We are planning to travel from Paris to Milan. At first we were going to go on an over night train but I have heard it is not a comfortable train and is really expensive. Some people have said to fly but the seems like a lot of work. Other have said to travel during the day with the option of going to Geneva first and then to Milan. I am just looking for some advise on what is the best and most affordable option. Thank you
Posted by
San Francisco Bay Area (USA)
16057 posts
Definitely fly from one of Paris area airports (CDG, ORY) to one of the Milan area airports (LIN, MXP). These are your non stop choices: Easy Jet: CDG-MXP or ORY-LIN Alitalia: CDG-LIN or ORY-LIN Air France: CDG-LIN I don't think RyanAir flies that route, not even to Bergamo BGY. Flying is a lot of work only if you are a bird and have to fly with your own wings.
Posted by
OP
Billings, Montana, USA
6 posts
Thank you
Do you know early do you have to arrive at Paris airports is it just the standard 2 hours?
Posted by
San Francisco Bay Area (USA)
16057 posts
There are no immigration procedures for flights within the EU Schengen zone. It's like a domestic flight within the US. You need to have completed the check in at least 45 min. prior to departure and be at the gate 30 min. prior to departure. If you have luggage to check in, be at the airport 90 min. prior just to be sure.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32352 posts
Stephanie, On that particular route, my choice would be travel by train during the day. Here's a look at the two easiest options and the time for each.... 1.) Travel by day train - Depart Gare de Lyon at 07:49, arrive Milano Porta Garibaldi at 14:51 (time 7H:02M, NO CHANGES, reservations compulsory). That trip will be via TGV at 300 kmH. You can get from Porta Garibaldi to other parts of Milan via Metro (M2, 2 stops to Centrale). You'll have roomy seats, will be able to visit the dining car for a hot meal and a glass of wine, and no extra charges for luggage. 2.) Travel by air -EasyJet has numerous flights each day. For example, depart CDG at 10:50, arrive MXP T2 at 12:20 (flight time 1H:30M, cost currently as low as €39.48 PP plus luggage and other fees). You'll need to add to that.... > Travel via RER or whatever to CDG - add about an hour > Usual airport Gong show - check-in, security, waiting, etc. - add two hours or more. The flight will likely be full, so passengers will be packed in like sardines. > Travel via Malpensa Shuttle (Bus) from MXP to Milano Centrale - add about an hour. EasyJet uses T2 so using the Malpensa Express will not be an option. Time is about the same anyway between Bus and Train, as is the cost. You can use whichever option you prefer, but I'd much prefer a day train as it will be much more pleasant and I can enjoy the scenery. Happy travels!
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
There are direct TGVs from Paris Gare de Lyon to Milano P Garibaldi. Trains depart at 06:41, 10:41, and 14:41. They arrive at 13:51, 17:51, and 21:51 respectively. The standard 2nd class fare is €113. Booked well in advance (up to 90 days allowed) on tgv-europe.com, you can get a Mini fare as low as €29.