Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Linate Airport to Pavia for most travelers is a combination of an airport shuttle bus to Milano Centrale station, followed by a regional train to Pavia. This balances cost, speed, and convenience. The fastest way is a direct taxi or private transfer (50-70 mins), while the cheapest way involves local buses and trains (under â¬10). There is no direct train or intercity bus from the airport to Pavia.
Taking the Train from Linate Airport to Pavia
While Linate Airport lacks its own railway station, trains are the backbone of mid-to-long distance travel in Lombardy. Reaching Pavia requires a two-leg journey: first to a major Milan station, then a train to Pavia. This method is highly reliable and offers frequent service.
Step-by-Step Guide: Train via Milan
- Leg 1: Airport to Milan's Train Station. You have two primary choices:
- Airport Shuttle Bus: Companies like AirPullman and ATM run direct buses to Milano Centrale (the main station) and Milano Porta Garibaldi. Travel time: 25-40 mins. Cost: â¬6-â¬8. Buses depart every 20-30 minutes.
- Taxi/Uber: A direct ride to Milano Centrale takes 15-25 mins and costs â¬25-â¬40. Ideal if you're short on time or have heavy bags.
- Leg 2: Milan to Pavia by Train. From Milano Centrale or Porta Garibaldi, take a Trenitalia regional train.
- Train Types: Regionale (R) and Regionale Veloce (RV). The RV is slightly faster and makes fewer stops.
- Journey Time: 30 to 45 minutes.
- Frequency: Extremely high, with 2-4 trains per hour throughout the day.
- Ticket Cost: Approximately â¬4.50 - â¬6.50 one-way. Tickets can be purchased at station counters, machines, or via the Trenitalia website/app.
Total Journey Time: 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 50 minutes (including transfer/wait time).
Total Approx. Cost: â¬10.50 - â¬15 per person.
What About Flying?
Flying between Linate and Pavia is neither practical nor available, as the distance is only about 40 kilometers. Linate is Milan's city airport, and Pavia is a nearby provincial capital. The notion of a "domestic flight" for this route does not exist. All ground transport options detailed on this page are the only viable methods.
By Bus & Public Transport (The Budget Choice)
This is the most economical method, ideal for solo travelers or those on a tight budget. It involves using Milan's integrated urban transport network (ATM) before catching the train.
The Cheapest Route: Bus + Metro + Train
- Bus 73 (ATM): Take the public bus 73 from right outside Linate's arrivals. It goes to San Babila (city center). Travel: ~25 mins. Cost: â¬2.20 (ATM ticket valid for 90 mins on buses/trams).
- Metro Red Line (M1): At San Babila, take the Metro M1 towards Sesto 1º Maggio FS and get off at Milano Centrale (the railway station). Travel: ~10 mins. Covered by the same â¬2.20 ticket.
- Train to Pavia: As described in the train section, take a regional train from Milano Centrale to Pavia. Cost: ~â¬5.
Pros: Extremely cheap (total under â¬10).
Cons: Involves multiple transfers with luggage; not ideal in peak hours; total time can exceed 2 hours.
Direct Airport Shuttle Buses (To Train Stations)
For a simpler but slightly more expensive bus option, use the direct shuttle buses mentioned in the train section (AirPullman/ATM bus to Centrale). This avoids the Metro and is more comfortable with luggage. It's the recommended budget option for most.
| Service | Destination | Travel Time | Cost (One-way) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ATM Bus 73 | San Babila (City Center) | 25 min | â¬2.20 | Every 10-15 min |
| AirPullman Shuttle | Milano Centrale Station | 30-40 min | â¬8 | Every 20-30 min |
| ATM Shuttle Bus | Milano Centrale Station | 25-35 min | â¬6 | Every 30 min |
By Taxi & Private Transfer (Door-to-Door Convenience)
For the ultimate in convenience, especially after a long flight, a direct taxi or pre-booked private transfer is the solution. This is the only true door-to-door option from Linate Airport to any address in Pavia.
Key Details & Costs
- Official Taxi Rank: Located directly outside the arrivals hall. Fares to Pavia are fixed (not metered) and must be agreed upon or based on a pre-set tariff list before departure.
- Approximate Fixed Fare: â¬90 - â¬130 for the car, not per person. This varies by time of day (night surcharges), exact destination in Pavia, and vehicle size.
- Journey Time: 50 to 70 minutes, depending on traffic on the A1/A50 motorways.
- Private Transfer: Pre-booking online with companies like Suntransfers or Welcome Pickups offers fixed, upfront pricing, an English-speaking driver, and flight tracking. Prices are similar to taxi ranks but offer more certainty.
When is a Taxi the Best Choice?
- Traveling in a group of 3-4 people (splitting the cost makes it reasonable).
- Arriving late at night or very early in the morning when public transport is limited.
- Carrying excessive, heavy, or special luggage (e.g., sports equipment).
- If you have mobility challenges or require direct access to your final destination.
Warning: Only use official white taxis or reputable pre-booked services. Avoid unlicensed drivers soliciting inside the terminal.
