9 Reasons Why Milan Is a Great Stopover City

Are you about to book a flight and the flight search keeps returning a stopover in Milan, Italy? Book it! Here are 9 reasons why you won’t regret:

1. It’s a low-cost airlines’ hub

All major European low-cost airlines go through Milan’s Malpensa airport: Easyjet, Ryanair, Germanwings, Vueling etc. That makes it a cheap destination on your way to/from another European city, or even as a transfer point on your way to other continents. Transferring in Milan often costs less than a direct flight to your final destination.

2. It’s easy to get to the city

There are buses departing from both Terminal 1 and 2 to the central train station, as well as a direct train (from Terminal 1 only, but there are free shuttle buses between the terminals going every 7 minutes). The journey takes about an hour and costs 10 EUR for the bus, 12 EUR for the train. From the train station it’s just 4 metro stops to the Duomo cathedral. For a taxi, count with approx. 95 EUR to get to the city. If luck is on your side you might be approached by an unofficial taxi and get to the center for as little as 40 EUR.

3. Baggage storage available

Got heavy bags? There is baggage storage available on Terminal 1. Just head to the departures area, floor 0. It’s right next to Exit 5. Leaving one piece will cost you 4,50 EUR. Quite a deal!

4. Paying with Euro

Italy’s currency is Euro, so if you’re coming from / going to another EU country, you can spend the euros that you already have.

5. No visa needed

If you have arranged access to any other EU country (or naturally if you’re an EU citizen), you’re free to move around Italy as well.

6. A compact and vibrant city center

A few hours are enough to soak in the atmosphere of the city and see all Milan’s major sights. I’d say it’s worth going to the city if you have at least 2 hours available.

7. Great food and drinks…of course :)

Forget the airport sandwiches and opt for Milan’s real Italian gastronomy. Dive into delicious Italian pasta, savor Gelato as dessert and flush it with a nice espresso. You’ll be fully recharged for your on-going flight.

8. Shopping

Shopping maniacs, beware! Milan is undoubtedly the center of world fashion, with designer brands on every corner.

9. Italians are fun!

Italians are simply fun to watch. Their gestures and animated talking makes it really enjoyable to just sit on a bench nearby Duomo and observe the locals as they go about their day.

Of course Milan is a great city to visit on a standalone trip too – check out this 2-day Milan itinerary for inspiration.

Before writing this post, I visited Milan in May, but recently have gone in September too and I imagine it’s one of the best places to visit in northern Italy in winter as well!

Got any interesting stories about Milan? Tell us in the comments section!