Quick Answer
The best way to get from Milan Linate Airport to Milan city center depends on your arrival time and luggage situation. For daytime arrivals with light luggage: Metro M4 line (20-30 minutes, €2.20, most reliable). For convenience with bags: Airport Bus Express to Central Station (25-40 minutes, €6-8). For late night/early morning arrivals: Taxi (15-25 minutes, fixed €20-30). For families with kids/strollers: Private transfer (door-to-door, €35-50). The internet often recommends the bus, but I don't actually recommend Bus 73 during peak hours - it gets stuck in Milan's notorious traffic.
How to Get from Milan Linate Airport to Milan by Metro & Public Transport
Unlike Milan Malpensa Airport which has direct trains, Linate Airport requires metro or bus connections. The new Metro M4 line (blue line) opened in 2023 connects directly from Linate Aeroporto station to Milan city center. This is now the most reliable public transport option as it avoids Milan's terrible traffic. There are two main public transport options: Metro M4 (direct to city) and Bus 73 + Metro connections.
| Route | Transport Type | Travel Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Linate Airport → San Babila (City Center) | Metro M4 Direct | 20-30 minutes | €2.20 ($2.40) | Budget travelers, light luggage |
| Linate Airport → Central Station | Airport Bus Express | 25-40 minutes | €6-8 ($6.50-8.70) | Convenience, some luggage |
| Linate Airport → San Babila | Bus 73 | 30-50 minutes | €2.20 ($2.40) | Budget, not in rush |
| Linate Airport → Duomo (Cathedral) | Metro M4 + short walk | 25-35 minutes | €2.20 ($2.40) | Tourists, Duomo area hotels |
Metro M4 Line from Linate Airport (Newest & Most Reliable)
The Metro M4 blue line from Linate Aeroporto station is Milan's newest metro line, opened in late 2023. It connects directly to the city center with 8 stops to San Babila, Milan's central shopping district. Trains run every 4-6 minutes from approximately 5:40 AM to 12:15 AM. The station is a 5-7 minute walk from Terminal arrivals - follow signs for "Metro M4" or "Linate Aeroporto Station". This is the cheapest way to reach central Milan (€2.20) and is unaffected by traffic - crucial during Milan's rush hours.
A Common Example of a Real-Life Mistake with Bus 73
You arrive at Linate at 5:30 PM on a weekday, read online that Bus 73 is the cheapest option to the city center. You wait 15 minutes for the bus, it arrives crowded, you squeeze on with your suitcase. The bus then sits in Milan's evening rush hour traffic for 55 minutes to reach San Babila - a journey that should take 25 minutes. You're tired, your suitcase is in everyone's way, and you regret not taking the Metro M4 which would have taken exactly 22 minutes regardless of traffic. This happens daily to tourists who don't know about the new metro line.
Bus 73 to San Babila (Traditional Budget Option)
Bus 73 has traditionally been the budget option from Linate to Milan, but since the Metro M4 opened, it's only recommended during off-peak hours. The bus goes to San Babila square in central Milan with multiple stops along the way. Travel time varies dramatically: 25 minutes late at night, 50+ minutes during rush hour. Cost is €2.20 (same as metro). Buses run from approximately 5:30 AM to 1:30 AM. The bus stop is directly outside Terminal arrivals.
Using ATM Public Transport Tickets
Milan's ATM public transport tickets work on metro, buses, and trams. Purchase at: 1) Metro station ticket machines at Linate Aeroporto station, 2) Tobacco shops (Tabacchi) in the airport, 3) ATM ticket office at airport. A single ticket (€2.20) is valid for 90 minutes on all transport. Consider a 24-hour ticket (€7.60) if you'll use more transport that day. Validate your ticket when first boarding. Important: The internet says you can buy tickets on board buses, but many Bus 73 vehicles no longer have functioning ticket machines - buy before boarding.
Linate Airport to Milan by Airport Bus Express
While Metro M4 is now the best public transport option, the Airport Bus Express (also called Air Bus or Shuttle) offers direct service to Milan Central Station (Stazione Centrale) and sometimes other stops. Travel time is 25-40 minutes depending on traffic, and cost is €6-8 (about $6.50-8.70). Buses depart every 20-30 minutes from outside Terminal arrivals. This service is operated by different companies (ATM, Autostradale, others).
