Chic Destinations

Concierge City Secrets - Milan

No-one knows a city like a concierge does. And because the Chic Outlet Shopping® Villages are within striking distance of some of Europe’s most exciting cities, we have asked our partners at Small Luxury Hotels of the World™ to share their most informative and insightful tips for enjoying them. Their concierges are among the best in the industry and enjoy helping guests make the most of their time in town, whether it’s for a weekend or an afternoon. The third in this new series comes from The Gray in Milan, one of the exciting properties of Small Luxury Hotels of the World™ in Italy.


Lorenzo Caroni has worked as a front desk assistant and concierge at the 21-room The Gray Hotel in Milan since September 2003. Together with his five colleagues, he takes great pride in answering all of the hotel guests’ requests. Always up-to-date with events going on in the city, including concerts, exhibitions and new restaurant openings, he makes himself available to give useful advice to guests wanting to discover Milan. Here, Lorenzo shares a few city secrets with us.

Where can you get the best view of your city?
You find the best view of Milan from the roof of La Rinascente department store. On the roof there’s a big terrace where you can have a drink and enjoy the view of Milan Cathedral.

Is there a secret side to your city and how can guests explore it?
Milan is a pretty frenetic city but guests should visit the Brera district, which is the area behind La Scala theatre. The streets are very narrow and there are colourful markets to vist. Other features that contribute to the character of Brera include sophisticated and romantic restaurants and bars, as well as antiques and art shops. There’s a bohemian atmosphere – it’s sometimes referred to as ‘the Milanese Montmartre’.

Which café serves the best breakfast in town?
Princi is the trendiest bakery in Milan. They serve cakes, pastries and coffee – in particular, a very good cappuccino. The atmosphere is very charming and it’s a perfect spot for relaxation.

What is your recommendation for a great night on the town?
Old Fashion Café, Marc Jacobs Café and Blanco Café are the perfect bars in which to enjoy a cocktail before dinner. Or, if you would like to dance the night away, we’d suggest going to Armani Privè, Just Cavalli Café or Chandelier.

What are the region’s top three products?
Salami Milano, which is one of the most popular salamis in Italy, is produced in Milan and the Brianza area. It’s prepared with lean pork and beef, coarsely minced and seasoned with salt, pepper and garlic. Blue-veined Gorgonzola cheese and polenta (Italian cornmeal) are other important and delicious products from Lombardy.

Is there a single ‘must-do’ that guests should experience before they leave the city?
Visit the Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci, one of the most famous paintings in the world and located in Santa Maria delle Grazie church.

What is the most special thing about your hotel?
The design, which is both elegant and original. What immediately captures everyone’s attention is the swing seat in the centre of the lobby, which has a large cushion made of bright pink shantung silk and dressed with red velvet. Our guest rooms are just as eye-catching, with silk covers everywhere, as well as velvet, crystals, zebra and ostrich skins and rich African fabrics. Last, but not least, is our staff – who are friendly and very good at what they do.

To make the most of your visit to Milan, book one of our luxury Shopping Day Experiences. Treat yourself to a wonderful day out at Fidenza Village with transport, lunch, a gift card, a VIP invite and the opportunity to visit Da Vinci’s Last Supper at the Dominican church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan.

Great to treat yourself or to give as a special gift. Click here to book.

The Gray Hotel is a member of the SLH group, with whom we have a special partner rate. Why not take advantage of this exclusive deal when planning your visit to one of the nine Chic Outlet Shopping® Villages? See Chic Outlet Shopping® hotel partner rate for more details.