In spite of being home to some incredible art, including da Vinci's The Last Supper, and some incredible museums and architecture, Milan isn’t really a tourist city. Shoppers, foodies, art fans, and football, fashion and opera-lovers adore it, but it’s not quite beautiful. About 80 per cent of the Italian headquarters for international companies are based here, or in the immediate surrounding area, so it makes sense that there are a lot of business hotels in Milan, and that the best places to stay in Milan are geared towards executives travelling on high end expense accounts. Milan’s other main claim to fame, design, is also really well represented amongst its hotels, and Milan has some of the hippest, coolest design hotels in Italy. Our Gurus have discovered some fantastic fashion hotels, elegant apartment and spacious suite hotels, some beautifully converted palazzos, a couple of grand dames, and a collection of great value city centre options.
If you’re here to see The Last Supper, or have an amazing supper, you’ll find some of the best places to stay in Milan are in the the Sant’Ambrogio area, close to the Corso Magenta, with its trendy wine bars and chic shopping. This is an elegant, affluent neighbourhood, so if your holiday meal budget is modest you’re advised to walk a few blocks before choosing a restaurant. Opera-lovers should base themselves close to La Scala, which is in the Duomo neighbourhood — also called the Centro Storico. Here you’ll also find the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, arguably the oldest shopping mall in Europe, and a large clutch of Milan’s principal museums and galleries. For fashionistas, the places to be is in Brera, which is also one of the prettiest district in Milan, and arty and trendy too. Porta Venezia is similar, but with more Art Nouveau period architecture.
If you’re planning a romantic break, Navigli, which is run through with canals, makes a charming backdrop for a stroll or a drink of an evening. It also has great antique and vintage shops. And for great value accommodation check out the Cita Studi area, which is also popular with students, and is vibrant and lively. While bargains in this city are thin on the ground, a handful of the best places to stay in Milan are delightful small hotels where it's not de rigeur to be dressed in head-to-toe black Prada crowned with a massive pair of dark glasses; we have listed our favourites below!
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Milan (Lorenteggio)
A contemporary hotel, with a superb location and great views of the city. Rooms are uniquely designed with quirky features such as blackboards or book exchange facilities. Other cool features include a pillow menu and a choice of bathroom linen whilst booking. An excellent breakfast served in room.
Milan (Porta Garibaldi)
A stay at bijou Casa Titta is like being welcomed into the home of a stylish and worldly friend. Four individually designed rooms furnished with period pieces and delicious breakfast included in the price. Perfect for solo travellers or couples wanting to experience an up-and-coming area of Milan.
Milan (Marghera)
Modern B&B in Marghera area of Milan. Guestrooms have colourful details, ornate murals, bright furnishings and big bathrooms. Light-filled breakfast room and friendly staff to help plan your daily excursions. A great value stay in a central part of town.
Milan (Porta Venezia)
This stylish, comfortable hotel is the perfect choice for shopaholics, sheltered just behind the Corso Buenos Aires, one of the busiest shopping streets in Milan. Contemporary rooms and suites with rich furnishings & many with a private terrace. A good value choice for a city break.
Milan (Stazione Centrale)
Eco-city hotel in a 1920s building. Modern rooms are pristine and stylish with big bathrooms. Courtyard outside to enjoy an apertif, and sunny breakfast room. Sauna and small shop selling organic products. Very good value and well located to explore both the city and region.
Milan (Carrobbio)
Stylish, incredibly good value accommodation in the heart of Milan. Rooms are spacious, clean and simple - some with private balconies. Parking is available close by. A fantastic choice for those looking to get out and sample the city's many restaurants, bars and shops. A good base for a city break.
Milan (San Vittore)
This pristine family-run guesthouse has a pretty courtyard garden in Milan's old quarter. Comfortable rooms showcase polished wooden floors and antique wood furniture, some overlooking the garden. The triple suite is a good choice for families. An intimate stay and great value city spot.
Milan (Carrobbio)
Centrally located, simply decorated, and equipped with all the modern conveniences needed for a trip to Milan. Suitable for business visitors, tourists or groups looking for something cheaper and more functional.
Milan (Stazione Centrale)
A space of tranquility within the bustling city. With a strong emphasis on sustainability the design is inspired by nature and focuses on green open spaces. Chic rooms with simple light hues, large windows and uber modern bathrooms. Organic food served within a vegetable garden. City bliss.
