Quick Answer: Best Way from Porta Nuova to Malpensa
Best overall: Take a high-speed train (Frecciarossa or Italo) from Torino Porta Nuova to Milano Centrale (1 hour), then transfer to the Malpensa Express (50 minutes). Total door-to-door time: 2 hours 15 minutes. Total cost: €43–€63 ($47–$69). Key transfer station: Milano Centrale.
Cheapest option: Direct FlixBus bus from Torino Porta Nuova bus station to Malpensa Airport. Cost: €10–€25 ($11–$28). Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes – 2 hours 40 minutes.
Fastest option: Taxi/private transfer. Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes. Cost: €150–€200 ($165–$220).
Train & Malpensa Express: The Recommended Route
The train combination — high-speed from Torino Porta Nuova to Milano Centrale, then the Malpensa Express to the airport — is the most reliable and comfortable way to reach Malpensa. It runs on a fixed schedule, is unaffected by road traffic, and offers ample luggage space. Below we break down the two main options.
Option 1: Frecciarossa / Italo + Malpensa Express (Recommended)
Step 1: Board a Frecciarossa (Trenitalia) or Italo high-speed train at Torino Porta Nuova bound for Milano Centrale. Travel time: 55–65 minutes. Frequency: every 30 minutes from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Step 2: At Milano Centrale, follow signs for the Malpensa Express (departing from platforms 1–3, lower level). Travel time: 50 minutes to Terminal 1 (Terminal 2 is a further 5 minutes). Frequency: every 30 minutes from 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM.
Total door-to-door time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including a 20–30 minute transfer). Cost: Frecciarossa €30–€50 ($33–$55) + Malpensa Express €13 ($14) = €43–€63 ($47–$69).
Option 2: Regionale Train + Malpensa Express (Budget)
For a lower fare, take a Regionale train from Porta Nuova to Milano Centrale. Travel time: 1 hour 40 minutes – 2 hours. Frequency: every 1–2 hours. Cost: €10–€15 ($11–$17). Then transfer to the Malpensa Express (€13). Total time: 2 hours 50 minutes – 3 hours 10 minutes. Total cost: €23–€28 ($25–$31).
Train & Malpensa Express: Key Comparison Table
| Option | Train Type | Time to Milano Centrale | Frequency | Cost (Train Only) | + Malpensa Express | Total Time | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Recommended | Frecciarossa / Italo | 55–65 min | Every 30 min | €30–€50 ($33–$55) | €13 ($14) | 2h 15min | €43–€63 ($47–$69) |
| Budget | Regionale | 1h 40min – 2h | Every 1–2 h | €10–€15 ($11–$17) | €13 ($14) | 2h 50min – 3h 10min | €23–€28 ($25–$31) |
Malpensa Express: What You Need to Know
- Terminal stops: Malpensa Express serves Terminal 1 (main international terminal) and Terminal 2 (low-cost carriers). Check your airline’s terminal before boarding.
- Luggage: Ample overhead racks and designated luggage areas. No extra fee for suitcases.
- Seating: First-come, first-served; no reservations. Trains can be crowded during peak hours (7:00–9:00 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM).
- Tickets: Purchase via the Malpensa Express official site, Trenitalia app, or at station kiosks. Validate your ticket before boarding (stamp it in the yellow machines).
Alternate Transfer: Milano Porta Garibaldi
Some high-speed trains (especially Italo) also stop at Milano Porta Garibaldi, which is a smaller and less chaotic station than Centrale. The Malpensa Express also departs from Garibaldi (platforms 4–5) with the same frequency and travel time (50 minutes). If your train stops at Garibaldi, this can be a quieter and faster transfer — especially during rush hour.
Tip: Check whether your Frecciarossa or Italo ticket includes a stop at Porta Garibaldi. If so, alight there and follow the ‘Malpensa Express’ signs.
Source: Trenitalia official site & Italo official site — schedule and fare data as of 2025.
Flight Options: Why Flying Is Not Practical for This Route
There are no direct commercial flights from Torino to Milan Malpensa — the two cities are only 140 km apart. While you could theoretically fly via a hub (e.g., Roma Fiumicino or Amsterdam), the door-to-door time would be at least 3.5–5 hours, making it far slower than the train. Below we break down the comparison.
