Quick Answer
The best overall way to travel from Malpensa Airport to Turin is by combining the Malpensa Express train with a high-speed train (Frecciarossa or Italo). This option offers the ideal balance of speed, comfort, and value. The total journey takes approximately 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours 20 minutes and costs between €25 and €65 one-way, depending on how early you book. The key transfer point is Milan Centrale (Milano Centrale) station. For budget travelers, the FlixBus is the cheapest option (from €5), taking about 2-2.5 hours.
By Train: The Step-by-Step Guide (Recommended)
Taking the train is the most efficient and comfortable public transport option, connecting you from airport terminal to city center with minimal hassle. The journey involves one straightforward change in Milan.
Step 1: Malpensa Express to Milan Centrale
Your journey starts at the Malpensa Express stations located directly beneath Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Trains depart every 15-30 minutes from approximately 5:00 AM to 12:30 AM.
- Journey Time: ~50 minutes to Milano Centrale.
- Ticket Cost: €13 one-way if purchased online or at machines. It's €14 if bought on board.
- Key Tip: Validate your paper ticket in the small green/yellow machines before boarding to avoid a fine.
Step 2: Transfer at Milan Centrale Station
Milano Centrale is a major hub. Upon arrival, follow signs for “Treni” (mainline trains). You will need to find your departure platform (binario) for the Turin train on the main departure boards. Allow at least 20-30 minutes for the transfer, especially if unfamiliar with the station or if you have luggage.
Step 3: High-Speed Train to Turin
From Milan, you have two main high-speed operators to Turin (Torino):
| Operator | Train Type | Destination in Turin | Journey Time | Advance Fare Range (One-Way) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trenitalia | Frecciarossa (Red Arrow) | Porta Susa (main) or Porta Nuova | ~50-55 minutes | €9.90 - €45 | WiFi, power outlets, 4 service classes (Standard, Premium, Business, Executive). Official Site. |
| Italo | Italo AGV | Porta Susa | ~50-55 minutes | €9.90 - €40 | Modern fleet, WiFi, three classes (Smart, Comfort, Prima). Often competitive pricing. Official Site. |
Budget Alternative (Slow Train): If you have a Eurail Pass you want to use without reservation fees, you can take a regional train from Milan Porta Garibaldi or Centrale to Turin. This takes over 2 hours and requires more changes. Not recommended for efficiency.
By Flight: Is It Worth It? (Spoiler: Usually No)
While there are short flights from Milan Malpensa (MXP) to Turin Caselle (TRN), they are almost never the best choice for this journey when considering total travel time and hassle.
The Reality of "Door-to-Door" Time
- Airport Check-in & Security: You must arrive at MXP at least 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight.
- Flight Time: Approximately 45 minutes in the air.
- Deplaning & Baggage Claim: Allow 20-30 minutes after landing.
- Turin Airport to City Center: Take the Sadem bus (~45 mins, €7.50) or a train+metro combo (~35 mins).
Total Estimated Door-to-Door Time: 4+ hours. This is double the train's city-center-to-city-center time.
Cost & Environmental Impact
Flight prices vary wildly but are rarely cheaper than a pre-booked high-speed train. Additionally, the carbon footprint of such a short flight is disproportionately high. Conclusion: Only consider flying if you have a connecting long-haul flight already booked through MXP and your final destination is near Turin Airport, not the city center.
By Bus: The Most Economical Choice
For travelers on a tight budget, intercity buses offer significant savings, especially when booked in advance.
Primary Bus Operators
- FlixBus: The most common and reliable option. Offers direct services from Malpensa Terminal 1 and 2 to Turin's main bus station (Corso Bolzano) or Lingotto.
- Others: Companies like Baltour or Autostradale may offer seasonal or less frequent services.
What to Expect
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Journey Time | 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic. |
| Ticket Price | €5 to €20 one-way if booked online in advance (weeks/months ahead). Prices rise closer to departure and can hit €25-€30. |
| Departure Points at MXP | Designated bus stops outside Terminal 1 (Arrivals) and Terminal 2. |
| Arrival Points in Turin | Mainly Turin Corso Bolzano (near Porta Susa station) or Lingotto (southern city). |
| Luggage | Usually includes 1x suitcase and 1x carry-on in the ticket price. Check the specific operator's policy. |
| Amenities | Free WiFi (can be spotty), power outlets at some seats, toilet on board. |
Booking is Essential: Buses can sell out, especially on weekends and holidays. Always book online beforehand.
By Taxi or Private Transfer: For Convenience at a Premium
This is a door-to-door solution but comes with a very high cost. It is generally not recommended for solo travelers or budget-conscious tourists.
Official Taxis
Taxis are available at designated ranks outside both terminals. The fare to Turin is not metered for such a long distance; it is a fixed rate agreed upon beforehand.
- Estimated Cost: €300 to €450 one-way, depending on the time of day, number of passengers, and luggage.
- Journey Time: ~1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic on the A4 motorway.
- Important: Only use official, licensed taxis from the rank. Avoid unlicensed drivers soliciting inside the terminal.
Pre-Booked Private Transfers (Recommended over Hailing)
A more reliable and often similarly-priced alternative is to book a private car or van in advance through a reputable service like Suntransfers, Welcome Pickups, or KiwiTaxi.
- Advantages: Fixed price paid upfront, English-speaking driver, flight tracking, meet-and-greet service in the arrivals hall.
- Cost: Similar to taxis, starting around €280 for a standard car.
- Best For: Late-night/early-morning arrivals when public transport isn't running, families with young children and lots of luggage, groups of 3-4 people (splitting the cost), or travelers with mobility issues.
