Although this imposing five-star property — a member of Leading Hotels of the World — feels like it’s been around for decades, it actually only opened in 2013. The fact that its hands-on owner is an architect is apparent in both the grand and tiny details, from the forest of cut flowers when you walk in, to the marquetry flooring, portraits on the walls and the luxurious features of the 95 rooms and suites. It’s in a useful location in the Brera neighbourhood, removed from the immediate hustle and bustle of downtown but still convenient for Milan’s best restaurants, shops and attractions: La Scala opera house is less than 15 minutes away on foot, and the Duomo just a tad further.
Overall score 9/10
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Rooms and suites
Score 9/10
The hotel combines elements of design from both Milan and Paris, and you’ll find this particularly in the 54 rooms and 41 suites. Entry-level rooms are a generous 35 sq m with lots of natural daylight, and are either Milan-themed (more contemporary with lighter coloured furniture and natural wood highlights) or inspired by the French capital (more classic with chic artwork adorning the walls). Balconies or terraces are standard for all, with some overlooking an interior courtyard.
Bathrooms incorporate plenty of marble and all have a separate bath tub and shower, with Clarins products. There are several voluminous signature suites, which have hosted the likes of Madonna and Lady Gaga, strewn with antiques, modern artwork, large terraces, dining and living areas, plenty of natural light and fantastic views of the city.
Food and drink
Score 9/10
Breakfast is served every day from 7am in light and airy Caffé Parigi; a sumptuous buffet offers a spread of meats, cheeses, yoghurts and pastries, while eggs, omelettes, pancakes and the like can be cooked to order. The café remains open for mid-morning coffees, lunch (try the caesar salad), afternoon tea, cocktails and dinner. In summer, guests can dine among statues and ornaments in the Palazzo’s private garden.
A more opulent fine-dining option can be found next door at the appropriately named Gastronomic Restaurant. Dressing up is the first order of the day, before being seated on leather chairs under the hand-painted ceiling and beside examples of rare artwork from the 17th century. Try a traditional veal ossobuco with gremolata sauce and crunchy saffron rice, and leave room for dessert, because the homemade tiramisu hits all the right spots.
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What else is there?
Score 9/10
An expansive Moroccan-themed spa occupies the entire third floor and is a tranquil place to relax after a hard day’s business, shopping, sight-seeing — or all three. Enjoy a 50-minute relaxing massage or a 75-minute lifting facial. For the ultimate splurge, book the Royal Hammam Suite, which is a huge, private massage area that comes with its own pool. There’s also a sauna, steam room, healthy café, swimming pool and stylish fitness room that has state-of-the-art Technogym equipment and free weights.
Where is it?
Score 8/10
The hotel is on Corso di Porta Nuova, on the edge of the trendy Brera neighbourhood, which has plenty of cafés, bars, restaurants and shops. On foot you can reach La Scala opera house in about 15 minutes, the Duomo cathedral in just under 20 minutes, Via Monte Napoleone (the address for many of Milan’s high-end stores) in around ten minutes, and it’s only five minutes to the nearest metro stop (Turati).
Price room-only doubles from £1,100
Restaurant mains from £22
Family-friendly N
Accessibile N
Will Hide was a guest of Palazzo Parigi (palazzoparigi.com)
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