The closest town to Milan’s busy Malpensa Airport, Ferno is a convenient place to regroup before or after a long flight. Its compact center offers a smattering of quiet B&Bs and casual eateries ideal for harried travelers, plus a trio of handsome historic churches to scratch that cultural itch. Jaunts to Milan and Maggiore are among the best things to do in Ferno, which marks the halfway point between the cosmopolitan city and the alpine lake.
Ferno is more a strategic base for travelers flying through Milan Malpensa Airport than a destination in its own right. The ebb and flow of visitors matches the amount of tourist traffic through the important nearby air traffic hub, increasing from spring through fall and decreasing in winter. The town does hold a smattering of cultural and culinary festivals during the year, so check local posters to see if an event is scheduled during your stay.
Fast, direct public transit connecting Ferno and the Milan Malpensa Airport is one of the main reasons that travelers often stay overnight in this quiet town. Trenord trains run frequently from early morning to late into the night, taking just 10 minutes to make the trip. Many local B&Bs also offer shuttle service to and from the airport for guests, either included in the room rate or for an extra fee.
Art and architecture enthusiasts can visit Ferno’s three historic churches. The Church of the Saints Martino Vescovo and Antonio Abate, and nearby Church of San Martino sit in the heart of the Old Town and date back to the end of the 13th century. Just outside town, the Church of Santa Maria Assunta in Campagna holds beautifully rendered frescoes from the 14th century that retain much of their original detail and color.
