A grand cathedral with intricate Gothic architecture, a statue of a man on horseback, and surrounding historic buildings.

$340 Cheap Flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Milan (MXP)

View $340 flight on Sat, Oct 24, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)

  • Be in the know

    Get alerts if flight prices drop or rise*

  • Book smarter

    Save up to 30% on select hotels after you book a flight*

  • Earn twice

    Earn your airline miles on top of our OneKeyCash
    Learn about One Key

Cheap Flights from Des Moines to Milan (DSM-MXP)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $340 for one-way flights and $742 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Air Canada
Mon, Oct 12 - Fri, Oct 23
DSM
Des Moines
MXP
Milan
$742 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$742
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Air Canada flight, departing Mon, Oct 12 from Des Moines to Milan, returning Fri, Oct 23, priced at $742 found 1 day ago
Delta
Tue, Mar 16 - Wed, Mar 24
DSM
Des Moines
MXP
Milan
$742 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$742
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Tue, Mar 16 from Des Moines to Milan, returning Wed, Mar 24, priced at $742 found 3 days ago
American Airlines
Sun, Jan 10 - Wed, Jan 13
DSM
Des Moines
MXP
Milan
$743 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$743
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sun, Jan 10 from Des Moines to Milan, returning Wed, Jan 13, priced at $743 found 2 days ago
United
Sun, Jan 10 - Wed, Jan 13
DSM
Des Moines
MXP
Milan
$745 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$745
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select United flight, departing Sun, Jan 10 from Des Moines to Milan, returning Wed, Jan 13, priced at $745 found 2 days ago
Delta
Tue, Mar 16 - Wed, Mar 24
DSM
Des Moines
MXP
Milan
$746 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$746
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Tue, Mar 16 from Des Moines to Milan, returning Wed, Mar 24, priced at $746 found 3 days ago
United
Sun, Jan 10 - Wed, Jan 13
DSM
Des Moines
MXP
Milan
$747 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$747
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select United flight, departing Sun, Jan 10 from Des Moines to Milan, returning Wed, Jan 13, priced at $747 found 2 days ago
Air Canada
Sun, Dec 6 - Wed, Dec 16
DSM
Des Moines
MXP
Milan
$747 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$747
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select Air Canada flight, departing Sun, Dec 6 from Des Moines to Milan, returning Wed, Dec 16, priced at $747 found 5 days ago
Air Canada
Tue, Mar 16 - Wed, Mar 24
DSM
Des Moines
MXP
Milan
$749 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$749
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select Air Canada flight, departing Tue, Mar 16 from Des Moines to Milan, returning Wed, Mar 24, priced at $749 found 3 days ago
United
Tue, Mar 16 - Wed, Mar 24
DSM
Des Moines
MXP
Milan
$749 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$749
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select United flight, departing Tue, Mar 16 from Des Moines to Milan, returning Wed, Mar 24, priced at $749 found 3 days ago
Lufthansa
Sun, Dec 6 - Wed, Dec 16
DSM
Des Moines
MXP
Milan
$751 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$751
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select Lufthansa flight, departing Sun, Dec 6 from Des Moines to Milan, returning Wed, Dec 16, priced at $751 found 5 days ago

What you need to know for your flight from Des Moines Intl. to Malpensa Intl.

Des Moines (DSM) to Milan (MXP) at a glance

Embark on an international long-haul journey with a selection of airlines offering flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Milan (MXP). Review various options from full-service carriers to discover the itinerary that aligns with your budget, schedule, and travel plans as you set out to explore Milan's iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods. Here, you’ll find essential details for flights departing from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Malpensa International Airport (MXP).

  • Fastest flight duration: around 10h 15m in-flight, plus roughly 2h 15m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 4,800 miles (7,720 km)
  • Flights per week: around 7 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $285–$835, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Malpensa International Airport (MXP)

According to recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines preferred for flights from Des Moines to Milan, featuring both one-stop and multi-stop options. Popular layover airports include O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with an average layover of about 1 hour and 45 minutes, and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with approximately a 3 hour and 15 minute layover. This variety allows you to mix and match price, total travel time, and cabin class to create your ideal itinerary.

  • United: This full-service airline provides comprehensive travel options, with one-way fares generally falling between $285 and $880. It accounts for about 53% of flights on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 10 hours and 15 minutes and a total journey time of approximately 12 hours and 15 minutes, including layovers.
  • Air France: Another full-service option, Air France offers one-stop flights with one-way fares typically ranging from $395 to $835. This carrier represents around 13% of departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 10 hours and 15 minutes, leading to a total travel duration of about 12 hours and 15 minutes, factoring in layover time.

