Palazzo Parigi: A Grand Home Base for Families in Milan

I never thought that I would have the opportunity to sleep in a bank! Palazzo Parigi, Milan’s newest 5-star hotel —a 17th-century palace that was transformed into banking headquarters after World War II — showcases a wonderful blend of Italian and French inspiration. It is the vision of owner and architect Paola Giambelli with interiors by celebrated design firm Pierre-Yves Rochon.

Based within the city’s Brera artistic district, the hotel is perfectly placed to enjoy Milan. We were on the doorstep of the Golden Triangle shopping district just a short distance from the Duomo, where we had time to stop off for a coffee or a quick bite in the trendy cafés and shops of the Corso Como.

Family-Friendly Review of Palazzo Parigi

Service With a Smile

When we arrived at this palatial and glamorous hotel, I had an intake of breath at the beauty of the reception area and the grandeur of the marble staircase, but was immediately put at ease by the friendly reception and very helpful concierge. Traveling with two teenagers can sometimes be challenging, but not at this property. When we arrived in our connecting rooms, the children were delighted with their “own room” treats: juice, fruit, sweets and complimentary water. They were even more excited when they realised that the treats were replenished. Nothing like happy kids!

Sophisticated, Luxurious Accommodations

The 65 rooms and 33 suites at Palazzo Parigi are simply beautiful — bright, spacious, elegant and decorated in natural tones, with splashes of colour here and there. Lovely antiques, sculptures and paintings have been selected to complement each room. Our connecting corner rooms had ample space, enhanced by the surprise of a balcony overlooking the city where we could enjoy the sunshine and even a glass of wine in the evenings. Later I found out that every room in the hotel, has a balcony or terrace.

The hotel is extremely family-friendly and has several room configurations that can be made to interconnect. Extra beds and cots are available as well.

Kids’ Amenities

If you are traveling with younger kids, high chairs and baby-changing facilities are provided in the restaurant, and staff are happy to help heat up meals or milk. Babysitting can also be arranged and starts at €50 per hour. If your pet travels with you, he or she is welcome too — four-legged friends even get free doggie biscuits!

Indoor-Outdoor Dining

We travelled in the summer months and enjoyed breakfast in the leafy garden at Caffè Parigi, one of the highlights of our stay. Choose from an abundance of fresh foods on the buffet table or cooked dishes from the à la carte menu. Guests can unwind with light snacks and afternoon tea in the garden too.

You cannot miss the Bistrot Lounge/Bar on the ground floor, with its grand but modern bar complemented by spacious and comfortable seating. It offers guests an intimate location for a quick bite, a casual lunch or the chance to simply relax away from the frenzy of Milan. We enjoyed an aperitivo there before dinner.

Dinner is more formal. The restaurant, decorated in Italian neoclassical style, serves traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist. Be sure to make a reservation. If you get the munchies (which my kids did), there is a 24-hour room service menu to enjoy.

Onsite Pool and Spa Pampering

We were over the moon when, after a morning of touring and shopping in Milan, we were able to come back to the hotel and swim in the family-friendly pool. It’s part of the Grand Spa, which is very impressive and boasts a hammam (Turkish bath), a steam room, a sauna, a whirlpool tub, a gym, Pilates equipment, personal trainers and hairdressers on standby.

Getting Into and Around Milan

Linate airport is the closest at just 8 kilometres away and 20 minutes by car. Malpensa airport is 50 km away and 50 minutes by car. Palazzo Parigi offers parking at €50 per night. Milano Centrale train station is a quick taxi ride from the hotel; if you plan to travel to other Italian cities, Trenitalia and Italo both run services from here.

Relevant Links:

See our favorite family-friendly hotels and activities in Italy on Ciao Bambino

Browse all luxury family hotels and resorts on Ciao Bambino

Best places to go in Italy with kids: live tips from a CB! expert

52 things to know before traveling to Italy with kids

Why we love traveling in Italy with children

Editor’s Note: Linda received a media package from Palazzo Parigi in order to review the property for families. As always, our opinions are our own on Ciao Bambino. Photos by Palazzo Parigi.