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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 citizen’s card or passport and boarding pass with you. Depending on your country of origin, arrange your visa or other required documentation well in advance.
Climate
The climate is generally of the Mediterranean type, with hot and dry summers and cold and rainy winters.
Time zone
GMT + 1
Geography and 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 and several other smaller islands. It is a member of the European Union.
Tips and Payment
Italy is part of the Eurozone, so the currency used will be the Euro (EUR). It is not customary to leave a tip since the bill in restaurants already contains a service charge. However, if you are satisfied with the service you can leave a little extra.
Language and expressions to memorize
Italian is the official language throughout the country. In Italian, “Ciao" = hi; "Per favore" = please; "Grazie mille" = thank you very much.
What to do
Establishing a relationship of trust and respect is essential. Like most of the peoples of Southern Europe, relationships are extremely important to Italians.
What not to do
Do not be intimidated by the proximity of the Italians. They are people with extremely enthusiastic body language and use it as a way of communicating.
What to wear
As Italy is one of the great fashion centers of Europe, try to find the balance between an elegant and conservative style. Make a good impression with a formal style for meetings - suit and tie for men and a suit or dress for women.
First contact
When meeting someone in a business context, greet him or her with a handshake. It is considered normal to give two kisses on the face in social situations; the handshake continues to be the appropriate greeting between men. If you are invited to someone's house, bring a bouquet of flowers or a bottle of good quality wine.