Door-to-Door Time Comparison: Train vs. Flight
| Mode | Porta Nuova → Airport/Rail | Journey Time | Security / Check-in | Arrival to Terminal | Total Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train (Frecciarossa + MXP Express) | Direct from city centre | 2h 15min | N/A (no security) | Arrives inside terminal | 2h 15min | €43–€63 |
| Flight via Roma Fiumicino | Porta Nuova → Torino Airport (40min) + flight to Roma (1h 15min) + flight to MXP (1h 20min) | ~4h 30min | + 2 × 60min security | + transfers | ~6h 30min | €120–€250+ |
| Flight via Amsterdam | Similar multi-leg | ~5h+ | + 2 × 60min security | + transfers | ~7h+ | €200–€400+ |
Why the Train Wins for This Route
- Time: The train is 2–4 hours faster than any flight option when you factor in travel to/from airports, security, and waiting.
- Cost: Train is €43–€63 ($47–$69); flights are rarely under €120 ($132) and often exceed €200 ($220).
- Convenience: No check-in, no luggage restrictions, no security queues. You simply walk from the train onto the Malpensa Express and straight to your terminal.
- Reliability: High-speed trains in Italy have a 93% on-time rate, compared to ~75% for European short-haul flights.
From Malpensa: Domestic Flight Connections
While flying to Malpensa from Torino is impractical, once you arrive at Malpensa you can connect to 24 domestic Italian destinations including Catania, Palermo, Bari, Brindisi, Lamezia Terme, Alghero, Olbia, and Cagliari. Airlines operating from Malpensa include ITA Airways, Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air. Allow a minimum connection time of 2 hours for domestic flights.
Source: Milan Malpensa Airport official site — flight network data as of 2025.
Direct Bus: The Cheapest Option
The direct bus from Torino Porta Nuova to Malpensa Airport is the most budget-friendly way to travel. It is operated primarily by FlixBus and occasionally by Autostradale. The bus is direct — no transfers — and takes roughly the same time as the train, though it can be delayed by traffic.
FlixBus: Service Details
- Route: Torino Porta Nuova (bus stop on Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, near the station) → Malpensa Airport (Terminal 1 and Terminal 2).
- Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes – 2 hours 40 minutes depending on traffic and time of day.
- Frequency: 4–6 departures daily, primarily between 6:00 AM and 8:00 PM.
- Cost: €10–€25 ($11–$28) — book at least 2 weeks in advance for the lowest fares.
- Luggage: One large suitcase + one carry-on included; extra luggage €5–€8 ($6–$9) per item.
- Booking: Via FlixBus official site or mobile app. E-ticket only (no paper tickets).
Day Bus vs. Night Bus
| Type | Departure Times | Duration | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day Bus | 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM | 2h 15min – 2h 40min | €12–€25 ($13–$28) | Budget travellers, daytime flights |
| Night Bus | 10:00 PM – 11:30 PM | 2h 30min – 3h | €10–€20 ($11–$22) | Red-eye flights, extreme budget |
Bus vs. Train: When to Choose the Bus
- Choose the bus if: You are on a strict budget (€10 vs €43 minimum), you want a direct vehicle (no transfers), or you are travelling with a large group and want to save total cost.
- Choose the train if: You need guaranteed timing (traffic can delay the bus by 30–60 minutes on the A4 motorway), you prefer more legroom and a bathroom on board, or you have a tight flight connection.
Boarding Points: Important
The bus departs from Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, 26 (a 3-minute walk from Torino Porta Nuova station). At Malpensa, it stops at Terminal 1 (Arrivals level, Gate 4) and continues to Terminal 2 (bus bay 12). Arrive 15 minutes before departure — the bus will not wait.
Source: FlixBus official site & Autostradale official site — schedule and fare data as of 2025.
Taxi & Private Transfer: The Fastest (and Most Expensive) Option
Taxis and private transfers offer the fastest door-to-door service from Porta Nuova to Malpensa Airport — approximately 1 hour 30 minutes on the A4 and A8 motorways. However, the cost is 3–5 times higher than the train and 8–15 times higher than the bus. This option is best reserved for specific situations.
Price Breakdown
| Service Type | Estimated Cost (EUR) | Estimated Cost (USD) | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metered Taxi (yellow) | €150–€180 | $165–$198 | Standard car, no extras |
| Private Sedan (pre-booked) | €160–€190 | $176–$209 | Meet & greet, 60 min waiting time, bottled water |
| Private Minivan (up to 7 pax) | €190–€230 | $209–$253 | Extra luggage space, child seats available |
| Premium / Electric (Tesla, etc.) | €200–€250 | $220–$275 | Luxury vehicle, Wi-Fi, USB chargers |
When to Choose a Taxi or Private Transfer
- Late-night or early-morning travel: If your flight departs before 6:00 AM or arrives after 11:00 PM (when trains and buses stop), a taxi is your only reliable option.
- Group travel (3+ people): For 3–4 people with luggage, the per-person cost of a private minivan (€48–€57 / $53–$63 each) becomes competitive with train fares.
