airplanes_at_sunrise

Milan Malpensa Airport MXP Airport Traveler Guide

Explore Today's Deals

iFly.com
iFly.comMXPMilan Malpensa Airport

MXP Airport Insights & Guide

Author's Image
Anthony Bruno
Reviewed by: Hylke Robben
Updated:
Key MXP Airport Topics:

Getting to Know MXP Airport

Welcome to Milan Malpensa Airport, Italy's gateway to fashion and design, and the second-largest airport in Italy. This hub is not just a stopover; it's a part of your Milanese adventure, offering a seamless travel experience whether you're here for business or leisure.

Our guide simplifies your journey through MXP with essential information on flight statuses, terminal details, parking, dining, and shopping. Navigate easily from arrival to departure. For insights into more airports, check our Comprehensive Airport Guide on iFly.

iFly Tip: Visit our Flying with Children page for tips on making air travel easier for both parents and kids.

MXP has two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 is the main terminal and has three concourses: A, B, and C. It has a total of 92 gates, with Concourse A having 29 gates, Concourse B having 21 gates, and Concourse C having 42 gates. Terminal 2 is used primarily by low-cost carriers and has a total of 19 gates. The major airlines that use Terminal 1 include Alitalia, Emirates, Lufthansa, and Delta, while Terminal 2 is used by airlines such as Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air.

When navigating the airport terminals, it's important to pay attention to the flight information displays, which will show the gate number and boarding time for your flight. There are also plenty of signs throughout the airport to help guide you to your gate. If you need assistance, there are information desks located throughout the terminals where you can ask for help.

Both terminals have a variety of food and beverage options, as well as shops and services such as currency exchange, ATMs, and duty-free stores. Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

MXP Airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. The terminals are located about 2 kilometers apart, so walking between them is not recommended. However, there are several options available to passengers who need to transfer between terminals.The fastest and most convenient way to transfer between terminals is by using the free shuttle bus service. The shuttle buses run every 7-8 minutes between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, and the journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. The shuttle bus stops are located outside the arrivals area of each terminal.Alternatively, passengers can take the Malpensa Express train, which connects Terminal 1 with Terminal 2. The train runs every 30 minutes and the journey takes approximately 7 minutes. The train station is located inside Terminal 1, near the check-in area.Overall, passengers at the airport have several options available to transfer between terminals, including the free shuttle bus service and the Malpensa Express train. Both options are reliable and efficient, ensuring that passengers can easily reach their connecting flights.

Tips from MXP Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Milan Malpensa Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from MXP-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"When flying out of MXP, I always check the terminal information in advance. Terminal 1 is huge, and it can be a long walk between gates, especially if you're in Concourse C. I recommend using the moving walkways whenever possible." — Luca F., Gallarate, Italy, December 2023

"If you have a layover at MXP, the shuttle between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 is your best bet. It runs frequently and is free, but make sure to allow some extra time during peak hours." — Maria R., Busto Arsizio, Italy, February 2024

Getting To/From the City

"The Malpensa Express train is the most convenient way to get into Milan's city center. It’s reliable and avoids the traffic jams that can happen on the roads." — Giovanni L., Varese, Italy, March 2024

"For those traveling in groups, consider booking a private shuttle in advance. It can be more cost-effective than multiple train tickets, and it takes you directly to your destination." — Elisa M., Legnano, Italy, May 2024

Parking

"If you’re picking someone up, use the cell phone waiting area. It saves you from circling the airport and paying for short-term parking." — Marco P., Saronno, Italy, January 2024

"For long-term parking, I always book online in advance. It not only guarantees a spot but often comes with discounts." — Sofia N., Como, Italy, July 2024

Inside the Airport

"MXP has some great dining options. I always make time for a meal at Obicà Mozzarella Bar when traveling through Terminal 1. It's a delicious way to enjoy some local flavors." — Alessandra C., Novara, Italy, April 2024

"For a quick snack or coffee, the Lavazza counters are conveniently located near most gates. Perfect for a caffeine fix before a long flight." — Federico T., Rho, Italy, August 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Arrive early, especially during the summer months. Security lines can get long, and it’s better to have extra time to relax at the gate." — Chiara V., Monza, Italy, June 2024

"Keep an eye on the flight information displays for any last-minute gate changes. They happen quite often here, and it’s easy to miss an announcement if you’re not paying attention." — Matteo G., Vigevano, Italy, October 2024

iFly Tip: Ensure a smooth airport experience by following our airport wait times advice.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

If you're picking up or dropping off passengers at the airport, there are a few things you should know. First, curbside parking is strictly prohibited at the airport. This means you cannot park your car at the curb to wait for your passengers. Instead, you'll need to use the designated pick-up and drop-off areas.

