Quick Answer
The best way to get from Milan Malpensa Airport to Milan city centre for most travelers is the Malpensa Express train to Milano Cadorna station (52 minutes, 13€/$14, direct with no transfers). This is the fastest and most reliable public transport option. For late-night arrivals after midnight, your only practical options are taxi (100€ fixed rate, about $110 USD) or pre-booked private transfer (120€+/$130+). For budget travelers, airport buses to Milano Centrale cost 8-10€ ($9-11) but take 60-90 minutes with traffic risk. Families with children or heavy luggage should strongly consider private transfers despite the higher cost.
How to Get from Malpensa Airport to Milan by Train
Milan has one of Europe's most efficient airport train systems with the Malpensa Express operating directly to two central stations. Unlike many airports requiring bus-train transfers, you can travel from Malpensa Airport to Milan city centre with just one direct train ride. The internet often suggests the train is always best, but I need to be honest: if you arrive after midnight with heavy bags, the train is NOT your friend. Here are your train options:
| Route | Train Type | Travel Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Malpensa Airport → Milano Cadorna | Malpensa Express (Direct) | 52 minutes | 13€ ($14 USD) | Most tourists, Duomo area hotels |
| Malpensa Airport → Milano Centrale | Malpensa Express (Direct) | 60 minutes | 13€ ($14 USD) | Connections to other cities, metro lines |
| Malpensa Airport → Saronno → Milan | Local Train + Transfer | 70-85 minutes | 10€ ($11 USD) | Budget travelers ONLY (I don't recommend) |
Malpensa Express Train: Cadorna vs Centrale Stations
The Malpensa Express train from Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 offers two destination options. The train to Milano Cadorna station (52 minutes) is better for 70% of tourists as it's closer to Duomo, Brera, and Navigli districts. The train to Milano Centrale station (60 minutes) is better if you're connecting to other Italian cities or your hotel is near Centrale. Trains run every 30 minutes from approximately 5:00 AM to 12:30 AM. Peak hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM) can be crowded - buy tickets in advance during fashion weeks or summer.
A Common Real-Life Mistake with the Malpensa Express
You arrive at Malpensa at 11:30 PM, thinking you have plenty of time for the last train. You wait in passport control for 40 minutes, collect luggage, and reach the station at 12:25 AM. The last train left at 12:20 AM. Now you're stuck with a 100€ taxi or waiting 4-5 hours for the first morning train. This happens DAILY. If your flight lands after 10:30 PM, assume you'll miss the last train and have a backup plan.
Local Train Alternative (Why I Don't Recommend It)
The local Trenord train to Saronno (5€) + transfer to Milan (5€) costs 10€ total - 3€ cheaper than Malpensa Express. However, it takes 25+ minutes longer, requires a transfer with luggage, and has limited schedules. For first-time visitors with luggage, the 3€ savings isn't worth the hassle. I only mention this because other sites list it as an option, but for tourism purposes, the Malpensa Express is dramatically better.
Malpensa Airport to Milan by Bus & Shuttle
While the Malpensa Express train is usually the best option, airport shuttle buses serve as a budget alternative, especially for late-night arrivals. Multiple companies operate buses to Milano Centrale station, with Malpensa Bus Express and Terravision being the main operators. Travel time is 60-90 minutes depending on traffic, and cost is 8-10€ ($9-11 USD). Buses depart from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, with frequency every 20-60 minutes depending on time of day.
Airport Bus from Malpensa to Milan: Key Details
- Main Operators: Malpensa Bus Express, Terravision, Autostradale, Flibco
- Frequency: Every 20-40 minutes daytime, 60 minutes late night
- Operating Hours: Approximately 4:00 AM - 1:30 AM (some routes 24/7)
- Luggage: One checked suitcase + carry-on included (driver assistance)
- Payment: Credit card online, cash/card at ticket counters, some accept PayPal
- Terminal: Milano Centrale station (Piazza Luigi di Savoia) - NOT door-to-door
Why Choose the Airport Bus Instead of Train?
The airport bus to Milan makes sense in three specific scenarios: 1) Late-night arrivals (buses run until 1:30 AM vs trains until 12:30 AM), 2) Extreme budget travel (saving 3-5€ vs train), 3) Your hotel is near Centrale station. However, I need to be clear: during rush hour (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM), the bus can take 2+ hours due to Milan traffic. The train is unaffected by traffic and remains 52 minutes.
