Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Varese to Malpensa Airport is the direct Autostradale bus — it’s cheap (€10–12 / ~$11–13), takes 45–50 minutes, and drops you right at Terminal 1 & 2. For the lowest cost (€8–10 / ~$9–11) the train via Gallarate works well but requires one change. If you’re travelling with a group or have heavy luggage, a taxi (€70–90 / ~$76–97) saves time and hassle. Allow at least 2 hours from Varese to check-in desk.
🚆 Train from Varese to Malpensa — Step by Step
Taking the train is the most budget-friendly option after the bus, and it’s reliable — but there’s no direct train from Varese to Malpensa. You’ll need to change at either Gallarate or Busto Arsizio. Below we break down both routes so you can choose the one that suits your timing and comfort.
Route 1: Via Gallarate (Recommended)
Step 1: Take a Regionale (R) train from Varese station (Stazione di Varese) to Gallarate. Trains run every 15–30 min, journey time 12–18 min. Single ticket €3–4 (~$3.2–4.3).
Step 2: At Gallarate, cross the platform (same station) and board the Malpensa Express or a Regionale (R) to Malpensa Aeroporto. Trains run every 15–30 min, journey time 15–22 min. Ticket €5–6 (~$5.4–6.5).
Total time: 35–50 min (excluding waiting). Total cost: €8–10 (~$8.6–10.8).
Why we recommend this route: Gallarate is a small, easy-to-navigate station; the connection is usually on the same platform or a short walk. It’s the most straightforward rail option.
Route 2: Via Busto Arsizio (Alternative)
Step 1: Varese → Busto Arsizio (Regionale, 20–25 min, €3–4).
Step 2: Busto Arsizio → Malpensa (Malpensa Express, 12–18 min, €5–6).
Total time: 40–55 min. Cost: same as via Gallarate.
Note: Busto Arsizio is a larger station with more amenities (bars, waiting rooms), but the connection is slightly less frequent. Use this route if the Gallarate connection is delayed.
Train Comparison Table
| Route | Stops | Total Time (incl. change) | Cost (€) | Frequency | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Varese → Gallarate → Malpensa | 1 change | 35–50 min | €8–10 | Every 15–30 min | Most travelers |
| Varese → Busto Arsizio → Malpensa | 1 change | 40–55 min | €8–10 | Every 20–40 min | If Gallarate is skipped |
| Varese → Milano Cadorna → Malpensa | 1 change (long) | 90–110 min | €13–16 | Hourly | Only if heading to Milan anyway |
🚄 Train tip: Buy your ticket from Trenord (app, website, or station machines). Validate it before boarding. The Malpensa Express has luggage racks; regionale trains have limited space — avoid peak hours if you have large suitcases.
Source: Trenord official site
🚌 Direct Bus from Varese to Malpensa — Best Value
The Autostradale direct bus is the cheapest door-to-door option and the only public transport that does not require a change. It’s the top choice for budget-conscious travelers, families, and anyone with luggage.
Key Details
- Operator: Autostradale (official partner of Milan airports).
- Route: Varese (Piazzale Trieste, near the station) → Malpensa Terminal 1 → Terminal 2.
- Journey time: 45–50 minutes (depending on traffic — usually reliable).
- Price: €10–12 one-way (~$11–13). Children under 12: half price.
- Frequency: Every 30–60 min, 7 days a week, from early morning (≈05:00) until late evening (≈21:30).
- Buy tickets: Online (Autostradale website/app), at the Varese ticket office (Piazzale Trieste), or on board (surcharge ~€2).
Bus vs Train — Quick Comparison
| Factor | Bus (Autostradale) | Train (via Gallarate) |
|---|---|---|
| Direct? | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (1 change) |
| Total time | 45–50 min | 35–50 min |
| Cost | €10–12 | €8–10 |
| Luggage space | Large cargo hold | Moderate (overhead racks) |
| Frequency | Every 30–60 min | Every 15–30 min |
| Best for | Simplicity, families, luggage | Lowest cost, solo travelers |
🚌 Insider tip: During peak travel season (July–August, Christmas) book your bus seat online at least 24 hours ahead — they do sell out. The bus has a toilet, but it’s basic.
