I have been reading relevant posts for a few month now and apreciate all the wonderful advice! My question is about timing. We are scheduled to arrive at Malpensa at 8:50am on Wednesdy May 8th and need to get to Florence.I want to get the train tickets to Florence ahead of time to save money. I believe I understand about getting train tickets, what I am wondering about is how much time should I allow to get out of the airport and to Milan Centrale? Also what is the best way to get to Milan centrale bus or train?
Posted by
Coraopolis, Pa, USA
1018 posts
The time it takes to clear passport control, retrieve your luggage, and clear customs is generally, usually, but not always, one hour. There is a train that goes directly to Stazione Centrale and I understand it takes about 40 minutes to reach that destination. Make sure you do not take the train to Cadorno, which requires a transfer to Centrale. We always take the Milano Shuttle (Pullman) and it generally take 45minutes, give or take. Clearing Passport Control and Customs is easy. At Passport Contol there are signs to guide you to the proper line. It is a very simple procedure and Customs is even easier. At Customs you will see a green light on one side and a red light on the other, which is if you must something. Just walk past the green light side and through the exit and you will be ready for your next adventure. The Milano Shuttle is outside of Uscita (exit) 2. You can buy tickets inside the terminal or outside from the bus driver. If you buy from the driver make sure to ask if he is going to Milano Centrale. Buon viaggio,
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32402 posts
Kathryn, It's difficult to predict how long it will take you to "get out of the airport", as there are a number of variables. If there are a lot of flights arriving at that time, Passport control may be busy so it will take more time to get to transportation. As you're travelling onward to Florence right away, using the train would probably be the best option. I assume you're arriving at Terminal 1? The easiest option would the Malpensa Express (operated by TreNord) from the airport to Milano Centrale, where you can connect with the Freccia trains to Florence. The trip from the airport to Milano Centrale will be about 50 minutes, and the trip from Milano Centrale to Florence is 1H:45M. You could also use the Malpensa Shuttle (Bus) as the travel time is about the same. I believe the fare is about the same for both the bus and train - 10€. If pre-buying tickets you'll need to be very careful in estimating your departure times, as the Freccia trains have compulsory reservations which are specific to a particular train. If you miss that train, you'll have to buy new tickets at full fare. If you're found without valid reservations for the train you're riding on, you may be fined ON THE SPOT, and it's not cheap! The fines start at 50€ per person and increase from there. When buying tickets, be sure to specify that your arrival station in Florence will be Firenze SMN. Happy travels!