During our last trip to Italy, we squeezed in a short stopover in Milan. As we only had one day in the city, it was important for us to stay in the city center. We opted for the Hotel Milano Scala, an eco-friendly boutique hotel located in the chic Brera district.
Located in the heart of Milan
Hotel Milano Scala is a boutique styled 4**** hotel in prime location at the heart of Milan. We found out about the HMS through Tripadvisor where a lot of positive reviews sparked my interest. Milan is crazy expensive so when I found the rate being reasonable too, I went for it. The decision was great from start to finish.
The Hotel Milano Scala is green – inside and out.
We came by car which we parked at the garage near the hotel on a busy Friday morning. Driving in Milan is an adventure to say the least. Our room was not ready for another hour at check-in but we killed waiting time by enjoying a breakfast at a nearby café. This way we were able to explore the direct perimeter of the hotel featuring the Scala/opera, the Duomo and many shops nearby. The staff was welcoming and friendly and took care of our luggage in between. They even have a concierge who will be able to recommend and assist you with any inquiries during your stay.
The lobby of the hotel is warm and welcoming.
Spacious Milan hotel rooms
The hotel features 62 rooms and suites, of which we enjoyed the ‘superior’ category. The room was located on the 3rd floor and really spacious. The two windows were facing the inner patio so despite the central location it was a quiet night. Although the day was very hot and sunny, there was very little daylight inside the room, which I found a bit disappointing as we had to turn on the lights even during the day. The air condition was silent and very efficient and we really enjoyed getting out of the heat. The theme of (all) the rooms is “Opera” as you can guess from the curtains, oversized theatrical wall pictures and decor. Our room featured a king size bed, seating area, a desk with complimentary water and a large closet. What I especially liked was the absence of a full carpet floor which can be challenging in Italy depending on its age.
Our room had a modern decor and a spacious king size bed.
The bathroom was very spacious and had two sinks and a large shower/tub combination. Although I prefer a separate walk-in shower I found the hybrid here rather convenient due to the large size of the tub, window and rain shower. Towels were not as fluffy as I usually like them but bathrobes and nice amenities made up for it.
The bathroom had a double sink – perfect for couples!
The Dahlia amenities were a nice touch.
The whole room was rather modern, well maintained and absolutely clean. Although we did not have a Nespresso machine in the room, we found a note stating that we could get one for the duration of your stay or order complimentary coffee anytime we like which was a nice touch.
Rooftop and Aperitivo in Milan
The rooftop terrace of the hotel offers beautiful views and a nice lounge atmosphere.
Aperitivo with a view – just how I like it!
The hotel is nestled in the chic Brera district – and so is its rooftop terrace.
One of the major achievements of Milan is its very elevated aperitif culture. Starting from 5pm, you have countless of opportunities to enjoy a drink alongside some bites in a nice setting. In Milan that’s often rooftop terraces and the Hotel Milano Scala does not disappoint here. On top of the hotel, you will find the rooftop terrace with a full bar, tables, couch seating and lounge seating. The terrace is open for external guests too. With an almost 360° view over Brera, we enjoyed a chilled Aperol Spritz during a very hot evening. As the drinks are not on the cheap end, you probably want to “upgrade” your drink for as little as 2 € with the Aperitivo basket. featuring a variety of small bites. For us it was almost a full dinner! Food and drinks tasted good and the view was fantastic, however the bar service wasn’t very attentive and we didn’t feel very much appreciated as guests.
Just a stopover
We were on a stopover and just spent one night in Milan so we did not have the chance to catch much of the hotel’s other offerings such as their Spa offers or restaurants. Our rate however included breakfast which was served behind the lobby. The buffet had a solid choice of fruit, cereals, juices, coffee, bread and spread. Surely enough variety for a city weekend. The unobtrusive classical harpist in the nearby library during breakfast is a nice idea and contributed to the Opera grandezza theme of the hotel.
The breakfast was simple but tasty.
Passport & Palmtree conclusion
I can recommend the Hotel Milano Scala for a city break getaway in the city. The location is perfect for basically all Milan neighbourhoods and easy to reach from anywhere. The reception team has been friendly, efficient and welcoming. The price/value ratio of our rate was great and I would come back when visiting Milano again.
Planning your next city trip? Find some inspiration here. Also, find out more about my favourite hotels!
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