Milan Linate Airport (LIN) is the closest airport to Milan city center and one of the most convenient gateways to the city. Unlike larger international hubs, Linate offers fast arrivals, short transfer times, and easy access to central districts such as Milan Central Station, the Duomo area, and the business zones of Porta Nuova.
Whether you are visiting Milan for business, fashion events, tourism, or a short city break, understanding how Linate Airport works can significantly improve your travel experience. In this complete guide, you will find practical information about transport options, travel times, prices, and insider local tips.
Travelers looking for a comfortable hotel near Milan Central Station often choose accommodation with easy airport connections and direct access to public transport.
Milan Linate Airport: Quick Answers for Travelers
Where is Milan Linate Airport located?
Milan Linate Airport (LIN) is located about 7 km (4.3 miles) east of Milan city center.
How long does it take to reach downtown Milan?
Travel time ranges between 12 and 25 minutes, depending on traffic and transport choice.
Best way to reach Milan Central Station from Linate?
The fastest option is the Metro M4 line, which connects Linate Airport to central Milan quickly and reliably.
Is Linate better than Malpensa Airport?
Yes, for short stays and business trips. Linate is significantly closer to the city center.
Linate vs Other Milan Airports
| Airport | Distance to Center | Travel Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Linate (LIN) | 7 km | 15–25 min | Business & short stays |
| Malpensa (MXP) | 50 km | 45–60 min | Long-haul flights |
| Bergamo (BGY) | 45 km | 50–70 min | Low-cost airlines |
Because of its proximity, Linate Airport is often the preferred choice for travelers staying near Milan Central Station.
Travelers arriving at another airport can also consult our Malpensa Airport to Milan Central Station transfer guide.
If you land at Bergamo Airport, our Bergamo Airport (Orio al Serio) transfer guide explains the easiest way to reach Milan.
Local Tip from Milan Hoteliers
Many first-time visitors assume Malpensa is the main airport. However, experienced travelers and frequent business guests usually choose Linate because transfers are faster, taxis are cheaper, and delays caused by long airport transfers are avoided.
If your hotel is located near Milano Centrale, arriving at Linate can easily save one hour compared to other airports.
Milan Linate Airport Overview
Linate Airport mainly serves European and domestic flights. It is particularly popular among business travelers because security checks are faster and distances inside the terminal are short.
Additionally, the airport was recently renovated, offering modern facilities, restaurants, and improved passenger flow.
Key facts:
- Official name: Milan Linate Airport
- IATA code: LIN
- Distance from Milan city center: 7 km
- Main airlines: ITA Airways, Lufthansa, Air France, British Airways, easyJet
- Ideal for short-haul European routes
For updated flight information and airport services, travelers can check the Milan Linate Airport official website.
Operational updates and airport management information are provided by SEA Milan Airports.
For more local insights, itineraries, and practical tips, explore our complete Milan Travel Guide.
Transport from Linate Airport to Milan City Center
Reaching Milan from Linate Airport is simple. Nevertheless, choosing the right option depends on your arrival time, luggage, and final destination.
Metro M4 Line (Fastest Option)
The M4 Metro Line directly connects Linate Airport with central Milan.
- Travel time: about 15 minutes
- Frequency: every few minutes
- Comfortable and predictable travel time
- Ideal during peak traffic hours
Moreover, the metro avoids road congestion, which makes it the most reliable option.
Travelers can check the M4 metro line timetable and tickets before leaving the airport.
Taxi from Linate Airport
Taxis are available immediately outside the arrivals area.
Average prices:
- City center: €20–€30
- Milan Central Station: €25–€35
- Travel time: 15–25 minutes
Although taxis are slightly more expensive, they remain convenient for families or travelers with heavy luggage.
Bus Services
Several bus connections link Linate Airport to different areas of Milan.
Advantages:
- Affordable fares
- Direct routes to major hubs
However, buses may take longer during rush hours.
Private Transfers
Private transfer services offer door-to-door transportation. Therefore, they are popular among business travelers and guests arriving late at night.
