# Milan Airport Transfer Guide (LIN) How to get from Milan Linate Airport to the city centre. Bus 73, Metro M4, taxi prices, and pre-booked transfer options compared honestly. **Airport:** LIN **City:** Milan **Country:** Italy **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/lin **Last updated:** 2026-03-27 --- ## Main Guide ### Quick answer Milan Linate Airport (LIN) is the closer of Milan's two main airports, sitting just **7 km east of the Duomo**. Unlike Malpensa, getting into the city from Linate is quick and easy. Your main options: **Metro M4** (opened 2024, runs to the city centre in about 12 minutes), **Bus 73** (a regular city bus to San Babila), a **taxi**, or a **pre-booked private transfer**. A pre-booked transfer to central Milan costs around **EUR 35–55**. A taxi runs **EUR 25–40** on the meter. Bus 73 is **EUR 2.20** and the Metro M4 is **EUR 2.20** as well. The drive takes **15–30 minutes** depending on traffic; public transport is about 20–30 minutes. 👉 AirportTransferPortal offers fixed-price transfers on this route, which removes uncertainty on arrival. --- ### What actually happens after landing Linate is a compact, single-terminal airport. After collecting your bags, you exit into a small arrivals hall. It is straightforward — nothing like the maze at Malpensa. Outside the terminal to the right, you will find the taxi rank. The bus stops are directly in front of the terminal. The Metro M4 Linate station is a short covered walk from the terminal building. There are ATMs and a few currency exchange points inside, though as an Eurozone airport, most visitors already carry EUR. Free Wi-Fi is available but can be slow. --- ### Transport options explained honestly | Option | Price (EUR) | Time | Frequency | Notes | |--------|------------|------|-----------|-------| | Metro M4 | **EUR 2.20** | ~12 min to San Babila | Every 4–6 min | Best value, fast, reliable | | Bus 73 | **EUR 2.20** | 25–35 min to San Babila | Every 10–15 min | Slower but runs same route above ground | | Taxi | **EUR 25–40** | 15–30 min to Duomo area | On demand | Flat rate EUR 25 to central Milan at night | | Pre-booked transfer | **EUR 35–55** | 15–30 min | On demand | Driver waits with name sign | | Linate Shuttle Bus | **EUR 6** | 25 min to Milano Centrale | Every 30 min | Useful if heading to the train station | **Metro M4** is the game changer. Since its full opening, Linate finally has a direct rail link to the city. The M4 blue line runs from Linate to San Babila in about 12 minutes, where you can connect to M1 (red line) and M3 (yellow line). It runs from approximately 5:30 AM to midnight. **Bus 73** is the budget option that has served Linate for decades. It runs the same basic route but takes longer because it stops frequently and sits in traffic. **Taxis** in Milan use meters, but there is a **flat rate of EUR 25** from Linate to anywhere within the central zone (Cerchia dei Bastioni) — this applies from 7 AM to 9 PM. At other times, expect **EUR 30–40** on the meter. Surcharges apply for luggage, Sundays, and holidays. --- ### Realistic pricing expectations | Destination | Transfer (EUR) | Taxi (EUR) | Metro/Bus (EUR) | |-------------|---------------|-----------|----------------| | Duomo / City Centre | **35–55** | **25–35** | **2.20** | | Milano Centrale Station | **40–60** | **30–40** | **2.20** (M4+M2) | | Navigli district | **35–55** | **25–35** | **2.20** (M4+M2) | | Fiera Milano (Rho) | **55–80** | **45–65** | **2.20** (M4+M1+M1) | Transfer prices are per vehicle. A standard sedan fits 3 passengers with luggage. For groups of 4+ with bags, book a minivan at **EUR 55–80**. Milan taxis accept credit cards, though some drivers prefer cash. Always confirm before getting in. --- ### Late night arrivals Linate officially closes to commercial flights around midnight, but delays happen. The Metro M4 stops running around 12:30 AM, and Bus 73 has limited night service. If you arrive after midnight, your options are taxis or a pre-booked transfer. The taxi flat rate does not apply at night — expect **EUR 30–40** on the meter to the centre. A pre-booked transfer keeps the same price regardless. The area around Linate is a quiet residential neighbourhood. There is nothing threatening about it, but there is also nothing to do while waiting. --- ### Families and luggage Linate is family-friendly precisely because it is small. You will not walk far between the gate, baggage claim, and the exit. The Metro M4 has lifts and is accessible with strollers and heavy