Grand Hotel et de Milan

BACKGROUND Open since 1863, this Leading Hotels of the World member has been owned by the Bertazzoni family for three generations and has welcomed guests ranging from Hemingway and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor to composer Giuseppe Verdi and opera singer Maria Callas.

- Jeff Mills

WHAT’S IT LIKE? Designed in the style of a grand palazzo, the property, like many of Milan’s extravagant and luxurious houses, has an unassuming façade. Once inside, it is elegant grandeur all the way, in spite of all of the Covid precautions in place. The public areas and guestrooms sport priceless antiques that have been there so long that they have become part of the hotel’s history. Ask to see the Verdi suite, complete with the desk that he used.

WHERE IS IT? On Via Manzoni in the centre of the city, about a five-minute walk from the financial district and a short stroll from La Scala opera house, the Duomo and the fashion area. It’s an excellent location whether you are in Milan for business or leisure, or a bit of both.