Quick Answer
Best way from Lodi to Linate Airport: Take a Regionale Veloce train from Lodi to Milano Centrale (35–45 min, €7.50–€9.50), then transfer to ATM Bus 73 directly to Linate Airport (25 min, €2.20). Total time: ~1 hour 15 minutes | Total cost: €10–€12 ($11–$13). This is the most reliable, affordable, and well-connected option for most travelers.
If you prioritize speed and door-to-door comfort, a taxi or private transfer (€60–€80, 40–50 min) is the fastest option, especially with heavy luggage or during late hours.
Train + Bus from Lodi to Linate Airport (Recommended)
The train + bus combination is the most popular and efficient way to reach Linate Airport from Lodi. While there is no direct train, the connection via Milano Centrale is seamless and well-signposted. This route is used by thousands of travelers daily and offers the best balance of cost, speed, and reliability.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Lodi Station → Milano Centrale (Train): Board a Regionale Veloce (RV) or Intercity train from Lodi to Milano Centrale. RV trains run every 30–60 minutes from ~5:00 AM to ~11:00 PM. Travel time: 35–45 minutes. Ticket price: €7.50–€12.50 depending on train type and booking time.
- Milano Centrale → Linate Airport (Bus): Exit the train and follow signs for "Bus 73 – Linate" (platform 1, outside the station's right side). Bus 73 runs every 10–15 minutes from ~5:30 AM to 12:30 AM. Journey time: 25 minutes. Ticket price: €2.20 (single ride). Tickets can be purchased at ATM machines, newsstands, or via the ATM app.
- Arrival at Linate Airport: Bus 73 stops directly at the airport terminal. Total journey time from Lodi to Linate: approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
Train Options Compared
| Train Type | Duration | Price (€) | Frequency | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regionale Veloce (RV) | 35 min | €7.50–€9.50 | Every 30 min | Best value – recommended |
| Intercity (IC) | 30–35 min | €10.50–€12.50 | Every 2 hours | Slightly faster, fewer stops |
| Frecciarossa (high-speed) | 25–30 min | €14.50–€19.90 | Limited stops | Premium speed, not needed |
Our recommendation: The Regionale Veloce (RV) offers the best value. It runs frequently and the travel time difference with high-speed trains is minimal (only 5–10 minutes). Save the extra euros for a coffee at the airport.
Bus 73 from Milano Centrale to Linate – Details
- Operator: ATM (Azienda Trasporti Milanesi) – atm.it
- Route: Milano Centrale (Piazza IV Novembre) → Linate Airport (terminal stop)
- Travel time: 25 minutes (non-stop)
- Operating hours: 5:30 AM – 12:30 AM (frequency: every 10–15 min)
- Ticket price: €2.20 (valid 90 minutes, can also be used on metro/tram within validity)
- Luggage: Standard luggage allowed (no oversized baggage). Buses have dedicated luggage areas.
Alternative: Train to Milano Lambrate + Bus
An alternative is to take the train to Milano Lambrate (instead of Centrale) and then take Bus 73 from Lambrate to Linate. Travel time is similar (about 1h20min), but the connection at Lambrate is less frequent. This can be useful if your train stops at Lambrate first, saving a few minutes.
Authority reference: Trenitalia – official timetables and ticket info | ATM Milano – Bus 73 route and schedule
Bus & Shuttle Services from Lodi to Linate
While there is no direct bus from Lodi to Linate Airport, regional bus services from Lodi to Milan can be combined with a shuttle or ATM bus to Linate. This option is slightly cheaper than the train but usually takes longer (1h30min–2h) and is less comfortable.
Option A: Regional Bus Lodi → Milano + Bus 73
- Bus operator: Autoguidovie, FlixBus, or STAR (regional lines)
- Route: Lodi (bus station Via Fleming) → Milano (Lampugnano bus terminal or Piazza Luigi di Savoia)
- Duration: 50–70 minutes (depending on traffic)
- Price: €4.50–€7.00
- Connection: From Milano Lampugnano, take metro (line M1) to San Babila, then Bus 73 to Linate. Total time: ~1h45min–2h.
