Embarking on a journey from the fashion capital of Milan to the Bavarian beauty of Munich offers travellers a chance to experience two of Europe’s most vibrant cities. This route, spanning approximately 350 kilometres, presents various transport options to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re a business traveller seeking efficiency or a leisurely explorer looking to soak in the scenic beauty of the Alps, there’s a perfect way for you to make this cross-country trek.
Transport options: milan to munich
When planning your trip from Milan to Munich, you’ll find several transportation methods at your disposal. Each option comes with its own set of advantages, catering to different travel styles and preferences. From the comfort of high-speed trains to the flexibility of driving, or the convenience of flying, you can choose the mode that best fits your itinerary and budget.
Understanding the pros and cons of each transport option is crucial for making an informed decision. Factors such as travel time, cost, comfort, and the opportunity to enjoy scenic views along the way all play a role in determining the best choice for your journey. Let’s explore these options in detail to help you plan the perfect trip from Italy to Germany.
High-speed rail journey via eurocity and deutsche bahn
One of the most popular and comfortable ways to travel from Milan to Munich is by train. The rail journey offers a blend of speed, comfort, and scenic views that many travellers find appealing. Eurocity and Deutsche Bahn operate high-speed trains on this route, providing a smooth and efficient travel experience.
The train journey typically takes between 7 to 9 hours, depending on the specific route and any connections. While this might seem longer than flying, it’s worth noting that train travel often brings you directly from city centre to city centre, eliminating the need for airport transfers and long check-in processes.
Milano centrale to verona porta nuova route
Your rail journey begins at Milano Centrale, one of Italy’s largest and most impressive railway stations. The first leg of the trip takes you to Verona Porta Nuova, a journey of about 1.5 hours. This segment allows you to enjoy the picturesque Italian countryside, with its rolling hills and charming villages dotting the landscape.
Verona, famous as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet , serves as a key connection point for trains heading north towards Austria and Germany. The brief stop here offers a chance to stretch your legs and perhaps grab a quick espresso before continuing your journey.
Brenner pass crossing: scenic alpine views
After Verona, the train begins its ascent into the Alps, crossing the iconic Brenner Pass. This part of the journey is often considered the most scenic, as you wind through the heart of the Alps, witnessing breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and quaint mountain villages.
The Brenner Pass, straddling the border between Italy and Austria, has been a crucial Alpine crossing for centuries. Today, it offers train passengers a unique opportunity to experience the dramatic change in landscape as you transition from the Mediterranean climate of Italy to the Alpine environment of Austria.
München hauptbahnhof arrival and connection options
Your train journey culminates at München Hauptbahnhof, Munich’s central railway station. Located in the heart of the city, it provides easy access to Munich’s extensive public transport network, including buses, trams, and the U-Bahn (subway).
Upon arrival, you’ll find yourself just steps away from many of Munich’s key attractions. The Marienplatz , Munich’s central square and home to the famous Glockenspiel, is just a short walk or quick subway ride away. This central location makes it convenient to start exploring the city immediately upon arrival.
Trenitalia and ÖBB nightjet services
For those who prefer to maximise their daytime hours for sightseeing, the Trenitalia and ÖBB Nightjet services offer an excellent alternative. These overnight trains allow you to board in Milan in the evening and wake up in Munich the next morning, effectively saving a day of travel time.
Nightjet services provide various accommodation options, from standard seats to private sleeper cabins. While slightly more expensive than daytime trains, they offer the advantage of combining transportation and accommodation costs, potentially saving money on a hotel night.
Travelling by night train not only saves time but also adds a touch of romance and adventure to your journey, harking back to the golden age of rail travel.
Flying from milan malpensa to munich international airport
For travellers prioritising speed, flying from Milan to Munich is the quickest option. The flight time is approximately 1 hour, making it ideal for those on tight schedules or business travellers needing to maximise their time in either city.
However, it’s important to factor in the time needed for airport transfers, security checks, and potential delays. When all these elements are considered, the door-to-door travel time can extend to 3-4 hours or more, depending on your specific locations in Milan and Munich.
Airlines operating direct flights: lufthansa and air dolomiti
Lufthansa, Germany’s flag carrier, and its subsidiary Air Dolomiti operate regular direct flights between Milan Malpensa and Munich International Airport. These airlines typically offer multiple daily flights, providing flexibility in terms of departure times.
When booking your flight, consider factors such as baggage allowance, in-flight services, and frequent flyer programs. Lufthansa, being a member of the Star Alliance, offers opportunities for earning and redeeming miles across a wide network of partner airlines.
Transit options from linate and bergamo airports
While Milan Malpensa is the primary airport for international flights, some travellers might find themselves departing from Milan’s other airports: Linate or Bergamo (also known as Orio al Serio). These airports typically require a connection, often through another major European hub, to reach Munich.
If you’re departing from Linate or Bergamo, ensure you have sufficient connection time, especially if you need to change terminals or airlines. It’s also worth comparing total travel times and costs against direct flights from Malpensa to determine the most efficient option.