luggage. Bus 73 is a standard city bus — manageable with one child and a suitcase, but uncomfortable if you have a lot of gear. There is no dedicated luggage space. For families, a pre-booked transfer with a child seat is the easiest option. Italian law requires child seats for children under 150 cm, and taxis are technically exempt but it is not ideal for safety. Transfer companies will provide one on request. --- ### Where you meet the driver For pre-booked transfers, drivers wait in the arrivals area holding a name sign. Since Linate is small, finding your driver is usually quick. The **taxi rank** is outside the arrivals exit to the right. There is usually a queue, and an attendant manages it during busy times. Do not accept offers from people approaching you inside the terminal — use the official rank. The **Metro M4 station** is signposted from inside the terminal. Follow the blue M4 signs — it is about a 3-minute walk through a covered walkway. --- ### Decision helper **Choose the Metro M4 if:** you are travelling light, comfortable with public transport, and arriving during operating hours. It is fast, cheap, and reliable. **Choose a pre-booked transfer if:** you have heavy luggage, kids, or want door-to-door service without thinking about metro connections. **Choose a taxi if:** you want the convenience of a transfer but do not mind queueing, and you are going to central Milan (where the flat rate applies). **Choose Bus 73 if:** you are on a tight budget and the metro is not running. Otherwise, M4 is better in every way. **Linate vs Malpensa context:** If you have a choice of airports, Linate is far more convenient for central Milan. Malpensa is 50 km away and requires a train or a much more expensive transfer. 👉 This is the lowest-friction option after a long flight. --- ### Summary Linate is one of the most convenient airports in Europe for reaching a major city centre. The Metro M4 has made it even easier, but even without it, the short distance means taxis and transfers are quick and affordable. If you are flying into Milan for business or tourism and have a choice, Linate will save you time over Malpensa every time. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions **Q: How far is Milan Linate Airport from the city centre?** About **7 km** east of the Duomo. It is the closest airport to central Milan. **Q: Is there a metro from Linate Airport?** Yes. The **Metro M4 (blue line)** runs from Linate to San Babila in about **12 minutes**, with connections to M1 and M3. **Q: How much is a taxi from Linate to central Milan?** There is a **flat rate of EUR 25** to the central zone between 7 AM and 9 PM. At night, expect **EUR 30–40** on the meter. **Q: Is Linate or Malpensa closer to Milan?** Linate is much closer — **7 km** versus Malpensa's **50 km**. If your destination is central Milan, Linate saves significant time and money. **Q: Does Bus 73 still run from Linate?** Yes. Bus 73 runs to San Babila every 10–15 minutes for **EUR 2.20**. However, the Metro M4 is now faster for the same price. **Q: Can I use a contactless card on Milan public transport?** Yes. Milan's metro and buses accept contactless bank cards and mobile payments at the turnstiles. **Q: How long does it take to get from Linate to Milano Centrale?** About **25–35 minutes** by taxi or transfer. By metro, take M4 to San Babila, then M1 to Loreto, then M2 to Centrale — roughly **25 minutes** total. **Q: Is there a shuttle bus from Linate to Milano Centrale?** Yes. The Linate Shuttle runs every 30 minutes to Milano Centrale station for **EUR 6**. The journey takes about 25 minutes. **Q: Do Milan taxis accept credit cards?** Legally yes. Most taxis have card machines, but some drivers still prefer cash. Confirm before starting your ride. **Q: What is the taxi flat rate from Linate Airport?** **EUR 25** to anywhere within Milan's central zone (Cerchia dei Bastioni), valid from 7 AM to 9 PM on weekdays. --- ## Additional Guides ### Arriving at Milan Linate Airport Late at Night **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/lin/late-night Linate is primarily a daytime airport — most flights operate between 6 AM and 11 PM. But delays happen, and some flights are scheduled close to the cut-off. Here is what to expect if you arrive late. ## What stops running and when | Service | Last departure from Linate | |---------|---------------------------| | Metro M4 | ~12:30 AM (varies by day) | | Bus 73 | ~12:30 AM | | Linate Shuttle | ~11:00 PM | | Taxis | Available 24/7 | | Pre-booked