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Dan Koday, Contributor
Forbes Vetted
Fast-paced with flair, Milan is both a financial center and a world capital of fashion, home to upscale shopping, historic architecture and some of the best people-watching in Europe. Whether visiting the city’s iconic Duomo di Milano, enjoying an aperitivo on the charming Navigli canal or examining art history and taking in works by the masters at Pinacoteca di Brera, it’s truly a city that beckons to be explored, and there’s no better introduction than through its Hotel scene.
The best hotels in Milan incorporate the city’s sleek and stylish ethos into their offerings, ranging from boutique showstoppers to grande dames filled with Old World charm. From recently opened properties like Portrait Milano and Casa Baglioni to long-standing Fashion Week staples like Armani Hotel Milano and centrally located classics like Four Seasons Hotel Milano, there’s something for every type of traveler in this city. Below, we’ve selected the best places to rest your head on your 2023 trip to Milan.
Best Luxury Hotel In Milan: Bulgari Hotel Milano
Bulgari Hotel Milano
Who Will Love It: Discerning travelers; “quiet luxury” seekers
All-Star Amenities: The Bulgari Spa’s gold-tiled pool, rejuvenating sauna, and private spa treatment rooms—complete with a couples treatment room; Forme Life training equipment available in Bulgari suite
What Not To Miss: The hotel’s private garden, which serves as an exclusive extension of the Milan Botanical Garden
Location: Campo Marzio
A suite of dazzling amenities offers visitors a genuine challenge: leave the Bulgari Hotel Milan and explore the city, or stay behind and enjoy fine dining, gorgeous gardens, and luxury spa treatments all day long? Either is a wise choice—but only the hotel has room service. Here, thoughtful design mixes elements like black marble and teak and oak woods, cream-colored linen wallpapers and fun surprises like framed fashion photographs and sketches of Bulgari jewels on display. A lavish Bulgari suite is available for an additional splurge and contains a private rooftop, garden, a bookshelf featuring rare art and a 1960s-era Murano glass chandelier.
World travelers seeking Bulgari’s contemporary taste will savor their guest suites just as much as a luxurious meal at Il Ristorante. Helmed by three-Michelin-starred Chef Niko Romito, the restaurant serves authentic, mouthwatering Italian cuisine in a glamorous dining room. Signature dishes include king crab with Oscietra caviar and potatoes, Milanese-style risotto and tiramisu, while drinks are crafted by in-house master mixologists. For an absolutely once-in-a-lifetime experience, visitors are invited to enjoy a private viewing of Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper, arranged by the hotel’s concierge service. Arrangements may also be made for an exclusive dinner beneath the iconic masterpiece at the Refettorio di Santa Maria delle Grazie.
Best Boutique Hotel In Milan: Casa Baglioni
Casa Baglioni
Who Will Love It: The design-discerning; wine lovers; foodies
All-Star Amenities: Private neighborhood tours; Borsalino’s made-to-measure hat personalization service—available directly in guest suites; luxe Dellaluna Venezia bath products
What Not To Miss: Wine tastings in the elegant and impressive wine cellar
Location: Brera
Casa Baglioni sets a new standard for modern beauty in a city that reinvents itself daily. The hotel takes its inspiration from the art and design of the 1960s, and the 30 intimate guest rooms in one of Milan’s most charming neighborhoods showcase this even before considering the fabulous artwork from esteemed artists, including Enrico Castellani, Carla Accardi and Hans Hartung. The guest suites also feature a mix of Chevron patterned hardwood floors and accents of colorful glass and decorated ceramics to compliment subtle, handsome textures and patterns within an otherwise muted, soothing color palette. Many suites feature circular freestanding tubs; some even come with adorable urban terraces.
A highlight of a stay at Casa Baglioni is access to some of Milan’s finest dining at Sadler. Helmed by renowned Italian Chef Claudio Sadler, the storied Michelin-starred concept he brought from a previous location in Milan. The intimate, romantic 36-seat experience features creative and elevated preparations of Italian dishes paired with personable service and a wine collection boasting 850 Italian and international labels that really set it apart as a hotel restaurant.