Ticket, Cost & Time Comparison: Linate to Pavia
Use this table to quickly compare all your options and decide based on your priority: speed, cost, or convenience.
| Transport Method | Approx. Total Travel Time | Approx. Cost (One-way) | Transfers / Complexity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Private Transfer | 50 - 70 min | â¬90 - â¬130 (for car) | None (Door-to-door) | Groups, late arrivals, max convenience |
| Shuttle Bus + Train (Recommended Route) | 80 - 110 min | â¬12 - â¬15 (per person) | One easy bus-to-train transfer | Most travelers, best balance |
| Local Bus (73) + Metro + Train | 100 - 140 min | â¬7 - â¬9 (per person) | Two transfers (bus-metro-train) | Solo budget travelers, light luggage |
Ticket Purchasing Tips
- Airport Shuttle Bus: Buy tickets onboard from the driver (cash/card) or at dedicated kiosks in the arrivals hall.
- ATM Tickets (Bus/Metro): Purchase at the ATM ticket machine at the airport bus stop. A single 90-minute ticket (â¬2.20) is sufficient for the Bus+Metro leg.
- Train Tickets (Milan->Pavia): Buy at Trenitalia machines in Milano Centrale, online via the Trenitalia app (use it as an e-ticket), or at ticket offices. Validate paper tickets in the green stamping machines before boarding regional trains to avoid fines.
Traveler Insights & Practical Tips for 2024
Luggage Strategy
Navigating the Milan Metro with large suitcases is challenging (often stairs, crowded). If you have big bags, opt for the direct airport shuttle bus to Centrale instead of the Bus73+Metro combo. Most regional trains have overhead racks and space at the ends of carriages for luggage.
Managing the Transfer at Milano Centrale
Milano Centrale is a vast, bustling station. When you arrive by shuttle bus, you'll be dropped off on the street level. Follow signs for "Binari" (tracks/platforms) to enter the main concourse. Use the large departure boards to find your train to Paviaâlook for "Pavia" under "Destinazione". Track numbers ("Binario") are usually assigned 10-15 minutes before departure.
Timing is Everything
Avoid peak commuting hours (7:30-9:30 AM, 5:30-7:30 PM) if possible, especially for the bus/metro legs, as they will be extremely crowded. Trains also fill up with commuters during these times.
Connectivity & Apps
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available at Linate Airport and Milano Centrale station (may require registration).
- Essential Apps: Download ATM Milano for city bus/tram info, Trenitalia or Trainline for train schedules/tickets, and Google Maps or Citymapper for flawless step-by-step navigation for the entire multi-modal journey.
Alternative Airport Consideration
If you have a choice, flying into Linate (LIN) is vastly superior to Malpensa (MXP) for reaching Pavia. The transfer from Malpensa is longer (90+ mins), more expensive (train from MXP to Milan + train to Pavia, or a â¬150+ taxi), and generally more cumbersome.
FAQs: Getting from Linate Airport to Pavia
Is there a direct train from Linate Airport to Pavia?
No, there is no direct train service from Linate Airport (LIN) to Pavia. The most common route involves taking a bus (or taxi) from the airport to Milan's central railway stations (like Milano Centrale or Milano Porta Garibaldi) and then transferring to a regional train to Pavia. The total journey typically takes between 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 50 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Linate to Pavia?
The cheapest option is a combination of public buses and trains. Take the local ATM bus 73 from the airport to San Babila Metro station, then the Milan Metro (Red Line M1) to Milano Centrale, followed by a regional train to Pavia. Total cost can be under â¬10 per person. Direct airport shuttle buses to Milan's train stations are a slightly more expensive but more convenient budget option.
How much is a taxi from Linate Airport to Pavia?
A taxi or pre-booked private transfer from Linate Airport directly to Pavia costs approximately â¬90 - â¬130. The price is fixed for the destination (not metered) and depends on the time of day, exact drop-off location, and vehicle type. This is the fastest and most convenient door-to-door option, especially for groups or those with heavy luggage.
How long does it take to get from Linate to Pavia by taxi?
The drive from Linate Airport to Pavia takes about 50 to 70 minutes under normal traffic conditions. It is the fastest single-mode transport option, as it involves no transfers and takes you directly to your final address in Pavia. During peak rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM), travel time can extend to 90+ minutes.
Are there direct airport shuttle buses from Linate to Pavia?
No, there are no direct intercity shuttle bus services operating between Linate Airport and Pavia city center. To reach Pavia by bus, you must first travel to Milan's city center or a major transport hub (like Milano Centrale) via an airport shuttle bus, and then take a separate intercity bus or train to Pavia. The bus+train combination is more reliable and frequent.
What is the best way to get to Pavia from Linate with a lot of luggage?
The best way with heavy or multiple luggage is a pre-booked private transfer or taxi. It provides door-to-door service with assistance. If on a budget, take the direct AirPullman shuttle bus from Linate to Milano Centrale (they have luggage compartments), then a train to Pavia (choose trains with ample luggage space, like Regionale Veloce). Avoid routes involving the Milan Metro with large suitcases.
Can I use the Milano City Pass for transport to Pavia?
No, the Milano City Pass covers only public transport within Milan's urban area (ATM network) and some discounts. It does not cover the regional train journey from Milan to Pavia, which is operated by Trenitalia and requires a separate ticket. The pass is useful for the initial bus/Metro leg within Milan.
Is it better to fly into Linate or Malpensa for Pavia?
Linate Airport (LIN) is significantly closer to Pavia (approx. 40km) compared to Malpensa Airport (MXP) (approx. 80km). Therefore, Linate is almost always the better choice for Pavia-bound travelers, offering shorter and cheaper ground transfer times. Choose Malpensa only if flight schedules or costs are drastically better, understanding the longer (90+ min) and more expensive transfer to Pavia.