Malpensa Airport Terminals
Information compiled by David Enrich, aviation and airport guide expert since 1999.
Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) is the largest international airport in northern Italy and a key gateway to Europe. Located about 50 km from Milan city centre, it serves millions of passengers every year with both long-haul and low-cost flights.
Always check your terminal in advance. Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 are not connected airside.
History & Development
Malpensa Airport dates back to the early 20th century when it was initially used for aviation testing. It officially became a commercial airport in the 1940s and underwent major expansion in the late 1990s when it replaced Linate as Milan’s primary international hub. Today, it continues to grow with modern facilities and increasing intercontinental traffic.
Airport Terminals Map
Terminal 1 (Main Terminal)
Terminal 1 is the largest and most important terminal at MXP, handling the majority of international and full-service airline flights.
- Levels: Multiple levels (Arrivals Level 0, Departures Level 1, Check-in Level 2)
- Areas: Schengen and Non-Schengen zones
- Facilities: Premium lounges, luxury shopping, wide dining offer
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-Terminal 1 can involve long walking distances, allow extra time to reach your gate.
-If you want the best airport experience, try to fly from Terminal 1 whenever possible.
Terminal 2 (Low-Cost Terminal)
Terminal 2 is mainly used by low-cost carriers, especially easyJet. It is smaller and simpler but efficient for short-haul travel.
- Levels: Ground level check-in and departures
- Facilities: Basic services, cafés, shops
- Focus: European routes and budget airlines
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Arrive earlier in Terminal 2 during peak times, queues can build up quickly.
Popular Routes from Milan Malpensa
Family & Accessibility Services
- Baby changing rooms and family restrooms
- Priority assistance for reduced mobility passengers (PRM)
- Elevators and accessible pathways
- Dedicated assistance points in terminals
Assistance services are free but must be requested in advance via your airline.
Security & Baggage Control
Security checks are located in departures areas of both terminals. Waiting times vary depending on traffic and time of day.
Early morning and late afternoon are the busiest times.
Check-in & Boarding
- Check-in opens 2–3 hours before departure
- Online check-in is strongly recommended
- Boarding starts 30–45 minutes before departure
Transfer Between Terminals
Milan Malpensa Airport has two separate terminals (Terminal 1 and Terminal 2) that are not connected airside, meaning passengers must exit and use external transport to move between them.
Transfer Options
Free Shuttle Bus
- Available 24/7 between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2
- Frequency: Every 7–15 minutes
- Travel time: حوالي 10 minutes
- Stops: Outside Arrivals area in both terminals
Train (Malpensa Shuttle / Trenord)
- Connects both terminals via Malpensa Aeroporto stations
- Travel time: 5–7 minutes
- Runs frequently throughout the day
Taxi
- Available outside both terminals
- Travel time: 5–10 minutes
- Higher cost compared to shuttle
The free shuttle bus is the easiest and most commonly used option between terminals.
Transfer Comparison
Important Information
- Allow at least 30–40 minutes for terminal transfers
- You must pass security again when changing terminals
- Check your departure terminal before arriving at the airport
If you have a connecting flight in a different terminal, always allow extra time for security and transport.
Lost & Found
Lost property services are located in Terminal 1 (Arrivals level). Items lost onboard should be reported to the airline.
Estimated Airport Processing Times
Terminal Comparison
Location Map
Walking Tour