Milan's largest airport, 50 km northwest of the city — and how to get from its two terminals into the centre.
Malpensa (MXP) is Milan's busiest airport and the main hub for long-haul and intercontinental flights, about 50 km northwest of the city. It has two terminals connected by a free shuttle, and links to the centre by train, bus, taxi or private transfer.
Quick answer
How do I get from Malpensa to the city centre?
The Malpensa Express train is the easiest option — to Milano Cadorna in about 30 minutes or Milano Centrale in 50, for €13, every 15–30 minutes. Shuttle buses to Centrale take 50–60 minutes for €10, and a taxi is a fixed €104. A private transfer takes you door to door.
By Ivanka García Mancebo, Civitatis travel specialist
Code
MXP
Distance
50 km NW
Terminals
2 (T1 · T2)
Fastest link
Train · 50 min
The terminals
Terminal 1
Most airlines
The main terminal, handling intercontinental and most European flights. Directly connected to the Malpensa Express station.
Terminal 2
Low-cost
Used mainly by easyJet and Wizz Air. Linked to T1 and the train station by the free inter-terminal shuttle.
A free shuttle bus connects T1 and T2 every 20–30 minutes and takes about 7 minutes. Always double-check your terminal on your boarding pass — they're 3 km apart.
Arrive stress-free
Private transfer from Malpensa
A driver meets you in arrivals and takes you straight to your hotel — fixed price, no queues.
Four ways to reach central Milan from Malpensa. The Malpensa Express train is usually the best balance of speed and price; a private transfer is easiest with luggage or a group.
Malpensa Express train
To Cadorna (30 min) or Centrale (50 min), every 15–30 min
The Malpensa Express runs to two central stations — Cadorna (closest to the Duomo) and Centrale (best for onward high-speed trains). Check which suits your hotel before you buy your ticket.
Airport facilities
Free Wi-Fi
Throughout both terminals
Luggage storage
Left-luggage in T1 & T2
VAT refund
Tax-free desks in departures
Car rental
Major agencies on site
ATMs & exchange
In arrivals and departures
24-hour airport
Some services close overnight
Frequently asked questions
The Malpensa Express train is the easiest option — to Milano Cadorna in about 30 minutes or Milano Centrale in 50, for €13, every 15–30 minutes. Shuttle buses to Centrale take 50–60 minutes for €10, and a taxi is a fixed €104. A private transfer takes you door to door.
Malpensa is about 50 km northwest of central Milan. Despite the distance, the direct Malpensa Express train makes it quick and easy to reach the city.
Terminal 1 handles most airlines including all long-haul and most European carriers; Terminal 2 is used mainly by low-cost airlines such as easyJet and Wizz Air. Always check your boarding pass — the terminals are 3 km apart, linked by a free shuttle.
Usually, yes. The train is faster and unaffected by traffic, running to two central stations. The bus is a couple of euros cheaper and useful late at night, but slower and subject to congestion.
A free shuttle bus connects the two terminals every 20–30 minutes, taking about 7 minutes. Allow extra time if you need to change terminals on arrival.