The Ultimate Guide to Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)

The Ultimate Guide to Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)

Overview of Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)

Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), known in Italian as Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa, is Italy's second-busiest airport and a critical gateway for international travel. Located approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) northwest of Milan's city center, Malpensa serves as a hub for northern Italy and connects passengers to destinations across Europe, Asia, the Americas, and beyond. Renowned for its extensive flight network, modern facilities, and stylish Italian design, MXP is a major base for ITA Airways, easyJet, and several international airlines.

• Location: Ferno, Lombardy, Italy

• IATA Code: MXP

• ICAO Code: LIMC

• Opened: 1948

• Annual Passenger Traffic: Over 28 million (pre-pandemic levels)

• Terminals: 2 (Terminal 1 and Terminal 2)

History of Milan Malpensa Airport

Milan Malpensa Airport originally opened in 1948 as a military airbase. Over time, it evolved into a commercial airport and has since become a critical hub for Italian and international travel. The construction of Terminal 1 in the late 1990s marked a significant upgrade, allowing the airport to handle increasing passenger volumes. Today, Malpensa is Italy’s primary airport for long-haul flights and continues to expand its facilities and services to meet growing demand.

Terminal Layout at Milan Malpensa Airport

Milan Malpensa Airport operates two terminals, connected by a free shuttle service:

1. Terminal 1 (T1)

• Overview:

  • The main terminal, handling the majority of international and domestic flights.

• Key Features:

  • Divided into three sections: A (Schengen flights), B (non-Schengen flights), and C (intercontinental flights).

  • Modern facilities, premium lounges, and extensive shopping and dining options.

• Airlines Operating:

  • ITA Airways, Lufthansa, Emirates, Delta Air Lines, and others.

2. Terminal 2 (T2)

• Overview:

  • Dedicated to low-cost carriers, primarily easyJet.

• Key Features:

  • Basic yet efficient facilities with a focus on quick and affordable travel.

  • Separate departure and arrival zones for seamless passenger flow.

Transportation Options to and from MXP

1. Malpensa Express Train

• Details:

  • Direct train service connecting the airport to Milan Central Station, Porta Garibaldi, and Cadorna.

• Travel Time: ~50 minutes to Milan Central Station.

• Cost: Starting at €13 (one-way).

• Advantages:

  • Fast, reliable, and avoids traffic congestion.

2. Bus Services

• Details:

  • Several bus operators, including Terravision, Autostradale, and Malpensa Shuttle, provide connections to Milan and other cities.

• Travel Time: ~50-60 minutes to Milan Central Station.

• Cost: Starting at €10 (one-way).

3. Taxi and Rideshare

• Taxi:

  • Travel Time: ~45-60 minutes to Milan city center.

  • Fixed Fare: €95 to/from central Milan.

• Rideshare:

  • Services like Uber operate at designated pickup zones.

4. Car Rentals

• Providers:

  • Avis, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, and others.

• Pickup/Drop-off: Rental offices are located in both terminals.

Parking at Milan Malpensa Airport

1. Short-Term Parking (P1 and P2)

• Details:

  • Conveniently located near the terminals, ideal for drop-offs and pickups.

• Cost: Starting at €2/hour.

2. Long-Term Parking (P3 and P4)

• Details:

  • Affordable options with shuttle services to the terminals.

• Cost: Starting at €9/day.

3. Premium Parking

• Details:

  • Reserved spaces closest to the terminal entrances, including valet services.

• Cost: Starting at €25/day.

4. Electric Vehicle Parking

• Details:

  • Charging stations available in designated parking areas.

  • Fees apply in addition to parking rates.

Dining and Shopping Options

Dining at MXP

• Terminal 1:

  • Obicà Mozzarella Bar: Italian dishes featuring fresh mozzarella and local ingredients.

  • Bistrot Milano: Casual dining with a focus on Milanese specialties.

• Terminal 2:

  • McDonald’s: Quick meals for travelers on the go.

  • Panino Giusto: Gourmet sandwiches and coffee.

Shopping at MXP

• Duty-Free:

  • Tax-free shopping for perfumes, cosmetics, alcohol, and tobacco.

• Luxury Brands:

  • Gucci, Prada, Bulgari, and Versace.

• Local Specialties:

  • Shops like "Made in Italy" offer artisanal goods, wine, and regional food products.

• Essentials:

  • WHSmith and Relay for books, snacks, and travel necessities.

Lounges at Milan Malpensa Airport

1. Sala Montale (Terminal 1)

• Access: Available to premium passengers and Priority Pass holders.

• Features:

  • Complimentary snacks, beverages, and Wi-Fi.

  • Comfortable seating and workspaces.

2. Emirates Lounge (Terminal 1)

• Access: Reserved for Emirates First and Business Class passengers.

• Features:

  • Fine dining, premium drinks, and relaxation areas.

3. EasyJet Lounge (Terminal 2)

• Access: Available to easyJet passengers for a fee.

• Features:

  • Snacks, drinks, and a casual atmosphere.

Nearby Hotels

1. Sheraton Milan Malpensa Airport Hotel

• Distance: Directly connected to Terminal 1.

• Features:

  • Modern rooms, a spa, and on-site dining.

2. Moxy Milan Malpensa Airport

• Distance: 5 minutes by car or shuttle.

• Features:

  • Trendy and budget-friendly, with a vibrant social atmosphere.

3. Holiday Inn Express Milan-Malpensa Airport

• Distance: 10 minutes by shuttle.

• Features:

  • Comfortable accommodations with complimentary breakfast.

Top Tips for Travelers at Milan Malpensa Airport

1. Arrive Early: Allow at least 2 hours for European flights and 3 hours for intercontinental flights.

2. Use the Malpensa Express: The most reliable and efficient way to reach central Milan.

3. Explore Italian Cuisine: Try local dishes like risotto or gelato at airport restaurants.

4. Free Wi-Fi: Unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.

5. Shop Local: Pick up authentic Italian products like olive oil, wine, or luxury fashion items.

Future Developments at MXP

• Terminal Upgrades: Expansion projects to enhance passenger capacity and improve facilities.

• Sustainability Initiatives: Investments in renewable energy and carbon-neutral operations.

• Improved Connectivity: Plans to enhance public transportation links and road access.

Milan Malpensa Airport seamlessly blends efficiency, style, and world-class amenities, making it a top choice for travelers. Whether you're visiting Milan or connecting to another destination, MXP ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey.