The Principe Di Savoia Is A Milan Classic That Holds Its Own

The Principe di Savoia in Milan is a classic. Having first opened its doors in 1927, the lauded 301-room property has played host to royalty, nobility, cultural icons, leading entrepreneurs, and more. Located within view of the Italian city’s bustling railway hub, Stazione Centrale, it’s conveniently positioned within the heart of the northern capital. Promising panoramic views over the city’s Porta Garibaldi financial district (moments away on foot) and a glorious 15-minute saunter past the stuccoed walls and turreted churches to the Quadrilatero d’Oro, the city’s dedicated shopping district—the sought-after metropolis of Milan is within easy reach.

Inside, the 10-floor property is a haven of enviable calm—a world away from the thrum of the surrounding cobbled streets and boutiques. The rooms, all 257 and 44 suites, are elegant and refined, combining modern styles with classical design and antiques. Lush Italian fabrics sit alongside dark wood furnishings and handcrafted fittings.

Four-poster beds feature in many of the rooms and all boast soft linens with high numbered thread counts and all happily welcome small pets. Star enclaves, like the Principe’s Presidential Suite, promise lavish hand-painted frescoes and delicate inlaid wood fixtures. Thick draperies and sumptuous colours of claret and terracotta frame the interiors, awarding warmth and comfort.

Throughout, bathrooms are large and bright with oversized massaging shower heads and deep Turkish-style tubs. Materials like Lasa marble and brilliant variegated tiles elevate the space, as do the chic Acqua di Parma toiletries.

The Grand Dame of the city since its launch, The Principe di Savoia has set the bar as the Milanese hotel against which all other Milanese hotels are measured. And today, the hotel excels at honouring its history and legacy while also embodying all a guest could dream up for a modern five-star property.

Dominating the block, the hotel is a favourite with the fashion crowds and beyond, drawn to its rooftop spa with a heated swimming pool and glass-fronted 5,000 square foot gym. Offering a huge selection of both bespoke and tried-and-tested treatment, the impressive spa caters both to hotel guests and select group of annual members.

On the ground floor, Acanto serves modern Italian for breakfast lunch and dinner—as well as an increasingly popular weekend brunch. Young, handsome and talented, chef Alessandro Buffolino has designed an a la carte menu that hits all the classics but also promises innovation, creativity and offers a fresh approach to traditional ingredients. And with its sleek marble floors, Murano chandeliers and indoor outdoor design, menu favourites include cacio e pepe risotto with sea urchin pulp; beef Wellington served with Madeira jus; and smoked lobster in a tangy yuzu sauce.

See and be seen, lighter dishes, coffees and afternoon teas are served at Il Salotta, the Thierry Despont-designed lobby bar. With its vibrant furnishing and open style, it’s not hard to see that this is the heart of the hotel. Elsewhere, sip a classic cocktail or glass of chilled wine in one of the deep-seated armchairs at the Principe Bar.

All in all, with its white glove service, polished silver trays, and abundant Italian charm, it’s little surprise that most guests here are repeat guests.