Milan has quietly powered Italy for centuries and now seems poised for even greater prominence. With a 2018 GDP of $245.9 billion, the Porta Nuova district alone exceeds the economic size of many countries, making it one of Europe’s wealthiest neighborhoods. Already a global leader in fashion, publishing, manufacturing and finance, Milan is attracting renewed attention, particularly in the post-Brexit era, and it’s an excellent choice for a productive business trip.
Begin your day with coffee in Piazza del Duomo, the city’s spiritual and commercial center. Meet clients for a quick standing espresso at Bar Duomo with a direct view of the cathedral’s pale spires, or take a seat for a morning cappuccino and croissant at Giacomo Caffè around the corner. For a more luxurious start, visit historic Caffè Motta inside the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, where breakfast feels like an event.
The Galleria itself is a spectacle: a glass-domed arcade that links the Duomo to Teatro alla Scala, the revered opera house. The arcade houses flagship boutiques from top fashion houses, elegant cafes and restaurants that create an ideal setting for business clients. Caffè Motta, credited with popularizing the classic Italian café experience, is the place to try panettone, the citrus-and-raisin cake that’s a Milanese favorite. From the piazza, stroll along shopping streets such as Via Dante toward Sforza Castle for a productive and memorable walk between meetings.
© EKATERINA KRIMINSKAYA | DREAMSTIME.COM
For a distinctive lunch meeting, consider catching the tram—literally. ATMosfera has transformed one of Milan’s vintage trams into a fine-dining venue, where reservations are essential to secure one of eight intimate tables set in teak-lined surroundings as the city drifts by. The trams, many dating from the early 20th century, are beloved local icons and make an unforgettable backdrop for discussion.
Milan’s transport network is both historic and efficient. The city is served by three airports—Orio al Serio, Linate and Malpensa—with trains or shuttle services to the center. The Malpensa Express reaches Milano Centrale in about 50 minutes and is a convenient way to arrive by rail. Milano Centrale is one of Europe’s grandest stations and provides high-speed connections to cities such as Turin, Bologna and Venice. Once in the city, four metro lines, an extensive tram network and dozens of bus routes make most destinations easy to reach; many travelers find that day, week or month passes are the most economical option—just remember to validate tickets at the machines before boarding.
Choosing where to eat from Milan’s roster of Michelin-starred and historic restaurants can be a pleasant dilemma. Bice is a reliable choice for business lunches and features a private dining room for confidential meetings. Solferino, a century-old institution, is known for classic Milanese dishes like osso buco—veal shank braised in white wine—served with saffron risotto, a dish that reflects the city’s culinary refinement. Pair your meal with a Chianti or another Italian vintage for a well-rounded business lunch.
The city offers a wide range of hotels suitable for meetings and overnight stays. Senato Hotel, once a private residence, presents carefully designed modern rooms ideal for quiet discussions. Park Hyatt Milan combines refined accommodations with extensive meeting facilities and high-tech services, including simultaneous translation for large groups, plus an on-site bar for informal conversations. For a unique, central option, Town House Galleria—located within the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II—provides direct access to the gallery and views over the Duomo, making it an exceptional venue for hosting clients.
As the workday winds down, embrace Milan’s cherished aperitivo ritual: a social pre-dinner drink paired with small plates that transitions effortlessly into evening dining. Terrazza Aperol, overlooking Piazza del Duomo on the original site of Caffè Motta, is an excellent spot to toast a successful day. The signature Aperol spritz—Aperol, Prosecco and a splash of soda—offers a bright, slightly bitter-sweet finish that has become synonymous with Milanese leisure. Sip your spritz while enjoying the view, reflect on the day’s meetings, and let the city’s energy carry you into a memorable evening.