Orio al Serio International Airport (BGY)

Orio al Serio International Airport (BGY), also known as Milan Bergamo Airport or Il Caravaggio International Airport, is Italy's third-busiest international hub and a primary center for low-cost aviation in Southern Europe. Located in Orio al Serio, approximately 45 kilometers northeast of Milan, the airport serves as a critical gateway for millions of passengers annually, connecting to over 100 destinations across Europe and North Africa. The airport features a single, modern terminal building organized across three levels, designed to handle high-density traffic with efficiency. The terminal is strategically divided into Schengen and non-Schengen zones, with the former located on the first floor and the latter on the second, ensuring clear separation and streamlined processing for different types of international flights. The terminal interior is well-equipped with a diverse range of facilities designed to enhance the passenger experience. Travelers can choose from over 30 retail stores featuring top international brands and approximately 20 eateries that serve everything from quick snacks to authentic Italian cuisine. Directly opposite the terminal, connected by a convenient underpass, is the Oriocenter, one of Europe's largest shopping malls, providing additional options for those with longer waits. Inside the terminal, amenities include high-speed Wi-Fi, numerous charging stations, and premium lounges such as the HelloSky Milan Bergamo Lounge, which offers showers and dedicated rest zones for a more comfortable stay. Operational procedures at BGY are optimized for the quick turnarounds characteristic of low-cost carriers like Ryanair and Wizz Air. The terminal features 14 gates, with a mix of jet bridge positions and remote stands accessible via bus transfer. Security screening is efficient, though during peak holiday periods, queues can be significant, making the available Fast Track service a popular option for many travelers. For international departures, it is recommended to arrive at least two to three hours before flight time to account for the thorough security and passport control protocols. The airport also provides comprehensive services for passengers with reduced mobility and a 24-hour medical center, ensuring a safe and accessible environment for all visitors. Ground transportation from Milan Bergamo Airport is exceptionally well-developed, with frequent bus links providing the most common and economical connection to Milan Centrale Station. Several companies, including Terravision and Orio Shuttle, operate services every 20 to 30 minutes, with a journey time of approximately one hour depending on traffic. Taxis are also readily available outside the arrivals area, offering a more direct but costlier transit to the city. While there is currently no direct rail link at the airport, a new railway station is under construction and scheduled to open in 2026. Until then, passengers can take a short local bus ride to the nearby Bergamo Train Station for onward rail travel across northern Italy.