Getting Around in Milano
Take Malpensa Express to Milano
Getting to and from Milano’s Malpensa Airport
If you’re arriving or departing from Milano by way of Malpensa International Airport, there’s only one logical transit choice: Malpensa Express. The train service operated by Trenord offers direct service to and from Milano’s three primary train stations. Both airport terminals are included on the routes, though if you’re traveling intercontinental, you’ll almost certainly be using terminal one. Inside the airport, simply follow the signs down to the lower level marked Treni to locate the station.
There are two different lines for Malpensa Express. The first connects the airport with Porta Garibaldi and Milano Centrale train stations. The alternative terminates at Cadorna FN station. Both routes make a few suburban stops along the way, meaning the end to end trip will be around 45 minutes. There are typically a couple of trains in each direction per hour, but check the timetables in advance of your journey.
The cost for Malpensa Express is a very reasonable €13 in each direction. You can also buy a return ticket for €20 that is valid for 30 days from your initial journey. Note that you’ll want to purchase your tickets in advance, and you can validate the tickets on the platform, using a stamping machine. During peak times, conductors will come around in the train to check your validated ticket. Hang on to them, as you’ll need the tickets in order to exit the platform in some stations.
Good to Know
- If you don’t have a chance to validate your ticket on the platform, the conductor will usually just manually “validate” your ticket when they come by.
- Tickets are the same cost regardless of which Milano station you use. Therefore, buying your tickets in advance will save you time prior to your trip, even if you’re undecided on which station to use.
- There are no assigned seats or first class cars on the train. At most times, you’ll be able to find a seat, but keep a close eye on your luggage if you stow it in one of the designated areas.
- Some stations, particularly those in Milano, will require you to use your ticket to exit the platform. Be sure to hold onto your ticket until you have completed your journey on Malpensa Express.