Airport Bus from Linate to Milan: Key Details
- Main Route: Linate Airport → Milan Central Station (some continue to Piazza Luigi di Savoia)
- Frequency: Every 20-30 minutes from approximately 6:00 AM to 11:30 PM
- Operating Hours: Approximately 6:00 AM - 11:30 PM (check current schedules)
- Luggage: Dedicated storage under bus (1-2 pieces included)
- Payment: Cash, credit card on bus or pre-purchase online
- Travel Time: 25 minutes (no traffic) to 50 minutes (rush hour)
- Buy Tickets: On bus, at ticket machines outside terminal, or online in advance
Why Choose the Airport Bus to Milan?
The airport bus to Milan Central Station is ideal for travelers whose hotel is near Central Station or who have heavy luggage and don't want to navigate metro stairs. Buses are comfortable with air conditioning and free WiFi. For those arriving late night or early morning, check schedules carefully as the last bus is around 11:30 PM. The internet often recommends this as the "main option" but I don't actually recommend it during Milan's rush hours (7:30-9:30 AM, 5:30-7:30 PM) when travel time can double.
Bus vs Metro to Milan Center
Metro M4 advantages: More reliable (unaffected by traffic), faster during peak hours, cheaper (€2.20 vs €6-8), more frequent (every 4-6 minutes vs 20-30). Bus advantages: Direct to Central Station (if that's your destination), luggage storage under bus, no stairs/escalators with bags. For most travelers, especially during daytime hours, Metro M4 is the better option to reach Milan city center unless you're staying right at Central Station.
Taxi & Private Transfer from Linate Airport to Milan
Linate Airport to Milan Taxi
Taking a taxi from Linate Airport to Milan city center offers door-to-door convenience. The distance is only 7-8 km (4-5 miles), with travel time of 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Taxi cost has a fixed rate of €20-30 (approximately $22-33) to any location within the city center boundaries (inside the Cerchia dei Bastioni). This fixed rate applies only from airport to city - return trips are metered. Official taxis are white with a "TAXI" sign. This option is most cost-effective for groups of 3-4 people splitting the fare.
Private Transfer from Linate Airport to Milan
Private transfer services provide a pre-booked car with English-speaking driver. Prices range from €35-50 (approximately $38-55) for a standard sedan, more for vans. Services include meet-and-greet at arrivals, help with luggage, and fixed rates. You can book online in advance. This is the most convenient door-to-door option, especially for families with children needing car seats, those with excessive luggage, or arrivals after midnight when you want guaranteed transport.
Is a Taxi Worth It from Linate to Milan?
For solo travelers: Usually not (taxi €20-30 vs metro €2.20). For 2 people: Borderline (€10-15 each vs €2.20 each). For 3-4 people: Absolutely yes, as splitting makes it €5-10 per person. For late night arrivals after midnight: Almost always worth it for the convenience and safety. For early morning departures (flights before 7 AM): Often the only practical option as first metro/bus may not get you there in time. For families with strollers and car seats: Private transfer with pre-arranged car seats is highly recommended.
Uber & Ride-Sharing at Linate Airport
Uber operates in Milan but is more expensive than regular taxis from the airport. Uber Black (premium) costs €40-60 to city center. UberX (standard) costs €25-40. The pickup point for Uber is the same as taxis - follow signs to "Taxi" outside arrivals. Important note: During peak times (Friday evenings, Sunday nights, rush hours), surge pricing can make Uber more expensive than regular taxis. The fixed taxi rate of €20-30 is often the better deal from the airport.
Linate Airport to Milan Route Map & All Stops
The map below shows travel routes from Milan Linate Airport (LIN) to Milan city center. The new Metro M4 line runs underground directly to San Babila. Bus routes follow surface roads: Bus 73 takes Viale Forlanini to San Babila, while Airport Bus Express takes the Tangenziale Est to Central Station.
View the route on Google Maps: View route from Linate Airport to Milan city center on Google Maps
Metro M4 Line: Complete Stop List
The Metro M4 (blue line) from Linate Airport to city center makes these 8 stops:
- Linate Aeroporto - Airport station (begin your journey here)
- Repetti
- Argonne
- Dateo
- Susanna
- Tricolore
- San Babila
- San Cristoforo (continues beyond city center)
San Babila station is in the heart of Milan's shopping district, with connections to Metro M1 (red line) for Duomo, Cadorna, and other destinations.