Bus vs Train: When Each Fails
Train fails when: You arrive after midnight, have mobility issues (stairs at Cadorna), or have more luggage than you can carry. Bus fails when: You're traveling during Milan rush hour, need to reach Cadorna/Duomo area quickly, or get motion sickness (winding mountain roads). The internet says bus is "just as good" as train - that's only true if you're going to Centrale and it's not rush hour.
Taxi & Private Transfer from Malpensa to Milan
Taxi from Malpensa Airport to Milan Centre
Taking a taxi from Malpensa to Milan city centre offers door-to-door convenience at a fixed rate. The distance is approximately 50 km (31 miles), with travel time of 50-70 minutes depending on traffic. Fixed taxi fare is 100€ (approximately $110 USD) to central Milan zones, plus potential extra charges for late night, Sundays, or extra luggage. This option is only cost-effective for groups of 3-4 people splitting the fare. Solo travelers should NEVER take a taxi from Malpensa - it's 8x more expensive than the train.
Private Transfer from Malpensa to Milan
Private transfer services provide a pre-booked car with English-speaking driver. Prices range from 100-150€ ($110-165 USD) depending on vehicle type and service level. Benefits include: fixed price (no meter), meet-and-greet with name sign, assistance with luggage, and 24/7 availability. This is the most convenient door-to-door option for families, those with heavy luggage, or arrivals after midnight. I recommend booking at least 24 hours in advance during peak season.
When is a Taxi/Transfer Actually Worth It?
For solo travelers: Never (train is 13€ vs taxi 100€). For 2 people: Only if you arrive after midnight (bus is 20€ total vs taxi 100€). For 3-4 people: Usually yes (split 100€ = 25-33€ each vs train 13€ each). For families with young children: Almost always worth the extra cost for door-to-door service with car seats. For late night arrivals after 12:30 AM: Taxi/transfer is your ONLY reliable option unless you want to wait 4-5 hours at the airport.
Malpensa Airport to Milan Route Map
The map below shows the travel routes from Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) to central Milan. The Malpensa Express train lines run directly to Cadorna and Centrale stations. Highway routes for buses/taxis follow the A8 motorway toward Milan city centre.
View the route on Google Maps: View route from Malpensa Airport to Milan City Centre on Google Maps
The distance from Malpensa Airport to Milan city centre is approximately 50 km (31 miles) by road. The train route is about 48 km. During rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM), highway travel times can exceed 90 minutes. The Malpensa Express train is unaffected by road traffic, making it the most reliable option during peak hours.
Malpensa Express Train: Complete Station List
Understanding the exact stops helps you choose the right train and avoid getting on the wrong service. Here are the complete station lists for both Malpensa Express routes:
Malpensa Express to Milano Cadorna (52 minutes)
This is the direct train to Cadorna station with NO transfers needed. Stops include:
- Malpensa Aeroporto Terminal 1 (Departure point)
- Malpensa Aeroporto Terminal 2 (5 minutes after T1)
- Busto Arsizio Nord (Regional stop)
- Milano Bovisa Politecnico (University area)
- Milano Cadorna (Final destination - city centre)
Total travel time: 52 minutes | Frequency: Every 30 minutes | First/Last train: ~5:00 AM / ~12:30 AM
Malpensa Express to Milano Centrale (60 minutes)
This is the direct train to Centrale station with NO transfers needed. Stops include:
- Malpensa Aeroporto Terminal 1 (Departure point)
- Malpensa Aeroporto Terminal 2 (5 minutes after T1)
- Saronno (Major interchange station)
- Milano Porta Garibaldi (Business district)
- Milano Centrale (Final destination - main station)
Total travel time: 60 minutes | Frequency: Every 30 minutes | First/Last train: ~5:20 AM / ~12:20 AM
Important Station Transfer Notes
Cadorna station has metro connections to M1 (red line) and M2 (green line). Centrale station has connections to M2 (green line) and M3 (yellow line). From Cadorna to Duomo: 15-minute walk or 2 metro stops. From Centrale to Duomo: 5 metro stops (10 minutes). If your hotel is near Duomo, Cadorna station is significantly more convenient despite what some generic travel sites suggest.
