Quick Answer
Best overall option: Take the direct Autostradale bus from Como (Via Colombo) to Malpensa Airport. It takes 1 hour 15 minutes, costs around €15 (≈$16), and drops you at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. No transfers, no hassle.
Cheapest option: Regional train from Como San Giovanni to Milano Centrale (€4.80 / ≈$5) + Malpensa Express to the airport (€13 / ≈$14) = €18 (≈$19) total, but takes about 2 hours and requires one transfer.
Fastest option: Taxi or private transfer – 50 minutes to 1 hour, but costs €120–€150 (≈$130–$162).
👉 For most travelers, the direct bus is the best combination of speed, cost, and simplicity.
🚆 Train from Lake Como to Malpensa Airport (via Milan)
The train route from Lake Como to Malpensa Airport is a two-leg journey that passes through Milan. It's a reliable, moderately priced option, but requires one transfer at Milano Centrale station. Total travel time is approximately 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the waiting time between connections.
Step-by-Step Train Journey
- Step 1: Take a regional train (Regionale) from Como San Giovanni station to Milano Centrale. Trains run every 30–60 minutes. Journey time: about 50 minutes. Ticket price: €4.80 (≈$5).
- Step 2: At Milano Centrale, follow signs for the Malpensa Express (departing from platforms 1–3, usually). Buy a separate ticket for the Malpensa Express: €13 (≈$14) one-way. Journey time: about 50 minutes to Malpensa Airport Terminal 1 (some trains continue to Terminal 2).
Total cost: €17.80–€20 (≈$19–$22) depending on exact fare class and booking channel.
Total time: 1h50–2h (including a typical 10–20 minute transfer in Milan).
Train Route Comparison Table
| Route | Train Type | Time | Cost (€) | Cost (USD ≈) | Transfers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Como San Giovanni → Milano Centrale | Regionale (Trenord) | 50 min | €4.80 | $5 | 0 |
| Milano Centrale → Malpensa Airport (MXP) | Malpensa Express (Trenord) | 50 min | €13 | $14 | 0 |
| Total journey | — | 1h50–2h | €17.80 | $19 | 1 |
Important Train Details
- Ticket purchase: Both regional train and Malpensa Express tickets can be bought at Trenord ticket machines, online via the Trenord official website, or via the Trenord app. Validate your ticket before boarding at the validation machines (yellow boxes) — fines apply if not validated.
- Luggage: Both trains have overhead racks and designated luggage areas. The Malpensa Express has more luggage space. No extra charge for suitcases.
- Frequency: Regional trains from Como to Milan run every 30–60 minutes from early morning (around 5:30 AM) until late evening (around 11:00 PM). Malpensa Express trains depart every 20–30 minutes from Milano Centrale.
- Seat reservation: Not required for regional trains or Malpensa Express (free seating). However, during peak hours it can get crowded — especially on the Malpensa Express.
- Accessibility: Both stations (Como San Giovanni and Milano Centrale) have elevators and ramps. The transfer at Milano Centrale involves walking about 5–8 minutes between platforms — allow extra time if you have mobility concerns.
👉 Official source: Trenord – Regional & Malpensa Express schedules
🚌 Direct Bus from Como to Malpensa Airport
The direct bus operated by Autostradale is the most straightforward connection between Lake Como and Malpensa Airport. It's a point-to-point service with no transfers, making it a favorite among travelers who value simplicity and time.
Bus Service Details
- Operator: Autostradale (official site: autostradale.it)
- Departure point: Como, Via Colombo (near the lakefront, about 10 minutes' walk from Como Cathedral)
- Arrival points: Malpensa Airport – Terminal 1 (arrivals level) and Terminal 2 (depending on flight)
- Journey time: 1 hour 15 minutes (consistent, with minimal traffic)
- Ticket price: €15 (≈$16) one-way. Children under 12: €10 (≈$11). Infants under 2: free (no seat).
- Frequency: 6–8 departures per day in each direction. First bus from Como: around 6:00 AM. Last bus from Como: around 6:00 PM. (Check the official schedule for exact times as they vary by season.)
- Luggage allowance: 2 suitcases + 1 carry-on per person. Oversized sports equipment may incur an extra fee.
Bus vs. Train – Quick Comparison
| Factor | Direct Bus | Train (via Milan) |
|---|---|---|
| Total time | 1h15 | 1h50–2h |
| Cost | €15 (≈$16) | €17.80–€20 (≈$19–$22) |
| Transfers | 0 (direct) | 1 (Milano Centrale) |
| Luggage space | Good (underfloor compartment) | Good (overhead + designated areas) |
| Comfort | Seated coach, air conditioning, toilet on board | Standard train seats, toilet on board |
| Recommended for | Most travelers, families, first-timers | Budget travelers who don't mind one transfer |
Booking & Practical Tips
- Recommended: Book online at least 1–2 days in advance during summer (June–September) and around holidays (Easter, Christmas). Walk-up tickets are available at the bus stop but seats may sell out.
- Check-in: Arrive at the bus stop 10–15 minutes early. The bus is usually parked and ready for boarding.