For those picking up passengers, there is a cell-phone waiting area located near the airport. This area allows you to wait for your passengers to arrive without having to circle the airport or park in a lot. Simply park your car in the waiting area and wait for your passengers to call you when they're ready to be picked up.

When dropping off passengers, you'll need to use the designated drop-off area. This area is located near the terminal and allows you to drop off your passengers quickly and easily. Once your passengers have exited the car, you'll need to move your car to a parking area or leave the airport.

Parking Facilities & Options

If you're traveling through Milan Malpensa Airport, you'll find a variety of parking options available to suit your needs. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options, with several lots and garages located throughout the airport grounds.

For those waiting to pick up arriving passengers, there are also cell phone waiting areas available. These areas allow you to wait in your vehicle until your party has arrived and is ready to be picked up.

If you require handicapped parking, designated spaces are available in all parking areas. Additionally, the airport offers special assistance to those with disabilities, including wheelchair service and accessible shuttle buses.

For travelers looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available nearby. These lots often offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it a convenient and cost-effective option.

Get details about Milan Airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

MXP offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers.

  • Rental Cars: One of the most popular options is renting a car. There are several car rental facilities located at the airport, including major providers such as Hertz, Avis, and Europcar. These companies offer a range of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets.
  • Taxis: Taxis are available at designated drop-off areas outside the terminals. Fares are typically metered, but it's always a good idea to confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey.
  • Ride Share Services: For those looking for a more cost-effective option, shared ride services are available. These services operate on a pre-booked basis and can be found at designated pickup areas outside the terminals. It's important to note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and amount of luggage allowed.
  • Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles are another option for travelers. These services operate on a set schedule and can be booked in advance or upon arrival at the airport. Pickup areas are located outside the terminals, and fares vary depending on the destination.
  • Public Transportation: Public transportation options are available for those looking to save money. The airport is connected to Milan's public transportation network via the Malpensa Express train and several bus lines. These options provide convenient access to the city center and other destinations in the region.

iFly Tip: Discover how cockpit teams handle in-flight emergencies in our cockpit safety protocols section.

Airport Hotels

Looking for a comfortable and convenient stay near the airport? We've got you covered. From innovative self-service accommodations like Resting Pods to traditional hotels like the Idea Hotel and Hotel Villa, we have a wide range of options to suit your needs. If you're seeking a tranquil retreat, consider the lush garden surroundings of MALPENSA GARDEN Rooms. For a range of modern amenities, check out the Holiday Inn Express and the Sheraton MXP Airport Hotel & Conference Centre. To find the perfect hotel for your needs, click here to browse through our selection of airport hotels.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

When it comes to dining and shopping options at Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), there are plenty of choices to satisfy any traveler's needs. For those looking for a quick bite, there are several fast food options such as McDonald's and Burger King located throughout the airport. For a sit-down meal, we recommend trying out Obicà Mozzarella Bar, which serves up delicious Italian cuisine with a modern twist. Another great option is Briciole d'Italia, which offers a variety of traditional Italian dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

As for shopping, Milan Airport has a great selection of stores to choose from. For luxury fashion, head to Salvatore Ferragamo or Gucci. For something a bit more affordable, check out the wide selection of cosmetics and fragrances at Kiko Milano or the trendy clothing at Desigual. And for those looking for souvenirs to bring back home, there are plenty of shops selling Italian wines, chocolates, and other local specialties.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at MXP can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, here's where to find everything you need.

