Quick Answer
The best overall way to travel from Malpensa Airport (MXP) to Milano Centrale Station is by the Malpensa Express train. It takes about 50 minutes, costs â¬13 one-way, and runs directly between the two points. For budget travelers, the Autostradale bus is the cheapest option at around â¬10, taking approximately 60-70 minutes. A taxi or private transfer is the most convenient door-to-door service but costs â¬95-â¬110.
By Train: The Malpensa Express (Recommended)
The Malpensa Express is the dedicated airport rail link connecting Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 of Malpensa Airport directly to Milano Cadorna and Milano Centrale stations. It is the most balanced option, offering a good mix of speed, price, and reliability.
Key Features & Step-by-Step Guide
- Find the Station: In Terminal 1, follow signs to the âMalpensa Expressâ in the basement. In Terminal 2, a free shuttle train connects you to the main station at T1.
- Buy Tickets: Purchase at ticket machines (English available), the âMalpensa Expressâ ticket counter, or online in advance. Validate paper tickets before boarding.
- Board the Train: Trains are modern with luggage racks and air conditioning. Ensure you board the train heading to âMilano Centraleâ (not Cadorna).
- Arrival: You'll arrive on the underground level of Milano Centrale. Follow signs up to the main concourse for metro, taxi, or your next train.
Malpensa Express Schedule & Fares (2024)
| Route | Frequency | Journey Time | One-Way Fare | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MXP T1 â Milano Centrale | Every 30 mins | ~50 min | â¬13 | Direct, no changes. |
| MXP T2 â Milano Centrale | Every 30 mins | ~55-60 min | â¬13 | Includes shuttle from T2 to T1. |
Regional Train (Trenord) â The Budget Rail Alternative
For the absolute cheapest rail fare (â¬9-â¬11), the regional Trenord train is an option. However, it is not recommended for most travelers because:
- It requires a change at Saronno or Busto Arsizio station.
- Total journey time extends to 70-90 minutes.
- Trains are less frequent and can be crowded with commuters.
- Luggage space is more limited.
Verdict: Only consider this if you are on an extreme budget, travel light, and are comfortable navigating a train change in a small station.
By Bus: The Most Economical Choice
Several coach companies operate comfortable buses between Malpensa Airport and Milano Centrale. This is the best option for cost-conscious travelers seeking a direct link without the train's premium price.
Main Bus Operators & Services
- Autostradale (Flibco Network): The primary operator. Buses are modern, with WiFi and USB ports.
- Pick-up: Stops directly outside Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 Arrivals.
- Drop-off: Milano Centrale Station (Via Giovanni Battista Sammartini, the east side of the station).
- Frequency: Every 20-30 minutes.
- Journey Time: 60-70 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Price: From â¬10 online, â¬13 on board.
- Terravision: Another reliable, budget-friendly option with similar service standards and pricing.
Night Bus Service
If your flight arrives very late (after the last Malpensa Express, around midnight), buses like Autostradale continue to run on a reduced nighttime schedule (approx. hourly). This makes the bus the primary public transport option for late-night arrivals.
Why Choose the Bus? Pros & Cons
Pros: Lowest cost (especially with online booking); direct to Centrale; generous luggage allowance (typically 1 suitcase + 1 carry-on); tickets are flexible (often valid for any time on the booked day).
Cons: Travel time is susceptible to Milan's notorious traffic, especially during rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-8 PM). The drop-off point, while close, is a 2-3 minute walk to the station entrance.
Tip: Always book your ticket online in advance for the lowest price and to guarantee a seat, especially during peak tourist seasons.
By Taxi & Private Transfer: Door-to-Door Convenience
This is the most convenient but also the most expensive option. Official taxis and pre-booked private transfers operate on a fixed fare from Malpensa to any address within Milan's city limits, including Milano Centrale.
Official Taxis (Consorzio Taxi)
- Fixed Fare: â¬95 for up to 4 passengers + luggage to Milano Centrale.
- Where to Find: Official ranks outside Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 Arrivals. Only use official white taxis from the queue.
- Journey Time: 50-70 minutes, heavily dependent on traffic.
Warning: Avoid unsolicited offers from drivers inside the terminal. They are illegal and will charge exorbitant rates. Always go to the official rank.
Pre-Booked Private Transfers (Recommended for Groups)
Booking a private car via services like Suntransfers, Welcome Pickups, or GetTransfer offers advantages:
- Meet & Greet: Your driver waits in the arrivals hall with a name sign.
- Fixed, Agreed Price: No surprises. Prices range from â¬90-â¬120 for a standard sedan.
- Perfect for Groups: Larger vans (e.g., 8 passengers) cost â¬120-â¬150, making it very economical per person.