Option B: Direct Airport Shuttle (limited availability)
Some private shuttle companies (e.g., AirportShuttle.it) offer pre-booked shared van services from Lodi to Linate. These typically cost €25–€35 per person and take about 50 minutes. They are ideal if you have moderate luggage and want a door-to-door service without the full taxi price.
Bus Comparison Table
| Service | Duration | Cost (€) | Comfort | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regional bus + ATM Bus 73 | 1h45min–2h | €6.70–€9.20 | Low–Medium | Budget travelers |
| Private shared shuttle (pre-booked) | 50 min | €25–€35 | Medium–High | Small groups, moderate luggage |
| FlixBus Lodi → Milano + Bus 73 | 1h30min–1h50min | €6.50–€9.00 | Medium | Budget + comfort balance |
Key takeaway: Bus options are cheaper but slower and involve more transfers. For most travelers, the train + Bus 73 remains the superior choice. Use buses only if you are on a very tight budget or staying near a bus terminal.
Authority reference: FlixBus – Lodi to Milan schedules | Autoguidovie – regional routes
Taxi & Private Transfer from Lodi to Linate Airport
For travelers who prioritize speed, convenience, and door-to-door service, a taxi or private transfer is the best option. However, the cost is significantly higher than public transport, making it suitable mainly for business travelers, families with heavy luggage, early morning/late night arrivals, or groups of 3+ people.
Taxi – Standard Service
- Duration: 40–50 minutes (depending on traffic)
- Cost: €60–€80 ($65–$86) – fixed rate to Linate from Lodi (confirm with driver)
- Availability: 24/7 from Lodi taxi ranks or via radio taxi
- Luggage: Unlimited (standard sedan fits 2–3 suitcases)
- Booking: No reservation needed, but recommended for early/late hours
Private Transfer – Premium Service
- Providers: Welcome Pickups, Blacklane, Suntransfers, local services
- Cost: €75–€110 ($81–$119) depending on vehicle type (sedan, van, executive)
- Features: Meet & greet, flight monitoring, free cancellation, child seats available
- Best for: Business travelers, families with young children, or anyone wanting a stress-free experience
When to Choose a Taxi / Private Transfer?
- Late night / early morning (before 5:30 AM or after 12:30 AM) – when Bus 73 is not running
- Heavy or oversized luggage – musical instruments, sports equipment, multiple suitcases
- Group of 3–4 people – cost per person becomes comparable to train + bus (€15–€20 per person)
- Limited mobility – door-to-door service avoids stairs and long walks
- Business traveler – time savings and comfort justify the expense
Taxi Cost Estimate Table
| Service Type | Duration | Cost (€) | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard taxi (rank) | 40–50 min | €60–€75 | $65–$81 | Fixed rate usually negotiable |
| Uber / ride-share | 40–50 min | €55–€70 | $59–$76 | Dynamic pricing; not always available |
| Private sedan (pre-booked) | 40–50 min | €75–€95 | $81–$103 | Includes meet & greet, flight tracking |
| Private minivan (up to 7 pax) | 40–50 min | €90–€120 | $97–$130 | Ideal for families or groups |
Tip: Always confirm the fare before starting the ride. Licensed taxis in Italy are required to use a meter or offer a fixed rate for airport transfers. For private transfers, book online at least 24 hours in advance for the best rates.
Authority reference: Milano Taxi – official airport transfer rates | Welcome Pickups – private transfers in Milan
Flight & Airport Context: Linate, Malpensa & Bergamo Compared
Linate Airport (LIN) is Milan's city airport, located just 7 km east of central Milan. It primarily handles domestic and European short-haul flights. There is no flight from Lodi to Linate – the distance is only 40 km (25 miles). However, understanding Linate's role and comparing it with Milan's other airports helps you make informed travel decisions.
Why Not Fly? The Distance Reality
Lodi to Linate is a 40-minute drive. Flying is not an option because the route is too short. Even if a flight existed, the total "door-to-door" time would be 3+ hours when you include check-in, security, and transfers – making ground transport far more efficient.
