Milan Malpensa Airport

Milan Malpensa International Airport (MXP) is the primary gateway to Northern Italy, the country's second-busiest airport by passenger volume, and Italy’s undisputed leader in air cargo traffic. Located in the province of Varese within the green expanse of the Ticino Valley Park, it serves as the ultimate intercontinental hub for the Lombardy region and the northern economic basin.

Key features and overview:

Location and Scale

Unlike Milan Linate (which sits closer to the urban core), Malpensa is situated approximately 45–50 km (30 miles) northwest of central Milan. Its outer location provides a vast footprint equipped with two major parallel runways, allowing for simultaneous long-haul takeoffs and landings as well as heavy cargo operations.

The Two Terminals and International Hub

Passenger traffic is organized across two separate, dedicated terminal complexes linked by free shuttle buses and rail connections:

• Terminal 1: The airport’s vast, modern flagship terminal. It handles domestic routes, Schengen flights, and long-haul intercontinental trips served by world legacy carriers. It features an extensive commercial gallery filled with luxury fashion boutiques and premium dining options.

• Terminal 2: The airport’s original structure, fully modernized and dedicated exclusively as a hub for easyJet budget flights.

Services and "Cargo City"

Beyond passenger transport, Malpensa is a logistics powerhouse due to its dedicated "Cargo City," handling the majority of Italy's air freight. Passenger amenities include VIP lounges, Fast Track security lanes, dedicated relaxation spaces, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a rich culinary selection highlighting Milanese and Italian traditions.

Ground Transportation (Connections to Milan)

Transit links connecting the airport to Lombardy's capital include:

• Malpensa Express: Dedicated direct rail services linking both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 to key city hubs like Milan Central (Milano Centrale) and Milan Cadorna in roughly 37 to 50 minutes.

• Buses & Express Coaches: Multiple coach lines run frequent services to Milan Central Station, Fiera Milano Rho (exhibition center), and regional airports (Linate and Bergamo Orio al Serio).

• Road & Highway Access: Direct highway links connect the airport to the A8 (Autostrada dei Laghi) and A4 (Turin-Milan-Venice) highways.