Bus 73: Key Stops to Milan Center
Bus 73 from Linate Airport to San Babila makes approximately 12-15 stops including:
- Linate Airport (Terminal) - Start
- Via dei Pini
- Viale Forlanini/Via Mecenate
- Piazzale Dateo
- Corso Buenos Aires
- Porta Venezia
- San Babila (Final stop) - End
The distance from Linate Airport to Milan city center is approximately 7-8 km (4-5 miles) depending on your exact destination. During rush hours (7:30-9:30 AM, 5:30-7:30 PM), surface road travel times can increase by 100% or more. The Metro M4 is unaffected by road traffic, making it the most reliable option during peak hours.
Linate Airport to Milan: Ticketing & Costs
| Transport Option | Total Travel Time | Approximate Cost | Best For | Worst For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metro M4 (direct to San Babila) | 20-30 minutes | €2.20 ($2.40 USD) | Budget travelers, light luggage, rush hour | Large luggage, mobility issues, very late/early |
| Airport Bus Express to Central Station | 25-50 minutes | €6-8 ($6.50-8.70) | Hotels near Central Station, some luggage | Rush hour, tight schedules |
| Bus 73 to San Babila | 30-60+ minutes | €2.20 ($2.40) | Extreme budget, off-peak hours | Rush hour, with luggage, in a hurry |
| Taxi (fixed rate to city center) | 15-40 minutes | €20-30 ($22-33) | Groups 3-4, late night, lots of luggage | Solo travelers on a budget |
| Private Transfer (pre-booked) | 15-40 minutes | €35-50+ ($38-55) | Families, luxury, pre-arranged car seats | Budget travelers |
| Uber/Ride-share | 15-40 minutes | €25-60 ($27-65) | App users, credit card only | Budget, fixed price seekers |
Milan Public Transport Ticket Options
Single ticket: €2.20, valid 90 minutes on all metro, buses, trams. 24-hour ticket: €7.60, unlimited travel. 3-day ticket: €13.00. Purchase at: 1) Metro station ticket machines (Linate Aeroporto station), 2) Tobacco shops (Tabacchi) in airport, 3) ATM ticket offices. Important: Validate your ticket on first use. For Airport Bus Express, purchase from driver or at ticket machines outside terminal.
Cost Comparison: Different Traveler Scenarios
Solo traveler with backpack: Metro M4 €2.20 vs Taxi €20-30. Couple with one checked bag: Metro €4.40 vs Taxi €20-30 (taxi wins if splitting). Family of 4 with kids: Metro €8.80 vs Taxi €20-30 (taxi clearly better). Group of 3 with heavy luggage: Metro €6.60 vs Taxi €20-30 (taxi wins for convenience). The internet says "public transport is always cheaper" but for groups of 3+, taxi often makes more sense when you factor in luggage hassle.
Traveler Experience: Getting to Milan from Linate Airport
Getting from Milan Linate Airport to the city center is generally straightforward thanks to the airport's proximity to Milan (only 7km). However, your experience varies dramatically based on arrival time and luggage situation. First-time visitors appreciate the new Metro M4 line which opened in 2023 - it's clean, efficient, and drops you at San Babila in the heart of Milan. Traveling with luggage is manageable on Metro M4 (stations have elevators), though during peak hours (8-9 AM, 6-7 PM) trains can be crowded with commuters. Late night arrivals should note that while Metro M4 runs until around 12:15 AM, the last trains depart Linate around 11:45 PM. Early morning arrivals (before 5:40 AM) will find only taxis available. Milan's traffic is notoriously bad - what should be a 15-minute taxi ride can become 40+ minutes during rush hour. The airport is small and well-signed - finding transport options is easy even for first-time visitors.
Practical Tips & Advice for Linate to Milan by Situation
- With large luggage/suitcases: Airport Bus Express (luggage compartment) or Taxi. Metro M4 is possible but challenging during peak hours with big bags.
- Family with kids/strollers: Private transfer with pre-arranged car seats. Taxi if no car seats needed. Avoid public transport with strollers during rush hour.
- Late night arrival (after 11 PM): Taxi is best option. Last Metro M4 departs Linate around 11:45 PM. Last buses around midnight. Don't assume you can catch the last train - many travelers miss it.
- Early morning flight departure: First Metro M4 from city to Linate starts around 5:40 AM. First buses around 5:30 AM. For flights before 8 AM, consider taxi to be safe.