Hotel With The Best Amenities In Milan: Portrait Milano
Portrait Milano
Who Will Love It: History lovers seeking an authentic Italian getaway; travelers seeking intimate, refined luxury; families
All-Star Amenities: Gorgeous gardens; an incredible swimming pool located in ancient vaults; a new European Biohacking & Anti Age Clinic “The Longevity Suite”; small pets stay free
What Not To Miss: Nearby shopping at the iconic Antonia and a tasty dining experience highlighting Northern Italy’s cuisine at 10_11 Restaurant
Location: Piazza del Quadrilatero
Portrait Milano is a tribute to Milan’s grand mansions of the past, all housed in one of the oldest seminaries in Europe. Seventy-three romantic suites, family suites and guest rooms blend classic Italian luxury with the modern world, and a good portion of the rooms have ethereal views of the property’s charming garden. Portrait is part of The Lungarno Collection, a hotel management company owned by the Ferragamo family, making it a prime example of how Milan’s fashion and hotel worlds meld together. While Portrait celebrates Milan’s distinct culture, the hotel’s classic Milanese charm is fused with contemporary Tuscan craftsmanship, a tribute to the Ferragamo legacy.
When it comes to the hotel’s amenities, no detail has been left unexamined. The gorgeous pool is located beneath ancient vaults and set among the columns, creating a sensory-thrilling experience. The Fitness Suite offers in-house fitness experts and the highest level of technological gym equipment. A chic common library, framed with art books, is open to guests. And later this year, the property will debut a Longevity Suite, offering the most advanced European biohacking and anti-aging technology. While there’s plenty of reasons to stay inside, visitors who wander past Portrait’s breathtaking Baroque gateway, will find themselves in the largest square in Milan’s fashion district, Piazza del Quadrilatero, where world-class shopping, dining experiences, and exciting fashion events are always expected.
Best Fashion Week Hotel In Milan: Armani Hotel Milano
Armani Hotel Milano
Who Will Love It: Label loving fashionistas; view seekers; modern design aficionados
All-Star Amenities: Gym with personal training sessions available, catered “Lifestyle Manager” concierge services; iPad room automation
What Not To Miss: The lovely music and atmosphere of the Armani/Bamboo Bar, both ideal for pre- and post- dinner gatherings of friends
Location: Quadrilatero della Moda
In the heart of Milan’s illustrious fashion district lies a haven of luxury and sophistication, and among the stylish addresses that call it home, the Armani Hotel Milano stands tall. In a city often considered one of the most fashionable in the world, Armani remains one of the most fashionable addresses to stay at, offering a refined and elegant luxury experience. While in residence at the hotel, expect to be surrounded by a space curated by the master himself, Giorgio Armani, across 95 guestrooms and suites that blend the sculptural with Milanese elegance and haute couture—not to mention the spacious Limestone bathrooms in polished clean lines.
Beyond its lavish accommodations, the hotel’s location is truly unbeatable. Nestled within Milan’s Quadrilatero della Moda, it places travelers mere minutes away from Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga, Teatro alla Scala and the awe-inspiring Duomo. Italian gastronomy is on a fine display at the on-site Armani/Ristorante, where traditional Italian flavors meet international flair in a space with jaw-dropping panoramic views of Milan’s skyline. The hotel also boasts an Armani Spa, where personally tailored treatments are the norm and the glimmering relaxation pool is as chic as it is tranquil.
Best Historic Hotel In Milan: Hotel Principe di Savoia
Hotel Principe di Savoia
Who Will Love It: Bold, eclectic, adventurous networkers; those seeking sublime people watching
All-Star Amenities: Club 10, a wellness center with a sky-high swimming pool; Technogym equipment; rooftop terrace; pet-friendly
What Not To Miss: The Principe Bar, easily one of Milan’s hottest nightlife spots
Location: Piazza della Repubblica
Since its doors opened in 1927, Hotel Principe di Savoia has long served as a shimmering oasis for diplomats, royalty, business leaders and luxury travelers alike. The hotel’s greenery and classical charm serve as a much-needed reprieve from the fast pace of city life across 301 unique rooms and suites, where no two are alike. Guest accommodations at this grand dame-style hotel are surprisingly on the larger side for Milan and feature traditional Italian furnishings and antiques, hand-painted frescos and handsome, patterned marble bathrooms.
Palatial décor and neoclassical architecture define many common areas throughout the hotel, where on any night of the week, the who’s-who of the world may be found sharing drinks and dinner. Health cravings can be quenched by the Principe’s fitness and beauty center, where a tenth-floor swimming pool provides a bird’s eye view of Milan after completing a daily workout. The hotel also houses two dining options: Il Salotto and Acanto Restaurant; the former offers casual, all-day fare amidst a chic green velvet tufted banquette, while the latter is a haute cuisine experience headed by chef Alessandro Buffolino.
