Author: Joseph Kearney 27th August 2026 

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned attendee, the best way to maximise your experience at CPHI Milan is to make sure you’ve planned ahead. That’s why, with a few weeks to go until doors open on this year’s show, we’ve put together this guide to help you secure your visa, travel and accommodation arrangements for pharma’s biggest show. 

CPHI Milan returns to Fiera Milano from 6-8 October 2026. This year’s show is set to bring together more than 62,000 pharma professionals and 2,400+ exhibitors from across the globe for the world’s largest event dedicated to pharma ingredients and technology. 

Offering unparalleled opportunities for networking and discovery, this year’s show promises an exciting range of new zones which have been introduced to reflect the changing priorities of the pharma industry. We’re introducing zones dedicated to AI & Tech, Cold Chain & Logistics, Contamination Control and Labelling, as well as the inaugural CPHI Sustainability Summit running concurrently over the event’s first two days.

Securing your visa for CPHI Milan

As part of the Schengen Agreement, Italy allows visitors from many countries to enter for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.  

For those requiring a visa, we strongly recommend starting your application process as early as possible, since processing times may vary and can take several weeks or even months. You should confirm specific requirements with your local Italian embassy, as regulations can change; this should also give you sufficient time to gather any specific documentation, such as proof of accommodation, travel insurance, or a clear purpose of visit. 

While we cannot directly issue visa invitation letters, we have partnered with MiCo DMC to ensure that guests have the paperwork they need to attend CPHI Milan from abroad. You can request this documentation online, please note  this service is only accessible once you have your registration key.   

Which airport should you fly into?

Milan is served by three main airports. Here's a breakdown to help you decide which airport best suits your needs: 

Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP): Ideal for International Flights

Milan Malpensa Airport is the largest and busiest airport in the region, making it the top choice for international travellers heading to Fiera Milano. Its extensive flight network and direct regional train links ensure a smooth journey. 

Travel Time: Approximately 54 minutes to Rho-Fiera station.

How to Get There: Take the train from Malpensa to Busto Arsizio, then transfer to the train heading to Rho Fiera Milano. 

Milan Linate Airport (LIN): Perfect for Short-Haul and European Flights

Located closer to the city centre, Milan Linate Airport is a convenient option for those flying in from European destinations. Its proximity to Milan makes it a practical choice for shorter travel times. 

Travel Time: Around 45 to 60 minutes.

How to Get There: Take the M4 (Blue Line) metro to San Babila, then switch to the M1 (Red Line) directly to the Rho Fiera stop. 

Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport (BGY): Best for Budget Travellers

Known for hosting low-cost airlines, Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport is a favourite among budget-conscious travellers. While it’s farther from Fiera Milano, it offers affordable options for those looking to save on airfare. 

Travel Time: Over 1 hour and 15 minutes.

How to Get There: Take a shuttle bus to Milan Central Station (Milano Centrale), then use the metro or train to connect to the M1 Red Line toward Rho-Fiera. 

Each airport has its advantages, so whether you're flying internationally, regionally, or on a budget, all three should provide efficient connections to Fiera Milano and ensure a seamless start to your CPHI experience. 

Sustainable travel options to CPHI Milan

For a more eco-friendly journey to CPHI Milan, consider these sustainable alternatives to flying: 

1. Travel by Train

Milan is well-connected to major European cities via high-speed rail, offering a comfortable and low-emission option: 

From Paris: TGV, approx. 7 hours. 

From Zurich: EuroCity, approx. 3.5 hours. 

From Munich: EuroCity, approx. 7 hours. 

From Rome: Frecciarossa, approx. 3 hours. 

2. Bus Travel

Long-distance buses are budget-friendly and greener than flying: 

From European Cities: FlixBus and Eurolines connect cities like Paris, Berlin and Vienna to Milan. 

From Italian Cities: Regional buses link cities like Florence, Venice and Bologna to Milan. 

Milan accommodation for this year’s show

Securing a hotel is one of the most critical aspects of planning your CPHI Milan visit, as a show at our scale has a significant impact on hotel demand! We’re thrilled to once again partner with bnetwork to help visitors find accommodation, with specialised booking available to suit all needs and budgets. 

Booking through bnetwork provides several advantages, including: 

• Negotiated hotel rates 
• Conveniently located accommodation 
• Flexible booking options 
• Streamlined event planning

You can filter accommodation options by their proximity to the event venue, making your experience even more convenient. Fiera Milano is served by a number of train, bus and subway stations (either Rho-Fiera or Rho-Fiera Milano) with lines running all day. 

Attendees of CPHI Milan with an Explorer, Leader or Networking Leader pass will enjoy an added benefit: a complimentary public transport pass. This pass is valid across the Milan urban network for the three days of the event, ensuring hassle-free travel to and from the venue, no matter where you’re staying. 

