Malpensa to Linate: Your Airport Transfer Guide

Planning a trip to Milan and need to get from Malpensa Airport (MXP) to Linate Airport (LIN)? This is a common query for travellers arriving at Milan's primary international gateway and needing to connect to the city's more domestic and regional airport. Fortunately, there are several reliable ways to make this journey, each with its own advantages in terms of cost, speed, and convenience. This guide will walk you through your options, ensuring a smooth and efficient transfer between these two vital Milanese hubs.

When you land at Malpensa, you'll likely be eager to reach your final destination, whether that's catching a connecting flight at Linate or heading into the city centre. Understanding the transport links available is crucial for managing your time effectively and avoiding unnecessary stress. The distance between the two airports is significant, and while there isn't a direct train service that will whisk you seamlessly from one terminal to the other, there are well-established bus and taxi services designed to facilitate this very connection.

Let's delve into the most popular and practical methods for travelling between Malpensa and Linate.

Malpensa Shuttle Bus Services

The most common and often the most cost-effective way to travel between Malpensa Airport and Linate Airport is by using a dedicated shuttle bus service. These services are specifically designed to connect the two airports, catering to passengers with onward flights or other travel needs. The journey typically takes around 1 hour and 44 minutes, including any necessary transfers. While this might seem like a considerable amount of time, it's important to factor in potential traffic, especially during peak hours. These buses are generally comfortable and offer ample space for luggage, making them a practical choice for most travellers.

Key Features of Shuttle Buses:

• Frequency: Buses run at regular intervals throughout the day, though the exact schedule can vary. It's always advisable to check the latest timetable online or at the airport information desks before your journey.
• Cost: The average ticket price for a bus ticket from Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) to Milan Linate Airport (LIN) is approximately $55 (€45). However, this is an average, and prices can fluctuate based on the time of day, class of service, and how far in advance you book. Booking on the day of travel may incur higher fares.
• Luggage: Most shuttle services have dedicated luggage compartments, providing a secure place for your bags.
• Comfort: The buses are typically equipped with comfortable seating, and some may offer Wi-Fi and onboard restrooms.

The bus route often involves stops at key locations within Milan, including the central train station (Milano Centrale), before proceeding to Linate. This can be beneficial if you also need to access the city centre. The journey typically involves arriving at or near Milano Centrale and then making your way to Linate. The information provided indicates services departing from Malpensa Airport and arriving at various points such as "via archimede via pascoli via stazione centrale via tonale and l.go marinai d'italia v.le umbria," which highlights the transit nature of these bus services, often connecting through the city.

Train Options (Indirect)

As mentioned, there is no direct train service between Malpensa Airport and Linate Airport. However, you can use the train network to travel between the two indirectly. The most common method involves taking the Malpensa Express train from Malpensa Airport to a central station in Milan, such as Milano Centrale or Milano Cadorna. From there, you would need to take a different mode of transport to reach Linate Airport. This could involve a local bus, a taxi, or the Milan Metro.

For example, from Milano Centrale, you can catch bus number 73, which is a direct bus service to Linate Airport. This route is well-trodden and a popular option for those who prefer to use a combination of train and bus.

Steps for an Indirect Train Journey:

1. Take the Malpensa Express from Malpensa Airport to Milano Centrale.
2. At Milano Centrale, locate the bus stop for the number 73 bus.
3. Board the number 73 bus, which will take you directly to Linate Airport.

This method can be a good option if you are already familiar with Milan's public transport system or if your primary destination is the city centre, allowing you to combine your airport transfer with your city exploration.

Taxi and Private Transfers

For those seeking the utmost convenience and a door-to-door service, a taxi or a pre-booked private transfer is an excellent option. This is particularly appealing if you have a lot of luggage, are travelling with a group, or have a tight schedule. Taxis are readily available at Malpensa Airport, and private transfer services can be booked in advance online.

Considerations for Taxis/Private Transfers:

• Cost: This is generally the most expensive option. A taxi fare from Malpensa to Linate can vary significantly depending on traffic and the specific route taken, but expect it to be considerably higher than the bus fare. Pre-booked private transfers often offer fixed rates, which can help with budgeting.
• Time: While a direct journey, the travel time can still be affected by traffic conditions in and around Milan. The journey could take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending heavily on congestion.
• Convenience: The primary advantage is the direct, door-to-door service, eliminating the need to navigate public transport with luggage.

When opting for a taxi, ensure you use the official taxi ranks at the airport to avoid any potential scams or overcharging. Look for the white cars with the taxi sign on the roof.

Comparing Your Options

To help you decide, here's a quick comparison of the primary transport methods:

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is there a direct train between Malpensa Airport and Linate Airport?
A1: No, there is no direct train service connecting Malpensa Airport (MXP) and Linate Airport (LIN). You will need to use a bus service or a combination of train and bus/taxi.

Q2: How much does a bus ticket from Malpensa Airport to Linate Airport cost?
A2: The average bus ticket price is around $55 (€45), but this can vary. It's best to check current prices for the most accurate information.

Q3: What is the fastest way to get from Malpensa to Linate?
A3: A taxi or pre-booked private transfer is generally the fastest, provided there is no significant traffic. However, the shuttle bus offers a reliable and often predictable travel time.

Q4: Can I buy bus tickets at Malpensa Airport?
A4: Yes, you can typically purchase bus tickets at ticket counters or machines located within Malpensa Airport. It's also often possible to buy them directly from the bus driver, though this might be subject to availability and potentially a higher price.

Q5: How do I get from Milano Centrale to Linate Airport?
A5: The most common way is to take bus number 73 from Milano Centrale, which goes directly to Linate Airport. You can also consider a taxi from Milano Centrale.

Choosing the right mode of transport between Malpensa and Linate depends on your priorities: budget, time, and convenience. For most travellers, the dedicated shuttle bus offers a good balance of these factors. If budget is the primary concern and you don't mind a bit of navigating, the train and bus combination is a viable alternative. For ultimate comfort and speed, a taxi or private transfer is the way to go, provided you are prepared for the higher cost. Whichever option you choose, planning ahead and checking schedules will ensure your journey from Malpensa to Linate is as smooth as possible.

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