Milan Malpensa Airport serves as Italy’s main international gateway in northern Europe. Located about 50 kilometers northwest of the city center, it handles flights from around the world and connects travelers to Milan’s busy urban life. The airport has multiple terminals for different airlines and travel needs. It provides easy access to trains, buses and taxis that link passengers directly into Milan or nearby towns. As a major hub, Malpensa supports both business trips and tourism while offering shops, restaurants and lounges for travelers during layovers or connections.
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Euro (EUR) £1 ≈ €1.19 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
Cashless payments are widely accepted in Italy, particularly in cities. While larger establishments and chains are fully cashless, smaller shops may still prefer cash.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is customary in Italy, especially in restaurants where 10-15% is typical. Tipping for taxi drivers is usually rounded up or 5-10%. Small tips for hotel staff are also appreciated. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is allowed in Italy, especially in public squares and during festivals. In some regions, it is illegal to drink alcohol in certain areas like public transport or near schools. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces and on public transport. Designated smoking areas are available outside. |
| Ferragosto (August) |
Many businesses close, and Italians take holidays. It’s very busy in tourist areas. |
|---|---|
| Christmas (December) |
Christmas markets and festivities are popular, expect higher prices and crowded attractions. |
| La Befana (January) |
Celebrated on January 6, the Epiphany is a public holiday with festive events, and some businesses close. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Uber, Free Now, ItTaxi |
| Other: | Italy's tourist infrastructure is well-developed, but some rural or historical areas may require extra planning for accessibility. |
Milan–Malpensa Airport is located about 50 kilometers northwest of Milan city center and consists of two passenger terminals. Terminal 1 handles most international and intercontinental flights, while Terminal 2 is primarily used by low-cost airlines such as EasyJet. The airport is spacious and boasts a broad spectrum of amenities, including numerous shops, restaurants and services aimed at making the traveler’s experience comfortable and efficient.
The airport is well equipped with transport connections, including the Malpensa Express train that connects directly to Milan’s Central Station in about 50 minutes, helping avoid traffic jams. Several bus services, taxis and car rentals are also widely available, though travelers should be cautious of unofficial taxi operators around the airport.
Despite its scale and modern design, Malpensa can get quite busy and occasionally chaotic, especially during peak travel seasons. Lines at security and check-in desks may be long and navigating between terminals takes some planning since they are connected by a shuttle bus running every 7-15 minutes. Some travelers note that the prices for food and drinks tend to be on the higher side, reflecting the airport’s premium positioning in Italy’s transport network.
For passengers with time to relax, Malpensa offers several premium lounges, including the stylish Gae Aulenti Premium Lounge with comfortable seating, quality food and excellent service. The airport also has free Wi-Fi, ample seating areas and family-friendly facilities, making it a convenient hub despite the occasional hustle and bustle.
Located in Terminal 1 Boarding Area B, this lounge offers 90 seats in a stylish Italian-designed setting. Services include complimentary food and beverages, Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and a tranquil atmosphere. Open daily from early morning until late evening, access is mainly for business and first-class passengers and Priority Pass holders, with options to buy entry online.
A modern lounge in Terminal 1 for Non-Schengen flights, accessible by Priority Pass and paid entry. It features buffet food, drinks, reading materials, and panoramic runway views. There is a 2-hour stay limit and a welcoming atmosphere for both business and leisure travellers.
Found in Terminal 1, this lounge caters to select airline passengers and offers elegant décor, gourmet snacks, beverages, and quiet workspaces. Priority Pass access is available with prior booking.
Situated in Terminal 1, offering a comfortable environment with newspapers, light refreshments, and Wi-Fi, ideal for short waits.
Known for relaxing seating and a calm ambiance, including snacks and drinks, suitable for domestic and Schengen travellers.
This lounge provides cosy spaces with essentials like Wi-Fi and refreshments, welcoming frequent flyers and Priority Pass members.
Accommodation options around Malpensa are mostly practical, with a selection of business and mid-range hotels near the airport for early flights or late arrivals. Many travelers prefer staying in Milan’s city center to enjoy more culture, dining and nightlife opportunities with easy train or shuttle access to the airport.
To Milan City Center:
The Malpensa Express train is the fastest and most convenient option, connecting Terminal 1 directly to Milan Central Station and Milano Cadorna in 30 to 50 minutes. Tickets cost around €10 – 11 (£8.40 – 9.24) and trains run every 20-30 minutes. Shuttle buses connect Terminals 1 and 2 every 7-15 minutes. Several bus services operate frequently to central Milan, as do taxis with a fixed rate of roughly €90 (£75.57) to the city centre, but verify before boarding.
To Turin:
Travellers can take direct trains or buses from Milan Central Station to Turin. From the airport, use the Malpensa Express or shuttle buses to the city centre first. Total travel time is about 2 hours by train or coach. Car hire is an alternative for flexible travel.
To Lake Maggiore:
Accessible by car or train from Milan city centre, Lake Maggiore’s beautiful shores are about 1 to 1.5 hours away. From Malpensa, travellers should first reach Milan by train or bus then connect via regional trains or tourism buses to lakeside towns such as Stresa or Verbania.
+3
+2
+2
