Transportation from MXP to Milan

Personally I wouldn't splurge since it would be very expensive - by my standards. But that is not my style either. The train is convenient, comfortable, and about an hour ride. Private drive will cost a lot more and probably take longer depending on your arrival time. We stay near the station so we will walk to the hotel as we need the exercise and the sun to fight jet lag. Mostly a question of what is most convenient for you.

I think the train is a very easy option, but then I generally pack light and can handle a 25" rollerboard and a brief case. There are also buses for less money. And do you know where you are staying? The trains go alternately to 2 different stations in Milan, Cadorna nearest to the Duomo, and Centrale connecting to Italian mainline trains. Trains are "roll-on, roll-off", no steps to contend with to get on or off.

"I might be too tired to start dealing with my luggage, a train, then a taxi to the hotel."

I think it's a little easier, less physically taxing to deal with the Malpensa Shuttle (http://www.malpensashuttle.it/). Those guys always help me with my luggage. The shuttle is very comfortable. I don't want to deal with a train straight from my overnight flight.

There comes a time in life when trying to save money is hazardous to your health. If your body and brain are telling you that you should not struggle with luggage when you travel long, sleepless distances, then you should listen. A lot of travelers hurt themselves by trying to do too much when their mind and body are in an exhausted state. When my body starts talking back at me, I listen and take heed.

Train to Milano Cadorna then a taxi. You'll save a bundle and is very convenient.

I'll be staying near the Duomo, so the hotel said the Cadorna station, should I take the train, would be the most convenient.

Take the Malpensa Express to Milano Cadorna. As you arrive, there is a side exit to the taxi parking - the walk to the taxi area is shorter than at Centrale and for destinations near Duomo the taxi ride is shorter as well. Taking a taxi, let alone a private driver, from Malpensa is quite expensive and the trip is long as the airport is very distant from the city.

carol,

Thanks for the clarification on the location of your hotel. As the others have mentioned, using the train to Cadorna is the best option, and that's also a shorter trip than to Centrale. A few important points to note however......

• Be sure to board the correct train at MXP as there are separate Malpensa Express trains to Centrale and Cadorna.
• BE SURE to validate (time & date stamp) your ticket prior to boarding the train, or you'll risk hefty fines which will be collected on the spot.