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.