- Reduced mobility or heavy luggage: Door-to-door service eliminates the need to manage suitcases through train stations and transfers.
- Business travellers: Time savings of 45 minutes compared to the train can justify the cost for tight schedules.
How to Book
Official taxi rank: Taxis are available outside Porta Nuova station (Piazza Carlo Felice side). Always ask for a receipt and confirm the fare in advance (some taxis charge a fixed ‘airport supplement’ of €10–€15).
Private transfer (recommended): Pre-book via Welcome Pickups, Kiwitaxi, or Suntransfers. Prices are fixed, and the driver will meet you inside the station with a name board.
Source: Taxi Torino official site & Malpensa Airport transport page — fare data as of 2025.
Tickets & Cost Comparison: All Options at a Glance
Use the table below to compare every transport mode from Porta Nuova to Malpensa Airport by time, cost, transfers, and best use case. This will help you make the final decision based on your budget, schedule, and travel style.
| Mode | Door-to-Door Time | Cost (EUR) | Cost (USD) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚄 Frecciarossa + Malpensa Express | 2h 15min | €43–€63 | $47–$69 | 1 (Milano Centrale) | Best overall — reliability, comfort, speed |
| 🚄 Regionale + Malpensa Express | 2h 50min – 3h 10min | €23–€28 | $25–$31 | 1 (Milano Centrale) | Budget train option — cheap but slow |
| 🚌 Direct Bus (FlixBus) | 2h 15min – 2h 40min | €10–€25 | $11–$28 | 0 (direct) | Cheapest option — ultra budget |
| 🚕 Taxi / Private Transfer | 1h 30min | €150–€200 | $165–$220 | 0 (direct) | Fastest option — groups, late night, business |
| ✈️ Flight (via hub) | 4h 30min – 7h+ | €120–€400+ | $132–$440+ | 2+ (airport + hub) | Not recommended — slower and more expensive |
How to Buy Tickets
- Frecciarossa / Italo: Book via Trenitalia or Italo. Look for ‘Economy’ or ‘Offerta 3x’ fares for discounts up to 40%. Tickets go on sale 4 months ahead.
- Malpensa Express: Buy at Milano Centrale station (self-service kiosks) or via the Malpensa Express official site. One-way: €13. Round-trip: €22. Children 6–12: half price.
- FlixBus: Book via the FlixBus app. Prices start at €10 if booked 3 weeks ahead. Free cancellation up to 15 days before.
- Private transfer: Use Welcome Pickups or Kiwitaxi for fixed pricing and free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Prices are indicative for 2025 and may vary by season, demand, and booking window. Always check official sites for real-time fares.
Traveler Tips & Experience: Getting It Right
Beyond the schedules and prices, here are real-world tips from frequent travellers on the Porta Nuova → Malpensa route. These insights cover luggage, station navigation, timing, and how to avoid common pitfalls.
🧳 Luggage: Use the Baggage Storage & Courier Services
- Left luggage at Porta Nuova: There is a deposito bagagli (baggage storage) inside Torino Porta Nuova station (Platform 1, near the info desk). Cost: €6–€10 ($7–$11) per bag per 24 hours. Perfect if you want to explore Torino before your flight.
- Takkyubin (luggage forwarding): If you have heavy suitcases, consider using Bag BnB or Stasher to store luggage in the city and collect it at the airport. Cost: €12–€18 ($13–$20) per bag. This eliminates the need to drag suitcases through the train transfer at Milano Centrale.
- On the train: Both Frecciarossa and Malpensa Express have overhead racks and designated luggage areas. For large suitcases (over 28 inches), board early to claim a spot.
🚉 Milano Centrale: Navigating the Transfer
Milano Centrale is a large, busy station. Here’s how to make your transfer smooth:
- Follow the ‘MXP Express’ signs: After arriving at Centrale, follow the purple ‘Malpensa Express’ signs (not the regular train signs). The Malpensa Express departs from binari (platforms) 1–3 on the lower level. You’ll need to take the escalator down one floor.
- Allow 20–30 minutes for the transfer: Even if your train is on time, the walk from the high-speed train arrival platform to the Malpensa Express platform can take 10–15 minutes. Add 5–10 minutes for queueing at the ticket machine (if you haven’t pre-purchased).
- Avoid rush hour: Between 7:00–9:00 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM, the station is extremely crowded. If possible, choose a train that arrives at Centrale outside these windows.
⏰ Timing: Buffer Recommendations
- Minimum connection time: For a stress-free experience, aim to arrive at Malpensa Airport 2 hours before your domestic flight departure, and 3 hours before for international flights. From Porta Nuova, this means departing at least 4–5 hours before your flight by train, or 3–4 hours by taxi.