Milan's Three Airports – How They Compare from Lodi
| Airport | Distance from Lodi | Best Transport | Door-to-Door Time | Cost (€) | Flight Destinations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Linate (LIN) | 40 km | Train + Bus 73 | 1h15min | €10–€12 | Domestic + EU (short-haul) |
| Malpensa (MXP) | 80 km | Train Lodi → Milano → Malpensa Express | 2h–2h30min | €18–€25 | Intercontinental + EU |
| Bergamo (BGY) | 70 km | Train Lodi → Milano → Bergamo bus/train | 2h–2h30min | €14–€20 | Low-cost EU + UK |
If You Are Connecting to a Flight at Linate
If you are flying out of Linate, the train + Bus 73 is the most reliable way to reach the airport from Lodi. Allow 2 hours before your flight departure for the journey (1h15min travel + 45min buffer). For early flights (before 7:00 AM), check Bus 73 operating hours – if it's not running, a taxi is your only option.
Linate Airport – Key Facts
- IATA code: LIN
- Terminals: 1 (single terminal, easy to navigate)
- Airlines: Alitalia (ITA Airways), Lufthansa, Air France, British Airways, easyJet, Volotea, and more
- Destinations: Rome, Naples, Palermo, Catania, London, Paris, Frankfurt, Madrid, Amsterdam, and others
- Official website: milanolinateairport.com
Authority reference: Linate Airport official site | Malpensa Airport official site
Cost & Time Comparison – All Transport Options at a Glance
Use the table below to quickly compare every available way to get from Lodi to Linate Airport. We've included total door-to-door time, cost, number of transfers, and best use case for each option.
| Transport Mode | Total Time | Cost (€) | Cost (USD) | Transfers | Comfort | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ★ Train RV + Bus 73 | 1h15min | €10–€12 | $11–$13 | 1 (Centrale) | Medium | Best overall – most travelers |
| Intercity train + Bus 73 | 1h10min | €13–€15 | $14–$16 | 1 (Centrale) | Medium-High | Faster, slightly more comfort |
| Regional bus + Bus 73 | 1h45min–2h | €6.70–€9.20 | $7–$10 | 2 | Low-Medium | Cheapest option |
| Shared shuttle (pre-booked) | 50 min | €25–€35 | $27–$38 | 0 (door-to-door) | Medium-High | Small groups, moderate luggage |
| Taxi (standard) | 40–50 min | €60–€80 | $65–$86 | 0 | High | Speed + convenience |
| Private transfer (sedan) | 40–50 min | €75–€95 | $81–$103 | 0 | Very High | Premium experience |
| Car (drive & park) | 40 min | €7–€10 (fuel+toll) + parking | $8–$11 + parking | 0 | High (if no traffic) | Groups of 3+; flexibility |
★ = Our recommendation: The Train RV + Bus 73 combination offers the best value for money, with fast travel time, low cost, and reliable frequency. Choose a taxi or private transfer only if your budget allows or if circumstances require it.
Parking at Linate: If you drive, parking costs €15–€25 per day (official car park). Long-term parking may reduce the daily rate. Consider this when comparing costs.
Authority reference: Trenitalia – train fares and schedules | ATM – Milan public transport fares
Traveler Tips & Local Insights – Lodi to Linate
Based on local knowledge and frequent traveler feedback, here are essential tips to make your journey from Lodi to Linate smoother, cheaper, and less stressful.
1. Luggage Strategy: Use "Takkyubin" (Baggage Delivery)
If you have heavy suitcases, consider Italy's baggage delivery service (similar to Japan's Takkyubin). Companies like Spedire.com or Packlink allow you to send luggage from Lodi to Linate Airport (or your hotel in Milan) for €20–€35 per bag. This way you can travel light on the train and pick up your luggage at the airport.
2. Rush Hour Avoidance
Milano Centrale can be extremely crowded during peak hours (7:30–9:00 AM and 5:30–7:30 PM). If possible, schedule your travel outside these windows. The train itself is usually fine, but the transfer at Centrale can be hectic.
3. Bus 73 vs. Shuttle Bus – Which to Choose?
- Bus 73 (€2.20): Public bus, runs every 10–15 min, takes 25 min. Can be crowded but is very cheap.