Passenger Services

MXP Airport is one of the busiest airports in Italy, serving millions of passengers every year. The airport offers a wide range of passenger services to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Lost and found services are also available at the airport, so if you lose something during your travels, you can report it immediately and hopefully retrieve it.

Traveling with children? The airport has dedicated children's play areas where kids can burn off some energy before their flight. The airport also offers special-needs services to assist passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility. These services include wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and priority boarding.

If you need to do some banking, there are several banks and ATMs located throughout the airport. And if you require medical assistance, there is a medical center located in Terminal 1 that is open 24/7, ready to provide care for any emergencies or health-related needs.

Overall, Milan Malpensa Airport offers a range of passenger services to make your travel experience as smooth as possible. Whether you need to stay connected, keep your children entertained, or require special assistance, the airport has you covered.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it's important to stay updated on your flight status, especially if there are any delays, cancellations, or gate changes. Fortunately, there are several ways to check your flight status at Milan Airport.

One way is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the airport. These displays provide real-time information on flight departures, arrivals, and gate information. Simply find the display for your airline and flight number and check the status.

Another way to stay updated is to download your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines offer apps that provide push notifications for flight status updates, gate changes, and other important information. You can also opt to receive updates via text or email.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at MXP by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) is located in Italy.
  • Terminals: The airport features two terminals: Terminal 1 (the main terminal) and Terminal 2.
  • Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including ITA Airways, easyJet, and Ryanair. For a list of all airlines, check out the MXP Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Milan Malpensa handles approximately 100,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 600 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from MXP are Rome, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Paris, and London.
  • Hub Status: Milan Malpensa serves as a hub for several airlines, including ITA Airways, easyJet, and Ryanair.

Airport History

Milan Airport, located in the Lombardy region of Italy, has a rich history dating back to the 20th century. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1948 - The airport was opened as a military airport for the Italian Air Force.
  • 1951 - The airport was opened to commercial flights, serving as a hub for Alitalia.
  • 1961 - The airport underwent a major expansion, including the construction of a new terminal.
  • 1998 - The airport underwent another major expansion, including the construction of a second runway and a new terminal.
  • 2004 - The airport became a hub for the low-cost carrier EasyJet.
  • 2015 - The airport underwent a renovation project, including the expansion of Terminal 1 and the construction of a new satellite terminal.

Today, MXP is one of the busiest airports in Italy, serving millions of passengers each year and connecting them to destinations all over the world.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Milan Malpensa Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

About this Page: Please note that while we strive to keep the content on this page current and accurate, we cannot guarantee it due to the ever-changing nature of airports and airlines; for more details about our data and practices, refer to our Trust & Transparency statement. To report any data issues, use our feedback form.

Milan Malpensa Airport Q&A

You can transfer between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 using the free shuttle bus service that runs every 7-8 minutes, taking approximately 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, the Malpensa Express train connects the terminals every 30 minutes, with a journey time of about 7 minutes.
The airport offers short-term and long-term parking options, with lots such as P2 and P3 available. There are also cell phone waiting areas for picking up passengers and designated spaces for handicapped parking. Off-airport parking options are available as well.
The Malpensa Express train is a reliable option for reaching Milan's city center. It runs frequently, providing a pleasant ride. Taxis and rental cars are also available for those seeking alternative transportation.
Yes, for a sit-down meal, try Obicà Mozzarella Bar for quality Italian cuisine. For a quick caffeine fix, Lavazza counters are near most gates. Fast food options like McDonald's and Burger King are also available.
It's recommended to arrive at least two hours before your flight, especially during busy times, to allow ample time for check-in and security procedures.
You can report lost items to the airport's lost and found services, which are available to help you retrieve your belongings.
Yes, there are several options including the Sheraton MXP Airport Hotel & Conference Centre, Holiday Inn Express, and more. Resting Pods offer innovative self-service accommodations for travelers.
The airport provides special assistance services including wheelchair service, accessible restrooms, and priority boarding for passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility.
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing passengers to stay connected during their time at MXP.
The airport offers a variety of shopping options, including luxury brands like Salvatore Ferragamo and Gucci, as well as more affordable options like Kiko Milano and Desigual for cosmetics and trendy clothing.