Arriving in Milan from U.S. at 1;00 pm. About how long will it take to get to central station? Plan to take train to Florence, rent car, and drive to San Gimnianno. Too ambitious? Which trains can we not take with Italian euro rail pass? Kids are free, so it worked out to be the best deal. Thanks!!
Posted by
Bainbridge Island
3091 posts
I am confused. Today you also posted that you are now in Switzerland, purchased a "family pass" there and used it for lots of trains, bus, funiculars, castles, museums, etc.
So when are you arriving in Milan on a flight from the US?
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32198 posts
aspen,
Given the questions posted by Sasha, could you clarify your situation?
Regarding your original question, it would be good to allow two hours from flight arrival to arrival at Milano Centrale. When you arrive at MXP, it will take time to deplane, go through Passport control, collect checked luggage and take the Malpensa Express to Milano CLE (the M.E. trip itself is 52 minutes).
Why did you post a question about Italy in the Switzerland section?
Posted by
OP
33 posts
We are in Switzerland, my husband arrives in Milan at 1 pm and we are meeting him at train station.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32198 posts
aspen,
Thanks for the additional information. The times I mentioned earlier as just a "ballpark estimate", and he could certainly get to Milano Centrale a bit sooner, but I think it's prudent to allow for at least two hours.
Has your husband travelled in Italy before? He can buy a ticket for the Malpensa Express at the airport rail station, but there two important things to remember.....
- He MUST validate the ticket before boarding the train or risk a hefty fine which will be collected on the spot.
- The Malpensa Express has two routes, one going to Milano Centrale and one to Milano Cadorna. Tell him to be sure to board the correct train!
As you're planning on renting a car in Florence, I assume you're aware that each driver listed on the rental form will require the compulsory International Driver's Permit, which is used in conjunction with your home D.L. Do NOT drive inside Florence, as the city is just about saturated with automated ZTL (limited traffic) area cameras. Where is the car rental agency located? You'll probably find that San Gimignano also has ZTL areas.