Milan Suburban Rail Lines

S1 Suburban Rail: Connecting Saronno to Lodi Through Milan

The S1 line of Milan's suburban railway service (Servizio ferroviario suburbano di Milano) is a critical north-south commuter rail corridor that connects Saronno in the Province of Varese to Lodi in the southern part of the Lombardy region. Operated by Trenord, the S1 line spans over 55 kilometers and provides essential daily transit for thousands of commuters traveling across the greater Milan metropolitan area. The S1 line begins at Saronno, a key railway junction, and passes through major northern suburbs like Cesano Maderno and Seregno before reaching the Milan city core via the Passante Railway. In the city center, it stops at important underground stations including Milano Porta Garibaldi, Repubblica, Porta Venezia, Dateo, and Porta Vittoria. The line then continues southeast, exiting the city and terminating at Lodi, a historic town in southern Lombardy. The S1 provides direct, frequent service seven days a week, typically operating every 30 minutes, with increased frequency during peak hours. It is fully integrated with the Milan metropolitan fare system (STIBM), making it convenient for transfers to metro lines M1, M2, M3, and M5 at key interchange points such as Porta Garibaldi and Dateo. The S1 line is especially valuable for daily commuters working in central Milan and students attending universities near the Passante stops. Its reliable service, broad reach, and integration with Milan's broader transit network make it one of the most important and heavily used suburban rail lines in the region.

S2 Suburban Rail: Mariano Comense to Milano Rogoredo via the City Core

The S2 line of Milan's suburban rail network (Servizio ferroviario suburbano di Milano) provides an essential regional connection between the northern town of Mariano Comense in the Province of Como and Milano Rogoredo in the southeastern part of the city. Operated by Trenord, the S2 line spans approximately 54 kilometers and serves as a vital link between Milan's northern suburbs, the city center, and one of its key southern transport hubs. The line starts at Mariano Comense and travels through important northern towns such as Meda, Seveso, and Cesano Maderno before entering Milan via the underground Passante Railway. Within the city, it makes stops at major stations including Milano Bovisa, Milano Porta Garibaldi, Repubblica, Porta Venezia, Dateo, and Porta Vittoria. From there, the line continues to Milano Rogoredo, a major junction for high-speed, regional, and international trains. S2 trains run at regular 30-minute intervals, with increased service during weekday peak hours. The line is fully integrated into the STIBM fare system, making transfers to Milan Metro lines and other suburban rail routes seamless and cost-efficient. The S2 is widely used by commuters, students, and regional travelers needing access to downtown Milan and onward rail connections from Rogoredo. The line also intersects with metro lines M1, M2, and M3, enabling convenient cross-network travel. With its high ridership and strategic connectivity, the S2 is one of the most heavily trafficked lines in the suburban network, supporting both daily urban mobility and regional integration across Lombardy.

S3 Suburban Rail: A Direct Northern Link to Milano Cadorna

The S3 line of Milan's suburban rail network connects the northern city of Saronno in the Province of Varese directly to Milano Cadorna station, one of the city's key central transport hubs. Operated by Trenord, the S3 line runs entirely on the Ferrovienord network and covers a distance of approximately 21 kilometers, offering fast and reliable service for commuters traveling into the city from the northern suburbs. S3 services operate on the historical Milan–Saronno railway, one of the busiest commuter corridors in Lombardy. The line includes key suburban stops such as Caronno Pertusella, Cesate, Garbagnate Milanese, and Milano Affori, providing convenient access for residential communities along the route. Within Milan, the line terminates at Milano Cadorna, a major station that offers direct interchange with Metro lines M1 and M2, trams, and several urban bus routes. Trains on the S3 line typically run every 30 minutes throughout the day, with increased frequency during weekday peak periods. The line is integrated into the STIBM fare system, allowing for seamless ticketing across different modes of public transport. The S3 is especially important for workers, students, and daily commuters traveling to central Milan from Varese province. It is also used by passengers heading toward Malpensa Airport via connections at Saronno. Thanks to its efficiency, punctuality, and direct access to downtown Milan, the S3 remains a critical component of the regional rail network supporting the Milan metropolitan area.