Source: Autostradale official site
🚕 Taxi & Private Transfer — Comfort at a Cost
For door-to-door convenience, 24/7 availability, and no lugging suitcases, a taxi or pre-booked private car is the ultimate stress‑free option. The catch — it’s 4–8× more expensive than public transport.
💰 Price Range
- Standard taxi (Varese–Malpensa): €70–90 (~$76–97) for up to 4 passengers.
- Private transfer (premium car/van): €85–120 (~$92–130) — includes meet‑and‑greet, flight tracking, and child seats.
- Extra charges: Night surcharge (22:00–06:00) +€10–15; large luggage +€5–10; wait time beyond 15 min ~€20/hour.
⏱️ Time
30–40 minutes from central Varese to Malpensa T1 via the A8/E62 motorway. Traffic is rarely heavy except during Milan rush hours (07:30–09:30 and 17:00–19:00) — add 10–15 min.
👥 Who Should Take a Taxi?
- Groups of 3–4 people — cost per person becomes comparable to the bus.
- Late‑night / early‑morning flights — when buses and trains are not running (e.g., flight before 06:00).
- Travelers with reduced mobility or heavy/ bulky luggage.
- Business travelers who value time and comfort.
🔖 Booking tip: Use a reputable local company like Taxi Varese 24 or NCC Varese. Avoid hailing on the street — always book via app or phone for a fixed price.
Source: Taxi Varese 24 (example)
🚗 Driving & Car Rental — Flexibility with Parking Costs
Driving from Varese to Malpensa is straightforward — the A8/E62 motorway connects directly. But unless you’re already renting a car for your trip, the parking fees at the airport can make this option expensive.
Route & Time
- Distance: 35 km (22 mi) via A8/E62.
- Drive time: 30–40 minutes (light traffic).
- Toll: ~€3.50 (~$3.8) — paid by card or Telepass.
Parking at Malpensa
| Parking Lot | Daily Rate (€) | Daily Rate (~$) | Walking Time to Terminal |
|---|---|---|---|
| P1 Express (T1) | €26 | $28 | 1 min |
| P2 Long Stay (T1) | €19 | $20.5 | 5 min (shuttle) |
| P6 Economy (T1) | €11 | $12 | 10 min (shuttle) |
| P3 Premium (T2) | €22 | $24 | 2 min |
⛽ Fuel cost: ~€5–8 (~$5.4–8.6) for the round trip. If you’re renting, a one‑way drop‑off at Malpensa is possible with most agencies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar) — fees vary from €20–50.
🚘 Verdict: Driving makes sense if you’re a family of 4+ or need the car at your destination. Otherwise, a taxi is simpler for a single trip.
Source: Malpensa Airport parking official
🎟️ Cost & Time Comparison — All Options at a Glance
Use this table to quickly compare every way to get from Varese to Malpensa Airport.
| Mode | ⏱️ Total Time | 💰 Cost (€) | 💰 Cost (~$) | Direct? | 🔄 Changes | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚆 Train (via Gallarate) | 35–50 min | €8–10 | $8.6–10.8 | ❌ | 1 | Budget solo travelers |
| 🚌 Bus (Autostradale) | 45–50 min | €10–12 | $11–13 | ✅ | 0 | ⭐ Best value overall |
| 🚕 Taxi | 30–40 min | €70–90 | $76–97 | ✅ | 0 | Groups, late night, comfort |
| 🚗 Drive (own car) | 30–40 min | €8–15* | $8.6–16* | ✅ | 0 | Families, long-stay parking |
| 🚗 Rent (one-way) | 30–40 min | €55–120** | $59–130** | ✅ | 0 | Need car at destination |
* Fuel + toll only, excludes parking. ** Includes one-way drop fee and fuel. Prices are indicative as of 2025.
