Review: Sala Monteverdi Lounge in Milano Malpensa T1

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We visited Sala Monteverdi, a Priority Pass lounge option for Schengen departures at Milan Malpensa's Terminal 1. Our experience uncovered surprising features and basic amenities. Read our firsthand account to see if this lounge meets your pre-flight needs.

Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) is one of Italy’s busiest international hubs, connecting travellers to destinations across Europe and beyond. Terminal 1, the airport’s main terminal, has an array of lounge options to cater to travellers' needs. These include airline-operated lounge and three Priority Pass lounges. Notably, Sala Monteverdi is the sole Priority Pass lounge located in the Schengen area, making it a choice for travellers flying within continental Europe.

During our trip from Malpensa to Helsinki, we had the chance to visit Sala Monteverdi, conveniently situated in the South Satellite of Terminal 1 near Gate A1. In this article, we'll share our firsthand experience, highlighting the lounge's amenities, comfort, and overall value for travellers seeking a relaxing pre-flight environment.

After clearing security, we quickly realised that reaching the lounge would require time. Located in the South Satellite near Gate A1, the lounge was quite far from the main terminal, necessitating a walk through long corridors. Fortunately, our departure gate was also on the same satellite, so that we would have made the journey regardless.

The clear signage along the route kept us on track. We followed the signs directing us upward via an escalator as we entered the South Satellite terminal. At the top, we finally spotted the entrance to the lounge.

While getting to Sala Monteverdi involves a bit of a walk, the clear signage makes finding the lounge straightforward.

As we reached the lounge entrance at the top of the escalator, a sign on the door informed us that DragonPass, Lounge Pass, and Priority Pass cardholders like ourselves would not be admitted due to overcrowding. Despite this, a reception staff member greeted us warmly. She directed us to another lounge, Sforza, located downstairs, assuring us that it would offer the same quality experience.

Following her suggestion, we searched for Sforza Lounge like the other clients behind us. However, after looking around downstairs, we found no signage or clear directions. Unable to locate the suggested lounge, we returned to Sala Monteverdi.

This time, we were allowed in. It later became clear that the alternative lounge was two floors below, though the lack of signage made it difficult to find.

Sala Monteverdi was a simple and small space divided into sections. Seating was quite limited, mainly consisting of lounge chairs and dining tables with chairs. On the positive side, the limited seating created a calm atmosphere. We managed to grab the last good seats next to the wall.

The lounge was clean.

A standout decorative element was a retro typewriter, adding a touch of character to the otherwise typical lounge setting. The overall colour scheme of the lounge featured shades of green and greyish-blue The simple design offered a modern and functional environment for travellers looking to relax before their flights. The design was nice, but it lacked a wow factor.

The food selection at Sala Monteverdi Lounge was limited. The snacks and pastries were basic, offering only a small variety. It didn't strike us as a place where one could enjoy dinner.

Fortunately, the staff brought hot food shortly before our departure, improving the dining experience. However, the selection remained minimal, leaving the overall food experience underwhelming. While the warm food was a welcome addition, the lounge's food selection still needed improvement.

Conversely, the drink selection was notably better. The lounge featured a well-stocked fridge offering a variety of canned and bottled beverages, such as Red Bull and various juices. Additionally, alcoholic options like wine, sparkling wine, and beer were available.

The lounge offered warm drink options, including a coffee machine for coffee enthusiasts and a variety of tea for tea lovers. Although ready-made tea might add a touch of elegance, tea bags, like those in Sala Monteverdi, are a common feature in airport lounges. Sala Monteverdi is an ideal place to savour your afternoon coffee, especially during off-peak hours.

Overall, the drink selection was excellent, but the food options could be more versatile.

The lounge's restroom was spacious, clean, and stylish, offering a comfortable experience. Although a shower was reportedly available, we did not encounter it during our visit.

Sala Monteverdi provided several essential services. Flight information screens were conveniently available to keep travellers updated. A TV offered entertainment, though it wasn't the primary attraction. While there were some power outlets, their number was insufficient to meet the demand, potentially inconveniencing those who needed to charge their devices. On a positive note, the Wi-Fi was fast and reliable, making it easy to browse or work while waiting for a flight.

We rate Sala Monteverdi as a 3-star lounge. The lounge was small, with limited seating, and the food and snack selection was modest. However, the lounge had a modern and functional concept, and the staff were particularly friendly.

Sala Monteverdi is accessible with various lounge membership programs, including Priority Pass, LoungeKey, and DragonPass. Travellers with eligible premium credit cards or business class tickets on certain airlines may also have access.

For those without a membership, we recommend purchasing a visit through Lounge Pass, allowing access for a one-time fee.

We arrived at Milan Airport early, intending to visit this lounge. The walk to Satellite A was unexpectedly long, but the signs were clear. Upon arrival, we found the lounge smaller than expected, but after some initial hassle, we managed to gain entry.

Sala Monteverdi wasn't the most impressive airport lounge we've experienced, but it was reasonably average. On the plus side, it offered warm food, albeit with a limited selection. Being the sole option for travellers in the Schengen area, Sala Monteverdi provided a relaxing atmosphere despite being quite full during our visit.

Have you visited any of the lounges at Milan Malpensa Airport? How was it? Please comment below.

Tags: airport lounge, review, Milan Malpensa Destination: Italy