The Best Room at... Hotel Principe di Savoia
On Tuesday, the world's largest furniture fair, the Salone del Mobile, opens to the public in Milan, turning the city into a global destination for the design elite. Some 300,000 visitors are expected at the Rho Fiera fairgrounds, but many more are flying in for the broader events of Milan Design Week, including the 90th anniversary celebration of the the label Molteni&C and the unveiling of Design Ancora, a home extension of Gucci creative director Sabato De Sarno's debut collection for the Italian label. With so many people in town, where is a design aficionado to reside and rest? There's plenty of hotels to choose from but the cream of the crop, the grand dame of Milanese hospitality, is the nearly century old Principe Di Savoia, which over the years has played host to Edward VIII, Maria Callas, Madonna, the Beckhams, and Sofia Coppola, who filmed her movie Somewhere there. What's the draw for such an eclectic bunch? Here, general manager Ezio Indiani reveals all about the hotel's signature suite, the city's hidden gems, and the best spot for a luxurious aperitivo.
Tell me about the Presidential suite at the Principe Di Savoia. What makes it special?
Located on the top floor of the building, reachable with its private elevator, the Presidential Suite is the largest and most exclusive suite in Europe measuring almost 5,400 square feet. It features Empire style, original antique furniture and an elegant working fireplace in the living room. The elegant dining room is furnished with French crystal, Limoges porcelain and silverware. Authentic Venetian XIX century mirrors, Murano glass lamp and chandeliers, marble and bronze wall lamps, original late XIX century prints and fine objects in marble and granite complete the luxurious location. Designed by American architect Michael Stelea, whose mission it was to create a real wow factor, this suite never disappoints and has even starred in a Hollywood film. This majestic suite presents three en suite bedrooms, a formal dining room and a Pompeii-styled swimming pool. Working fireplaces add to the warm ambience, while your private terrace offers a prime view over the rooftops of Milan.
What is the starting rate for the suite, and what kind of guest packages can you build around it?
The starting from rate for this one-of-a-kind suite is 17,000 euros a night. Everything can be absolutely personalized and tailor made for guests booking this suite. Personal chef is available upon request and it is serviced by a private butler.
The hotel has long been a destination for the fashion and design communities, especially during the Salone del Mobile and Milan Fashion Week. Why do you think that is?
The Hotel Principe di Savoia's popularity among the fashion and design communities during events like the Salone del Mobile and Milan Fashion Week can be attributed to several factors, including location, luxury, ambiance, history, and popular events. The hotel offers easy access to the city's fashion districts, design studios, showrooms, and event venues. Its central location makes it a convenient choice for professionals attending these events. Hotel Principe di Savoia also provides an exclusive and elegant setting that resonates with the high-end clientele of the fashion and design industries. And it is a hub for networking and socializing among professionals in the fashion and design sectors.
Tell me a little bit about the property’s history, and some of its famous guests over the years outside the worlds of fashion and design.
The Hotel Principe di Savoia, has a rich history dating back to its opening in 1927. From the very beginning, the Hotel Principe di Savoia, has been a classy contradiction in terms— symbolizing gracious living for a clientele focused on business, offering the traditional hospitality of a grand resort in an unapologetically urban setting, hosting captains of industry, counts of nobility and cultural icons with equal aplomb. Over the years, Hotel Principe di Savoia has played host to numerous notable guests from various fields, including royalty, political figures, entertainment celebrities, business leaders and sport stars.
What is one feature of the hotel that you think firs-time visitors will find surprising?
For nearly a century Hotel Principe di Savoia has embodied the true spirit of Milan. The magnificent Neoclassical landmark façade with the entrance continue to play a starring role as the glamorous backdrop. Another feature of the hotel that first-time visitors may find surprising is its breathtaking rooftop pool and terrace. The rooftop offers stunning panoramic views of the Milan skyline, including iconic landmarks and the city's modern skyscrapers.
Tell me about the dining experiences available at the property.
Hotel Principe di Savoia offers guests a variety of dining experiences, ranging from fine dining to casual lounges, each showcasing the best of Italian and international cuisine. There is Acanto, the hotel's signature restaurant, offering an elegant dining experience in a sophisticated setting. Led by Chef Matteo Gabrielli, the menu features a blend of traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist, using locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant is known for its impeccable service and extensive wine selection, making it a favorite among guests and locals alike. There's also Il Salotto Lobby Lounge, which provides a relaxed atmosphere for guests to enjoy cocktails, light bites, and afternoon tea. The lounge features stylish décor, comfortable seating, creating the perfect ambiance for socializing or unwinding after a day of exploring Milan. And then there's the Principe Bar, a cocktail bar offering a refined setting to enjoy a wide selection of cocktails. This is the bar where a quick aperitivo easily slips into a long, leisurely night of live music and handcrafted cocktails. Daniele Celli is our talented new bar manager. He brings his knowledge, international experience and mixology mastery to bar, elevating this iconic spot to new heights.
What sights, shops, and restaurants near the Principe Di Savoia should visitors check out this year?
From secret Baroque gardens to forest-covered architecture, Milan, Italy’s most cosmopolitan and fashionable city, has an array of hidden gems to discover. Our concierge, Lorenzo Fradegradi, suggests visiting the ‘Park of the Basilicas,’ so named as it connects the two ancient churches of St. Eustorgio (where legend has it the relics of the Three Wise Men were revered) and St. Lawrence, with its stunning Paleo-Christian mosaics. Meanwhile, Laboratorio Paravicini is celebrated for its Italian classical craftsmanship, creating elegant ceramic tableware, art and chandeliers. And a stone’s throw away from the Duomo, you’ll find Milan’s oldest district, known as ‘Cinque Vie’ or ‘five ways’. A meeting of five ancient streets and a dynamic crossroads of trade in Roman and Medieval times, today this district is home to buzzing galleries, craft and antique shops, artist studios, design stores and boutiques. At Wait and See on Via Santa Marta, set in a charming 18th century former convent, you’ll find quirky vintage pieces sourced from France to Los Angeles
What’s in store for the rest of 2024?
A brilliant 2024 is expected for the city of Milan. There are many new openings in the city which certainly make the panorama more competitive but on the other hand also more stimulating and attractive
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