Distance from Linate Airport to Milan Central Station
Milan Central Station is one of the main accommodation areas in the city.
- Distance: approximately 7–8 km
- Travel time by taxi: 20 minutes
- Metro + connection: around 25 minutes
Because of this proximity, hotels near Milano Centrale are particularly convenient for travelers arriving at Linate.
The Milan public transport network connects Linate Airport efficiently with all major districts of the city.
Milano Centrale railway station is one of Italy’s most important transport hubs, connecting Milan with major European destinations.
Train schedules and long-distance connections across Italy can be checked through Italian national rail services.
Staying in a strategic location near Milan Central Station allows visitors to move easily between airports, attractions, and business districts.
Where to Stay Near Linate Airport
Choosing where to stay after arriving at Milan Linate Airport depends on your travel plans, arrival time, and how long you stay in the city. Although Linate Airport is very close to downtown Milan, most experienced travelers prefer accommodation near Milan Central Station rather than directly next to the airport.
Staying near Milano Centrale offers several advantages. First, it provides direct connections to metro lines, high-speed trains, and airport transfers. In addition, this area allows visitors to reach the Duomo, business districts, and major attractions within minutes.
For travelers arriving at Linate Airport, hotels close to Milan Central Station combine convenience, accessibility, and excellent transport connections. This solution is especially popular among business travelers and guests planning short stays in Milan.
Local Tip: Many frequent visitors intentionally choose accommodation near Central Station because it simplifies transfers between Linate Airport, Malpensa Airport, and Italy’s main rail network.
A Convenient Hotel Near Milan Central Station
Located a short distance from Milan Central Station, Hotel delle Nazioni Milan offers easy access to Linate Airport via metro and taxi connections. Guests benefit from quick airport transfers, private parking, and a strategic position for both business and leisure stays.
Because of its location, many travelers arriving at Linate Airport choose this area as the most practical base for visiting Milan comfortably.
Facilities at Milan Linate Airport
Linate Airport offers modern passenger services, including:
- Restaurants and cafés
- Duty-free shopping
- Business lounges
- Car rental desks
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
Furthermore, security and boarding procedures are generally faster than at larger airports.
When to Choose Linate Airport
Linate Airport is ideal if:
- You are visiting Milan for a short stay
- You travel for business meetings
- You prefer quick airport transfers
- Your hotel is located near the city center
On the other hand, long-haul international flights usually operate from Malpensa Airport.
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
First, always check metro operating hours if arriving late at night.
Secondly, consider booking accommodation near a metro line to reduce transfer time.
Finally, during major events such as Fashion Week or trade fairs, allow extra travel time.
Additional ideas for sightseeing and cultural attractions are available on the official Milan tourism website.
Many visitors arriving at Linate Airport plan cultural experiences such as Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, explained in our Last Supper tickets guide.
Staying Near Milan Central Station
Choosing accommodation near Milan Central Station offers several advantages:
- Direct connection to airports
- Easy access to metro lines
- Walking distance to transport hubs
- Quick access to business districts
For many travelers, this area represents the most practical base for exploring Milan efficiently.
Best Area to Stay in Milan After Arriving at Linate Airport
After landing at Milan Linate Airport, many travelers prefer staying in an area that allows easy movement across the city rather than near the airport itself. The district around Milan Central Station is often considered the most practical choice because it connects directly to metro lines, regional trains, and airport transport services.
This location allows visitors to reach major attractions such as the Duomo, shopping districts, and business areas quickly while maintaining fast access to both Linate and Malpensa airports.
Why Many Travelers Choose the Central Station Area
- Direct metro connections
- Fast airport transfers
- Walking distance to transport hubs
- Convenient for short stays in Milan
Travelers looking for comfort and accessibility frequently select hotels positioned near Milano Centrale, especially when arriving or departing from Linate Airport.
A Strategic Hotel for Airport Travelers
Hotel delle Nazioni Milan, located near Milan Central Station, is often chosen by guests who want quick transfers from Linate Airport combined with easy access to the historic center and business districts.
Its position allows visitors to minimize travel time while maximizing convenience during short stays in Milan.