- Airport Shuttle (€5–€7): Private shuttle from Centrale to Linate, runs every 30 min, takes 20 min, more luggage space. Useful if Bus 73 is full.
4. Ticket Purchase – Avoid Fines
Train tickets from Lodi to Milano must be validated at the green or yellow machines on the platform before boarding. For Bus 73, buy the ticket before boarding (ATM machines or app) – fines for riding without a validated ticket are €40–€60.
5. What If You Miss the Last Bus?
Bus 73 stops operating around 12:30 AM. If you arrive at Milano Centrale after that, your options are: (a) taxi from Centrale to Linate (~€25–€30), (b) night bus (line N73, limited schedule), or (c) ride-sharing. Plan accordingly.
6. Using Regional Passes
If you have a Lombardy regional travel card (e.g., "Io Viaggio Ovunque" or "Trenord Weekly Pass"), it covers the train segment Lodi–Milano. However, the Bus 73 ticket (€2.20) is usually not included and must be purchased separately. Check the pass terms carefully.
7. Peak Season & Holidays
During Italian holidays (Christmas, Easter, Ferragosto – August 15), train and bus schedules may be reduced. Book train tickets in advance on the Trenitalia app to secure a seat, especially for Intercity trains. Regional trains have free seating but can get packed.
8. Mobile Apps to Download
- Trenitalia – for train tickets and live schedules
- ATM Milano – for bus tickets and route planning
- Google Maps – reliable for real-time transit directions
- Moovit – excellent for Milan public transport
Authority reference: Trenord – Lombardy regional passes | ATM – night bus schedules
FAQs: Getting from Lodi to Linate Airport
Is there a direct train from Lodi to Linate Airport?
No, there is no direct train. You must take a train from Lodi to Milano Centrale (35–45 min) and then transfer to Bus 73 or a shuttle to Linate (25 min). Total journey: about 1 hour 15 minutes. This is the most common and recommended route.
What is the most affordable way to get from Lodi to Linate Airport?
The cheapest option is the regional train (Regionale Veloce) from Lodi to Milano Centrale (€7.50–€9.50) combined with ATM Bus 73 to Linate (€2.20). Total cost: approximately €10–€12 ($11–$13). If you have a regional pass, the train cost may be already covered.
How long does it take to travel from Lodi to Linate Airport?
The fastest public transport route takes about 1 hour 15 minutes (train 35 min + bus 25 min + waiting/transfer time). By taxi it takes 40–50 minutes. By car about 40 minutes. Allow extra time during peak hours or holidays.
Are there bus services from Lodi to Linate Airport?
There is no direct bus from Lodi to Linate. However, you can take a regional bus from Lodi to Milano (e.g., Autoguidovie or FlixBus) and then transfer to ATM Bus 73 or a shuttle to Linate. Total cost: around €6.70–€9.20. This option is cheaper but takes longer (1h45min–2h).
How much does a taxi from Lodi to Linate Airport cost?
A taxi from Lodi to Linate Airport costs between €60 and €80 ($65–$86), depending on traffic and time of day. The journey takes approximately 40–50 minutes. Ride-sharing services (Uber) may cost €55–€70 but are not always available in Lodi.
What is the best way to get from Lodi to Linate Airport with heavy luggage?
For heavy luggage, a taxi or private transfer (€60–€80) is most convenient. If you prefer public transport, the train + Bus 73 works (both have luggage racks), but you'll need to handle bags during the transfer. Consider a baggage delivery service (€20–€35 per bag) to send luggage ahead.
Can I use a regional travel pass for the journey from Lodi to Linate Airport?
Yes. A Trenitalia regional pass or Lombardy travel card (e.g., "Io Viaggio Ovunque") covers the train segment Lodi–Milano. The Bus 73 ticket (€2.20) must be purchased separately. Some integrated Milan area passes may not cover the Lodi–Milano segment – check before traveling.
Is it better to take the train or drive from Lodi to Linate Airport?
For most travelers, the train + bus is better: it avoids traffic, parking costs (€15–€25/day), and is cheaper (€10 vs €7–€10 driving + parking). Driving is only advantageous for groups of 3+ people, or if you need to travel very early/late when public transport is limited.