Ticket Guide & Cost Comparison Table
This table summarizes all options to help you decide at a glance.
| Transport Method | Total Approx. Time | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Key Advantages | Key Disadvantages | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train (Malpensa Ex. + High-Speed) | 1h 50m - 2h 20m | €25 - €65 | Fast, reliable, scenic, city-center to city-center, comfortable. | Requires one change, advance booking for best prices. | Most travelers seeking the best balance. |
| Bus (e.g., FlixBus) | 2h - 2h 30m | €5 - €25 | Cheapest option, direct, WiFi, power outlets. | Subject to traffic delays, less legroom/comfort, limited luggage space on busy routes. | Budget travelers, solo backpackers. |
| Flight | 4h+ (door-to-door) | €50 - €150+ | Potentially useful for specific flight connections. | Longest total time, most hassle (security, transfers), environmentally unfriendly, baggage fees may apply. | Almost no one for this specific route. |
| Taxi / Private Transfer | 1h 30m - 2h | €280 - €450 | Door-to-door, no changes, available 24/7, good for groups. | Extremely expensive, traffic-dependent, environmentally costly. | Groups (cost-sharing), late-night arrivals, those with mobility issues or excessive luggage. |
Where to Buy Tickets
- Trains: Trenitalia.com, ItaloTreno.it, or aggregate sites like Omio for comparison.
- Malpensa Express: MalpensaExpress.it, Trenitalia machines/counters at the airport.
- Buses: FlixBus.com or their app.
- Private Transfers: Comparison sites like KiwiTaxi or direct with providers like Welcome Pickups.
Traveler Tips & Insider Experience
Navigating Milan Centrale Station
This grand station can be overwhelming. Give yourself ample transfer time (30 mins minimum). The Malpensa Express arrives on the lower-level “Malpensa Airport” platforms. You'll need to go up to the main concourse to find your high-speed train's platform. Look for the large digital departure boards.
Luggage Strategy
If you have heavy suitcases and plan to explore Milan or Turin immediately, consider Italy's excellent luggage storage services:
- Stow Your Bags: Use left luggage offices (“Deposito Bagagli”) at Milano Centrale or Turin stations (€6-€10 per bag for 5+ hours).
- Luggage Shipping (Advanced): Services like Bagbnb or local couriers can send your bags directly to your hotel, freeing you up for sightseeing. Plan this in advance.
Booking & Timing Advice
- Book Early: High-speed train and bus tickets follow airline-style pricing. Booking weeks or months in advance can save you 50-70%.
- Peak Season Warning: During major Italian holidays (Ferragosto in August), Christmas, or fashion events in Milan, trains and buses sell out fast. Book as early as possible.
- Validate Paper Tickets: For regional train tickets (like the Malpensa Express paper ticket), always stamp them in the validation machine (a small green/white box on the platform) before boarding. Failure to do so results in a hefty fine.
Connectivity & Apps
Download the official apps before you travel: Trenitalia, Italo, and FlixBus. They provide e-tickets, real-time updates, and platform information, which is invaluable during transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there a direct train from Malpensa Airport to Turin?
No, there is no single direct train. The most efficient route involves a single, easy change. You take the Malpensa Express train from Terminal 1 or 2 to Milan Centrale station (approx. 50 mins), then transfer to a high-speed train (Frecciarossa or Italo) to Turin Porta Susa or Porta Nuova station (approx. 50-70 mins).
What is the cheapest way to get from Malpensa to Turin?
The cheapest option is the FlixBus or other intercity bus services. Advance online tickets can cost as low as €5-€15 one-way. The journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. This is significantly cheaper than trains or taxis, but less convenient if you have a lot of luggage.
How long does the train from Malpensa to Turin take?
The total travel time by train is approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes to 2 hours and 20 minutes. This includes: Malpensa Express to Milan Centrale (~50 min), transfer time (~20-30 min recommended), and the high-speed train to Turin (~50-70 min). Delays and specific schedules can affect this.
Can I use a Eurail or Italy Pass for this journey?
Yes, but with reservations. The Malpensa Express train requires a separate, mandatory supplement (approx. €13) even with a pass. The high-speed train segment (Frecciarossa/Italo) from Milan to Turin also requires a seat reservation fee (approx. €10-€15), which you must book in advance. Regional trains (if chosen) are fully covered but are much slower.
What is the best option if I arrive late at night or very early in the morning?
Options are limited outside standard hours. Malpensa Express trains run from ~5:00 AM to ~12:30 AM. Buses have fewer schedules at night. For late-night arrivals (after 1 AM), the only reliable options are a pre-booked private transfer or an expensive taxi (€300+). Always check the latest schedules for your specific arrival date.
Is it better to fly from Malpensa to Turin?
Generally, no. While the flight itself is short (~45 min), the total 'door-to-door' time is longer and more stressful. You must factor in: check-in/security time at MXP (2+ hours), flight time, collecting luggage, and then travel from Turin Airport (TRN) to the city center (another 30+ mins by train/bus). The train is almost always faster and more convenient city-center to city-center.
Where do I buy tickets for the train from Malpensa to Turin?
You have several options:
- Online in advance: The best method. Use Trenitalia or Italo's official websites/apps for the high-speed segment. Book the Malpensa Express ticket separately online or via their app.
- Airport Ticket Counters: Located at Malpensa Terminal 1 and 2 train stations.
- Ticket Machines: Available at both Malpensa stations and Milan Centrale.
- Third-Party Sites: Omio or Trainline offer combined search but may charge a small fee.
Is the train journey from Malpensa to Turin scenic?
Parts of it are quite pleasant. The initial Malpensa Express leg passes through the Lombard countryside. The high-speed segment from Milan to Turin offers views of the Piedmont region, with occasional glimpses of the Alpine foothills on clear days. For the best views, try to get a window seat on the right side (facing forward) when traveling from Milan to Turin.