S4 Suburban Rail: Camnago-Lentate to Milano Cadorna for Commuter Efficiency

The S4 line of Milan's suburban rail network provides a crucial commuter connection between Camnago-Lentate in the Province of Monza and Brianza and Milano Cadorna in the heart of the city. Operated by Trenord, the S4 line is part of the Ferrovienord system and plays a vital role in linking northern towns to Milan's public transport hub. Covering approximately 25 kilometers, the line serves residents in growing suburban areas along the Milan–Camnago railway. S4 services begin at Camnago-Lentate and stop at key stations including Lentate sul Seveso, Seveso, Cesano Maderno, Palazzolo Milanese, Bollate Centro, and Milano Affori before arriving at Milano Cadorna. The terminal station, Milano Cadorna, offers interchanges with Metro lines M1 and M2 as well as trams and buses, making it a key node in Milan's intermodal network. Trains on the S4 line typically run every 30 minutes, primarily during peak hours on weekdays. While not a full-day service line like some others in the network, the S4 remains a dependable option for morning and evening commuters. The entire line operates within the STIBM fare system, ensuring straightforward ticketing and transfers. The S4 line is particularly valued by workers and students commuting from Monza and Brianza province into central Milan. Though shorter in length than some suburban routes, its punctuality and direct access to Cadorna station make it a reliable and efficient part of Milan's broader commuter rail system.

S5 Suburban Rail: Linking Varese to Treviglio Across Lombardy

The S5 line of Milan's suburban rail network is one of the longest and most important cross-regional services, connecting the city of Varese in the northwest to Treviglio in the east. Operated by Trenord and part of the Servizio ferroviario suburbano di Milano, the S5 spans approximately 97 kilometers, serving multiple provinces including Varese, Milan, and Bergamo. The line begins at Varese and passes through key towns such as Gallarate, Busto Arsizio, and Rho before entering Milan via the Passante Railway. Within the city, it stops at major underground stations including Milano Certosa, Porta Garibaldi, Repubblica, Porta Venezia, Dateo, and Porta Vittoria. After exiting the Passante, it continues eastward through Pioltello and ends at Treviglio, a crucial rail hub in eastern Lombardy. The S5 operates with a frequency of every 30 minutes throughout most of the day, including weekends, and is fully integrated into the STIBM fare system. Its consistent service and extensive reach make it ideal for both daily commuters and regional travelers. This line provides vital connections to several Milan Metro lines and regional railway services. Interchanges at Milano Porta Garibaldi and Milano Bovisa offer access to M2, M3, and suburban rail lines, enhancing its role as a high-capacity corridor. With its long route, wide coverage, and integration into the Milan Passante Railway, the S5 line plays a central role in Lombardy's transport infrastructure, helping link cities, suburbs, and small towns across one of Italy's most economically active regions.

S6 Suburban Rail: From Novara to Treviglio Through the Heart of Milan

The S6 line of Milan's suburban rail network connects the city of Novara in the Piedmont region with Treviglio in eastern Lombardy, passing through the entire metropolitan area of Milan. Operated by Trenord, the S6 line spans approximately 100 kilometers and serves as one of the most extensive cross-regional commuter rail routes in northern Italy. Beginning in Novara, the S6 travels eastward through towns such as Magenta, Rho, and Milano Certosa before entering central Milan via the underground Passante Railway. Within the city, it stops at major Passante stations including Milano Porta Garibaldi, Repubblica, Porta Venezia, Dateo, and Porta Vittoria. It then continues east to Pioltello-Limito and terminates in Treviglio, a key interchange point in the Bergamo province. Trains on the S6 line operate with a 30-minute frequency throughout the day, providing reliable service for commuters, students, and regional travelers. The line is fully integrated into the STIBM fare system, allowing smooth transfers to Milan's metro, tram, and bus networks. The S6 is particularly important for connecting towns in Piedmont and western Lombardy to Milan's economic core. It intersects with several Milan Metro lines and other suburban rail services, offering high accessibility at key nodes like Milano Porta Garibaldi and Rho. Its wide coverage, cross-regional reach, and integration with the Milan Passante make it a critical part of Lombardy's transportation infrastructure and a popular choice for daily travel across multiple provinces.

