There's an intimacy and authenticity to Brera, the kind we don't usually associate with the glitz and glamour of Milan's renowned luxury designer scene. Of course, you'll find designers here in their droves — this is Milan, after all — but instead of luxury brands, you can expect little boutiques selling everything from clothes to handicrafts, run by up-and-coming designers.
The winding, cobbled streets are lined with gorgeous 18th-century townhouses, and this chic, buzzing neighbourhood is home to everything from the craft market at Via Fiori Chiari to the Pinacoteca di Brera art gallery, which displays one of the world's finest collections of artwork, including the likes of Caravaggio and Rafael. The best hotels in Brera are as cool and stylish as the area itself, ranging from romantic getaways to carbon-neutral hotels perfectly placed for sightseeing.
For A stylish city stay
- Mandarin Oriental is just steps from Teattro alla Scala, and its stylish location barely surpasses the stylish grandeur of its luxurious interior. If you can afford to splash out, you'll be rewarded by the designer rooms, the pampering spa and gourmet dining. A stylish city getaway in the heart of Brera!
- Casa Baglioni makes exploring Brera a breeze, being near the shopping district and metro. It's a stylish boutique hotel, its decor taking inspiration from 1960s Milan. Combined with the Michelin-star restaurant, the scent of jasmine from the terrace, and the extensive wine cellar, it makes for a romantic and stylish city break.
- For a classically grand stay look no further than Palazzo Parigi, an elegant hotel boasting stunning city views, and contemporary rooms with stone fireplaces and marble bathrooms. The Duomo and shopping districts are within walking distance, making this another stylish romantic city break getaway.
For true Milanese luxury
- Milan Bulgari is a glamorous, luxury stay ideal for anyone with deep pockets! As well as rooms with private balconies overlooking the one-acre garden (this is the only hotel with a garden within the old city walls) there's a pampering spa and pool. A splendid place to rub shoulders with the A-list!
For an eco-friendly city stay
- Milano Scala is within walking distance of all the major sights — it's also just a short walk from the train station and the metro, so getting around couldn't be easier. Best of all, it's one of the few hotels in Italy with zero carbon emissions, and was named by National Geographic as one of the most eco-friendly hotels in the world. A conveniently located, environmentally-friendly stay in the heart of Brera.
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