Know before you go: the CPHI guide to Milan

The weather in Milan during October offers a pleasant backdrop for both business and leisure activities. Expect temperatures ranging from 12°C to 19°C (approximately 54°F to 66°F), with mild days and occasional showers. Pack layers, including a light jacket and umbrella, to stay comfortable throughout your visit – as well as the all-important pair of comfy shoes for your time on the show floor. 

Transportation within Milan is efficient and visitor-friendly. The Metro system remains the most convenient and cost-effective option for traveling between the city centre and Fiera Milano. Beyond the complimentary transport pass included with your event registration, Milan offers bike and scooter sharing services widely available throughout the city, providing flexible and sustainable options for short distances. Car sharing services are accessible via mobile apps , while CPHI Milan attendees will be able to secure a taxi from the venue, as well as any other major transport ahub across the city, and can be booked via phone, mobile apps, or traditional taxi stands. 

Milan's food culture is legendary, and October is an excellent time to experience authentic Milanese dining. Don't miss the aperitivo tradition, a cultural institution that transforms early evening into a social celebration. Between approximately 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM, bars across Milan set out impressive buffets of olives, focaccia, cheeses, cured meats, bruschetta, and hot dishes - all included with your drink purchase. The Navigli district, with its picturesque canals, offers one of the best aperitivo experiences, especially on pleasant October evenings. Locals often treat aperitivo as dinner itself, making it both a cultural experience and a practical dining option. 

For traditional Milanese cuisine, seek out risotto alla Milanese (saffron risotto), ossobuco (braised veal shanks), cotoletta alla Milanese (breaded veal cutlet), and don't overlook panettone, which Milans consider a year-round point of civic pride rather than just a Christmas treat. Visit a proper Pasticceria to taste the difference between mass-produced versions and authentic artisanal panettone. 

Cultural etiquette in Milan emphasises respect and politeness. When dining, wait for everyone to be served before eating, serve others before yourself and participate in toasts before drinking. Milan's historical and religious sites deserve respectful behaviour, including appropriate dress codes for churches and cathedrals. The city's rhythm tends to be slower than many international business hubs, with many shops closing between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM for the traditional lunch hour (Pausa di Pranzo), then reopening until evening. 

CPHI Milan also offers exclusive networking experiences to enhance your visit. The Duomo Experience* on October 5, 2026 (7:30 PM - 9:00 PM) provides exclusive after-hours access to Milan's iconic cathedral, including a private organ concert.  The Welcome Reception, also on October 5 (5:30 PM - 7:30 PM), offers an opportunity to meet industry leaders, speakers and fellow attendees before the exhibition officially begins, with drinks, canapés and live entertainment included for Leaders and Networking Leaders pass holders. 

*For both networking opportunities, space is limited and pre-registration is required.

If you don’t have time to explore Milan after the event, you can still experience the city’s charm through the CPHI Milan 2026 Networking Sunrise 5K on Wednesday 7 October. This unique event offers a cinematic journey through Milan’s iconic landmarks before the city fully awakens. Starting at Piazza del Duomo and finishing at Parco Sempione, the 5K route takes you past the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Sforza Castle and hidden corners like Piazza dei Mercanti and Piazza Affari. Blending exercise, culture and architecture, it’s an unforgettable way to connect with Milan’s beauty while connecting with fellow attendees. Open to all, but limited to 50 participants, this is the perfect opportunity to experience Milan’s highlights in a short time. 

With over 62,000 professionals and 2,400+ exhibitors gathering in Milan, preparation is the key to making the most of your CPHI Milan 2026 experience. From securing your visa and travel arrangements to planning your agenda and exploring Milan’s cultural treasures, every detail counts. By reviewing the exhibitor list, scheduling meetings in advance, and taking advantage of exclusive networking opportunities, you’ll ensure a seamless and rewarding visit. CPHI Milan is your gateway to world-class pharma innovation and invaluable connections, all taking place against the vibrant charm of one of Europe’s most iconic cities. Start planning today to make this an unforgettable experience! 

Attending CPHI Milan 2026 represents a significant investment in your pharmaceutical industry network and knowledge. Proper preparation across visas, accommodation, and local logistics will ensure you can focus on what matters most: connecting with industry leaders, discovering innovations, and building partnerships that shape the future of pharma.

Start your visa application process immediately if required, allowing ample time for processing and potential complications. Book your accommodation through the official partner bnetwork or secure alternative lodging as early as possible to ensure availability and competitive rates near Fiera Milano. Take advantage of the complimentary public transport pass included with your event registration, and plan to experience Milan's rich culture, exceptional food scene, and welcoming atmosphere during your visit.

With over 62,000 professionals converging on Milan for this premier pharmaceutical event, early planning distinguishes successful attendees from those scrambling with last-minute arrangements. Review the exhibitor list in advance, schedule meetings before arriving onsite, and build your agenda around must-attend sessions to maximize your three days at CPHI Milan 2026. The combination of world-class pharmaceutical innovation, Milan's sophisticated business environment, and the city's cultural treasures creates an unparalleled professional experience that extends well beyond the exhibition halls of Fiera Milano.