🏆 Best pick: The Autostradale bus for most travelers; the train if you’re on a tight budget and travel light; a taxi for groups or off‑hour flights.
🧳 Traveler Tips & Local Know-How — from Real Experience
These practical insights come from frequent travelers and locals who know the Varese–Malpensa corridor inside out.
🔁 The Gallarate Change — What to Expect
Gallarate station is small and easy to navigate. Usually the Malpensa train departs from the same platform or the one right across. Signs are clear in Italian and English. During peak hours, the connection can be tight (3–5 min) — if you’re worried, take the next train 15 min later.
🧳 Luggage Strategy
- Train: Regional trains have limited overhead space. Avoid the 08:00–09:00 commuter rush if you have a large suitcase.
- Bus: The cargo hold is spacious — no issues even with two large bags per person.
- Taxi: No restrictions, but confirm boot size when booking if you have more than 3 large suitcases.
- 🚚 Baggage delivery (Spedizioni bagagli): Services like Pony Express or SpedireSubito can ship your luggage from Varese to Malpensa for ~€25–35 — perfect if you want to travel hands‑free. (Similar to Japan's takkyubin concept.)
📅 Peak Season Warnings
Easter week, July–August, Christmas/New Year: Buses sell out, train carriages are packed, and taxi demand surges. Book everything at least 48 hours ahead — especially bus tickets and private transfers. If driving, pre‑book your parking spot via the Malpensa website to avoid "full" signs.
☕ Where to Wait in Varese
If you’re early, grab a coffee at Caffè Centrale (Piazza Monte Grappa, 2‑min walk from the station) or Bar Stazione inside the terminal. Both are budget‑friendly and decent.
Source: personal experience + TripAdvisor forum (local insights)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions — Varese to Malpensa Airport
1. Is there a direct train from Varese to Malpensa Airport?
No, there is no direct train. You must change at Gallarate or Busto Arsizio. The total journey takes 35–55 min. If you want a direct ride, take the Autostradale bus.
2. How much does a taxi from Varese to Malpensa cost?
A standard taxi costs €70–90 (~$76–97) for up to 4 passengers. Night surcharge (22:00–06:00) adds €10–15. Private transfers start at €85.
3. How long does the bus from Varese to Malpensa take?
The Autostradale direct bus takes 45–50 minutes from Varese (Piazzale Trieste) to Malpensa Terminal 1 and 2. It’s the fastest public transport option.
4. What is the cheapest way to get from Varese to Malpensa?
The train via Gallarate is the cheapest at €8–10 (~$8.6–10.8). The bus is only slightly more expensive (€10–12) but offers a direct journey — the bus is better value for most people.
5. Is there a night bus from Varese to Malpensa?
No, the Autostradale bus runs from ≈05:00 to ≈21:30. For flights departing before 07:00 or arriving after 22:00, you’ll need a taxi or private transfer. The train also stops running around 23:00.
6. Can I use a regional train ticket for the Malpensa Express?
No — the Malpensa Express requires a separate ticket (€5–6) which is different from the regional train ticket. You can buy a combined ticket Varese → Gallarate → Malpensa at Trenord ticket machines.
7. How far in advance should I book my transfer?
For buses and trains, booking 1 day ahead is sufficient in low season. In peak season (Easter, summer, Christmas), book the bus at least 48 hours ahead. Taxis should be booked 12 hours ahead, private transfers 24 hours.
8. Bus vs train from Varese to Malpensa — which is better?
It depends: the bus is direct, easier with luggage, and only slightly more expensive — best for most travelers. The train is a few euros cheaper and more frequent, but requires a change at Gallarate. If you’re light on luggage and on a tight budget, take the train.