Travelers can explore the Milan Linate Airport location on Google Maps to understand distances and travel times before arrival.
Milan Linate Airport FAQ
What is Milan Linate Airport (LIN)?
Milan Linate Airport (LIN) is the closest airport to Milan city center and mainly serves domestic and short-haul European flights.
How far is Milan Linate Airport from Milan city center?
Milan Linate Airport is about 7 km (4.3 miles) from Milan city center.
How long does it take to get from Linate Airport to central Milan?
It usually takes 12–25 minutes, depending on traffic and the transport option you choose.
What is the fastest way to reach Milan from Linate Airport?
The fastest option is usually the Metro M4 (Blue Line), because it avoids road traffic.
Does the Metro M4 connect Linate Airport to Milan Central Station?
Metro M4 does not go directly to Milan Central Station, but it provides fast connections to central Milan where you can change lines to reach Centrale.
What is the best way to reach Milan Central Station from Linate Airport?
A taxi is often the simplest option for Milan Central Station, while Metro M4 plus a connection can be a reliable alternative.
How much is a taxi from Linate Airport to Milan city center?
A taxi typically costs around €20–€30, depending on traffic and the exact destination.
How much is a taxi from Linate Airport to Milan Central Station?
A taxi typically costs around €25–€35, depending on traffic and the exact pickup and drop-off point.
Are taxis available at Milan Linate Airport 24/7?
Taxis are generally available at the official taxi rank outside arrivals, including early mornings and late evenings.
Is Uber available at Milan Linate Airport?
Ride-hailing services may operate in Milan, but availability and pickup rules can vary, so it is best to check the app when you land.
Is Linate Airport better than Malpensa Airport?
Linate is usually better for short stays and business trips because it is much closer to the city, while Malpensa handles more long-haul flights.
Which Milan airport is best for low-cost airlines?
Many low-cost flights operate from Bergamo (BGY), while Linate focuses more on domestic and major European routes.
Is Milan Linate Airport easy to navigate?
Yes, Linate is compact and modern, so walking distances are short compared with larger airports.
Does Milan Linate Airport have free Wi-Fi?
Yes, Milan Linate Airport offers free Wi-Fi in the terminal.
Are there restaurants and shops at Linate Airport?
Yes, you can find cafés, restaurants, and shops inside the terminal.
Can I rent a car at Milan Linate Airport?
Yes, several car rental companies operate at Linate Airport, with desks in or near the arrivals area.
How early should I arrive at Linate Airport for my flight?
For most flights, arriving 2 hours before departure is a safe general rule, especially during busy travel periods.
Where should I stay if I arrive at Linate Airport late at night?
Many travelers prefer staying near Milan Central Station because it offers strong transport connections and makes city travel easier the next day.
Is staying near Milan Central Station convenient for Linate Airport transfers?
Yes, the Central Station area is convenient because it connects well with metro lines and provides quick access to airport transfers.
What is the best area to stay in Milan for first-time visitors arriving at Linate?
For many first-time visitors, staying in central areas with strong transport links—often around Milan Central Station—offers the easiest access to the whole city.
Final Travel Tips for Milan Linate Airport Travelers
Choosing accommodation and staying near Milan Central Station helps travelers minimize transfer times and explore Milan comfortably.
Milan Linate Airport is the most convenient airport for reaching Milan quickly and comfortably. Thanks to its short distance from the city center, efficient public transport, and modern facilities, it represents the preferred arrival point for many experienced travelers.
Planning your transfer in advance allows you to start your Milan experience smoothly and without stress.
Quick Planning Checklist for Milan Linate Airport
Before traveling through Milan Linate Airport, a simple planning checklist can help you save time and avoid common travel stress.
Distance to city center: about 7 km
Fastest transport: Metro M4 line
Taxi travel time: around 20 minutes
Best area to stay: Milan Central Station area
Ideal airport for: business trips and short stays
Alternative airports: Malpensa and Bergamo
Planning these details in advance allows travelers to arrive in Milan smoothly and start their stay without unnecessary delays.
