To get around in Milan, you can use a variety of transportation options, including the city's efficient metro system, buses, trams, and taxis, as well as ride-hailing apps and car rental services.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Milan has three international airports: Milan Malpensa (MXP), Milan Linate (LIN), and Milan Bergamo (BGY), which provide connections to major destinations in Europe and around the world. Milan Malpensa is the largest airport and serves as a hub for Alitalia and EasyJet, with direct flights to many European cities, as well as destinations in North America, Asia, and Africa. Milan Linate is a smaller airport that primarily handles domestic and short-haul international flights, while Milan Bergamo is a popular hub for low-cost carriers such as Ryanair.
If you're traveling overland, Milan is well-connected to other European cities by bus and train. The city has several major bus stations, including the Lampugnano Bus Station and the San Donato Bus Station, which offer connections to destinations throughout Italy and Europe. Milan's main train station, Milano Centrale, is one of the largest and most famous train stations in Europe, with frequent trains to destinations throughout Italy, as well as international trains to Switzerland, France, and other neighboring countries.
Domestic Flights
Italy has an extensive domestic air network, with several airlines operating flights between Milan and other major cities in the country. Alitalia is the main domestic carrier, with frequent flights to destinations such as Rome, Florence, Venice, and Naples. Other airlines, such as Ryanair and EasyJet, also operate domestic flights to and from Milan. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, and approximate costs for domestic flights can range from $50 to $200 or more, depending on the route and airline.
Trains & Rail
Italy has an extensive and efficient rail network, with frequent trains connecting Milan to other major cities in the country. Trenitalia is the main rail operator, with a range of train types, including high-speed Frecciarossa and Italo trains, which can reach speeds of up to 300 km/h. The high-speed trains are the fastest way to travel between Milan and other major cities, such as Rome, Florence, and Venice, with journey times of just a few hours. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for high-speed trains, and tickets can be purchased online or at train stations.
Buses & Coaches
Several intercity bus companies operate in Italy, including FlixBus and MarinoBus, which offer connections between Milan and other major cities in the country. The buses are a more affordable option than trains, but the journey times can be longer. The quality of the buses is generally good, with comfortable seats and onboard amenities such as Wi-Fi and restrooms. Prices vary depending on the route and bus company, but approximate costs can range from $10 to $50 or more.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Milan | $2-$3 | 5 lines, frequent service |
| City Bus | Milan | $2-$3 | extensive network, frequent service |
| Taxi | everywhere | $10-$20/km | metered fares |
| Ride-Hailing | Milan | $10-$20 | Uber, Bolt, and local alternatives |
| Tram | Milan | $2-$3 | 18 lines, frequent service |
Driving
- To drive in Italy, you need a valid driver's license from your home country or an International Driving Permit.
- Milan has a good road network, with several highways and ring roads that make it easy to get around the city.
- Fuel costs can be high in Italy, with prices ranging from $1.50 to $2.50 per liter.
- Car rental companies such as Hertz, Avis, and Europcar have offices at Milan's airports and in the city center.
- When driving in Milan, be aware of the ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone) areas, where access is restricted to authorized vehicles only.
- Parking in Milan can be challenging, especially in the city center, where parking fees can be high.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of pickpocketing and scams at train and bus stations, and keep a close eye on your belongings.
- Use a reliable taxi service or ride-hailing app to avoid overcharging.
- Download the Trenitalia or Moovit app to plan your journey and get real-time information on train and bus schedules.
- Consider purchasing a Milan public transport card for unlimited travel on buses, trams, and metro lines.
- Be prepared for traffic congestion in the city center, especially during rush hour.
- Use cash or credit cards to pay for transportation, as not all operators accept mobile payments.
- Be mindful of bike lanes and pedestrian zones in the city center, and follow local traffic rules to avoid fines.