Milan (Ticinese)
Right in the heart of Milan, not far from the cathedral, art museums and the prestigious shopping quarter - come here for a luxurious, marble-laden city break. All 18 rooms are uniquely decorated in this 17th century townhouse with chandeliers, tapestries, parquet floors and period furniture.
Milan (Lombardy)
A youthful four-star hotel set in the trendy Brera District. The design is lively with bright splashes of colour and retro-style fittings. There's a vibrant communal area, co-working spaces, and regular events. Expect friendly and efficient staff and a surprisingly affordable price tag for Milan.
Milan (Carrobbio)
This lifestyle hotel is situated on the exclusive Corso Italia in central Milan. Guest suites are dressed in a perfectly balanced palette of teal, black and grey, set off by contemporary art prints and a custom-made fragrance by Laura Tonatto. Head to the hotel's secret garden for evening aperitivi.
Milan (Brera)
Newly converted townhouse with pretty, reasonably priced rooms. Comfortable rooms are decked in cream colour schemes with silk curtains, crisp bed linen, fresh flowers and wooden floors. Enjoy the complimentary breakfast before setting out on the town. An elegant choice to explore Milan from.
Milan (Stazione Centrale)
A smart new hotel convenient for Milan’s Central station. It boasts a basement spa and roof-top terrace with views across the Porta Nuova district. Slickly designed rooms in muted colours make an ideal base for either the business traveller or tourist.
Milan (Castello Sforzesco)
Pretty and centrally located B&B that doesn’t break the bank. This old merchant's house, recently renovated, is contemporary country in style - creams, floral and wood floors. The spectacular suites on the top floor have wrought iron four posters and private terraces. A hotel that is hard to come by
Milan (Duomo)
A contemporary hotel a few steps from the Duomo, the Fashion District and the Teatro alla Scala. Rooms and suites in pastel colours dotted with modern art and high tech gadgetry. A good choice for those with a design conscience.
Milan (Porta Monforte)
Five Star opulent fairytale themed hotel just a short walk from the Piazza San Babila and Milan's famous designer shops. Elegant period features blend with 21st century luxury. Afternoon tea is a speciality. Cocktail bar, elegant wine bar and classic Italian cuisine.
Milan (Ticinese)
Swish and sophisticated, The Yard is perfect for people looking for a hip spot to bed down in Milan. A retro sports theme runs throughout the hotel's design. Offering luxurious rooms, two excellent restaurants and a lively bar, it's a great launchpad for a trip to the city.
Milan (Castello Sforzesco)
Just steps away from Milan's fashion district, this is ancient Italy meeting sophisticated modern elegance. The stunning lighting and large, comfortable rooms create a calm ambience. This intimate hotel is the perfect choice for those interested in luxury shopping, and excellent Italian restaurants.
Milan (Brera)
A large contemporary hotel in a traditional Milanese palazzo. Rooms and suites have plush furnishings, parquet floors, splashes of modern art, and private balconies overlooking the inner courtyard. Excellent restaurants, terraces, meeting rooms and wellness centre cater to just about any city visit.
Milan (Navigli)
Experience what life might be like for a fashion model or designer with a stay in these high-end suites in a converted perfume factory in the heart of Milan’s design district. Chic all white interiors offset by sofas in primary colours. A fashionistas dream come true!
Milan (Duomo)
Hip, contemporary boutique hotel with a sense of fun in a central location. Neutral colours with splashes of bold colour bedeck the interiors. The bedrooms feature white ostrich leather, crocodile, steel and travertine. Two suites have private gyms, Turkish baths, or hot tubs. Great food too.
Milan (Chinatown)
A luxury hotel combining innovation, opulence and simplicity. Offering high-quality service, a relaxing atmosphere and the characteristics of the Italian lifestyle, the five star Hotel VIU Milan is the first hotel in Milan dedicated to the ‘bleisure’ traveller.
Milan (Duomo)
Ultra cool, 21st Century designs in a super-central location. A classic facade encases a minimalist industrial aesthetic - burnished brass, polished concrete, glass and iron. Bedrooms are decked with black stone and shimmering brass bathrooms. A hip destination for those with creative sides.