transfer | Available 24/7 | If your flight lands before midnight, you can still catch the last M4 metro. After that, you are limited to taxis or a pre-booked transfer. ## Taxi availability at night Taxis are available at Linate's rank around the clock, but late at night there are fewer cars. You might wait **10–15 minutes** for one to arrive. The flat rate of **EUR 25** to central Milan does not apply at night — expect **EUR 30–40** on the meter, with night surcharges. ## Why a pre-booked transfer works best at night With a pre-booked transfer, your driver is already there when you walk out, regardless of the hour. The price is the same as daytime — typically **EUR 35–55** to central Milan. There is no surcharge, no meter, and no waiting at an empty taxi rank. If your flight is delayed, the driver tracks it and adjusts automatically. ## The area around Linate at night Linate is in Forlanini, a residential area east of the city. It is safe and quiet but completely dead at night. There are no restaurants, bars, or hotels within walking distance of the terminal. You need a ride — there is no alternative. ## If you need to wait until morning If your connection or hotel check-in is not until the morning, staying at the airport is not comfortable. The terminal largely closes after the last flight. The nearest hotels are a short taxi ride away — consider the **Starhotels Tourist** or **Hotel Dei Cavalieri** near Piazza Missori, both about **EUR 80–120** per night. --- ### Taxi vs Transfer vs Metro at Milan Linate – Which Should You Choose? **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/lin/taxi-vs-transfer Linate gives you more viable options than most airports because it is so close to the city. Here is how they compare. ## Side-by-side comparison | Factor | Pre-booked transfer | Taxi | Metro M4 | Bus 73 | |--------|--------------------|----- |----------|--------| | Price to Duomo | **EUR 35–55** | **EUR 25** (flat) | **EUR 2.20** | **EUR 2.20** | | Time to Duomo | 15–30 min | 15–30 min | ~15 min | 25–35 min | | Availability | 24/7 | 24/7 (queue varies) | 5:30 AM–midnight | ~5:30 AM–midnight | | Luggage handling | Door to door | Door to door | You carry it | You carry it | | Child seat | On request | Not available | N/A | N/A | | Booking needed | Yes | No | No | No | ## The case for the Metro M4 Since the M4 line opened to Linate, it has become the default choice for solo travellers and couples with light luggage. At **EUR 2.20** and roughly 12 minutes to San Babila, it beats everything on speed and price. Trains run every 4–6 minutes during the day. The station is clean, modern, and accessible with lifts. You can use contactless bank cards at the turnstiles. ## The case for a taxi Milan's **EUR 25 flat rate** from Linate to the centre is one of the best taxi deals at any European airport. If you have luggage and want door-to-door service without pre-booking, it is hard to argue against it. The downside: taxi queues at peak times (morning flights, early evening) can mean a 15–20 minute wait. ## The case for a pre-booked transfer You pay more than a taxi — typically **EUR 10–25 more**. What you get: no queue, a driver waiting with your name, flight tracking if you are delayed, and the option to request a child seat or larger vehicle. For families, groups with lots of luggage, or anyone arriving late when taxi availability drops, a transfer is worth the premium. ## Our honest recommendation For most solo travellers and couples: take the Metro M4. It is genuinely excellent. For families, heavy luggage, or late nights: pre-book a transfer. For everyone else who wants comfort without pre-planning: the taxi flat rate is fair and reliable. --- ### Getting from Milan Linate to Your Hotel with Kids **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/lin/family-and-kids Linate is one of the better airports for families simply because it is small. Short walks, quick baggage claim, and a city centre that is only 7 km away. ## Why Linate is easier than Malpensa with kids The terminal is compact — from gate to exit is a short walk. Baggage claim is quick compared to larger airports. There is no shuttle bus or train transfer within the airport itself. You land, collect bags, and leave. This matters with children. Less walking, less waiting, less frustration. ## Child seats and transport Italian law requires child restraint systems for children under **150 cm tall**. Taxis are technically exempt from this rule, but that does not make it safe. | Option | Child seat