Malpensa to Milan: Ticketing, Costs & Transportation Passes
| Transport Option | Total Travel Time | Approximate Cost | Transfers | Best For | Worst For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Malpensa Express to Cadorna | 52 minutes | 13€ ($14 USD) | 0 (direct) | Most tourists, Duomo area hotels | Late night arrivals, heavy luggage |
| Malpensa Express to Centrale | 60 minutes | 13€ ($14 USD) | 0 (direct) | Centrale area hotels, train connections | Budget travelers, rush hour traffic unaffected |
| Airport Shuttle Bus | 60-90+ minutes | 8-10€ ($9-11 USD) | 0 (direct to Centrale) | Budget travel, late night arrivals | Rush hour, motion sickness sufferers |
| Regular Taxi (Fixed Rate) | 50-70 minutes | 100€ ($110 USD) | 0 (door-to-door) | Groups 3-4, late night, families | Solo travelers, budget travelers |
| Private Transfer | 50-70 minutes | 100-150€ ($110-165 USD) | 0 (door-to-door) | Families, luxury, pre-booked peace of mind | Anyone on a budget |
Malpensa Express Train Tickets: How to Buy
Malpensa Express tickets cost 13€ one-way. Purchase options: 1) Ticket machines at airport stations (English available, credit cards accepted), 2) Ticket offices at airport stations, 3) Online in advance via Trenord website/app (recommended during peak season), 4) At Milano Cadorna/Centrale stations for return journey. Tickets are valid for 90 minutes from validation. You MUST validate your ticket in the green/yellow machines before boarding.
Milan Transportation Cards & Passes
The ATM Milano pass covers buses, trams, and metro within Milan but NOT the Malpensa Express train. You'll need separate train tickets. However, once in Milan, consider: 24-hour ticket (7€), 3-day ticket (12€), or single journey ticket (2€). These are sold at metro station machines. The Malpensa Express + Milan transport combo tickets exist but rarely save money unless you're making multiple trips immediately.
Scenario-Based Guide: Which Option is Best for YOU?
1. Late Night / Early Morning Arrivals
Arriving 10:00 PM - 12:30 AM: You MIGHT catch the last train if your flight is on time and you're fast. Have a backup plan. Arriving after 12:30 AM: Trains have stopped. Options: 1) Airport shuttle bus (runs until ~1:30 AM, 8-10€), 2) Taxi (100€), 3) Private transfer (pre-booked, 100-150€), 4) Wait at airport 4-5 hours for first train. Early flights (departing 6:00-7:00 AM): First train at ~5:00 AM might be too late. Consider airport hotel or very early taxi.
2. Traveling with Heavy Luggage / Family / Elderly
One suitcase per person: Train is manageable. Multiple large suitcases: Taxi/private transfer recommended. With young children: Private transfer with car seats (available on request). Elderly or mobility impaired: Cadorna station has stairs; Centrale has escalators but long walks. Taxi/transfer eliminates all station challenges. Many websites say the train is fine with luggage - that's true for backpacks, not for 2+ large suitcases per person.
3. Business Travelers vs Budget Travelers
Business travelers: Time is money. Take Malpensa Express to Cadorna (52 minutes guaranteed). Taxi from Cadorna to business district (5-10€). Total ~23€, 60 minutes door-to-door. Budget backpackers: Airport bus to Centrale (8€) + walk to hostel. Total 8€, 70-120 minutes. Mid-range tourists: Malpensa Express (13€) + metro to hotel (2€). Total 15€, 70 minutes.
4. Peak Season vs Off-Peak Considerations
Summer (June-August) & Fashion Weeks: Trains can be full. Book online in advance. Buses also crowded. Taxis in high demand. Winter (November-February): Fewer tourists but potential fog delays at airport. Allow extra time. Weekday vs Weekend: Friday/Sunday evenings have heaviest traffic. Train unaffected. Rush hour (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM): Buses can take 2+ hours. Train remains 52 minutes.
Traveler Experience: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Getting from Malpensa Airport to Milan city centre is generally efficient, but I see tourists make the same mistakes daily. The most common error: assuming trains run all night. They stop around 12:30 AM. If your flight lands at 11:00 PM and has any delay, you're taking a 100€ taxi. Another mistake: choosing Centrale station when your hotel is near Duomo. From Centrale to Duomo is 5 metro stops (10 minutes + 2€). From Cadorna to Duomo is a 15-minute pleasant walk or 2 metro stops.