Milan (San Vittore)
A chic and intimate boutique hotel in the heart of Milan. Its stylish, contemporary design marries perfectly with its historic charm. Featuring an exclusive fitness area, speakeasy-style bar, and a curated library, this spot offers everything you need. A unique blend of luxury and local flavour.
Milan (Porta Nuova)
Legendary Milan establishment marrying Italian pizazz with the signature service expected from The Dorchester Collection. Its opulent Principe bar and high-end Acanto restaurant are places to see and be seen. For those with deep pockets and an eye for detail.
Milan (Duomo)
A chic boutique hotel oozing vintage charm in the heart of Milan. The vibrant decor features bold colours, terracotta bricks, and designer furniture. Guests can enjoy breakfast until noon, a 24-hour gym, and a top-notch meeting room for those on business. Perfect for a memorable Milanese stay.
Milan (Porta Venezia)
A boutique hotel exuding understated sophistication in the heart of Milan. The decor is sleek and stylish with a tasteful mix of marble, wood, and brass. Guests can enjoy a café offering delectable meals curated by a top food critic, an excellent wine list and a fitness room. An elegant retreat.
Milan (Montenapoleone)
Old fashioned luxury with an operatic history - the doyenne of Milan's five-star hotels just a stone's throw from La Scala opera house. Rich drapes, antiques and fine paintings fill the interiors, wonderfully opulent throughout. Traditional milanese cuisine and a popular bar.
Milan (Brera)
A classically grand Italian hotel in one of Milan's most fashionable districts, Brera. Large, light rooms offer up spectacular city views. Modern yet with traditional touches including stone fireplaces and marble clad bathrooms. Two excellent restaurants within elegant surrounds. A spoiling stay.
Milan (Duomo)
An opulent hotel in the heart of Milan's Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II where guests can enjoy eclectic art and contemporary design in the fabulously designed rooms. There's gourmet dining, an exclusive lounge, and outdoor terrace. The ideal opportunity to experience Milanese elegance at its finest.
Milan (Montenapoleone)
Featuring exclusive Armani style, this hotel blends slick inner-spaces with first-rate hospitality. The rooms' austere hues lend a refined feel to the minimalist decor. The chic restaurant serves local cuisine and the spa boasts an unrivalled relaxation area. An undeniably classy stay.
Milan (Duomo)
Classic meets contemporary design in a fabulously central location on the doorstep of the most prestigious shopping streets. Serene and airy interiors - palettes of cream, beige and soft greys. Luxurious facilities include a spa and fitness centre, buzzy cocktail bar and good restaurant. City style.
Milan (Montenapoleone)
Modern, stylish luxury in a 15th-Century monastery with a beautiful cloistered garden. Large individually designed bedrooms with luxurious fabrics and opulent marble bathrooms. An excellent gourmet restaurant and fab spa. Though it is seriously luxurious and sophisticated, also a great family choice
Milan (Brera)
Sleek glamour meets opulence and indulgence within Milan’s old city walls. Minimal interiors- black and white marbles, beiges and browns. Chic rooms have teak balconies, some overlooking the stunning 700 year old garden. Sensational spa, indoor pool and great food. Favorite haunt of Milan's elite.
Milan (Brera)
Italian elegance meets Eastern charm in Milan's heart. The decor is a stylish mix of contemporary and classic, with a luxurious yet welcoming vibe. Guests can indulge in gourmet dining, unwind in the spa, or enjoy the lush courtyard bar. A perfect retreat for a sophisticated city getaway.
Milan (Porta Venezia)
An opulent option tucked away in Milan's historic heart. The stylish interiors by Michele Bönan blend stately Milanese elegance with modern design flair - think sumptuous materials and a serene colour palette. Guests can enjoy a spa, indoor pool, boutiques, and gourmet dining under historic vaults.
Milan (Brera)
An elegant boutique hotel in Milan’s artistic Brera district. Interiors boast an opulent blend of Italian craftsmanship with bespoke lighting, lush fabrics, and intricate wallpaper. From a Michelin-starred dining experience to a sophisticated wine cellar, the amenities cater to discerning tastes.
Milan (Porta Venezia)
A luxurious 5-star escape overlooking the park in Milan. The interiors echo an elegant English club, styled by the discerning eye of Michele Bonan. Featuring a lavish spa, gourmet restaurants, and an ambient bar, every corner promises exclusivity. A unique sanctuary in Italy's fashion capital.