Il Caravaggio International Airport

Overview

Il Caravaggio International Airport, commonly known as Milan Bergamo Airport or Orio al Serio Airport (IATA: BGY), is one of the three major airports serving the Milan metropolitan area in northern Italy. Located in the town of Orio al Serio, about 5 kilometres southeast of Bergamo and 45 kilometres northeast of Milan, it functions primarily as a hub for low-cost carriers and charter flights. The airport is named after the Baroque painter Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, who was born near Bergamo. As an international airport, it handles a significant volume of passenger traffic, particularly for leisure and budget travel within Europe and the Mediterranean. The airport's single terminal offers a straightforward layout, with check-in and arrivals on the ground floor and departures on the first floor.

Amenities

The airport provides a range of on‑site services and facilities designed to accommodate passengers with various needs. Confirmed amenities include baggage storage, allowing travellers to securely store luggage for a fee. Free Wi‑Fi is available throughout the terminal, enabling passengers to stay connected while waiting. For those with reduced mobility, the airport is equipped with wheelchair‑accessible features including a car park, entrance, seating, and toilets – ensuring accessible travel. Additional family‑friendly amenities include changing tables in the restrooms. Public toilets are available in both landside and airside areas. The airport has a paid parking lot, with both short‑term and long‑term options located within walking distance of the terminal.

Hours

The airport is not open 24 hours a day; it operates during specific hours, typically closing overnight. Peak passenger traffic occurs at 8 pm and 9 pm, coinciding with the departure banks of many low‑cost carriers. Travellers should plan their arrival accordingly, as some services may be limited outside these busy periods. The terminal building opens approximately two hours before the first scheduled flight and closes after the last arrival. It is advisable to check the airport’s official website for exact daily operating times, as they can vary seasonally.

Contact Information

• Official Website: https://www.milanbergamoairport.it/
• Phone: +39 800 915 500 (toll‑free within Italy)

For flight information, lost and found, or general enquiries, passengers can visit the website or call the contact centre. The airport’s social media channels also provide real‑time updates.

Getting to the Airport

The airport is well connected by road and public transport. It lies near the A4 motorway (Milan–Venice) and the A36 motorway, making it accessible by car. Bergamo’s main railway station (Bergamo Stazione) is about 5 kilometres away; bus services (ATB and national coaches) link the station to the airport every 15–30 minutes. Direct shuttle buses also run from Milan’s central railway station (Milano Centrale) and from the city of Brescia. Taxis and ride‑sharing services are available outside the arrivals area.

Parking

The airport offers several paid parking options: a short‑term car park directly in front of the terminal (P1), long‑term lots (P2, P3, P4) a few minutes’ walk away, and a premium covered car park (P5). Prices vary by duration and distance. Electric vehicle charging stations are available in some parking areas.

Airlines and Destinations

Il Caravaggio International Airport is a major base for Ryanair and also serves other budget carriers such as Wizz Air, Jet2, and Volotea. Destinations cover most European countries, North Africa, and the Middle East, including London, Paris, Barcelona, Berlin, Warsaw, Marrakesh, and Tel Aviv. Seasonal flights to Greek islands, Spanish coastal resorts, and ski destinations are also offered.

Security and Customs

The security checkpoint is located on the first floor of the terminal. Standard EU carry‑on restrictions apply. Passengers are advised to arrive at least two hours before a short‑haul flight and three hours for long‑haul or non‑Schengen flights. Customs procedures follow EU regulations; for non‑EU arrivals, duty‑free allowances apply.

Services for Travellers

Beyond the confirmed amenities, the airport also features a pharmacy, a duty‑free shop, a few cafés and restaurants (including a McDonald’s), and a small selection of retail stores. Currency exchange and ATMs are available in the arrivals hall. The baggage storage office is located near the check‑in area and charges by the hour/day. Lost and found is managed by the airport security office (ask at the information desk).

Nearby Accommodation

Several hotels are located within a few kilometres of the airport, including the BGY Airport Hotel (connected by a footbridge) and budget options in Orio al Serio and Bergamo. Many offer free shuttle services.

Tips

• Peak hours are 8 pm–9 pm; allow extra time for queueing.
• Free Wi‑Fi requires registration (email or social login).
• The airport closes overnight; plan transport accordingly for late arrivals.
• For real‑time flight status and parking booking, use the official website or mobile app.