Quick Answer
Best overall way: direct bus — Autostradale operates a one-seat ride from Como Piazza Matteotti to Malpensa Terminal 1 & 2. Total time: 1 h 15 min. Cost: €15–€18 (≈ $16–$19). No transfers, free Wi‑Fi, and luggage hold. For the fastest option (50–60 min), book a taxi or private transfer at €120–€150 (≈ $130–$162). The cheapest remains the bus; the most frequent is the train via Milan (€20–€25, 1.5–2 h).
Train: Como → Milan → Malpensa Express
The train route is the most frequent public transport option, but it requires a transfer in Milan. Below we break down every step, including station notes, ticket types, and real-world time estimates.
Step-by-Step Route
- Start: Como San Giovanni station (or Como Nord Lago) — take a Trenord regional train to Milano Centrale (or Milano Cadorna).
- Transfer: Alight at Milano Centrale (or Cadorna) and follow signs to the Malpensa Express platforms. The walk takes 5–10 min.
- Final leg: Board the Malpensa Express (direct to Terminal 1 then Terminal 2). Journey time: 50 min from Centrale, 40 min from Cadorna.
Two Route Options Compared
| Route | Train Operator | Time (Como → Milan) | Time (Milan → MXP) | Total Time | Total Cost (€) | Total Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Como S. Giovanni → Milano Centrale → Malpensa Express | Trenord → Malpensa Express | 40–60 min | 50 min | 1 h 30 min–1 h 50 min | €20–€25 | $22–$27 |
| Como Nord Lago → Milano Cadorna → Malpensa Express | Trenord → Malpensa Express | 55–65 min | 40 min | 1 h 35 min–1 h 45 min | €20–€25 | $22–$27 |
Note: The Cadorna route is slightly faster on the Malpensa leg but less frequent. Both cost the same.
Ticket Details & Purchase
- Trenord ticket: €7–€10 (≈ $8–$11) — buy at station machines or the Trenord website.
- Malpensa Express ticket: €13–€15 (≈ $14–$16) — purchase separately or as a combined ticket via Malpensa Express official site.
- Combined price: €20–€25 (≈ $22–$27). No discount for buying together.
- Frequency: Every 20–30 min from Milano Centrale, 5:30 AM–11:30 PM.
Luggage & Comfort
Regional trains have overhead racks and some luggage areas; the Malpensa Express offers dedicated luggage racks and air conditioning. Both are stroller and wheelchair accessible. Warning: The transfer at Milano Centrale involves stairs/escalators — allow 10 min minimum.
Real-World Case
“I took the 8:15 AM from Como San Giovanni, arrived Milano Centrale at 9:00 AM, caught the 9:10 Malpensa Express, and was at Terminal 1 by 10:00 AM. Total: 1 h 45 min, €23.” — Verified traveler report, 2024.
Direct Bus: Como to Malpensa (Autostradale)
The Autostradale direct bus is the best value option for most travelers: one seat, no transfers, and the shortest total journey time among public transport.
Route & Schedule
- Departure point: Como — Piazza Matteotti (city center, 5 min walk from the cathedral).
- Arrival: Malpensa Airport — Terminal 1 (then continues to Terminal 2).
- Frequency: 6–8 daily departures (approx. 6:30 AM – 7:30 PM).
- Journey time: 1 h 15 min (traffic permitting).
Fares & Tickets
| Ticket Type | Price (€) | Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| One-way adult | €15–€18 | $16–$19 | Online discount available |
| Round-trip | €28–€32 | $30–$35 | Valid 30 days |
| Child (4–12) | €10 | $11 | Must be accompanied |
| Infant (0–3) | Free | Free | No seat |
Buy online at Autostradale official site or at the ticket office in Piazza Matteotti. Advance booking recommended — especially in summer and holiday periods.
Onboard Amenities
- Free Wi‑Fi
- Air conditioning
- Toilet on board
- Luggage compartment (max 2 suitcases + 1 hand luggage per person)
Pros & Cons vs. Train
- ✅ Cheaper — saves €5–€10 vs. train.
