A long layover in Milan is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Milano Linate Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at LIN:
First, verify that you can enter Italy — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the M4 Metro Line takes about 60 minutes into Milan, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — EUR is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Milan, here are two things worth checking out:
Duomo di Milano is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
If you’d rather stay inside LIN — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Sala Montale VIP Lounge
- Duty Free Italia (Linate)
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Milano Linate Airport into town:
- M4 Metro Line: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Milan: Luini Panzerotti and Gino Sorbillo Lievito Madre al Duomo. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Motta Milano 1928 (Linate Airport) or Pizzeria (Linate Airport). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Milan, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at LIN, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Milan itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Italy that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Luggage Storage at LIN
You can store your luggage at Ground floor, Arrivals area, near exit A. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Milan as well.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at LIN include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Italy also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Milan with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Milan may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.