I often receive questions from readers about how to efficiently get from Milan’s airports to the city center. Milan is a global hub for fashion, culture, and history, attracting tourists from all over the world. Whether for shopping, art, or gourmet experiences, Milan has something for everyone. However, one of the first challenges visitors face after landing is figuring out the best way to travel from the airport to the city center.
Having traveled through Milan’s major airports several times, I am familiar with the options available. In this post, I will provide you with a detailed guide on how to get from Milan’s three main airports—Malpensa, Linate, and Bergamo—into the city center. This guide will cover all the major transportation options available so that you can get to your destination as efficiently and comfortably as possible. Whether you’re arriving for business, leisure, or a special event, I’ll help you navigate Milan’s public transport systems.
1. Malpensa Airport (Malpensa) to City Center: Transportation Options
Malpensa Airport, Milan’s largest international gateway, is located approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) from the city center. Despite the distance, it remains the most popular choice for international travelers. There are several transportation methods to get from the airport to Milan’s city center, each offering its own advantages. Below are the most common ways I’ve used to travel from Malpensa to downtown Milan.
1.1 Malpensa Express Train
The Malpensa Express is one of the most popular and convenient options for traveling between Malpensa Airport and Milan’s central train stations, like Milano Centrale. The Malpensa Express is a modern, high-speed train that connects the airport to key areas in Milan.
- Travel time: Approximately 40 minutes
- Ticket price: Around 13 euros for a one-way ticket
- Frequency: Every 15-30 minutes, depending on the time of day
- Station: The train departs from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at Malpensa, and travels directly to Milano Centrale, with no intermediate stops.
I personally prefer the Malpensa Express for its convenience. The trains are clean, modern, and equipped with ample space for luggage. It’s a quick, direct ride into the heart of Milan, and I always appreciate the quiet atmosphere on board. If you’re short on time or simply want a smooth, comfortable ride, this is a great choice.
1.2 Shuttle Bus
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the airport shuttle bus is another great choice. These buses offer direct routes from Malpensa to Milan’s central train station and other parts of the city. The buses are reliable, and they are a good alternative if you want to save some money compared to the train.
- Travel time: Approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour
- Ticket price: Around 8 euros for a one-way ticket
- Station: The shuttle buses typically depart from Terminal 2 at Malpensa.
Although the travel time is slightly longer than the Malpensa Express, the shuttle buses offer a good balance of affordability and convenience. I often choose this option if I have some extra time and want to save a little on transport costs.
1.3 Taxi
If you have a lot of luggage or prefer a more direct route to your destination, a taxi might be the best choice for you. Taxis are readily available outside the terminals and can take you directly to any destination in Milan. This is a good option if you want a door-to-door service without worrying about transfers.
- Travel time: Approximately 50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions
- Ticket price: Around 90 euros (the fare may vary depending on the time of day and exact destination)
While taxis are more expensive than the train or bus, they can be the most convenient option, especially if you’re traveling with family or a group. The price can be split, making it more affordable for multiple passengers.
2. Linate Airport (Linate) to City Center: Transportation Options
Linate Airport is located much closer to Milan’s city center, only about 7 kilometers (4 miles) away. This makes it a popular choice for those flying in from domestic and nearby European destinations. Since Linate is so close to the city, it offers a number of convenient transportation options.
2.1 Shuttle Bus
The shuttle bus is a popular choice for travelers arriving at Linate Airport. These buses run directly to Milan’s central train station and other key destinations in the city, making it easy to access popular attractions and neighborhoods.
- Travel time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
- Ticket price: Around 5-6 euros for a one-way ticket
- Station: The shuttle buses depart from the airport terminal and head to Milano Centrale.
I’ve often used the Linate shuttle bus, and I find it to be both affordable and efficient. It’s a simple, no-hassle way to get to the city center, and the short travel time makes it a great option for those arriving at Linate.
2.2 Taxi
For a quicker, more direct journey, taxis are available outside the terminal at Linate. Given its proximity to the city center, a taxi ride from Linate will be relatively quick and affordable.
- Travel time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
- Ticket price: Around 20 euros
Taking a taxi from Linate is a convenient choice, especially if you’re in a rush or have heavy luggage. The fare is relatively reasonable considering the short distance.
3. Bergamo Airport (Bergamo) to City Center: Transportation Options
Bergamo Airport, located about 45 kilometers (28 miles) from Milan, is a key airport for budget airlines like Ryanair. Despite being farther from the city center, Bergamo offers excellent transportation options that make the journey to Milan relatively easy and straightforward.
3.1 Shuttle Bus
The shuttle bus is the most common and economical way to travel between Bergamo Airport and Milan. The buses are frequent and offer direct routes to the city center, making it a practical choice for most travelers.
- Travel time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
- Ticket price: Around 5-6 euros for a one-way ticket
Bergamo’s shuttle buses are very affordable and reliable, running regularly throughout the day. It’s a great choice for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind spending a little extra time on the road.
3.2 Taxi
If you’re in a hurry or have a lot of luggage, taking a taxi from Bergamo Airport is a good option. Although it’s the most expensive choice, it provides a direct and comfortable ride into Milan.
- Travel time: Approximately 1 hour
- Ticket price: Around 90 euros
Though pricey, taking a taxi from Bergamo can be a convenient option if you want to get to the city quickly and directly.
4. Milan City Center Transportation: Metro and Public Transport
Once you’ve made it into Milan, getting around the city is easy, thanks to the city’s well-developed public transport system. Milan’s metro, buses, and trams provide quick access to many of the city’s most famous sights and neighborhoods.
4.1 Milan Metro
Milan has an efficient metro system with four main lines (M1, M2, M3, M5) that cover a wide area of the city. The metro is ideal for getting to famous attractions like Duomo Cathedral, Sforza Castle, and the Museum District.
- Ticket price: 2 euros for a one-way trip, valid for metro, buses, and trams
- Operating hours: The metro runs from 6 AM to midnight, with night services available on some lines
The metro is by far the most convenient way to travel around Milan, especially for tourists. The trains are frequent, the stations are well-marked, and the network covers all of Milan’s major attractions.
4.2 Buses and Trams
In addition to the metro, Milan also has an extensive network of buses and trams that cover the city. These are useful if you need to reach areas that the metro doesn’t cover, or if you simply prefer the scenic route.
- Ticket price: 2 euros for a one-way trip
- Operating hours: Buses and trams typically run from early morning to late night, with some routes running overnight
Buses and trams are an excellent way to explore neighborhoods outside the metro system. They are also a great way to see Milan’s beautiful streets and architecture as you travel from one spot to the next.
Getting from Milan’s airports to the city center is straightforward, with various options available depending on your budget and preference. Whether you choose the speed of the Malpensa Express, the convenience of shuttle buses, or the luxury of a taxi, you can be sure that you’ll have a smooth and efficient journey into Milan’s city center. Once in the city, Milan’s extensive metro and public transportation systems make it easy to explore all that this vibrant city has to offer.