S7 Suburban Rail: Linking Lecco and Milano Porta Garibaldi Across Brianza

The S7 line of Milan's suburban rail network connects the scenic lakeside city of Lecco with Milano Porta Garibaldi, passing through the densely populated and industrially significant area of Brianza. Operated by Trenord, the S7 is unique among suburban lines as it does not use the Passante Railway and instead approaches Milan from the north via Monza. The full line covers approximately 56 kilometers and offers a vital connection between the northern Lombard provinces and the economic core of Milan. Starting at Lecco, the line runs south through towns such as Calolziocorte, Olginate, Cernusco Lombardone, and Carnate-Usmate before reaching Monza, and finally terminating at Milano Porta Garibaldi. The route is particularly important for commuters traveling from the Lecco and Monza-Brianza areas into the city for work or study. Unlike other S-lines, the S7 runs primarily on single-track, non-electrified sections in the northern part of its route. Diesel multiple units (DMUs) are used to accommodate these infrastructure limitations. Trains typically operate on an hourly basis, with increased frequency during peak weekday hours. Although the S7 does not pass through the underground Passante, it still integrates into the STIBM fare system, allowing passengers to transfer easily to metro lines, trams, and buses within Milan. The line provides access to green, semi-rural areas and serves smaller towns not covered by other suburban lines. With its strategic role in connecting Lecco and Brianza to Milan without relying on the Passante corridor, the S7 offers a valuable alternative for regional mobility and supports broader connectivity in northern Lombardy.

S8 Suburban Rail: Fast and Frequent from Lecco to Milano Porta Garibaldi

The S8 line of Milan's suburban rail network provides a crucial high-frequency connection between Lecco and Milano Porta Garibaldi, serving a dense corridor in northern Lombardy. Operated by Trenord, the S8 runs on the electrified Lecco–Milan line and serves both commuters and regional travelers with frequent, reliable service. Starting at Lecco, a picturesque city on Lake Como, the line heads south through important towns including Calolziocorte, Olgiate Molgora, Carnate-Usmate, Arcore, Monza, and Sesto San Giovanni before arriving at Milano Porta Garibaldi. The entire route spans approximately 50 kilometers and is fully electrified, allowing the use of modern EMUs (electric multiple units) for efficient service. What sets the S8 apart is its high frequency. Trains generally run every 30 minutes throughout the day, seven days a week, making it a preferred choice for daily commuters, especially those traveling between Monza, one of Lombardy's most populous cities, and Milan. The line integrates with the STIBM fare system and connects to other S-lines and Metro services at key interchange stations like Monza and Milano Porta Garibaldi. Unlike the S7, which takes a more scenic, slower route via non-electrified single-track lines, the S8 provides a faster and more direct connection between Lecco and Milan. Its role is especially important during peak travel times and for passengers heading to Milan for work, school, or leisure. As part of Milan's broader suburban rail system, the S8 plays a vital role in regional mobility, offering modern infrastructure, fast service, and strong links between the northern provinces and the metropolitan core.

S9 Suburban Rail: Circumferential Service from Saronno to Albairate-Vermezzo

The S9 line of Milan's suburban rail network provides a key orbital route that connects Saronno in the north to Albairate-Vermezzo in the southwest without passing through the city center. Operated by Trenord, the S9 spans approximately 65 kilometers and serves as a circumferential link that enhances connectivity between outer suburban areas and peripheral districts of Milan. Starting at Saronno, an important railway hub north of Milan, the S9 runs through stations including Seregno, Monza, Milano Greco Pirelli, Lambrate, Romolo, and San Cristoforo before reaching its terminus at Albairate-Vermezzo. The line intersects with multiple Milan Metro lines (M1 at Bande Nere, M2 at Lambrate and Romolo, M3 via bus at San Donato FS) and other suburban rail lines, offering efficient cross-suburban access. Unlike most S-lines, the S9 does not enter the Passante Railway but instead uses surface rail lines that encircle the city, making it ideal for travelers who need to move between suburban areas without transiting through central Milan. Trains generally run every 30 minutes on weekdays, with slightly reduced service on weekends and holidays. Fully electrified, the S9 uses EMUs and is integrated into the STIBM fare system, enabling easy transfers across Milan's transport network. The line is especially valuable for students, workers, and residents in Milan's outer districts and satellite towns who require reliable east-west and north-south travel options. As one of the few circumferential rail services in Lombardy, the S9 plays a strategic role in decongesting central rail corridors and improving regional transit fluidity.

