by Milan, the fashion capital of the world, is always on my travel bucket list, and summer is the perfect time to visit this iconic city. As June rolls around, the excitement of summer vacations grows, and the urge to explore Milan intensifies. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re returning for another cultural, culinary, or shopping adventure, one thing is certain: planning your flight and choosing the right departure time can make all the difference in the quality of your trip.
Why Milan in Late June?
Before diving into the nitty-gritty of choosing flights, let’s take a moment to reflect on why Milan in late June is a great idea. The weather during this time is generally warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 28°C (82°F), making it ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions like the beautiful Sforza Castle gardens or the canals of Navigli. Plus, Milan is buzzing with events, from fashion shows to concerts, and outdoor dining is a true delight as many restaurants offer al fresco options.
But, to ensure that your Milan experience is as smooth as possible, getting the right flight and choosing the best time to depart is essential.
1. Deciding on the Right Airport
Milan is served by three main airports, and understanding which one to fly into is key to planning your trip. The most common options are:
- Malpensa Airport (MXP): Located around 50 km from the city center, this is Milan’s largest and busiest airport, hosting most international flights. Malpensa is well connected to the city via train, bus, and taxis, making it a convenient choice.
- Linate Airport (LIN): This smaller airport is only 7 km from the city center, offering a quicker and more convenient option for flights within Europe. It’s perfect if you’re traveling on a shorter flight or if you’re heading to Milan from another Italian city.
- Orio al Serio International Airport (BGY): Known as Bergamo Airport, it’s located about 50 km from Milan. Although farther from the city center, it serves many low-cost carriers, making it an excellent option if you’re looking for budget-friendly flights.
Choosing the right airport will depend on your flight’s departure location, budget, and how much time you’re willing to spend traveling to and from the airport. If you’re flying in from a distant location, chances are you’ll be landing at Malpensa. But if you’re coming from within Europe, Linate might be your go-to option for convenience.
2. Non-Stop vs. Connecting Flights
In today’s age, direct flights have become the gold standard. If you’re able to find a direct flight to Milan, especially from a major international hub, you’re in luck. Non-stop flights tend to be more expensive, but they save you time and eliminate the stress of tight connections, missed flights, and long layovers.
That said, connecting flights can still be an option worth considering if you’re flexible with your time. Connecting flights are often more affordable, and you can use the layover to explore a new city—if the connection time is long enough. For example, if you’re flying from the U.S., you might connect through cities like Frankfurt, Amsterdam, or Paris, giving you the chance to stretch your legs and break up the journey.
When selecting a connecting flight, keep in mind the layover duration. A layover of at least 1.5 to 2 hours is ideal for international connections, while a 30-minute to 1-hour layover may suffice for domestic or short-haul flights. Be sure to check if your connection requires a change of terminals or customs clearance, as these can eat up valuable time.
3. Choosing the Right Time of Day to Depart
The time of day you choose to depart can significantly affect the experience of your journey. June is a popular travel month, so whether you’re flying out of a major airport or a regional one, understanding how departure times impact your flight can make or break the day.
Early Morning Flights
I’ve always been an advocate for early morning flights, especially when traveling to Europe. While waking up early can be tough, it’s worth it. Early morning departures, typically between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m., offer several advantages:
- Less Crowded Airports: The airport is generally less crowded in the early hours, so you’ll breeze through check-in, security, and immigration, minimizing the chances of delays or long lines.
- On-Time Departures: Morning flights tend to be more reliable when it comes to departing on time. The first flights of the day rarely face delays, as the aircraft has usually arrived the night before and is ready for a smooth takeoff.
- Daylight Arrival in Milan: Flying early ensures you’ll arrive in Milan in the late morning or early afternoon, giving you plenty of daylight hours to start exploring. If you’re traveling from a time zone further east or west, arriving with energy to spare is a great advantage.
However, one potential downside of early morning flights is the early wake-up call. If you’re coming from another continent, the time difference might make it harder to adjust.
Midday Flights
Flights around midday, typically between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., are another popular option, and they offer a balanced approach for many travelers. Although they are not as empty as early morning flights, you’ll still avoid peak evening rush-hour crowds. This time of day is perfect if you need to travel with a bit more flexibility in the morning but want to avoid the crowded evening flights.
The downside is that midday flights sometimes face delays due to the buildup of air traffic as the day progresses. If you have a longer layover, you might want to consider an early flight instead.
Evening Flights
Evening flights, typically departing after 6 p.m., can be an attractive option for travelers looking to maximize their time in their departure city. These flights often come at a lower price point compared to earlier or midday departures, which can make them an appealing choice for those on a budget. Additionally, evening departures allow you to make the most of your day, whether it’s attending meetings, exploring the city, or simply relaxing before heading to the airport. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Evening flights are more likely to experience delays due to increased air traffic as the day progresses. Many airports see heightened congestion in the late afternoon and evening, which can push back flight times. Moreover, if your flight is delayed significantly or if you arrive too late, you risk reaching Milan after midnight. This could mean higher transportation costs for taxis or rideshares into the city, as public transport options may no longer be available.
4. Booking Your Flight Well in Advance
June is a peak travel season for Milan, so I always recommend booking flights at least 6–8 weeks in advance. Airlines often start releasing their summer schedules in early spring, and securing a flight early can help you lock in better prices and more favorable times.
Additionally, booking in advance gives you the flexibility to choose specific seats, take advantage of promotions, and select premium services like priority boarding or extra legroom if needed. If you’re traveling with a family or group, booking early can ensure that you get seats together.
5. Budgeting for Your Flight
Budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet serve Milan’s smaller airports, making it easier to find affordable flight options. However, when booking with low-cost carriers, be mindful of additional fees for checked baggage, seat selection, and even onboard food. These costs can quickly add up and may negate the savings you think you’re getting.
On the other hand, major airlines like Lufthansa, Air France, or British Airways offer direct flights, and while they may come at a higher price, they often include additional perks like meal service, more generous baggage allowances, and frequent flyer points. For those willing to splurge a bit, the added comfort is worth considering.
6. Considering Travel Insurance
Lastly, summer travel can be unpredictable. June is not only busy in Milan but also across Europe, and delays, cancellations, and disruptions are always possible. Travel insurance can provide peace of mind in the event of flight delays or cancellations, ensuring you’re not left scrambling for accommodations or struggling to change your plans. Some travel credit cards also offer flight delay protection, so it’s worth looking into those options before booking your flight.
When planning a trip to Milan, selecting the right flight and departure time can significantly enhance your experience. Whether you opt for an early morning non-stop flight, a convenient midday departure, or an affordable budget carrier, the key is to plan ahead, be flexible, and select a time that suits your preferences and travel needs. Milan will always be there with its charming streets, beautiful sights, and world-class shopping, so why not make your journey there as enjoyable as the destination itself?
Safe travels, and I hope your trip to Milan is nothing short of spectacular!
