The Italy Blog Diaries…

Your Ultimate Guide to Flying to Italy: Best Airports, Deals, and Travel Tips

Italy, a country that’s both steeped in rich history and bursting with contemporary life, is a destination many dream of visiting. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the fashion capital of Milan, Italy offers a diverse palette of experiences. When planning a trip to this beautiful country, choosing the best airport to fly into can vastly enhance your journey. For all things related to traversing Italy, including figuring out the best airport to fly to in Italy, you can find a wealth of resources and tips here.

Italy’s Prime Gateway: The Best City in Italy to Fly Into

While Italy boasts several international airports, determining the best city in Italy to fly into depends largely on your itinerary. If your tour is centered around northern Italy, Milan’s Malpensa Airport (MXP) offers an immediate dive into the chic and bustling life of Italy’s fashion capital. However, if iconic landmarks, historical sites, and a wave of cultural heritage call your name, then flying into Leonardo da Vinci International Airport in Rome (FCO) might be your best bet. This airport gives you a fantastic starting point to explore Rome’s ancient ruins, Vatican City, and beyond. 

Leonardo da Vinci International, or Fiumicino Airport, as it’s locally known, stands out as the largest airport in Italy and is well-equipped to handle international flights from all over the globe. Its efficient transportation links to Rome’s city center make it seamless for visitors to transition from air to exploring the city’s wonders in no time. Meanwhile, Milan’s Malpensa caters to travelers with an array of services and connects easily to Milan’s central areas as well as to picturesque locations like Lake Como or the Alps, appealing to those with a love for fashion, design, and nature.

The Cheapest Airports to Fly Into in Italy

Budget is a crucial aspect of travel, and finding the cheapest airports to fly into in Italy can make a significant difference in how you allocate resources for your journey. Generally, some of the more affordable entry points into Italy include airports in Milan (Malpensa MXP and Linate LIN), Bergamo’s Orio al Serio Airport (BGY), and Rome Ciampino Airport (CIA). These airports serve a wide array of low-cost carriers that connect Italy with Europe and beyond, making them attractive options for budget-conscious travelers.

Of these, Bergamo’s Orio al Serio Airport stands out for those looking to explore northern Italy without breaking the bank. Host to many low-cost airlines, it offers an economical gateway to cities like Milan, Verona, and even Venice if you’re up for a bit of travel upon landing. Rome Ciampino, the smaller of Rome’s airports, caters to the budget flyer too, with numerous affordable flights and a cozy atmosphere compared to the bustling Fiumicino. Opting for these airports can leave you with more in your pocket for experiencing Italy’s captivating charm, exquisite cuisine, and vibrant local cultures.

FAQ: Planning Your Italian Journey

What airport should you fly into Italy?

The ideal airport to land in Italy largely depends on your intended destination and itinerary. For a central location with rich historical offerings, Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO) is ideal. If northern Italy and fashion are more your focus, Milan’s Malpensa Airport (MXP) is a great choice.

What is the cheapest airport in Italy to fly into?

Bergamo’s Orio al Serio Airport (BGY), near Milan, and Rome Ciampino Airport (CIA) often have the cheapest flight options, serving as hubs for several low-cost European carriers.

What is the most comfortable airline to fly to Italy?

Comfort levels can vary based on personal preference, but ITA Airways, the national airline of Italy, is known for its high levels of service and comfort on international flights. Other reputable airlines flying to Italy include Emirates, British Airways, and Lufthansa.

What month is the cheapest to fly to Italy?

The cheapest months to fly to Italy are usually during the shoulder seasons — late autumn (November) and early spring (March). During these times, travelers can find lower airfare prices due to reduced tourist demand.

Is it cheaper to fly to Milan or Rome?

Generally, it tends to be cheaper to fly into Milan, particularly because it serves as a base for several low-cost carriers. However, prices can vary significantly based on the time of year and how far in advance you book.

Do flights to Italy get cheaper closer to the date?

Flights to Italy can sometimes drop in price closer to the departure date if the flight has not been fully booked. However, this is risky and not always the case, especially during peak tourist seasons. It’s often safer to book well in advance.

What day of the week is cheaper to fly to Italy?

Flying mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) is typically the cheapest option for flights to Italy due to lower demand compared to weekends.

What is the main airline of Italy?

The main airline of Italy is ITA Airways, which is the national carrier. It offers a wide range of domestic and international flights, connecting Italy with the rest of the world. 

Remember, your journey through Italy begins the moment you land, so choose the gateway that aligns best with your adventure ahead.

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