Hotel With The Best Views In Milan: Hotel Viu Milan
Hotel Viu Milan
Who Will Love It: Bleisure travelers and those who appreciate quiet, modern luxury
All-Star Amenities: Terrace with stunning views of Milan; rooftop swimming pool; Technogym fitness center
What Not To Miss: The lovely breakfast served on the terrace
Location: Porta Nuova
Nestled in the vibrant cityscape of Milan, Viu’s position towards the city’s outskirts near Chinatown sets itself apart by offering a new perspective on luxury. The hotel’s “Viulosophy” is to create a sanctuary for those traveling for both business and leisure, complete with exceptional 5-star hospitality, a lobby with a chic open fireplace, a vertical garden and exquisite suites, many of which have prime city views. The property also is famous for its serene spa with Turkish baths, sauna, and chromotherapy to elevate guests’ mental well-being.
The rooftop panoramic terrace offers more breathtaking vantage points, further probing out this hotel’s name, and guests can enjoy a delightful bar and tranquil swimming pool for leisurely laps while overlooking the city. The dining experience is equally as sumptuous thanks to Michelin star Chef Giancarlo Morelli, who invites guests to indulge in a unique chef’s table experience within his kitchen.
Best Spa And Wellness Hotel In Milan: Château Monfort
Château Monfort
Who Will Love It: Couples; wedding parties; bachelorette groups; appreciators of the whimsical
All-Star Amenities: Several on-site dining options; incredible Spa Amore & Psiche fitness center
What Not To Miss: Spend the night at the Bar Mezzanotte, a scenic cocktail lounge crowned by a magnificent crystal dome
Location: Monforte District
In the heart of Milan, Château Monfort was purposefully designed to offer a fairytale-like experience, making it the ultimate destination for canoodling couples. Initially built in the early 1900s, this picturesque building underwent meticulous restoration before becoming a luxury hotel in 2013. Today, the Art Nouveau beauty is an iconic symbol of hospitality decorated by architect Paolo Mezzanotte. Long drapes, floral, vine, scenographic wallpapers and motifs, intricate ceilings and more traditional furnishings are part of the charm that keeps travelers returning. The hotel’s more than 70 rooms are each thoughtfully decorated with more whimsical motifs, such as butterflies, dreamers, and forests, adding to the enchantment of the stay.
Several indulgent dining experiences await at Château Monfort, including unforgettable cuisine at the on-site Rubacuori restaurant. For a more private atmosphere, kick back at the intimate Alcova, and don’t miss the Sala della Caccia, which exudes sophistication reminiscent of a hunting lodge. No pampering stay at Chateau Montfort is complete without a trip to one of the hotel’s finest features, Spa Amore & Psiche, a haven of relaxation featuring romantic hidden pools, saunas, Turkish baths, and a hydro suite, all adorned with precious gold and blue details—making it the ideal place for unwinding after a long day of walking in Milan.
Best Located Hotel In Milan: Four Seasons Milano
Four Seasons Milano
Who Will Love It: Business travelers; jet setters, history seekers; first-timers looking for a central location
All-Star Amenities: The hotel’s private outdoor courtyard with a handsomely-curated garden and walkway
What Not To Miss: Zelo, a dining experience complete with a raw bar, a wealth of signature dishes by Executive Chef Fabrizio Borraccino, and contemporary architecture in a spacious, naturally lit dining room
Location: Fashion District
Lovers of Italian antiquity will appreciate the preserved portions of frescoes and exposed brickwork found throughout the Four Seasons Hotel Milano. Housed within a fifteenth-century convent and former palazzo, the property features architectural masterworks in stone and stucco ceilings. It also happens to have one of the most enviable locations in town, just a stone’s throw from popular tourist attractions like the Duomo and all types of shopping.
The 118 spacious guest rooms and suites around the inner courtyard offer sleek contemporary furnishings and individual flare. Featuring a soothing palette of green, ochre, and terracotta, guest rooms feature custom cabinetry and Carrera marble bathrooms with heated floors. Created by renowned Spanish designer and architect Patricia Urquiola, the hotel’s spa offers seven treatment rooms for facials, body treatments, and massage; a sauna and steam bath; a swimming pool and Jacuzzi; and a hair salon by Rossano Ferretti. The hotel’s layout also makes it ideal for large groups or multi-generational families who want to book rooms and suites together and feel more sectioned off.
About Dan Koday, Your Milan Guide
As a passionate traveler with a media career spanning more than 15 years, I’ve stayed at and reviewed some of the top hotels and accommodations in destinations like Italy, Mexico, France, and across the US, as well as off-the-beaten-path locales. I’ve visited Milan, Lake Como and the country’s other beautiful lakes multiple times. As an avid skier, during the winter months, you can find me hitting the slopes in Aspen, Jackson Hole, and Banff. Still, some of my most treasured experiences are posting for a cocktail hour in the bush during a safari in South Africa, sailing through Drake’s Passage to reach Antarctica, and trekking to Machu Picchu.
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