- Onboard amenities: Free Wi-Fi (sometimes spotty), air conditioning, toilet, and power outlets (USB and standard plugs on newer coaches).
- Return trip: The same service operates from Malpensa Airport back to Como. Departure points are at Terminal 1 (Bus Station, bay 10) and Terminal 2 (bus stop outside arrivals).
👉 Official source: Autostradale – Como to Malpensa timetable & tickets
🚕 Taxi & Private Transfer from Lake Como to Malpensa Airport
For those who prioritize comfort, privacy, and door-to-door service, a taxi or private transfer is the premium choice. It's significantly more expensive than public transport but eliminates all waiting, carrying, and navigating.
Typical Costs
- Standard taxi (licensed white taxi): €130–€150 (≈$140–$162) for a 1-way trip. Fares are fixed for airport transfers, but always confirm the price before departure.
- Private transfer (pre-booked car service): €120–€140 (≈$130–$151) for a standard sedan (up to 3 passengers). Minivan (up to 7 passengers): €160–€200 (≈$173–$216).
- Ride-hailing (Uber / Free Now): €110–€140 (≈$119–$151) depending on demand. Surge pricing may apply during peak hours or late night.
When to Choose This Option
- Late-night or early-morning departures (before 6:00 AM or after 9:00 PM) when buses and trains are infrequent or unavailable.
- Groups of 3–5 people — the per-person cost becomes comparable to train tickets, especially if splitting a minivan.
- Traveling with heavy luggage, bulky sports equipment, or young children (car seats available on request from most private transfer companies).
- Business travelers who value time and convenience over cost.
- Reduced mobility travelers who cannot easily manage stairs or long walks at train stations.
Recommended Private Transfer Providers
- Welcome Pickups: welcomepickups.com — fixed price, meet-and-greet, flight monitoring included. From €130 (≈$140).
- Suntransfers: suntransfers.com — competitive rates, wide vehicle range. From €120 (≈$130).
- Local taxi cooperatives (Como Taxi / Taxi Como): can be hailed on the street or booked by phone. Expected price: €130–150.
👉 Note: Always book a licensed transfer for airport pickups. Unlicensed taxis may charge hidden fees or lack proper insurance.
🚗 Car Rental & Driving from Lake Como to Malpensa Airport
Driving yourself is an option if you have a rental car or are continuing a road trip. The route is straightforward, but you must factor in fuel, tolls, and rental drop-off procedures.
Route & Driving Time
- Distance: Approximately 60 km (37 miles).
- Route: Take the A9 motorway (Autostrada dei Laghi) from Como towards Milan, then merge onto the A8 towards Varese/Malpensa. Follow signs for Malpensa Airport (MXP).
- Driving time: 45–55 minutes in normal traffic. Allow 1 hour 15 minutes during peak hours (7:30–9:00 AM and 4:30–7:00 PM).
- Tolls: €5.70 (≈$6) one-way (A9 + A8 combination). Pay by cash, card, or Telepass.
- Fuel cost: Approximately €10–€12 (≈$11–$13) for a standard car (based on €1.85/L for petrol).
Rental Car Drop-off at Malpensa
- All major rental agencies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, Budget, Thrifty) have desks in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 arrivals halls.
- Return the car to the designated rental car return area (follow signs: "Rental Car Return" / "Auto Noleggio"). Parking lots are located in the multi-story car park P1 (Terminal 1) and P2 (Terminal 2).
- Allow 15–20 minutes for the drop-off process (inspection, paperwork).
- Most agencies offer one-way rentals (pick up in Como, drop at Malpensa) — but check for drop-off fees (usually €30–€50 extra).
👉 Bottom line: Driving is convenient if you already have a rental car, but for a one-way airport transfer, the cost (fuel + tolls + drop-off fee + rental day) often exceeds the bus or train option.
📊 Cost & Time Comparison – All Options at a Glance
This table summarizes every way to get from Lake Como (central Como) to Malpensa Airport (MXP). Use it to make your final decision.
| Transport Mode | Total Time | Cost (€) | Cost (USD ≈) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚌 Direct Bus (Autostradale) | 1h15 | €15 | $16 | 0 | Best overall – most travelers |
| 🚆 Train (Regionale + Malpensa Express) | 1h50–2h | €17.80 | $19 | 1 | Budget-conscious, no bus preference |
| 🚕 Taxi (white taxi / licensed) | 50min–1h | €130–€150 | $140–$162 | 0 | Speed + privacy, late-night, groups |
| 🚗 Car rental (one-way, fuel + tolls + drop fee) | 50min–1h | €50–€80 * | $54–$86 | 0 | Already have a rental, road trip continuing |
| 🚐 Private minivan transfer (up to 7 pax) | 50min–1h | €160–€200 | $173–$216 | 0 | Families or groups with lots of luggage |
| * Car rental cost varies widely by company, vehicle class, and drop-off fees. This estimate includes fuel + tolls + basic drop-off fee. | |||||
🏆 Winner for most travelers: Direct Bus (€15, 1h15, no transfers).
🏆 Cheapest option: Train (€17.80, but slower with one transfer).
🏆 Fastest & most comfortable: Taxi/Private Transfer (50min, door-to-door, but €130+).
