Malpensa is 50 km from central Milan, and the cost of getting there varies significantly depending on your transport choice. Here is what each option actually costs in 2026.
Malpensa Express train
A one-way ticket costs about 13 euros to either Milano Centrale or Milano Cadorna. Children under 4 travel free, and discounted fares are sometimes available online. This is the cheapest reliable option and takes around 50 minutes. If you then need the metro, a single ride is 2.20 euros.
Airport buses
Coach services from Terravision, Autostradale, and Malpensa Shuttle charge between 8 and 13 euros one way. Return tickets are slightly cheaper per trip. Booking online in advance sometimes saves 1-2 euros. The journey to Milano Centrale takes 50 to 70 minutes depending on traffic conditions on the A8 motorway.
Official taxi
The regulated flat fare from Malpensa to central Milan is 105 euros. This covers up to 4 passengers and standard luggage. The rate is set by the municipality and applies day or night. No supplements for luggage, holidays, or number of passengers within the limit. If you are going outside the Comune di Milano, the meter runs instead and the cost depends on distance.
Pre-booked private transfer
Sedan transfers typically cost 80 to 130 euros. Minivans for families or groups run 110 to 160 euros. Prices are locked at booking, so there are no surprises. Some providers include free waiting time (usually 60 minutes from landing) and flight tracking. For groups of 3-4, the per-person cost often beats the train when you factor in metro connections.
Ride-hailing
Uber operates in Milan but only the premium Uber Black tier. Expect to pay 120 to 160 euros from Malpensa — more than the regulated taxi fare. It is not a budget option here.
What affects the price
Destination: The 105-euro taxi flat rate only applies within Milan's city limits. Destinations like Bergamo, Lake Como, or towns in Brianza cost more — typically 150-300 euros for a private transfer depending on distance.
Time of day: Train and bus schedules thin out after 11 PM and stop by about 12:30 AM. The taxi flat rate does not change at night, making it consistent. Pre-booked transfers typically hold their quoted price regardless of arrival time.
Group size: For 3-4 people, splitting a taxi (26 euros each) or a pre-booked transfer is cheaper per person than individual train tickets plus metro fares.
Terminal: Terminal 2 passengers need the free inter-terminal shuttle to reach the Malpensa Express, adding 10-15 minutes. Taxis and transfers serve both terminals directly.
Tipping
Tipping taxi drivers in Italy is not expected but rounding up by a euro or two is common. For private transfer drivers, a tip of 5-10 euros is appreciated but not obligatory.
Bottom line
The train at 13 euros is unbeatable for solo travelers and couples going to central Milan. For families or groups, a pre-booked transfer at 80-130 euros splits favorably and saves the hassle of navigating trains with luggage. The 105-euro taxi flat rate is fair for its convenience but expensive for one person.