Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport (BGY), often called “Milan-Bergamo,” might not be as famous as Malpensa or Linate, but if you’re flying with Ryanair, Wizz Air, or other low-cost carriers, chances are this is where you’ll land.
Located in the charming city of Bergamo, this is Italy’s third busiest airport and a gateway to Milan for budget travelers.
It is also one of the three airports serving Milan. The other two are Milan Malpensa Airport and Milan Linate Airport.
The airport is compact, with a single terminal that runs 24 hours. The boarding area closes after the last flight, usually around 1:00 am, and reopens at 4:00 am.
Despite its size, getting from Bergamo Airport to the heart of Milan is surprisingly straightforward, with several transport options to suit different budgets and travel styles.
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How to Get from Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport to Milan City Center
1. Bus, Fast, Comfortable, and Direct
For most travelers, the easiest and quickest way to Milan is by bus. Multiple companies run direct services from Bergamo Airport to Milano Centrale and other key locations.
Buses leave straight from the arrivals area (platforms 2–5, well signposted), right outside the terminal, and generally take 45–60 minutes. Keep in mind that buses can get crowded during peak hours.
Here are the main operators:
Orio Shuttle
This is the official shuttle run by Autoservizi Locatelli Srl and Airpullman. It not only takes you to Milano Centrale but also to Rho exhibition center and Malpensa Airport.
- Duration: ~50 minutes
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes, from 00:50 to 23:50
- Tickets: €12 one way (€6 for children 2–12), online promo €10
- Web Orio Shuttle
Autostradale Bus Transfer
Another solid choice for a direct trip to Milano Centrale.
- Duration: 50–60 minutes
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes, from 04:55 to 00:55
- Tickets: €12 one way (€7–online deals), return €14, children 2–12 €5
- Web Autostradale
Terravision
A budget-friendly option, perfect if you’re carrying a small backpack.
- Duration: ~50 minutes
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes, from 00:10 to 23:40
- Tickets: €10 one way, €18 return, occasional €5.99 deals
- Payment: Visa, Mastercard, Google Pay, Apple Pay, Revolut
- Web Terravision
Caronte
Reliable with frequent departures.
- Duration: ~60 minutes
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes, first bus at 04:05, last at 01:35
- Tickets: €12 one way, €20 return, children 2–12 €5
- Web Caronte
Other options
- Flixbus: From €10.99 one way (€20.99 return), ~50 minutes, every 30 minutes from 04:05–23:35
- Flibco: 50-minute journey, €9.50 one way (€17.10 return), 30-minute frequency
In my experience, buses are stress-free. They are well organized and a confortable option to get to Milan city centre.
2. Train, The Budget-Friendly Option (But Less Convenient with Luggage)
If you’re looking to save a few euros, taking the train from Bergamo to Milan is a solid option—but be prepared for a bit of extra legwork. The airport doesn’t have its own train station, so your journey starts with a short city bus ride to Bergamo railway station.
This route is economical, but not ideal if you’re lugging big suitcases, because the buses don’t have much space for large bags.
Here’s the step-by-step:
- Catch the ATB Line 1 bus from the designated stops outside the terminal. The buses run every 15–20 minutes and take about 15 minutes to reach the station.
- Ticket cost: €3.00 (valid for 90 minutes). You can buy tickets at machines, kiosks, or via the ATB app. https://www.trenitalia.com/en.html
- Train from Bergamo to Milan: Trains run roughly every 30 minutes. Travel time is 50–60 minutes.
- Ticket prices: €6.10 for second class, €9.10 for first class.
It’s a perfectly fine choice if you travel light, enjoy trains, and don’t mind the short bus transfer. Personally, I find it a bit slow compared to the direct buses, but it’s great if you want to stretch your travel budget.
3. Taxi and Private Hire, Quick and Direct, But Expensive
If convenience is your top priority, a taxi or private car is unbeatable. Bergamo Airport sits about 50 km from central Milan, and the ride usually takes 45–60 minutes, longer during rush hour, up to 70–80 minutes.
Official taxis wait right outside arrivals at Gate 1. This is the fastest way into the city without worrying about schedules.
- Travel time: ~50 minutes
- Fixed fare: €128 from the airport to anywhere in Milan, all-inclusive (tolls, surcharges, night fees, everything).
- Tip: During peak hours, queues can form, so booking in advance is a smart move.
Uber and other private hires operate too, but without official pickup points or fixed rates. I’ve noticed prices typically range from €120–160, and during busy times they can spike above €200, which makes taxis a safer bet if you want predictable costs.
4. Car Rental – Freedom to Explore
If you’re planning a longer stay or want to explore beyond Milan, renting a car can be a good idea. The rental desks are conveniently located in the arrivals hall, but here’s my advice from experience:
- Book in advance, especially during high season—availability can get tight.
- Prices: Expect around €40/day for basic models, but in peak periods rates can rise above €70/day.
- Tip: A standard rental typically ranges €30–45/day; upgrades, bigger cars, or full insurance can easily push it to €50–80/day.
Having your own car gives you freedom to explore Lombardy at your own pace, but remember: Milan traffic can be intense, and parking in the city center is not cheap.
5. Car Sharing, A Smart, Eco-Friendly Alternative
If you’re looking for flexibility without paying taxi prices, E-VAI is the only official car-sharing service directly at Bergamo Airport. It’s perfect if you travel light and enjoy a bit of independence.
- Pickup location: P3 Express parking area, right at the airport.
- Pricing: €9 for the first hour + €0.25/km.
- Typical cost to Milan: €21–24 if you make it in under an hour.
- Tip: If traffic slows you down and the trip takes more than an hour, the price usually climbs to €30–32.
6. Private Transfer, Comfort and Convenience, at a Price
If you’re looking for stress-free travel, especially after a long flight, a private transfer is the way to go. It’s more expensive, but it delivers door-to-door service and peace of mind.
Travel time: Around 50 minutes, depending on traffic
Private transfers are ideal if you’re traveling with family or a group, or if you just want a smooth, hassle-free start to your trip in Milan. You won’t have to worry about buses, luggage, or navigation, someone will take you straight to your hotel.
Check prices here: Private transfers from Bergamo Airport