- ✅ Faster total time — no transfer, 1 h 15 min vs. 1.5–2 h.
- ✅ Easier with luggage — no platform changes.
- ❌ Less frequent — 6–8 buses/day vs. trains every 20–30 min.
- ❌ Affected by traffic — can add 15–30 min during peak.
Real-World Case
“I took the 9:30 AM bus from Como. We hit light traffic near Milan and arrived at Terminal 1 at 10:50 AM. Cost €16.50 online. Super easy.” — Verified passenger, July 2024.
Taxi & Private Transfer: Door-to-Door Comfort
For travelers with early flights, heavy luggage, or groups of 3–4, a taxi or private transfer offers unbeatable convenience — at a premium price.
Fares & Vehicles
| Service | Price Range (€) | Price Range (USD) | Vehicle Type | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard taxi (metered) | €120–€150 | $130–$162 | Sedan (e.g., Volkswagen Passat) | 3–4 pax |
| Private transfer (pre-booked) | €100–€130 | $108–$140 | Luxury sedan or minivan | 3–6 pax |
| Executive/VIP | €150–€200 | $162–$216 | Mercedes E‑Class or similar | 3–4 pax |
Book via Welcome Pickups, GetTransfer, or your hotel concierge. Fixed-rate pre-booking is recommended to avoid surge pricing.
When to Choose a Taxi/Transfer
- Early morning flights — first bus departs ~6:30 AM; first train arrives ~7:30 AM. If your flight is before 9:00 AM, a taxi is safer.
- Late-night arrivals — no buses after 7:30 PM; trains run until ~11:30 PM but limited.
- Heavy luggage — more than 2 suitcases per person, or if you have skis/golf clubs.
- Group of 3–4 — cost per person drops to €30–€40 each, comparable to train + bus.
- Mobility issues — door-to-door service avoids stairs and long walks.
Real-World Case
“My flight to New York departed at 7:30 AM. No buses that early, and the first train would get me there at 8:00 AM. I booked a private transfer for €110. Picked up at my hotel at 4:30 AM, arrived Terminal 1 at 5:30 AM. Worth every cent.” — Frequent flyer, 2024.
Important Note
Metered taxis from the street may charge extra for luggage and night surcharge (21:00–6:00). Always confirm the fare before starting the trip.
Cost & Time Comparison: All Options Side‑by‑Side
Use this table to make your final decision. Best overall is highlighted in green; cheapest in blue.
| Transport Mode | Total Time | Cost (€) | Cost (USD) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚌 Direct Bus (Autostradale) | 1 h 15 min | €15–€18 | $16–$19 | 0 | Best Overall — price + speed + simplicity |
| 🚆 Train via Milano Centrale | 1 h 30 min–1 h 50 min | €20–€25 | $22–$27 | 1 | Frequent departures, all‑weather reliability |
| 🚆 Train via Milano Cadorna | 1 h 35 min–1 h 45 min | €20–€25 | $22–$27 | 1 | Slightly faster Malpensa leg |
| 🚕 Taxi / Private Transfer | 50–60 min | €100–€150 | $108–$162 | 0 | Fastest — door‑to‑door, 24/7 |
💡 Verdict: For 9 out of 10 travelers, the direct bus is the smartest choice. If you're in a group or have an early flight, the taxi is worth the splurge. The train is the fallback if bus times don't align.
Traveler Tips & Pro Advice
Insider knowledge that can save you time, money, and stress on your journey from Como to Malpensa.
1. Luggage Strategy: Use Takkyubin (Baggage Delivery)
Italy has a convenient baggage forwarding service (similar to Japan's Takkyubin). Companies like Spedire or hotel concierges can send your suitcases directly to Malpensa Airport for €15–€25 per bag. Travel light from Como and pick up your luggage at the airport's baggage service desk. Ideal if you're continuing to another destination.
2. Booking Windows & Peak Seasons
- Easter week, August, Christmas: Book buses and trains at least 2–3 days in advance. Malpensa Express can sell out during peak.
