We are scheduled to arrive in Milan at 825am. Will have carry on luggage only. How long will it take to get through passport control/customs,etc. Do we need to purchase train tickets ahead of time or can we purchase them when we arrive?
Posted by
Chicago
7865 posts
How long will it take to get through passport at Milan?
This depends on how many international flights arrive at the same time. Assuming things go well, which they have for me the three times I have flown into Milan, about an hour or so. The problem is flight delays and what that does to your schedule.
You can purchase your train tickets when you arrive
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32212 posts
It's best to buy your tickets when you arrive, although that may be slightly more expensive. Some of the trains you'll be using from Milan to Monterosso may be express trains, which have compulsory seat reservations. The reservations are specific to train, date and departure time, so can only be used on ONE train. If your flight is late for any reason and you miss the train you have pre-booked, the ticket will be worthless and you'd have to buy another.
Here's some information on getting from the airport to Milano Centrale....
TRAVEL FROM MILAN / MXP TO MILANO CENTRALE
The quickest and easiest way to get from MXP Terminal 1 into Milan is to use the Malpensa Express (train). There are several departures each hour and the trip takes 52 minutes. You can buy tickets at the airport station either from a Kiosk or staffed ticket office, and the cost is currently €13 PP. There are a few important points to note. First, the M.E. has two routes, one to Milano Centrale and one to Milano N. Cadorna, so be sure to board the correct train! Next, it's necessary to validate (time & date stamp) your tickets prior to boarding the train, or you'll risk hefty fines which will be collected on the spot! You'll arrive at Milano Centrale on Track (Binario) 1 or 2, and will then have to walk into the main hall to either connect with another train or exit the station.
If you're arriving on a budget flight at Malpensa Terminal 2, you can use either the Malpensa Shuttle (Bus) or the Malpensa Express (train). Travel time for the bus is about an hour (depending on traffic), and the Bus also terminates at Milano Centrale. Travel time for the train is a bit longer than from Terminal 1. You can buy bus tickets from the driver or at ticket machines inside the terminal. The Malpensa Shuttle also serves MXP Terminal 1, so if you'd prefer to travel by Bus that's also an option.
When you arrive in the main track area of Milano Centrale, check the electronic boards for the departure of your train to Monterosso. There are some direct (no changes) trains on that route, and after a long international flight that would be the best option if you can connect with one of those.