Milan : An elegant seminar

There are countless ways to describe Milan; this ever-changing city is at once Italy’s economic powerhouse, an international fashion Mecca and an ancient city charged with history.

This diversity makes it a popular destination for business travel. Ultra-modern facilities adjoin an unexpectedly charming city-centre, starting with the narrow streets of the centro storico, where you can roam at will with an ice cream in your hand… Yes, stereotypes are not always bad! A pleasant stroll will lead you to the impressive piazza del Duomo, home to one of Europe’s largest Gothic cathedrals, the roof of which is open for visits. The view over the city, visible through the branches of a remarkable forest of stone spires and statues, is quite simply magnificent. If you can book beforehand, you can see Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper with your own eyes, at the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. This is a chef-d’oeuvre by a grand master whose inventive spirit still resonates with the city and the entire world.

Getting there

Nothing could be easier than getting to Milan. The Milano Centrale train station connects it with the entire country and many other cities in northern Europe. The capital of Lombardy also benefits from northern Italy’s substantial road network, and lastly, the whole of Europe is within easy reach thanks to three airports that can be conveniently accessed from the city centre: Linate (the closest), Malpensa (the busiest) and Bergamo (the furthest away, mainly used by low-cost airlines). Milan’s comprehensive public transport system includes buses, metro and tramway, so there’s no need to use a car during your stay.

The Accor network in Milan

The Accor network has a strong presence in Milan. The group has established thirteen hotels at strategic locations throughout the city, just choose the district that suits you best. With three Novotel and three Mercure hotels, the midscale category is particularly well represented, as is the economy range (Ibis and Ibis Styles), for those with more limited budgets.

Ideas for incentive events in Milan

From a match at the legendary San Siro stadium to shopping in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II’s luxury boutiques, or a visit to the world-famous La Scala opera house, there is something to suit every taste! And on the subject of taste, enjoying the Italian art of living and the city’s restaurants is an essential part of your business trip. Milan can be proud of its culinary specialities, popular throughout the world, such as risotto alla milanese with a hint of saffron, veal alla milanese (once again!) and ossobuco. Whether you dine at a simple trattoria or the most refined Michelin-starred restaurants, your taste buds will be in heaven!

The city’s night life is well worth exploring, and you mustn’t miss the traditional aperitivo (or two) to celebrate the end of the working day.

Lastly, the more adventurous can set off together to explore the lovely region around Milan, notably the magnificent Lake Como, just 50 kilometres from the city.