Alternative routes from Des Moines (DSM) to Milan (MXP)

  • Des Moines to Milan (DSM-LIN): Linate Airport (LIN) is located approximately 30 miles from Malpensa International Airport (MXP).
  • Des Moines to Turin (DSM-TRN): Turin International Airport (TRN) is around 60 miles distant from Malpensa International Airport (MXP).

How to find the best prices for flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Milan (MXP)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Des Moines to Milan is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually available when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers tend to book 2 to 8 weeks ahead. Evening departures between 6 PM and midnight often offer lower prices, while morning flights from 5 AM to noon are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Thursday provides both cheaper rates and is a favored travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
  4. Compare flight options: use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. Think about luggage: nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.

*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.

Arriving at Malpensa International Airport from Des Moines International Airport

Milan welcomes travelers from Des Moines with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Milan efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Milan, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Malpensa International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Malpensa International Airport on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
  • Public transportation: From Malpensa International Airport, the Malpensa Airport Terminal 1 Station (a metro station) is conveniently located just 0.1 miles away on foot, while for those traveling by car, Milan Malpensa Seaport (a seaport) is about 4.1 miles from the airport and Ferno-Lonate Pozzolo Station (a train station) is approximately 4.8 miles away.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $340 and cheap return flights from $742 Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $476 and $3096, and roundtrip flights usually range from $792 to $5380. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) ticket fares go up or down.*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from DSM to MXP is October when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you're able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.
Which airlines fly direct from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
Enter DSM to MXP and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
How do I find cheap flights from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best time to fly from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.
What is the earliest flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This early flight can help you make the most of your time in Milan. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Des Moines Intl. (DSM) to Malpensa Intl. (MXP) are in the evening, from 6pm to 9pm. About 27% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including United Airlines, Lufthansa, and American Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows travelers to maximize their day before heading to the airport.
How long does it take to fly from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
A flight from DSM to MXP with a layover takes around 15 hours, with the route covering approximately 4,753 miles. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
You can fly business class between DSM and MXP. Airlines that offer business class service on this route include:

  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines

How do I earn miles on a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Milan from Des Moines Intl. (DSM)?
From Des Moines Intl. (DSM), you can fly into Malpensa Intl. (MXP) to reach Milan. Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Dallas-Fort Worth Intl. (DFW), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL) before reaching Milan. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) Milan Vacation Packages is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
If you booked your Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
Des Moines Intl.
Destination airport
Malpensa Intl.
Airlines serving
Aer Lingus, Air Canada, Air France, American Airlines, British Airways, Delta, Finnair, Iberia, KLM, Lufthansa, Scandinavian Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$741
Distance
4752 mi

Book with confidence

Des Moines to Milan Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Des Moines to Milan

On average, Thursday can be the cheapest time to fly, according to data from the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), one of the world's biggest databases for global airline sales. The data reveals that you could save up to 16% by flying on a Thursday—the cheapest day to travel on average—instead of a Sunday—the most expensive. Some of the most affordable flights from Des Moines to Milan are during the month of October. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Des Moines to Milan with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Des Moines to Milan

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Des Moines to Milan: Tickets reserved on a Sunday cost between 6% and 13% less than those reserved on a Friday, according to ARC data. The data also suggests booking early can also lead to cheaper airfares. You could save 24% by buying your tickets for domestic flights at least a month in advance and 10% by booking international flights 2 months in advance.

 

How to find cheap round-trip tickets from Des Moines to Milan

Being flexible with your dates and using Expedia's Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking features are some of the best ways of finding a cheap ticket from Des Moines to Milan in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $340 one-way. Expedia also offers Price Drop Protection, so if the cost of your airfare goes down after booking, you'll receive a credit for the difference*. This is available for a small fee, and is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

 

Expedia's Price Tracking feature means you can stay on top of airfares without manually checking every day. It sends you automated price alerts for cheap Des Moines to Milan flights and uses historical data to indicate when the best time to book is. Download Expedia's free app to activate this handy tool in a few easy taps.

 

You could also save big by booking one of Expedia's vacation packages. Bundling together your Des Moines to Milan airfare with your accommodations and car rental is often cheaper than booking everything separately. There’s also One Key, Expedia's generous rewards program. Join for free and you could earn One Key cash on most bookings to save on future adventures.

 

*Terms apply.

 

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

 

Des Moines to Milan Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

Explore a world of travel with Expedia