- Business traveler with laptop/roller bag: Metro M4 (fastest during rush hour) or Taxi (if company pays). Avoid Bus 73 during business hours (7:30-9:30 AM, 5:30-7:30 PM).
- Peak hour arrival (7:30-9:30 AM, 5:30-7:30 PM): Metro M4 is only reliable option. Taxi and buses sit in traffic. The internet says "taxi is fastest" but that's only true outside peak hours.
- Weekend vs weekday: Saturday daytime traffic is moderate. Sunday evening (returning to city) has heavy traffic. Friday evening has worst traffic of the week.
- Elderly/disabled travelers: Taxi or private transfer. Metro M4 has elevators but requires walking at airport station. Airport buses have steps.
- Rainy weather arrival: Taxi (covered drop-off) or Metro M4 (covered stations). Bus 73 means waiting outside and walking to/from stops in rain.
- Group of 3-4 people: Taxi almost always better (split €20-30). More convenient than multiple tickets and luggage on public transport.
- Solo female traveler late at night: Taxi for safety despite cost. Official white taxis are safe. Share taxi details with someone.
- Return trip to airport: From Milan to Linate Airport, allow: Metro M4 20-30 minutes, Taxi 15-40 minutes (traffic dependent). For morning flights, add 30+ minute traffic buffer.
- Mobile apps: Download "ATM Milano" for public transport, "Free Now" or "Uber" for taxis, "Google Maps" for real-time directions.
- Payment methods: Metro tickets: cash/card at machines. Buses: cash (exact change) or pre-purchased tickets. Taxis: cash or card.
- Hotel location matters: Near San Babila? Metro M4 is perfect. Near Central Station? Airport Bus Express is best. Near Navigli? Taxi or Metro + walk.
Common Mistakes Travelers Make (And How to Avoid Them)
The "I'll Just Take the Bus" Rush Hour Mistake
Many travelers read that Bus 73 is the cheap option from Linate to Milan. They arrive at 5:45 PM on a weekday, catch Bus 73, and then sit in Milan's infamous rush hour traffic for 55 minutes to go 7km. Meanwhile, the Metro M4 would have taken exactly 22 minutes for €2.20. Lesson: Between 7:30-9:30 AM and 5:30-7:30 PM, always choose Metro M4 over any surface transport.
The "Last Train" Timing Miscalculation
You land at 11:20 PM, think you have time for the last Metro at 11:45 PM. But deplaning, immigration, and walking to the station takes 25 minutes. You arrive at the platform at 11:46 PM to see the last train departing. Now you need a taxi anyway, but you've wasted 30 minutes. Lesson: If you land after 11 PM, just take a taxi. The fixed €20-30 is worth the certainty.
The "But Google Maps Said 25 Minutes" Traffic Surprise
Google Maps shows taxi time as 15-25 minutes. What it doesn't show is that Friday evenings in Milan can double that. You budget 30 minutes for a 7:00 PM Friday taxi, but arrive 50 minutes later having missed your dinner reservation. Lesson: Always add 50% time buffer for taxi/bus during Milan peak hours (7:30-9:30 AM, 5:30-7:30 PM, all day Friday).
The "We're 4 People, Let's Save Money" Public Transport Struggle
A group of 4 with 8 suitcases tries to save money by taking Metro M4 at 8:30 AM. They block aisles, struggle with turnstiles, annoy commuters, and save €12 versus a taxi. Lesson: For groups of 3+, the €20-30 taxi split 4 ways (€5-7.50 each) is almost always better than public transport with luggage.
The "Early Morning Flight" Public Transport Assumption
You book a 7:00 AM flight from Linate, plan to take the first Metro at 5:40 AM. First train arrives Linate at 6:00 AM, but you need to be at airport 2 hours before for international flight (5:00 AM). You're late. Lesson: For flights before 8:00 AM, public transport schedules rarely work. Book airport hotel or taxi.
Frequently Asked Questions: Linate Airport to Milan
What is the best way to get from Milan Linate Airport to Milan city center?
For most travelers: Metro M4 line (20-30 minutes, €2.20, traffic-proof). For convenience with luggage: Airport Bus Express (25-40 minutes, €6-8). For late night/early morning: Taxi (15-25 minutes, fixed €20-30). For families: Private transfer (door-to-door, €35-50 with car seats).
Is there a direct train from Milan Linate Airport to Milan downtown?
