Suite life: Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa, Milan

Duomo Panoramic Suite / Size: 87 square metres, including terrace
Price per night: Starting from €4,000 (about AUD$5,966)
Review by: Kate Symons / palazzoparigi.com

Why stay here?

Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa is in Milan‘s historic quarter of Brera, a dream location within easy walking distance of designer shopping, incredible dining, and the city’s top cultural attractions. The hotel is an attraction itself, its commanding façade offering a hint of the uncompromising luxury within.

Design notes

There is something special about stepping into a hotel for the first time. Anticipation makes way for first impressions, and in that regard, the hotel lobby plays a crucial role. At Palazzo Parigi, the lobby makes a bold and beautiful statement with its cascading staircase, Baveno marble columns, mosaic Venetian floor and glittering Murano chandelier. The space stops me in my tracks, and I know immediately I am set to be spoiled. Owner and architect, Paola Giambelli, teamed with interiors doyen, Pierre-Yves Rochon, to bring Palazzo Parigi to life almost 10 years ago. The result is a delicate blend of Milanese chic and Parisian elegance that continues throughout the rooms and suites. And oh la la, my Duomo Panoramic Suite epitomises Parisian grace and includes a marble master bathroom, a corner bar and a walk-in closet. From the terrace, though, the view is exquisitely Milanese, Duomo included.

Dining

Sit under hand-painted ceilings, between priceless artworks and on fine leather at Palazzo Parigi’s opulent in-house restaurant. The haute Italian menu is both classic and creative and includes Milanese specialties such as ossobuco and veal cutlet. The adjacent Caffé Parigi is perfect for coffee, a light lunch or aperitivo. Even if you can’t stay, be sure to pop in to admire the incredible eight-toned parquet. Served in Caffé Parigi, breakfast is a buffet arrangement with – once again – Italian and French influences. I took my morning macchiato by the floor-to-ceiling windows of the Winter Garden, flooded by natural light. Bellissimo. In-room dining is available 24 hours a day.

Spa and wellness

Palazzo Parigi’s Grand Spa is just that, a grand oasis that offers a genuine disconnect from the bustling city beyond. Moorish-inspired architecture invites utter relaxation and tensions melt away thanks to a sense of space (it’s set over 1700 square metres, the largest spa in Milan). In addition to a thoughtful spa menu, facilities include a pool, Finnish sauna, steam bath, icefall, emotional shower (think mood lighting and curated aromas) and jacuzzi. In glistening pink marble, the hammam suite is particularly elaborate.

The special touches

During my stay, special touches were the rule, rather than the exception, but a nod here to the concierge who knew just where to steer me, depending on my mood. Do try N’Ombra de Vin, a treasure of a wine bar just a couple of blocks from the hotel. There is also a Teatro alla Scala preferential ticket service and babysitting can be arranged – a mental note I made for next time.

If you want to upgrade

The Penthouse Suite stretches across 180 square metres, with an 80-square-metre wrap-around terrace and beautiful views over Porta Nuova. The suite can be sold with up to three interconnecting rooms for a total of 350 square metres. At 150 square metres, the Imperial Suite is smaller but offers unparalleled views of the Milan skyline.

palazzoparigi.com