Planning a trip to Milan as the starting point for your Italian adventure? Whether you're gearing up for a cycling tour through the wine country of Piedmont or a hiking expedition inthe stunning Cinque Terre, understanding the logistics of Milan's airports is crucial.
Milan serves as a gateway to Italy's northern regions, but there's a travel detail that often catches visitors off guard: the city has two major airports, and they're not exactly close to each other.
Booking flights without realizing the difference between Malpensa Airport (MXP) and Linate Airport (LIN) can lead to logistical headaches, especially if you're eager to hit the trails. Here’s what you need to know to avoid this common travel mistake and ensure a smooth start to your adventure.
Malpensa Airport (MXP): Milan's International Hub
Located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) northwest of Milan, Malpensa Airport is the city’s primary international airport. If you're flying into Milan from outside Europe for one of our cycling or hiking tours, you’ll likely land here. Malpensa is well-connected to Milan’s city center via the Malpensa Express train, which takes about 50 minutes to reach Milano Centrale train station. From there, you can easily transfer to trains heading toward your tour’s starting point.
While Malpensa is ideal for international travelers, its distance from the city means extra travel time. If you're eager to jump straight into your adventure, make sure to account for this when planning your arrival.
Linate Airport (LIN): The City-Close Option
Linate Airport is just 7 kilometers (4 miles) from Milan’s city center. It primarily handles domestic and short-haul European flights, making it the preferred option for those arriving from nearby countries or connecting from another Italian city. If you're flying in from within Europe to join one of our tours, Linate offers the convenience of a quick transfer to downtown Milan, allowing you to start exploring sooner.
Why This Matters: Smooth Travel Transitions
Booking flights without knowing which airport you’re using can lead to common travel pitfalls that may disrupt your carefully planned tour:
- Mismatched Connections: If you’re booking a connecting flight or starting your cycling or hiking tour from Milan, double-check which airport you're using. Transfers between Malpensa and Linate can take up to 90 minutes by taxi or shuttle, which could eat into your itinerary.
- Costly Transfers: Unexpectedly needing to switch airports can be costly and time-consuming, especially if you're carrying extra gear for your tour.
- Wrong Airport at Departure: Always verify your departure airport, as arriving at the wrong one could cause you to miss your flight and potentially disrupt your tour schedule.
With proper planning, your arrival in Milan can be the perfect start to an unforgettable cycling or hiking vacation in Italy. By understanding the differences between Milan's two airports and planning your travel accordingly, you can avoid unnecessary stress and focus on what really matters: enjoying Italy’s breathtaking landscapes, cultural treasures, and culinary delights.