The "I Almost Missed My Flight" Story
Many travelers make this critical error: They allow 60 minutes for the train ride but forget Milan traffic to reach the train station. You need to leave your hotel 3-4 hours before flight time, not 2 hours. A common scenario: You allow 60 minutes for train + 90 minutes for check-in = 2.5 hours total. But taxi to station takes 30 minutes in traffic, you can't find ticket machine, train is delayed 15 minutes. Suddenly you're rushing through security. Leave Milan 3.5-4 hours before your international flight.
What Other Travel Sites Don't Tell You
Most Milan transport guides present all options equally. Here's the reality: For 80% of tourists arriving during daytime with normal luggage, the Malpensa Express to Cadorna is objectively best. The bus is not "just as good" - it's slower and traffic-dependent. The local train transfer is not "a budget alternative" - it's a complicated hassle that saves 3€. The taxi is not "convenient but expensive" - it's 8x the train cost and only makes sense for groups or late nights. Choose based on YOUR specific situation, not generic advice.
Practical Tips, Warnings & Safety Advice
- With heavy luggage: Malpensa Express has luggage racks but stairs at Cadorna. If you have 2+ large bags per person, seriously consider taxi/transfer despite the cost.
- Late night arrival warning: Last trains depart 12:20-12:30 AM. If your flight lands after 10:30 PM, assume you'll miss it and have a backup plan (bus/taxi/transfer).
- Ticket validation: You MUST validate Malpensa Express tickets in green/yellow machines before boarding. Failure = 50€ fine + ticket cost.
- Pickpocket warning: Centrale station and train platforms have pickpockets. Keep bags in front, wallets in front pockets.
- Weekend travel: Reduced frequency on Sundays/holidays. Check Trenord website for exact schedules.
- Hotel location check: Google Maps your hotel from both Cadorna and Centrale stations. Choose the closer station.
- Group of 3-4 people: Taxi at 100€ split 3-4 ways (25-33€ each) compares favorably to train (13€ each) + taxi to hotel (10€).
- Family with car seats: Pre-book private transfer with car seats. Regular taxis don't guarantee car seats.
- Mobile apps to download: "Trenord" for train schedules, "ATM Milano" for Milan transport, "FreeNow" for taxi (like Uber).
- Return trip timing: Leave Milan 3.5-4 hours before international flight. Trains every 30 minutes but allow buffer.
- Luggage storage: If going directly to meetings/sightseeing, both Cadorna and Centrale have left luggage offices (~6€ per bag for 5 hours).
- First/last train times change: Always verify current schedules on Trenord website. Times shift seasonally.
- Business class vs economy: Malpensa Express has 1st class (20€) with slightly more space. Only worth it if carrying expensive equipment.
- Weather considerations: Milan traffic worsens significantly in rain. Train unaffected.
- Credit cards: Accepted at all ticket machines. Have a PIN for European chip-and-pin cards.
Map showing Malpensa Express train routes to Cadorna and Centrale stations, plus highway routes for buses/taxis to Milan city centre.
Frequently Asked Questions: Malpensa Airport to Milan Centre
What is the best way to get from Malpensa Airport to Milan city centre?
For most travelers: Malpensa Express train to Cadorna station (52 minutes, 13€/$14, direct). For late-night arrivals: Airport shuttle bus (60-90 minutes, 8-10€/$9-11) or taxi. For families with luggage: Private transfer (50-70 minutes, 100-150€/$110-165). I DON'T recommend regular taxi for solo travelers (100€ vs train 13€).
Is there a direct train from Malpensa Airport to Milan?
YES! The Malpensa Express train runs directly from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 to Milano Cadorna station (52 minutes) and Milano Centrale station (60 minutes). No transfers needed - it's the fastest public transport option. Don't be confused by local trains requiring transfers.
How much is taxi from Malpensa to Milan centre?
Fixed rate taxi fare is 100€ (about $110 USD) to central Milan. This includes all taxes and tolls. Additional charges may apply for: extra large luggage, late night (10 PM - 6 AM), Sundays/holidays. Always confirm fixed rate before entering taxi. For 3-4 people splitting cost, it can be reasonable. For solo travelers, it's extremely expensive compared to 13€ train.
How late do trains run from Malpensa to Milan?
Last Malpensa Express trains depart around 12:20-12:30 AM. After midnight, your ONLY reliable options are: 1) Taxi (100€ fixed rate), 2) Pre-booked private transfer, 3) Airport shuttle buses (some routes run until 1:30 AM). Do NOT assume trains run all night. Many travelers get stuck at Malpensa after midnight thinking trains run 24/7 - they don't.
