Corso Matteotti 4/6, Milan, Italy | (888) 635-3814
Ultra-stylish design hotel in the heart of Milan's Fashion District
Spacious rooms decorated with designer furniture; some have balconies with Duomo views
Over-the-top Oltremare Restaurant serves delicious fare in an interesting space
Glamorous lounge bar and champagnerie
Rooftop terrace with views of the Duomo
Super luxe Boscolo Spa includes numerous treatment rooms and a fitness center
Freebies include Wi-Fi, breakfast, and bike rentals
One-of-a-kind indoor swimming pool
Futuristic meeting rooms are popular among business travelers
Pet-friendly property (for no extra fee)
Bathrooms don't have doors in some rooms
Some rooms don't have views
Fee for parking
Boscolo Milano is truly a one-of-a-kind luxury design hotel under the management of Marriott, with one of the most fashionable addresses in Milan. Previously a bank, the property was transformed into a design hotel in 2009 by the same architect who renovated the Musée d’Orsay in Paris. In-the-know locals and sophisticated international travelers (families may not be comfortable here) book design-forward rooms, some of which have views of the Duomo from private balconies. A rooftop terrace, champagnerie (is that even a word in English?), and luxe spa are just a few of the features on offer. Breakfast, bike rentals, and Wi-Fi are free. Oh, and if you don't travel without your pup -- he or she is welcome here, free of charge. Compare rates at the nearby five-pearl Bulgari Milano if you prefer a bit more seclusion and the same level of luxury.
Scene
Eight-story avant-garde hotel managed by Marriott
Take one look at the lipstick-red entrance, Carrara marble floors, and giant tubular metal sculptures in the lobby and it can be hard to imagine the Boscolo Milano used to be a bank. In 2009, world-renowned architect Italo Rota changed the gray stone facade building into a hotel that must be seen to be believed. More than 4,000 LEDs change into a rainbow of colors and brightness based on the time and season. Expensive floral displays and custom-made furniture are found throughout the property. Look for black, red, and purple velvet settees. On the roof, white wicker furniture and umbrellas create a popular spot to sip an apertif and admire views of the nearby Duomo Cathedral. There's definitely a grown-up vibe, so families with little ones may want to book elsewhere.
Location
In the center of Milan's Fashion District
Boscolo Milano has a fashionable address to match its fashionable clientele. It's only a five-minute walk to the famous shopping street of Via Montenapoleone, home to high-end fashion houses like Gucci, Fendi, and Celine. The famous Duomo Cathedral is just outside the hotel's front doors and San Babila Metro Station is 270 yards away, taking passengers throughout the city. High-priced restaurants, bars, and coffee shops are plentiful in the neighborhood, though you won't find much on offer that's wallet friendly; unless your wallet is made by Prada. Expect to pay for parking, though reservations aren't required. Valet is an option.
Rooms
Eclectic and luxurious rooms and suites -- upgrades required for Duomo views
There are 154 avant-garde rooms and suites at Boscolo Milano. Each is a little bit different in terms of layout, views, amenities, and furniture, but the overall decor is futuristic and modern with comfortable touches. Sixteen bottles of bath products, espresso machines, and plush robes are luxe details. Beds are simply covered in white high-thread-count sheets, but the rest of the furniture (all made in Italy) is over-the-top. Look for a lime-green inflatable chair or an asymmetrical lipstick-red velvet settee. Bathrooms range from glass shower stalls with rain shower heads to soaking [ whirlpool style tubs] to shower/tub combinations with handheld wands. Some bathrooms don't have doors which can be an issue for families who need privacy. An upgrade is required for Duomo views from a private balcony. Cleanliness and noise aren't issues here.
Features
Indoor swimming pool, two restaurants, champagne bar, and more
The features on offer at Boscolo Milano are as well thought out as the public spaces and rooms at the design heavy hotel, without incurring too many extra charges for guests who are already paying high prices. Free perks include bike rentals, Wi-Fi, and breakfast. Pets are welcome without an extra charge. The lounge bar is open 24/7 for late night nibbles and bubbles. Oltremare Restaurant is popular with locals and guests. The crown jewel there is a Murano crystal table that seats 16 in the VIP room. Gourmet Italian and international dishes are served. Access to the fitness center and spa is free. There, you'll find a heated swimming pool, sauna, and Turkish bath. Fresh fruit and coffee are nice touches. Massages can be scheduled for an additional cost. The fitness center is small and black with LEDs; a few pieces of Technogym cardio equipment and a weight bench are set out. Another real standout is the indoor pool in a cave-meets-spaceship setting.