NO direct train from Linate. The new Metro M4 (subway) is the closest equivalent - it goes directly from Linate Aeroporto station to San Babila in city center. Malpensa Airport has direct trains, but Linate only has metro and bus. Many websites confuse the two airports - ensure you're reading about Linate (LIN) not Malpensa (MXP).
How many stops from Linate Airport to Milan city center by metro?
The Metro M4 makes 7 stops from Linate Aeroporto to San Babila (city center): Linate Aeroporto → Repetti → Argonne → Dateo → Susanna → Tricolore → San Babila. Total travel time is 20-30 minutes depending on time of day.
Is it easy to travel from Linate Airport to Milan downtown with large luggage?
Moderately easy. Metro M4 has elevators but can be crowded. Airport buses have luggage compartments. Taxis are easiest for large luggage. Many people with 2+ suitcases choose taxi despite the cost because navigating metro turnstiles and crowds with large bags during peak hours is challenging.
Should I take bus or taxi from Linate Airport to Milan?
Bus (Metro M4) is better for: Daytime arrivals, solo travelers, budget-conscious, light luggage, rush hour traffic. Taxi is better for: Late night/early morning arrivals, families with children, travelers with heavy luggage, groups of 3-4, business travelers with expense account. During Milan rush hour, taxi is slower than metro due to traffic.
How long does it take from Linate Airport to Milan city center?
Normal daytime: Taxi 15-20 minutes, Metro M4 20-30 minutes, Airport Bus 25-35 minutes. Rush hour (7:30-9:30 AM, 5:30-7:30 PM): Taxi 25-40 minutes, Metro M4 still 20-30 minutes, Airport Bus 40-60 minutes. Late night: Taxi 15 minutes, Metro until 11:45 PM.
What is the cheapest way from Linate Airport to Milan?
Metro M4 line: €2.20 (about $2.40 USD). Bus 73: Also €2.20 but slower. Many websites recommend Bus 73 as cheapest, but I actually recommend Metro M4 - same price, faster, more reliable. The internet hasn't caught up with the new Metro M4 that opened in 2023.
Are taxis worth it from Linate to Milan city center?
For 3-4 people: Absolutely yes (split €20-30 = €5-10 each). For solo travelers: Usually not (€20-30 vs €2.20 metro). For late night arrivals (after 11 PM): Almost always worth it as other options are limited. For early morning flights: Often necessary as first metro/bus may not get you there on time.
Can I use contactless payment on Milan public transport from Linate?
Yes. At Metro M4 stations, you can use: 1) Contactless credit/debit card at gates, 2) Mobile payment (Apple Pay, Google Pay), 3) Traditional ticket from machine. For buses, you need a pre-purchased ticket or contactless card when boarding. Many tourists don't know about contactless payment - it's the easiest option if you have a contactless card.
What if I arrive at Linate Airport after midnight?
For late night arrivals after midnight: Last Metro M4 departs around 11:45 PM. Last buses around midnight. Options: 1) Taxi (available 24/7, fixed rate €20-30), 2) Night bus NMB (limited service, check schedules), 3) Wait at airport until first transport (~5:30 AM), 4) Pre-booked private transfer. The internet says "buses run late" but the last bus often leaves before some flights arrive.
Is Milan city center walkable from public transport stops?
San Babila station (Metro M4) and San Babila bus stop are in the heart of Milan's shopping district. Most central hotels are within 10-20 minutes walk. From Central Station (Airport Bus Express), it's 20-30 minutes walk to Duomo or you can take Metro M3 (yellow line) 2 stops. Streets are generally walkable but cobblestone in some areas can be challenging with wheeled luggage.
How early should I leave Milan for Linate Airport return?
To catch EU flights: Leave Milan 2-2.5 hours before departure. For international flights: 3 hours before. Transport time: 20-40 minutes plus buffer. Morning rush hour (7-9 AM) can double taxi/bus time - Metro M4 remains 20-30 minutes. Many people miss flights because they don't account for Milan's terrible morning traffic - if leaving between 7-9 AM, take Metro M4 or leave extra early.
Is Uber available at Linate Airport?
Yes, Uber operates in Milan but pickup is at the taxi stand. Uber Black (premium) costs €40-60 to city center. UberX (standard) costs €25-40. During peak times, surge pricing can make Uber more expensive than regular taxis. The fixed taxi rate of €20-30 is often better. The internet often recommends Uber, but for airport trips, regular taxis are usually simpler and similarly priced.