Is Malpensa Express train better than bus?
Malpensa Express advantages: Faster (52 vs 60-90+ minutes), more frequent (every 30 minutes), unaffected by Milan traffic. Bus advantages: Cheaper (8-10€ vs 13€), drops you at Centrale station (better for some hotels), runs slightly later. For most travelers, the train is better UNLESS you're on a tight budget, need to go directly to Centrale, or arrive after last train.
Can I buy Malpensa Express ticket in advance?
YES, and I highly recommend it during peak season. You can purchase online via Trenord website or app, or at ticket machines/offices at the airport. During summer (June-August) and fashion weeks, trains can sell out, especially for popular departure times. Buying in advance guarantees your seat and saves time at the airport.
What is the cheapest way from Malpensa to Milan?
Airport shuttle buses are the cheapest at 8-10€ (about $9-11 USD). The Malpensa Express train costs 13€ ($14). Local trains (not Malpensa Express) are cheaper at 10€ but take 70+ minutes and require a transfer at Saronno - I DON'T recommend this option for first-time visitors with luggage. The 3€ savings isn't worth the complexity.
How early should I leave Milan for Malpensa Airport return?
For international flights: Leave Milan city centre 3.5-4 hours before departure. Malpensa Express train: 52-60 minutes. Bus: 60-90 minutes + potential traffic delays. Add 2+ hours for check-in/security at Malpensa. For early morning flights (before 8 AM), consider staying at an airport hotel the night before or booking a very early private transfer.
Is Malpensa safe at night for solo female travelers?
Malpensa Airport terminals are generally safe, but I DON'T recommend waiting for early morning trains alone. If arriving after midnight, pre-book a taxi or private transfer. The shuttle bus to Centrale station is a safer budget option than waiting 4-5 hours for the first train. The area around Centrale station at night requires extra caution with luggage.
Which station is better: Cadorna or Centrale?
Cadorna station is better for: Duomo area (15 min walk), Navigli district, Brera district, most tourist hotels. Centrale station is better for: Continuing to other Italian cities via train, connections to metro lines M2/M3, hotels near Centrale station. Most tourist hotels are closer to Cadorna/Duomo, making Cadorna the better choice for 70% of visitors.
What if I have heavy luggage?
Malpensa Express train: Has luggage racks but stairs at Cadorna station. Bus: Driver helps with luggage storage. Private transfer: Best for heavy luggage (door-to-door). I DON'T recommend the train if you have more than one large suitcase per person - the station stairs and Milan metro with luggage is challenging. Taxi/private transfer is worth the extra cost in this case.
Are there direct buses to Milan city centre hotels?
NO direct hotel buses. Shuttle buses terminate at Milano Centrale station. From there, you need to take a taxi (10-20€) or metro (2€) to your hotel. Many websites suggest "hotel shuttle buses" - these don't exist as public transport. Only private transfers or hotel-arranged pickups go door-to-door.
Can I use Milan public transport ticket for Malpensa Express?
NO. The Malpensa Express train is operated by Trenord, not ATM Milano. Your Milan metro/bus/tram tickets are NOT valid on the airport train. You must purchase separate Malpensa Express tickets (13€). This is a common mistake - the airport train is a separate regional service.
What happens if my flight is delayed and I miss the last train?
This happens frequently. Options: 1) Airport shuttle bus (runs until ~1:30 AM, 8-10€), 2) Taxi from official rank (100€ fixed rate), 3) Private transfer (if pre-booked, they wait for delayed flights), 4) Wait at airport for first train (~5:00 AM). I recommend having taxi money as backup if arriving after 10:30 PM.
Is there WiFi on Malpensa Express train?
Yes, free WiFi is available on Malpensa Express trains, but connection quality varies. The train also has power outlets at some seats. Buses also typically have WiFi. For critical connectivity, have a local SIM or roaming data as backup.
Which terminal is better for Malpensa Express?
Both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 have Malpensa Express stations. Terminal 1 station is larger with more facilities. Terminal 2 is smaller but adequate. Trains stop at T2 first, then T1, then proceed to Milan. If you're at T2, board there rather than taking shuttle to T1. The shuttle between terminals takes 5-10 minutes.