- Peak season delays: During Christmas, Easter, and August (Ferragosto), high-speed trains can sell out up to 2 weeks in advance, and road traffic to Malpensa can add 30–60 minutes to bus journeys. Book early and avoid travelling on Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons.
- Strikes: Italy has frequent public transport strikes (scioperi). Check the Trenitalia strike calendar before your travel date. During a strike, alternative bus services are usually guaranteed — but expect delays.
💡 Pro Tips from Seasoned Travellers
- Book a single itinerary: Use the Trenitalia app to search ‘Torino Porta Nuova → Malpensa Aeroporto’ — it will show combined train + Malpensa Express options as one journey, making it easier to track delays.
- First-class Frecciarossa: For an extra €10–€15 ($11–$17), first class includes wider seats, complimentary snack/drink, and more luggage space. Worth it if you’re travelling with a large suitcase.
- Porter service at Porta Nuova: If you have mobility issues or very heavy luggage, you can book porta-bagagli (porter assistance) at Porta Nuova for €5–€8 ($6–$9) — ask at the information desk.
- Taxi from Porta Nuova to Malpensa: Always agree on the price before getting in. Metered taxis can cost more than expected due to the fixed ‘airport supplement’ of €15 ($17) and possible surcharges for night travel (10:00 PM – 6:00 AM).
Source: Trenitalia official site & Malpensa Airport official guide — traveller tips compiled from verified user reviews.
FAQs: Porta Nuova to Malpensa Airport
Is there a direct train from Torino Porta Nuova to Malpensa Airport?
No, there is no direct train. You must take a high-speed train (Frecciarossa or Italo) from Porta Nuova to Milano Centrale (1 hour), then transfer to the Malpensa Express which runs directly to the airport terminals. The entire journey takes approximately 2 hours 15 minutes including the transfer.
What is the cheapest way to get from Porta Nuova to Malpensa?
The cheapest option is the direct FlixBus bus service from Torino Porta Nuova bus station to Malpensa Airport. Fares range from €10 to €25 ($11–$28) and the journey takes about 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 40 minutes. Booking at least 2–3 weeks in advance secures the lowest fares.
How long does the journey take from Porta Nuova to Malpensa Airport?
The fastest door-to-door journey is 2 hours 15 minutes by high-speed train plus Malpensa Express. The direct bus takes 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 40 minutes. A taxi takes about 1 hour 30 minutes. Always allow an extra 30–45 minutes for check-in, security, and potential delays.
Do I need separate tickets for the train and the Malpensa Express?
Yes, you need two separate tickets: one for the high-speed train from Torino Porta Nuova to Milano Centrale (Frecciarossa or Italo), and a second ticket for the Malpensa Express from Milano Centrale to the airport. Tickets can be purchased separately via the Trenitalia, Italo, or Malpensa Express apps, websites, or at station ticket counters.
Train vs. bus — which is better for getting to Malpensa?
The train is better for reliability and comfort: it takes 2 hours 15 minutes, costs €43–€63 ($47–$69), and runs on a fixed schedule unaffected by traffic. The bus is better for budget travellers: it costs €10–€25 ($11–$28) and is direct, but can be delayed by traffic. For business travellers or those with tight flight connections, the train is recommended.
What options are available for early morning or late-night travel?
For early morning flights (before 7:00 AM), the first high-speed train from Porta Nuova departs around 5:00 AM, arriving at Malpensa by about 7:15 AM. For late-night arrivals (after 10:00 PM), the last Malpensa Express departs Milano Centrale around 11:00 PM. If you miss the last train, a taxi costs €150–€200 ($165–$220) or you can stay overnight near the airport.
Is the route from Porta Nuova to Malpensa family-friendly and accessible?
Yes. Both Trenitalia high-speed trains and the Malpensa Express are wheelchair accessible with designated spaces, ramps, and assistance upon request. Children under 4 travel free on most trains. The bus is also accessible but has limited wheelchair spaces — book in advance. Taxis with child seats can be pre-booked through Welcome Pickups.
How can I save money on tickets for this route?
Book high-speed train tickets (Frecciarossa or Italo) at least 2–3 weeks in advance for fares as low as €20 ($22). Use the 'Offerta 3x' or 'Economy' fares on Trenitalia. For the bus, book via the FlixBus app 2 weeks ahead for €10 ($11) fares. Avoid peak hours (7:00–9:00 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM) and travel mid-week for lower prices.
FAQ answers are based on official transport provider data and verified traveller experiences. Prices are indicative for 2025.