- Golden Week (Japanese tourists): Late April–early May sees heavy traffic from Como to Milan. Depart before 7:00 AM or after 10:00 AM.
- Lake Como Film Festival (June): Accommodation and transport prices surge; book 4 weeks ahead.
3. Navigating Milano Centrale
Milano Centrale is a large, busy station. The Malpensa Express departs from Platform 1 – 4 (lower level). Follow the yellow "Malpensa Express" signs. Allow 10–15 min to walk from the regional train arrival tracks to the departure platform. Avoid the ticket line — use the self‑service machines (accept cards and cash).
4. Traffic Alert for the Bus
The Autostradale bus uses the A9 motorway. On Friday afternoons and Monday mornings, traffic between Como and the Milan ring road can add 20–40 min. If your flight is tight, choose the train instead.
5. Cash vs. Card
Train ticket machines and bus drivers accept contactless cards. Taxis in Como prefer cash (€). Always carry €50–€100 in small bills for taxis and emergencies.
6. Early Morning Departure Checklist
- ☐ Pre-book taxi or private transfer (no buses before 6:30 AM).
- ☐ Confirm flight terminal (T1 or T2) — Malpensa Express serves both.
- ☐ Allow 2 h 30 min at airport for international flights, 1 h 30 min for Schengen.
- ☐ Pack a snack — airport food is expensive.
FAQs: Como to Malpensa Airport
Is there a direct train from Como to Malpensa Airport?
No, there is no direct train. You must take a regional train from Como San Giovanni to Milano Centrale (40–60 min) and then transfer to the Malpensa Express (50 min) to reach the airport. Total journey time is about 1.5–2 hours. The direct bus is a better option if you want a single seat.
What is the cheapest way to get from Como to Malpensa Airport?
The cheapest option is the direct bus operated by Autostradale at €15–€18 (≈ $16–$19) one-way. It runs from Como Piazza Matteotti to Malpensa Terminal 1 and 2 in about 1 hour 15 minutes with no transfers. Buying online can save you an extra €1–€2.
What is the fastest way to get from Como to Malpensa Airport?
A taxi or private transfer is the fastest door-to-door option at 50–60 minutes, costing €120–€150 (≈ $130–$162). Among public transport, the direct bus (1 h 15 min) is faster than the train (1.5–2 h) when you factor in waiting and transfers. However, the train is less affected by traffic.
How much does a taxi from Como to Malpensa Airport cost?
A standard taxi from Como city center to Malpensa Airport costs €120–€150 (≈ $130–$162) for a one-way trip. The journey takes about 50–60 minutes depending on traffic. Fixed-rate private transfers booked in advance range from €100–€130. Always confirm the fare before departing.
Are there overnight buses from Como to Malpensa Airport?
No, there are no overnight buses directly from Como to Malpensa. The Autostradale bus service runs during daytime and early evening hours only (approx. 6:30 AM – 7:30 PM). For late-night or early-morning flights, a taxi or pre-booked private transfer is your only option.
How early should I depart from Como for a morning flight at Malpensa?
For a morning flight (before 10:00 AM), depart from Como at least 4 hours before your departure time. This allows for the 1.5–2 hour train or 1 h 15 min bus journey plus 2 hours at the airport for check-in, security, and customs. If using public transport, aim to arrive at Malpensa by 7:00 AM. For a 6:00 AM flight, a taxi is essential.
Is the bus or train better for getting from Como to Malpensa Airport?
The direct bus (Autostradale) is better for most travelers: it's cheaper (€15–€18 vs €20–€25), faster (1 h 15 min vs 1.5–2 h), and requires no transfers. The train is more frequent and less affected by traffic, but the need to change stations in Milan makes it less convenient, especially with luggage. Choose the bus for simplicity; choose the train for schedule flexibility.
Can I use a regional train pass for the journey from Como to Malpensa?
Yes, but only for the first leg. A Trenord regional pass covers Como → Milano Centrale, but the Malpensa Express is a separate premium service requiring an additional ticket (€13–€15). Combined cost is €20–€25. No single pass covers the entire route in one ticket. The bus is a simpler all‑in‑one fare.