available? | Notes | |--------|----------------------|-------| | Pre-booked transfer | **Yes, on request** | Specify age/weight when booking | | Taxi | **No** | Legally exempt but not ideal | | Metro M4 | N/A | Kids ride free under 4 | | Bus 73 | N/A | Strollers allowed | If your child needs a car seat, **pre-book a transfer and request it** during the reservation. Most companies provide infant, toddler, and booster seats at no extra charge. ## Using the Metro M4 with kids The M4 is modern and accessible. There are lifts at every station, including Linate. Strollers are easy to manage. Children under 4 ride free. The ride to San Babila takes about 12 minutes — short enough that even restless toddlers will not have a meltdown. Trains are clean and air-conditioned. The one caution: during morning and evening rush hours (8–9 AM, 6–7 PM), trains are crowded. If you have a stroller and multiple bags, a transfer is more comfortable during these times. ## Practical family tips - **Baby changing facilities** are available in the terminal restrooms. - **Luggage carts** are available for a small fee (EUR 1–2). - **Snacks and drinks** are available at the terminal cafes, though prices are airport-standard. - **The drive is short** — 15–30 minutes to most central hotels. Bring a toy or tablet for the car if your child gets restless, but most kids will be fine. --- ### How Much Does It Cost to Get from Linate Airport to Milan? **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/lin/cost-to-city Linate is just 7 km from central Milan, which keeps transport costs low compared to most European airports. ## Price breakdown by destination | Destination | Pre-booked transfer | Taxi | Metro M4 / Bus 73 | |-------------|--------------------|----- |--------------------| | Duomo / Centre | **EUR 35–55** | **EUR 25** (flat rate) | **EUR 2.20** | | Milano Centrale | **EUR 40–60** | **EUR 30–40** | **EUR 2.20** | | Navigli | **EUR 35–55** | **EUR 25–35** | **EUR 2.20** | | Fiera Milano Rho | **EUR 55–80** | **EUR 45–65** | **EUR 2.20** | | Bergamo | **EUR 120–160** | **EUR 110–150** | Train from Centrale (~EUR 7) | All transfer and taxi prices are per vehicle. Metro and bus fares are per person. ## Milan taxi flat rates explained Milan has official taxi flat rates from both airports. From Linate, the flat rate is: - **EUR 25** to central Milan (Cerchia dei Bastioni) — weekdays 7 AM to 9 PM - **EUR 25** applies regardless of traffic or route - **Night, Sunday, and holiday surcharges** push it to about **EUR 28–35** - **Luggage surcharge**: EUR 1 per bag (sometimes waived) This flat rate makes taxis from Linate genuinely competitive. The issue is availability — during peak hours, the taxi queue can take 15–20 minutes. ## When the metro is the best deal At **EUR 2.20**, the Metro M4 is hard to beat on price. A single ticket covers your entire journey including transfers to other metro lines within 90 minutes. If you are going to Duomo or San Babila, it is also the fastest option — about 12 minutes. The only downsides: it does not run after midnight, and it is not ideal with heavy luggage during rush hour. ## When a transfer makes financial sense A pre-booked transfer costs more than a taxi, but the value shows up when you factor in convenience. No queue, the driver waits for you, and prices are fixed. For groups of 3–4, a transfer at **EUR 35–55** split between passengers is very reasonable. --- ## Related Pages - [Main arrival guide](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/lin) - [Late night arrivals](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/lin/late-night) - [Taxi vs transfer](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/lin/taxi-vs-transfer) - [Family & kids](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/lin/family-and-kids) - [Cost to city](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/lin/cost-to-city) --- ## Check before you land 👉 This route is actively served by AirportTransferPortal with fixed-price booking available before arrival. Check real vehicles and prices before your flight. Booking takes a few minutes and ensures someone is waiting when you arrive. --- ## Operational Note This guide reflects real operational conditions, pricing ranges, and traveler experience at Milan (LIN). Transfer availability is supported by AirportTransferPortal's verified supplier network. --- ## Attribution Published by AirportTransferPortal (airporttransferportal.com), a global airport transfer marketplace operated by Funny Tourism Ltd.