Stuck at Milan Malpensa Airport with time on your hands? Whether you’re facing a brief stopover or a longer wait, Italy’s lively northern hub has plenty to offer. Discover eight things to do on a layover at Milan Malpensa Airport—from enjoying a hearty meal or quick snack to unwinding in a nearby hotel or stepping out to explore local sights. Updated for 2025, we’ve confirmed the latest dining, shopping, and lodging options to ensure you’re in the know. Read on and turn your layover into a seamless, enjoyable break!
1. Enjoy a meal
If you like Italian food (who doesn’t?), Malpensa has some great options that go beyond the usual airport fare. Terminal 1 is home to several spots that serve fresh Italian specialties — perfect for easing into that “I’m in Italy” feeling even on a short layover. For something quick, try Panella, a historic Roman bakery known for excellent pastries, breads, and light bites. If you prefer a sit-down meal, Obicà Mozzarella Bar offers fresh mozzarella dishes, pasta, and salads in a modern setting. Michelangelo Restaurant & Wine Bar is another popular choice with classic Italian plates and a solid wine selection. And if a sweet treat sounds tempting, Grom serves high-quality Italian gelato with seasonal flavors. You’ll still find international chains like McDonald’s and Wagamama, but the Italian food hall options are the highlight here. [ read more ]
2. Relax in a lounge
A long layover is the perfect chance to check out an airport lounge! Several Club SEA lounges at MXP allow any traveller to pay for entry regardless of airline or class. Lounges typically offer food, drinks, Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and sometimes shower facilities — ideal for unwinding. [ read more ]
3. Shop
As the gateway to Italy’s design capital, Malpensa leans into premium shopping with a curated mix of Italian craftsmanship and high-end brands. Terminal 1 features elegant boutiques such as Furla, known for leather goods, and Bric’s, the iconic Italian luggage brand born in nearby Como. Boggi Milano and Camicissima offer refined menswear with a distinctly Milanese style, while Intimissimi showcases Italian lingerie and loungewear. The duty-free area also highlights Italian specialties — from regional wines and grappas to gourmet chocolates, olive oils, and cheeses — making it easy to bring home a taste of Italy. Whether you’re browsing luxury accessories or picking up beautifully packaged Italian food gifts, the shopping here feels distinctly Milanese and a step above the average airport experience.
4. Go sightseeing
Can’t stand another minute in an airport? Adventurous travellers can head into Milan for some worthy sightseeing, shopping, and dining.
The Malpensa Express train connects both terminals to Milano Centrale and Milano Cadorna in the city center in roughly 40-60 minutes one way — perfect for reaching major attractions like the Duomo di Milano or Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II if your layover is long enough. Taxis and buses are available, but they must contend with traffic.
- In the city centre, ride the Metro or walk over to the iconic Duomo di Milano, the 3rd largest in the world, which took six centuries to build! Admire from below or visit the roof for a unique view.
- Pop into the fancy mall that is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele.
- Stroll the Botanical Garden and alleyways in the nearby Brera neighbourhood.
The Castello Visconti di San Vito is a quieter cultural alternative to heading into Milan if you have a few hours to spare. This historic castle in nearby Somma Lombardo offers guided tours of its furnished rooms, artwork, and courtyards. It’s not far from Malpensa, but you’ll need a taxi or local transport to get there.
If you’d prefer to stay close to the airport, the Volandia Flight Museum is one of the most interesting things to do on a layover at Malpensa. Located just outside Terminal 1, this large aviation museum features historic aircraft, helicopters, space exhibits, simulations, and themed pavilions — making it a fun stop for adults and kids alike. It’s easy to reach and offers plenty to explore if you have a few spare hours.
Allow plenty of time to return to the airport and clear security! Visit Tripadvisor for more things to do in Milan.
5. Plane Spotting
Aviation fans can enjoy some solid plane-spotting opportunities at Malpensa. Terminal 1 has large glass walls with clear views of the apron and active runways, making it easy to watch takeoffs, landings, and ground operations while you wait. It’s a relaxing way to pass time — and great for photography if you like capturing aircraft in action.
6. Pamper Yourself
If you want to freshen up before your next flight, several lounges at Malpensa offer shower facilities as part of their amenities. Lounges such as Monteverdi, Pergolesi, and some of the Club SEA lounges in Terminal 1 have showers available with lounge entry (sometimes for a small additional fee) so you can clean up between flights. Some airline lounges such as the Emirates Lounge also include showers for eligible passengers. [ read more ]
7. WiFi
Wi-Fi at Malpensa Airport is free and unlimited (though you’ll need to register). It’s handy for catching up on work, streaming, or planning your layover escape.
8. Sleep
Sleeping at Malpensa airport is doable, though comfort varies depending on where you land. Terminal 1 has plenty of floor space and metal benches, but it is busier overnight, thanks to late-night departures. Home to budget airlines, Terminal 2 has its fair share of overnight campers, and the terminal tends to be a bit quieter. Many reports highlight the Arrivals Level, the Gran Cafe, and the Floor 3 food court as the comfiest places to spend the night. [ read more ]
Fans of traditional hotel rooms have plenty of options here. The Sheraton Milan Malpensa is located in T1, with day rooms available. An interesting and practical option at Malpensa is the Zzzleepandgo Sleep Pods in Terminal 1. These smart, sound-insulated pods are available by the hour and include a bed, adjustable lighting, power outlets, Wi-Fi, and automated check-in via app — a convenient way to get real rest during a long layover. They’re also a fun experience if you’ve never tried a sleep pod before. Otherwise, hop on the shuttles (some are free) to 3 more hotels at or near the airport. [ read more ]
updated December 11, 2025
These are just a few things to do on a layover at Malpensa Airport. Visit our Milan Malpensa Airport Guide for more information about more services and facilities available, luggage storage, transportation to the city and nearby airport hotels, and much more.