Best Ways to Travel from Milan Airport to Bologna
Traveling from Milan Airport to Bologna is a common journey for both business and leisure travelers. Bologna, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and renowned cuisine, is easily accessible from Milan’s main airport, Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), as well as Milan Linate Airport (LIN) and Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY).
There are several options to travel from Milan Airport to Bologna, including private transfers, taxis, trains, buses, and rental cars. Choosing the best option depends on factors like budget, comfort, and time constraints.
Private Transfers and Taxis
One of the most comfortable and stress-free ways to travel from Milan Airport to Bologna is by private transfer or taxi.
Taxi Services from Milan Airport to Bologna
Taxis are available 24/7 outside the airport terminals. A taxi ride from Milan Malpensa Airport to Bologna covers approximately 220 kilometers and takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. The average fare for a taxi ride is €350 to €450, making it an ideal option for travelers who prioritize convenience and privacy.
From Milan Linate Airport, the journey is slightly shorter, around 200 kilometers, with an estimated fare of €300 to €400. Meanwhile, from Milan Bergamo Airport, the distance to Bologna is approximately 230 kilometers, with fares ranging between €350 to €450.
Private Transfer Services
For a more luxurious and pre-arranged experience, private transfer services offer professional drivers, high-end vehicles, and fixed rates. These services allow passengers to book in advance, ensuring a seamless journey with no waiting time at the airport.
Private transfers are ideal for groups, families, or business travelers who prefer a comfortable and hassle-free ride. Prices range from €250 to €500, depending on vehicle type and additional services such as child seats or extra luggage space.
Train from Milan Airport to Bologna
Traveling by train is one of the fastest and most efficient ways to reach Bologna from Milan Airport. Since there is no direct train from Milan Malpensa Airport, travelers need to take a combination of airport trains and high-speed trains.
Milan Malpensa Airport to Bologna by Train
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Malpensa Express to Milan Centrale
- The Malpensa Express train runs from Milan Malpensa Airport to Milan Centrale Station every 15-30 minutes.
- The journey takes around 50 minutes and costs €13.
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High-Speed Train from Milan Centrale to Bologna
- Once at Milan Centrale, passengers can take a high-speed train operated by Trenitalia (Frecciarossa) or Italo to Bologna Centrale.
- The journey takes just 1 hour with ticket prices ranging from €20 to €50, depending on class and booking time.
Milan Linate Airport to Bologna by Train
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Bus from Milan Linate to Milan Centrale
- A shuttle bus from Milan Linate Airport to Milan Centrale runs every 30 minutes, taking around 25 minutes.
- Tickets cost around €5.
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High-Speed Train from Milan Centrale to Bologna
- From Milan Centrale, travelers can board a Frecciarossa or Italo train, reaching Bologna in just 1 hour.
Milan Bergamo Airport to Bologna by Train
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Bus from Bergamo Airport to Bergamo Train Station
- A shuttle bus connects Bergamo Airport (Orio al Serio) to Bergamo Train Station in 15 minutes, costing €2–€5.
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Train from Bergamo to Milan Centrale
- A regional train from Bergamo to Milan Centrale takes 50 minutes.
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High-Speed Train from Milan Centrale to Bologna
- From Milan Centrale, passengers can take a high-speed train to Bologna.
Bus from Milan Airport to Bologna
For budget travelers, long-distance buses are an affordable option. Several companies, including FlixBus, operate direct buses from Milan to Bologna.
Milan Malpensa to Bologna by Bus
- Buses from Malpensa Airport to Bologna take 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on traffic.
- Ticket prices range from €10 to €30, making it a cost-effective alternative.
Milan Linate to Bologna by Bus
- There are no direct buses from Milan Linate to Bologna. Travelers need to take a shuttle bus to Milan Centrale, then catch a long-distance bus to Bologna.
Milan Bergamo to Bologna by Bus
- FlixBus operates direct buses from Bergamo Airport to Bologna, taking around 3 to 4 hours.
- Tickets cost between €10 and €25, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
Renting a Car from Milan Airport to Bologna
For travelers who prefer flexibility and scenic drives, renting a car from Milan Airport to Bologna is a great choice.
Driving Route
- The journey from Milan Malpensa Airport to Bologna takes around 2.5 hours via the A1 motorway.
- From Milan Linate Airport, the drive is slightly shorter, taking around 2 hours.
- From Milan Bergamo Airport, the drive takes 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic.
Car Rental Costs
- Rental car prices start from €30 per day, depending on the car type and rental company.
- Additional costs include fuel (€30–€50) and tolls (€20–€25) along the A1 motorway.
Best Option for Traveling from Milan Airport to Bologna
The best travel option depends on individual preferences and priorities.
- For speed and efficiency: The train is the fastest way to reach Bologna, taking only 1 hour from Milan Centrale.
- For comfort and convenience: A private transfer or taxi offers a direct, hassle-free journey, ideal for travelers with luggage or those arriving at odd hours.
- For budget-conscious travelers: Long-distance buses provide the most affordable option, though they take longer than trains or private transfers.
- For flexibility and exploration: Renting a car allows travelers to explore Italy at their own pace and visit stops along the way.
Regardless of the chosen method, traveling from Milan Airport to Bologna is straightforward, with multiple options catering to different needs.