S11 Suburban Rail: Cross-Border Link from Chiasso to Rho via Milan

The S11 line of Milan's suburban rail network connects the Swiss border town of Chiasso to the city of Rho, northwest of Milan, providing a vital international and regional corridor through Lombardy. Operated by Trenord, the S11 line spans over 60 kilometers and serves as a key link for both cross-border commuters and regional passengers. The line begins in Chiasso, Switzerland, and travels south through Como San Giovanni and key towns such as Camerlata, Cantù, and Seregno before entering Milan. Within the city, it stops at major stations including Milano Greco Pirelli and Milano Porta Garibaldi, one of the city's most important interchanges. The line continues westward, terminating at Rho, a significant rail hub close to the Fiera Milano exhibition center. The S11 offers regular service with trains running every 30 minutes on weekdays and hourly on weekends. It is fully integrated into the STIBM fare system within the Italian portion of the route, with standard Trenitalia fare rules applying across the border into Switzerland. Unlike most other suburban lines, the S11 does not use the underground Passante Railway but runs entirely on surface-level tracks. It is particularly popular with commuters traveling from Como and Monza provinces into Milan, as well as with international passengers connecting to Swiss destinations. Trains are electric and consist of modern EMUs suitable for medium-distance service. With its combination of international access, regional utility, and integration with Milan's wider transit system, the S11 plays a crucial role in daily mobility across the northern Lombardy region and beyond.

S12 Suburban Rail: Melegnano to Milano Bovisa Through the Passante

The S12 line of Milan's suburban rail network is a relatively recent addition, designed to improve connectivity between the southeastern town of Melegnano and the northern district of Milano Bovisa. Operated by Trenord, the S12 enhances north-south transit through the city by utilizing the underground Passante Railway, linking key neighborhoods and transit hubs along the way. Starting in Melegnano, located just outside Milan in the Metropolitan City, the line travels northwest through San Giuliano Milanese and San Donato Milanese before entering central Milan via the Passante. Within the city center, it stops at key underground stations including Milano Rogoredo, Porta Vittoria, Dateo, Porta Venezia, Repubblica, and Milano Porta Garibaldi. The route continues to its northern terminus at Milano Bovisa, a critical interchange station served by multiple suburban and regional lines. The S12 operates on weekdays with half-hourly service during peak times, offering an efficient option for commuters traveling into Milan from the southeastern suburbs. It is fully integrated into the STIBM fare system, ensuring convenient transfers to metro lines and other S-line services. The S12 provides a direct and time-efficient route across Milan without requiring passengers to change at surface stations. Its integration with the Passante makes it ideal for students, office workers, and regional travelers heading to institutions near Bovisa or the business zones near Rogoredo. Although one of the shorter and newer lines in the suburban network, the S12 plays an increasingly important role in connecting peripheral municipalities to Milan's core, contributing to more balanced and sustainable urban mobility.

S13 Suburban Rail: Connecting Pavia to Milano Bovisa via the Passante

The S13 line of Milan's suburban rail network connects the historic university city of Pavia with Milano Bovisa, traveling directly through the heart of Milan via the underground Passante Railway. Operated by Trenord, the S13 provides a key north-south connection that supports both regional and urban mobility across the Metropolitan City of Milan and beyond. The line begins at Pavia, an important city in southern Lombardy, and moves northward through towns such as Certosa di Pavia and Locate Triulzi before entering the Milan metropolitan area. It stops at San Giuliano Milanese and Milano Rogoredo before proceeding through the Passante, making key underground stops at Porta Vittoria, Dateo, Porta Venezia, Repubblica, Milano Porta Garibaldi, and ultimately terminating at Milano Bovisa. Trains on the S13 run at regular 30-minute intervals, primarily on weekdays, offering a dependable and time-efficient alternative for commuters and students. The service is fully integrated into the STIBM fare system, allowing for seamless transfers to metro lines and other suburban rail routes. The S13 line is especially useful for travelers heading to university campuses in Pavia or Milan, as well as for employees working in southern suburbs or business centers near Rogoredo. The use of the Passante Railway ensures rapid cross-city transit without the need to switch at surface-level stations. With its cross-regional scope, integration into Milan's multimodal transport network, and strong frequency, the S13 enhances accessibility between southern Lombardy and the northern districts of Milan, supporting balanced urban development and efficient commuting options.