There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Milano into a quick city adventure. From MXP, the Malpensa Express can get you into town in around 60 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Before You Step Outside MXP
Before heading into Milano, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Italy vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Milano is roughly 60 minutes from MXP via Malpensa Express. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Exploring Milano on a Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Milano, two standouts are:
- Duomo di Milano — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
- Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside MXP — 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:
- Primeclass Lounge (Terminal 1)
- Luxury & Duty-Free Shopping (Terminal 1)
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Milano: Pizzeria Spontini and Luini Panzerotti. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for ROSSOINTENSO Wine Bar & Restaurant or Bistrot (Autogrill). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Transport from Malpensa International Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Malpensa Express | ~60 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~80 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Malpensa Express is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Money & Budget Tips
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Milano might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$11 USD
- A meal: ~$22 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$43 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage is available at Terminal 1, Arrivals floor, next to Door 1 (Porta 1). Operated by Autostradale.. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Milano.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at MXP for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Milano or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at MXP 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 Milano is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Milano.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.