Italy, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and world-renowned cuisine, is a dream destination for many travelers.
However, finding the most budget-friendly way to get there can be a challenge.
When considering the cheapest city to fly into Italy, Milan often tops the list. Here’s a detailed travel blog exploring why Milan is the most cost-effective entry point and how to make the most of your visit.
Why Milan is the Cheapest City to Fly Into
Major International Hub
Milan stands out as a major international hub, served by three significant airports: Malpensa (MXP), Linate (LIN), and Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY). Each of these airports plays a crucial role in making Milan one of the most accessible cities in Italy.
Malpensa Airport (MXP)
Malpensa is the largest and busiest airport in Milan, located approximately 50 kilometers northwest of the city center. It is the second busiest airport in Italy, handling over 28 million passengers annually.
Malpensa serves as a primary gateway for long-haul international flights, connecting Milan to major cities across Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East. The airport has two terminals, with Terminal 1 handling most international flights and Terminal 2 catering primarily to low-cost carriers.
Facilities at Malpensa include a wide range of dining and shopping options, free Wi-Fi, and various passenger services such as lounges and transportation links. The airport is well-connected to Milan’s city center by the Malpensa Express train, which provides a quick and convenient 50-minute journey.
Linate Airport (LIN)
Linate Airport is the closest airport to Milan, situated just 7 kilometers east of the city center. Despite its smaller size compared to Malpensa, Linate is a vital hub for domestic and short-haul European flights. It primarily serves business travelers due to its proximity to the city and frequent connections to Rome and other major Italian cities.
Linate offers a range of amenities, including several dining and retail options, business lounges, and efficient transportation links to Milan. The airport is easily accessible by bus, taxi, and car, making it a convenient choice for travelers looking to minimize travel time to and from the city.
Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport (BGY)
Bergamo Orio al Serio, often referred to as Milan Bergamo Airport, is located about 45 kilometers northeast of Milan. It is a major hub for low-cost airlines, particularly Ryanair, which operates numerous flights to destinations across Europe and beyond. Bergamo’s focus on budget carriers makes it a popular choice for cost-conscious travelers.
The airport features various passenger services, including dining and shopping facilities, free Wi-Fi, and transportation options. Shuttle buses connect Bergamo Airport to Milan’s city center, providing an affordable and convenient way to reach the city in about an hour.
Competitive Airfares
The high volume of flights and competition among airlines at these three airports often results in lower airfares to Milan compared to other Italian cities. With numerous carriers vying for passengers, travelers can frequently find competitive prices and attractive deals, making Milan an economical entry point into Italy.
Low-Cost Airlines
Milan’s status as a hub for several low-cost airlines significantly contributes to its affordability as a travel destination. Airlines such as Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air have a strong presence in Milan, offering extensive networks of flights to various European cities and beyond.
Ryanair
Ryanair operates out of Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport, providing a vast array of routes to numerous destinations. Known for its budget-friendly fares, Ryanair frequently offers promotional deals and discounts, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking low-cost flights to Milan.
EasyJet
EasyJet flies from both Malpensa and Linate Airports, offering a wide range of European destinations. The airline is known for its competitive pricing and extensive route network, which includes many major cities and holiday destinations across Europe.
Wizz Air
Wizz Air, another prominent low-cost carrier, operates out of Malpensa and provides connections to several Eastern European destinations. The airline is known for its ultra-low fares and frequent promotional offers, attracting budget travelers from various regions.
Seasonal Deals and Promotions
One of the key factors that make Milan an affordable destination is the frequent availability of seasonal deals and promotions at its airports. During off-peak travel times, airlines often run special promotions and flash sales, offering significantly reduced fares to attract more passengers.
Off-Peak Travel
Traveling during the off-peak seasons, such as late fall, winter (excluding the holiday period), and early spring, can result in substantial savings. Airlines typically lower their prices during these times to fill seats, providing an excellent opportunity for budget-conscious travelers to find great deals.
Flash Sales and Special Offers
Airlines operating out of Milan’s airports frequently announce flash sales and special offers.
These promotions can include discounted fares, extra baggage allowances, or bundled services at reduced prices. Keeping an eye on airline websites, subscribing to newsletters, and following airlines on social media can help travelers stay informed about these limited-time offers.
By taking advantage of these factors—Milan’s major international hub status, the presence of low-cost airlines, and seasonal promotions—travelers can enjoy affordable flights to one of Italy’s most vibrant and culturally rich cities.
Once in Milan, visitors can explore the city’s numerous attractions, savor its world-class cuisine, and experience its unique blend of history and modernity without breaking the bank.
Making the Most of Your Budget-Friendly Trip to Milan
Accommodation
Milan offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget. From hostels and budget hotels to vacation rentals, there are plenty of affordable choices.
Consider staying in neighborhoods like Navigli or Porta Romana, which offer budget-friendly options while still being close to major attractions.
Transportation
Milan’s public transportation system is efficient and affordable. The ATM network of buses, trams, and the metro makes getting around the city easy. A 24-hour ticket costs around €7, allowing unlimited travel within the city.
Affordable Dining
Milan is known for its culinary delights, but you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy good food. Look for trattorias and pizzerias where locals eat, and don’t miss the chance to try an aperitivo.
Many bars offer this early evening tradition where you buy a drink and get access to a buffet of snacks and small dishes for free or a small additional charge.
Free and Low-Cost Attractions
While Milan is known for its high-end fashion and luxury, it also offers plenty of free and low-cost attractions:
- Duomo di Milano: Visiting the cathedral itself is free, though there’s a fee to access the rooftop terrace.
- Castello Sforzesco: The castle grounds are free to explore, and the museums inside have a low admission fee.
- Parco Sempione: Adjacent to Castello Sforzesco, this park is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
- Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: This historic shopping arcade is free to visit and is a great spot for people-watching.
Day Trips from Milan
Milan’s central location makes it a great base for day trips. Some budget-friendly options include:
- Lake Como: Just a short train ride away, Lake Como offers stunning views and charming villages.
- Bergamo: Easily accessible by train, this picturesque city has a beautiful old town and is often overlooked by tourists.
- Turin: Known for its elegant architecture and rich history, Turin is another great day trip option from Milan.
Tips for Finding Cheap Flights to Milan
Flexible Dates
Being flexible with your travel dates can help you find the best deals. Use fare comparison websites and set up price alerts to track fluctuations in ticket prices.
Book in Advance
Booking your flight several months in advance can often result in significant savings. However, sometimes last-minute deals are available, so it’s worth checking both options.
Consider Nearby Airports
In addition to Milan’s three main airports, consider flying into nearby cities such as Verona or Bologna and taking a train to Milan.
Sometimes this can be cheaper, even with the added cost of train travel.
Use Airline Points and Miles
If you have accumulated points or miles through a frequent flyer program, consider using them to reduce the cost of your flight to Milan.
Milan is not only a vibrant and culturally rich city but also the cheapest entry point into Italy for many travelers.
With its major international airports, numerous low-cost airline options, and seasonal deals, flying into Milan can help you save on travel costs.
Once in Milan, you can enjoy a wealth of affordable accommodations, dining options, and attractions, making your Italian adventure both enjoyable and budget-friendly.
