Malpensa Airport to Milan City Centre: Your Ultimate Transfer Guide

1. Malpensa Express Train: Quick and Convenient

One of the most popular ways to travel from Malpensa Airport to Milan city center is by train, specifically the Malpensa Express. The Malpensa Express offers a fast and direct connection between the airport and key train stations in Milan, including Milano Centrale (Milan Central Station), Milano Cadorna, and Milano Porta Garibaldi.

Benefits of the Malpensa Express:

• Frequency: The train departs every 20–30 minutes from both terminals of Malpensa Airport.
• Journey Time: It takes around 50 minutes to reach Milano Centrale, and about 30–35 minutes to get to Milano Cadorna.
• Cost: Tickets are reasonably priced at around €13 one-way. You can purchase tickets at the station, online, or via mobile apps.
• Comfort: The Malpensa Express offers modern trains with comfortable seating, luggage racks, and free Wi-Fi, making it a hassle-free and efficient option for travelers with luggage.

The Malpensa Express is ideal for solo travelers, business travelers, and those who prioritize speed and convenience. However, if you’re traveling with heavy luggage or children, you may need to factor in the additional transfer from the train station to your final destination in Milan.

2. Airport Shuttle Buses: Affordable and Direct

Another excellent option for traveling from Malpensa Airport to Milan city center is the airport shuttle bus service. Several companies offer direct shuttle services that run between the airport and central locations such as Milano Centrale, making this an affordable and convenient choice.

Benefits of Shuttle Buses:

• Frequency: Shuttle buses operate frequently, with departures every 20–30 minutes.
• Cost: Prices are budget-friendly, typically ranging from €10 to €12 for a one-way ticket.
• Journey Time: The travel time is around 50–60 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Drop-off Point: Most buses stop at Milano Centrale, providing easy access to the metro, taxis, and other public transport options.

The shuttle buses are particularly useful for budget travelers, backpackers, or families who want to save on transportation costs. The only downside is that the buses can get crowded during peak hours, and travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions.

3. Taxi and Private Transfers: Comfort and Flexibility

For those who value comfort, privacy, and flexibility, taking a taxi or booking a private transfer from Malpensa Airport to Milan city center is an excellent choice. Taxis are readily available at both terminals, and private transfer services can be booked in advance to ensure a smooth, hassle-free experience.

Benefits of Taxis and Private Transfers:

• Door-to-Door Service: Taxis and private transfers take you directly to your hotel or accommodation, eliminating the need for additional transfers.
• Comfort: These services offer a more personalized and comfortable experience, especially for families, groups, or travelers with a lot of luggage.
• Journey Time: Depending on traffic, the trip takes around 45–60 minutes.
• Cost: Taxi fares are generally fixed for transfers from Malpensa Airport to Milan city center, with prices ranging from €95 to €105. Private transfers may vary in price depending on the type of vehicle and additional services.

Taxis and private transfers are perfect for those who want a more relaxed, stress-free journey. Although this is the most expensive option, the convenience of a door-to-door service and the comfort it provides often make it worth the cost.

4. Car Rentals: Freedom and Flexibility

If you plan to explore Milan and the surrounding areas at your own pace, renting a car from Malpensa Airport is another option. The airport has several well-known car rental companies, including Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and Sixt, offering a range of vehicles to suit different travel needs.

Benefits of Renting a Car:

• Independence: Renting a car gives you the freedom to travel on your own schedule, explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, and make spontaneous stops along the way.
• Convenience: You can pick up your rental car directly from the airport and return it there when you depart.
• Cost: Car rental prices vary depending on the type of vehicle and rental duration, but you can find deals starting at around €30 per day.

Renting a car is ideal for travelers planning to visit nearby attractions such as Lake Como, the Italian Alps, or other towns in Lombardy. However, driving in Milan’s city center can be challenging due to traffic, limited parking, and the ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato) zones, which restrict vehicle access in certain areas.

5. Ride-Sharing Services: Easy and Accessible

For tech-savvy travelers, ride-sharing services such as Uber and local alternatives like Free Now are also available for transfers from Malpensa Airport to Milan city center. Simply download the app, book a ride, and get picked up at the designated location outside the terminals.

Benefits of Ride-Sharing Services:

• Convenience: Ride-sharing apps offer a user-friendly booking process and cashless payment options.
• Journey Time: Similar to taxis, ride-sharing services take around 45–60 minutes to reach the city center.
• Cost: Prices vary based on demand, but ride-sharing fares are generally comparable to regular taxis, with slight variations depending on the time of day.

Ride-sharing services are great for solo travelers or small groups who want a convenient, app-based alternative to traditional taxis.

6. Limousine and VIP Transfers: Luxury Travel

For those seeking a luxurious and exclusive experience, limousine or VIP transfer services are also available from Malpensa Airport. These services offer high-end vehicles, professional chauffeurs, and personalized amenities such as refreshments and Wi-Fi.

Benefits of VIP Transfers:

• Luxury and Comfort: Travel in style with top-of-the-line vehicles such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, or Audi, complete with premium amenities.
• Privacy: VIP transfers offer a discreet and private experience, perfect for business travelers or those celebrating a special occasion.
• Cost: Prices are significantly higher than standard taxi or private transfer services, but the experience is worth it for those who value luxury.

VIP transfers are perfect for those who want to arrive in Milan in style and comfort, whether for business or leisure.

Conclusion

When traveling from Malpensa Airport to Milan city center, you have a wide variety of transfer options to choose from, depending on your budget, preferences, and travel style. Whether you prefer the speed of the Malpensa Express train, the affordability of shuttle buses, or the comfort of a private transfer, Milan’s well-connected transportation network ensures you’ll reach your destination with ease.

By planning ahead and selecting the transfer option that best suits your needs, you can start your trip to Milan on the right foot and enjoy everything this beautiful city has to offer.

For more information and to book your transfer, visit: Malpensa Airport to Milan City Centre Transfer.