💡 Traveler Tips & Insider Insights
Practical advice gathered from frequent travelers and local experts to make your journey smoother.
🚍 Bus-Specific Tips
- Book online for summer: The direct bus from Como to Malpensa frequently sells out in July and August. Book at least 48 hours ahead on the Autostradale website.
- Seat selection: Choose the left side of the bus for views of the Alps as you approach the airport (if traveling in daylight).
- Stop location: The bus stop in Como is on Via Colombo, right near the lake. Look for the green Autostradale sign. It's a 5-minute walk from Como Cathedral.
🚆 Train-Specific Tips
- Validate your ticket: Always stamp your regional train ticket at the yellow validation machine on the platform before boarding. Failure to do so can result in a €50–€200 fine.
- Milano Centrale transfer: The walk from the regional train platforms (usually tracks 5–10) to the Malpensa Express platforms (usually tracks 1–3) takes about 5–7 minutes. Follow the yellow signs for "Malpensa Express". Don't exit the station.
- Avoid rush hour at Milano Centrale: The station is extremely busy between 7:30–9:00 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM. If possible, schedule your transfer outside these windows to avoid crowds and long queues at ticket machines.
🧳 Luggage & Mobility Advice
- Takkyubin (luggage delivery) not available: Unlike Japan, luggage forwarding services are not common for this route. You'll have to carry your bags yourself.
- Pack light for the train: The regional train from Como has limited luggage racks. If you have a large suitcase, sit near the doors where there's more space.
- Strollers and wheelchairs: The direct bus has a lift for boarding (request assistance at the counter). The train has level boarding at Como San Giovanni and Milano Centrale, but the gap can be wide — ask for a ramp if needed.
⏰ Peak Season & Timing Warnings
- Summer (June–September): Bus and train seats sell out. Book all tickets at least 3–5 days in advance. Roads to Malpensa can be congested on Friday and Sunday afternoons.
- Christmas & New Year: Reduced schedules on Dec 25, 26, and Jan 1. Check timetables carefully.
- Strikes (scioperi): Italy has frequent public transport strikes. Check Trenord and Autostradale websites for strike alerts before traveling. Always have a backup plan (e.g., taxi cash).
👉 Pro tip: If your flight is before 9:00 AM, consider staying overnight at a hotel near Malpensa Airport rather than risking an early-morning journey from Como. The first direct bus from Como departs around 6:00 AM, which may not be early enough for a 9:00 AM flight (you need to be at the airport 2–2.5 hours before).
❓ FAQs: Lake Como to Malpensa Airport
Is there a direct bus from Lake Como to Malpensa Airport?
Yes, Autostradale operates a direct bus from Como (Via Colombo) to Malpensa Airport (Terminal 1 and 2). The journey takes about 1 hour 15 minutes and costs around €15 (≈$16). This is the most direct and often the most convenient option.
How much does the train from Como to Malpensa Airport cost?
The train journey via Milano Centrale costs approximately €18–€20 (≈$19–$22) in total: about €4.80 (≈$5) for the regional train from Como San Giovanni to Milano Centrale, plus €13–€15 (≈$14–$16) for the Malpensa Express from Milano Centrale to the airport.
How long does it take to get from Lake Como to Malpensa Airport?
By direct bus it takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. By train (via Milan) it takes around 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours including transfers. By taxi or private transfer it takes approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic.
What is the cheapest way to get from Lake Como to Malpensa Airport?
The cheapest option is the regional train from Como San Giovanni to Milano Centrale (€4.80 / ≈$5) combined with the Malpensa Express (€13 / ≈$14), totalling about €18 (≈$19). However, the direct bus at €15 (≈$16) is also very affordable and more convenient as it avoids the transfer in Milan.
Is there a taxi or private transfer service from Lake Como to Malpensa Airport?
Yes, many private transfer companies and taxis operate between Lake Como and Malpensa Airport. The fixed price typically ranges from €120 to €150 (≈$130–$162) for a standard car. This is the most expensive option but offers door-to-door convenience, especially for groups or late-night departures.
Can I use the Malpensa Express from Como?
No, the Malpensa Express only operates from Milano Centrale, Milano Cadorna, and a few other Milan stations. There is no direct Malpensa Express service from Como. You must first take a regional train from Como San Giovanni to Milano Centrale (50 min, €4.80) and then board the Malpensa Express.
What is the best way to get from Lake Como to Malpensa Airport with a family?
For families, the direct bus is often the best balance of cost and convenience (€15 per person, 1h15, no transfers). If you have a lot of luggage or young children, a private transfer (€120–€150) provides door-to-door service and avoids stairs and platforms. The train via Milan involves one transfer, which can be tricky with strollers.
Do I need to book the bus from Como to Malpensa in advance?
It is highly recommended to book the Autostradale direct bus in advance during peak season (May–September) and around holidays, as seats sell out quickly. In low season, you can usually buy tickets at the bus stop, but advance booking online guarantees your spot and often secures a slightly better price.
Last updated: March 2025. Prices and schedules are subject to change. Always check official operator websites for real-time information.