you want to do in Italy, whether it's shopping, touring the sights or learning about the local culture, you'll find renting a car affords you the ultimate freedom.

The following is a guide to some of the regions most attractive cities and how to get to them! Milan Cutting edge yet historic, fashionable but timeless, not only is Milan the capital of the Lombardy region, it is also regarded as one of the world's most stylish cities. With designer boutiques galore, stunning architecture and elegant restaurants and bars, a Milan car hire excursion offers something for everyone.

The dramatic peaks of Monte Generoso make for an exciting Lombardy car hire excursion. For the best views, drive to Capolago situated on Lake Lugano and take a 40 minute journey by cogwheel railway to its summit. Breathtaking views of lakes Lugano, Como, Varese and Maggiore can be enjoyed from the top. 88.4km from Linate Milan Airport 80km from Malpensa Milan Airport, Como Probably most famous for its dazzling lakes, Como is by far the region's most popular holiday resort and deservingly so.

No visit to Como should be considered complete without a boat trip on the beautiful Lake Como. Nestling in the foothills of the Alps, the pretty town of Bergamo is renowned for its artistic heritage and unspoilt natural beauty and a piazza that is considered by many to be the most attractive in the whole of Italy. It's a town of contrasts too, half modern and bustling, half ancient and bohemian, Bergamo car hire allows you to explore whichever aspect takes your fancy.

Pavia Renowned for its elegant Certosa (Carthusian Monastery), Pavia is a town rich in history and culture. The town itself dates back to Roman times, but it is its charming medieval character that captivates most visitors.