Milan Layover Guide

Milan layover at a glance

Duomo exterior, Galleria stroll, espresso, and a calm return to MXP.

Is it worth leaving the airport?

• Leave with 7+ hours. Under that, stay airside.
• Visa: Schengen rules; US/UK/EU/Canada/Australia visa-free. Others must meet Schengen rules.
• Luggage: MXP storage available; check arrivals.
• Transit: Malpensa Express ~45-55 minutes to Centrale/Cadorna; taxi longer/costlier.

3-5 hours: stay airside

Espresso, panini, lounge for showers/Wi‑Fi. Gate 40 minutes before boarding.

6-9 hours: Duomo and Galleria

Train to Centrale/Cadorna, Metro to Duomo. See Duomo exterior, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II stroll. Quick pizza or panini (~€10-18). Leave 3-4 hours before departure.

10+ hours: add Brera streets

After Duomo/Galleria, short walk to Brera streets for a café stop. Return with buffer.

Getting there and back

• Malpensa Express: ~€13-15; 45-55 minutes.
• Taxi: ~€90+; 50-80 minutes depending on traffic.

Money and budget

• Currency: EUR; cards widely accepted.
• 6-9h: ~€30-45 (train + food/coffee).
• 10h+: ~€45-70 (train/taxi mix, food).

Logistics and safety

• Immigration: Schengen entry; allow time.
• Return: Back at MXP 2.5-3h before long-haul, 2h Schengen; add for traffic.
• Safety: Duomo/Galleria areas are busy; watch pockets.

If you stay airside

• Lounges: MXP lounges; showers/food.
• Food: Panini, pizza, coffee.
• Rest: Lounges best.