- Must visit
Volandia - Parco e Museo del Volo
Major aviation museum next to Malpensa with historic aircraft, space exhibits, and family-friendly hangars. The most relevant museum attraction for airport-area visitors.
Cheapest price
$131
Average price
$156
Fastest journey
3 h 40 m
Average duration
4 h 51 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
232 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Milan Malpensa Airport is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Milan Malpensa Airport will cost around $156 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $131.
Of the 4 trains that leave Basel for Milan Malpensa Airport on Sat, Jun 20, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 232 km distance in an average of 4 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 40 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 5 h 48 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.








Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Basel to Milan Malpensa Airport among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $30. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 32m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $30, and a flight costs an average of $90.
Distance: 144 miles (232 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$129 Average price | $49 Average price Cheapest | $335 Average price | $133 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 2m Average total duration Fastest 4h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 23m Average total duration 4h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 35m Average total duration 7h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 59m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Milan Malpensa Airport:
A bus is $80 (€66) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Milan Malpensa Airport costing on average $129 (€106).
A bus is $287 (€235) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Basel to Milan Malpensa Airport costing on average $335 (€275).
Other travel options to Milan Malpensa Airport take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 53m.
Flight takes on average 7h 35m.
Tickets start at around $129 (€106) compared to roughly $133 (€109) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $4 (€3). The journey takes 4h 32m versus 3h 59m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare bus, train, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Trains from Basel to Milan Malpensa Airport run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $78 (€64) but you can travel from only $30 (€25) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 06:13, the last at 16:33. The fastest train covers the 144 miles (232 km) distance in 3h 32m.
Distance 144 miles (232 km) |
Average train duration 4h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price $78 (€64) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 3h 32m |
First train 6:13 AM |
Last train 4:33 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Discover the best of Milan Malpensa Airport — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Milan Malpensa Airport trip today.
Major aviation museum next to Malpensa with historic aircraft, space exhibits, and family-friendly hangars. The most relevant museum attraction for airport-area visitors.
Small museum dedicated to the Agusta brand, showcasing motorcycles and aeronautical heritage in the Malpensa area. A niche local favorite for engineering enthusiasts.
Contemporary art museum in nearby Gallarate with modern Italian art collections and temporary exhibitions. A strong regional cultural stop beyond the airport itself.
Large protected park surrounding the Ticino River, ideal for cycling, walking, and nature views close to Malpensa. One of the best outdoor areas near the airport.
Scenic canal and dam area near Somma Lombardo, popular for walks, cycling, and photography. It has become especially popular for relaxed social-media-friendly outings.
Historic center near the airport with traditional streets, piazzas, and access to the Visconti castle. A practical short excursion for travelers with limited time.
Classic Milanese risotto flavored with saffron, known for its rich golden color and creamy texture.
Breaded veal cutlet fried in butter, one of Milan's signature traditional main dishes.
Braised veal shank, often served with risotto, prized in Lombard cuisine for its deep, slow-cooked flavor.