Layover at Milan Malpensa Airport

Stresa on Lake Maggiore
Direct bus from MXP

I’d spend the night there

Bus info
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https://www.safduemila.com/linee/alibus-malpensa-lago-maggiore/

I like Stresa too, but it's not exactly super close to the airport.

The Alibus can take you there in just one hour, but I think now runs only from April to October, so you can take it only if you travel during that time of the year. Also it has few runs (about 5 or 6 a day starting at 9am, then every 2-2.5 hours). You can also take a train with change at Busto Arsizio, although it take a bit longer.

If you had a couple of days at your disposal, I'd also say to go to Stresa, but if it's only an overnight, and possibly with an early flight to catch in the morning, I'd say to stay at an airport hotel and relax. There are numerous hotels near the airport, including the Sheraton across the terminal. I usually stayed at the Best Western Cavalieri della Corona, which has a nice pool and spa (I think the pool is covered in winter) and a nice restaurant.

There isn't much to see in the area, unless you are into aviation museums, in which case there is the Volandia museum and the Agusta Helicopter museum (Agusta was a major Italian helicopter manufacturer, which is now the helicopter division of Leonardo Inc., a large Italian based multinational defense company). Both museums are next to the airport.

Thank you both so much ch for your replies. Our trip is at the beginning of December so a day trip to Stresi would probably have to be put off until we have a longer stay in Milan.

With just an overnight at an airport hotel, I will take a look at the two museums mentioned.

Thanks again!