Milan’s hotels are geared towards the corporate traveller. This means few budget-priced options, hotels that are closed throughout August and periods – during the major trade fairs – when a room cannot be had for love nor money. The rest of the year, if money is no object, opt for the luxurious Bulgari (via Fratelli Gabba 7, 02 805 8051, www.bulgarihotels.com, from €550). If old-world charm is more you thing, there’s Antica Locanda dei Mercanti (via San Tomaso 6, 02 805 4080, www.locanda.it, €150-€275) and the London (via Rovello 3, 02 7202 0166, www.hotel-london-milan.com, €100-€150). The Ariston (largo Carrobbio 2, 02 7200 0556, http://brerahotels. com/ariston, €230) is a hotel with a seriously eco-friendly agenda. The Gran Duca di York (via Moneta 1A, 02 874863, from €110) is conveniently located in the centre. The characterful Antica Locanda Solferino (via Castelfidardo 2, 02 657 0129, €190-€220) exudes shabby chic, but some rooms can be noisy.

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