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Milan
Culture
Gastronomy
Shopping
Sophisticated and luxurious, the capital of Lombardy has 4 million people in the metropolitan area and plenty to see besides the San Siro and the ski resorts in the Alps. Book a flight to Milan and...
Cherish the relics
The gothic Cathedral in the Piazza del Duomo is simply colossal and one of the largest in Europe. To see Da Vinci’s “Last Supper” in the convent of Santa Maria delle Grazia you should book days in advance. Also very emblematic of Milan are the Teatro alla Scala and the Castello Sforzesco.
Follow the trends
In Milan — headquarters to Italy’s stock market — money flows and fashion is in the air. The Quadrilatero d'Oro and the Vittorio Emanuele II galleries, filled with the greatest designer brands, are a part of the shopping experience. Just like Via Brera and Navigli for drinks and fun at night. Always in style.
Culture and Business
Before leaving
Make sure you have your identity card or passport and boarding pass with you. Depending on your country of origin, take care of your visa or other necessary documentation ahead of time.
Climate
The climate is generally of the Mediterranean type, with hot, dry summers and cold, rainy winters.
Time zone
GMT + 1
Geography & politics
Italy is a unitary parliamentary republic located in south-central Europe, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea. Besides the peninsula, it also includes the islands of Sicily and Sardinia, as well as several other smaller islands. Italy is a member of the European Union.
Tipping & paying
Italy is part of the Euro zone, so the currency is the Euro (EUR). It is not common to tip in restaurants, as the bill already has a service charge added to the total. Nevertheless, if you are satisfied with the service you are welcome to leave some extra change.
Languages & useful phrases
Italian is the official language of the country. In Italian, "ciao" = hello; "per favore" = please; "Grazie mille" = thank you very much.
What you should do
Establishing a relationship of trust and respect is essential. Like most peoples in southern Europe, relationships are extremely important to the Italians.
What you shouldn’t do
Don’t be intimidated by the proximity of the Italians. They have very strong body language and use it to communicate.
What to wear
Being Italy one of the great fashion centres of Europe, try to find the balance between an elegant and conservative style. Make a good impression with a formal look for meetings, with a suit and tie for men and a suit or dress for women.
First impressions
When meeting someone in a business context, greet them with a handshake. In social situations, it is normal to give two kisses on the cheeks—but between men, continue with a handshake. If you are invited to someone's house, take a bouquet of flowers or a bottle of high quality wine.