Munich airport to city centre transport links
Upon arrival at Munich International Airport, you have several options for reaching the city centre. The S-Bahn (suburban train) lines S1 and S8 provide regular service to Munich’s central station, with a journey time of about 40 minutes. This is often the most cost-effective option for solo travellers or small groups.
Alternatively, the Lufthansa Express Bus offers a comfortable and direct connection to Munich’s main train station, operating every 15 minutes during peak hours. For those preferring more privacy or travelling in larger groups, taxis and private transfers are readily available, though at a higher cost.
Driving routes and road trip itineraries
For travellers seeking flexibility and the opportunity to explore at their own pace, driving from Milan to Munich can be an excellent option. The journey by car typically takes around 5-6 hours, depending on your route and any stops you make along the way.
Driving allows you to create a personalised itinerary, stopping at picturesque towns or scenic viewpoints that catch your eye. It’s particularly appealing for those who enjoy road trips and want to experience the diverse landscapes between these two iconic cities.
A8/E35 autostrada dei laghi to swiss A2 highway
The most direct driving route from Milan to Munich involves taking the A8/E35 Autostrada dei Laghi northward from Milan. This route takes you through the beautiful Lake Como region before crossing into Switzerland. Once in Switzerland, you’ll continue on the A2 highway, which offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps.
This route includes a mix of toll roads and free highways. Be prepared to pay tolls in both Italy and Switzerland, and ensure you have the appropriate currency or a compatible credit card. In Switzerland, you’ll need to purchase a vignette (toll sticker) for use on their motorways.
Scenic detour via lake como and st. moritz
For a more scenic drive, consider taking a detour through the Lake Como region and up to St. Moritz in Switzerland. This route adds a few hours to your journey but rewards you with breathtaking views of the Italian Lakes and the Swiss Alps.
Stopping in charming towns like Como or Bellagio along Lake Como, or taking in the glamorous atmosphere of St. Moritz, can turn your drive into a mini-vacation in itself. This route is particularly beautiful in both summer and winter, offering different but equally stunning landscapes.
Austrian route: innsbruck and bavarian alps
Another scenic option is to drive through Austria, passing through Innsbruck before entering Germany. This route takes you through the heart of the Alps, offering spectacular mountain views and the opportunity to visit charming Alpine towns.
Innsbruck, the capital of Austria’s Tyrol region, makes for an excellent stopping point. Known for its imperial and modern architecture, it offers a blend of cultural attractions and outdoor activities. As you continue into Germany, the route through the Bavarian Alps provides a picturesque introduction to the region.
Border crossing requirements and vignettes
When driving from Italy to Germany, you’ll be crossing through either Switzerland or Austria, both of which require special considerations:
- For Switzerland, you need to purchase a vignette (motorway tax sticker) before using their motorways. These can be bought at border crossings, petrol stations, or post offices.
- Austria also uses a vignette system for their motorways. Short-term vignettes are available for those just passing through.
- Ensure you have your passport, driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance documents readily available for potential border checks.
Remember to familiarize yourself with the traffic rules of each country you’ll be driving through, as they can vary significantly from what you’re used to in your home country.
Bus services: FlixBus and eurolines options
For budget-conscious travellers or those who enjoy overland travel, bus services offer an economical option for journeying from Milan to Munich. Companies like FlixBus and Eurolines operate regular routes between these cities, providing a cost-effective alternative to trains or planes.
Bus journeys typically take between 8 to 10 hours, depending on the specific route and any stops along the way. While this is longer than other transport options, buses often offer the lowest prices, making them attractive for travellers on a tight budget or those who don’t mind a longer journey time.
Most buses on this route are equipped with amenities such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating, allowing you to stay connected or relax during the journey. Some services also include stops at interesting locations along the way, giving you a chance to briefly explore other areas.
When considering bus travel, keep in mind:
- Book in advance for the best prices, as fares can increase closer to the departure date.
- Check the exact departure and arrival points, as some services might use stops outside the city centres.
- Consider overnight buses to save on accommodation costs and maximise your time in each city.
Multi-modal travel: combining train and plane journeys
For those seeking a balance between scenery, speed, and cost, combining different modes of transport can offer an interesting solution. A popular option is to take a train for part of the journey and fly for the remainder, allowing you to experience the best of both worlds.
For example, you might choose to take a train from Milan to Zurich or Innsbruck, enjoying the scenic rail journey through the Alps, and then catch a short flight to Munich. This approach can sometimes be more cost-effective than a direct flight and allows you to experience more of the journey.
When planning a multi-modal trip, consider the following:
- Check connection times carefully to ensure you have enough time to transfer between train stations and airports.
- Look for combo tickets that might offer discounts for booking train and plane journeys together.
- Consider baggage restrictions and how you’ll manage your luggage between different modes of transport.
- Use travel apps or websites that specialise in multi-modal journeys to find the best combinations and prices.
Ultimately, the best way to travel from Milan to Munich depends on your personal preferences, budget, and time constraints. Whether you choose the scenic route by train, the speed of flying, the flexibility of driving, or a combination of methods, each option offers a unique way to experience the journey between these two remarkable European cities.