- No-Hassle: Ideal for families with young children, those with mobility issues, or travelers with a lot of luggage.
When Should You Choose a Taxi/Transfer?
- Arriving very late at night after public transport has stopped.
- Traveling in a group of 3 or more (can be cost-effective).
- Having excessive or heavy luggage.
- Needing absolute door-to-door convenience, especially if your hotel is not near Milano Centrale.
Cost & Time Comparison: How to Choose
This table summarizes all key data to help you decide the best way from Malpensa to Milano Centrale.
| Option | Approx. Journey Time | One-Way Cost (2024) | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Malpensa Express Train | 50 min | â¬13 | Most travelers, balance of speed & price. | Most reliable, unaffected by road traffic. |
| Regional Train (Trenord) | 70-90 min | â¬9-â¬11 | Extreme budget, light travelers. | Requires a train change; less convenient. |
| Airport Bus (Autostradale) | 60-70 min | â¬10-â¬13 | Cheapest direct option, late arrivals. | Subject to traffic delays. |
| Official Taxi | 50-70 min | â¬95 (fixed) | Groups of 3-4, door-to-door needs. | High cost for solo/duo travelers. |
| Private Transfer | 50-70 min | â¬90-â¬120 | Families, groups, premium convenience. | Must book in advance; meet & greet. |
Bottom Line: For solo/couple travelers, the Malpensa Express is the top recommendation. For absolute lowest cost, choose the bus. For groups of 3+, a taxi or private transfer becomes competitive and far more convenient.
Traveler Tips & Practical Advice
- Buy Tickets Online: For both Malpensa Express and buses, purchasing online often secures a slightly lower price and saves time at the airport. For buses, it guarantees a seat.
- Validate Train Tickets: If you buy a physical Malpensa Express or regional train ticket, you must validate it in the small green or yellow machines at the platform entrance before boarding. Failure to do so can result in a fine. E-tickets on your phone do not need validation.
- Beware of Rush Hour Traffic: If landing between 7-9 AM or 5-8 PM on a weekday, the bus journey can easily take 90+ minutes. During these times, the train is significantly more reliable.
- Late-Night Arrival Protocol: If your flight lands after ~11:30 PM, your main public transport options are the night bus or a taxi. Check the latest schedules for Autostradale's night service before you travel.
- Milano Centrale Orientation: The station is huge. The Malpensa Express arrives underground (-1 level). The bus stops on the east side (Via Sammartini). Taxis are on the west side (Piazza Duca d'Aosta). Allow a few minutes to navigate inside the station for connections.
- Cash & Cards: While cards are widely accepted at ticket machines and counters, it's wise to have some Euros for smaller kiosks or as a backup.
FAQs: Malpensa Airport to Milano Centrale
Is there a direct train from Malpensa Airport to Milano Centrale?
Yes. The Malpensa Express train runs directly from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 (via a shuttle from T2) to Milano Centrale Station. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Malpensa to Milano Centrale?
The cheapest direct option is the airport bus (e.g., Autostradale), with fares starting at â¬10 when booked online. The absolute cheapest method overall is the regional Trenord train (â¬9-â¬11), but it requires a change and is less convenient.
How much is a taxi from Malpensa to Milano Centrale?
Official taxis have a fixed fare of â¬95 for the trip from Malpensa to any address within Milan's city limits, including Milano Centrale Station, for up to 4 passengers. The price is not metered for this route.
How do I get from Malpensa to Milano Centrale late at night?
Your best options for late-night arrivals (after the last Malpensa Express, around midnight) are:
- The night bus service (e.g., Autostradale), which runs approximately hourly.
- An official taxi from the rank outside arrivals (fixed â¬95 fare).
Is the Malpensa Express or the bus better?
It depends on your priorities:
- Choose the Malpensa Express for reliability (unaffected by traffic), slightly faster travel time, and seamless arrival under Milano Centrale.
- Choose the Bus for the lowest direct cost, slightly more central drop-off at street level, and better late-night frequency.
Can I use a Italy Rail Pass on the Malpensa Express?
No. The Malpensa Express is a dedicated airport train operated by a private company (Trenord under the Malpensa Express brand). National Eurail or ItaliaRail passes are not valid on this service. You must purchase a separate ticket.
How early should I book my bus or train ticket?
For the bus, booking a few days in advance online secures the lowest price and guarantees a seat, which is important during peak season. For the Malpensa Express train, you can often buy tickets on the day of travel without issue, but advance online purchase can save a small amount and time in line.
Is it easy to find the bus/train station at Malpensa Airport?
Yes. Both are very well signposted in English and Italian. Look for the train/bus symbols. The Malpensa Express station is in the basement of Terminal 1. The bus stops are directly outside the arrivals halls of both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.