Duomo Suite at Palazzo Cordusio Gran Melia

The Suite

For those seeking the best views of the city, the Duomo Suite is Palazzo Cordusio Gran Meliá’s top choice. As hinted in the name, the suite sits directly across from Milan’s most recognizable landmark. Throughout, tall windows open onto views of the Gothic cathedral’s spires rising above Piazza del Duomo, best enjoyed from the comfort of the king-size bed, espresso in hand. And despite its location on one of Milan’s busiest squares, the suite is peaceful and well protected from the bustle of the streets below.

Inside, the one-bedroom suite has a minimalist, Nordic-chic feel, with a mix of warm woods, light blues and creams. In the bedroom, pared-back interiors let the views do the talking, with beige curtains, hardwood floors, and a pale blue wall feature. If traveling with a friend, there’s the option to request the king-size bed to be split into two singles.

A sliding door separates the living room from the bedroom, which can be kept open for an airy, open-plan feel. The furniture, by Italian brand Molteni, leans modern, with smooth wood paneling and soft Rubelli fabrics.

The living room has a sofa and TV for slower evenings after long days exploring Europe’s fashion capital. When ordering room service, make use of the two small dining tables – one in the living area and one in the bedroom, each positioned beside the windows.

Must knows

View

Contemporary apartment with impressive Duomo views

Style

Contemporary, Sleek, Minimalist

Special amenities

Deck, Pet-friendly

The Hotel

The Spanish brand’s first Milanese property, Gran Meliá Milan, occupies a historic 19th-century palazzo on Piazza Cordusio. The impressive neoclassical building was once the headquarters of Assicurazioni Generali, designed by prominent Italian architect Luca Beltrami. On arrival, notice preserved details from the building’s past, including a mosaic of a woman harvesting pomegranates in the entrance hall and the lion of San Marco carved above the door.

Inside, interiors contrast with the building’s historic shell. Contemporary Italian design takes center stage, with lighting from Flos, fabrics from Rubelli, and furnishings from Molteni.

The fifth floor is one of the hotel’s highlights, with two terraces offering skyline views. The rooftop stretches toward the cathedral, making it an ideal spot for a sunset aperitivo or a late lunch at Isla, the hotel’s southern Italian restaurant. Nearby, Sachi serves Japanese dishes with a modern twist, while Giardino Cordusio focuses on Italian drinks and small plates.

Guests can also make use of the spa with its indoor pool surrounded by loungers, a sauna and steam room, and a high-tech gym overlooking Piazza dei Mercanti.

The hotel’s location places guests in the heart of the city. Rooms offer Duomo views, with the cathedral just a five-minute walk away. The famed fashion district, Quadrilatero della Moda, is within walking distance, while La Scala and Castello Sforzesco are also close by.

For those eager to explore the city, the hotel arranges immersive experiences, from vintage Fiat 500 drives to The Last Supper private experience – an after-hours viewing of Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece followed by dinner inside the deconsecrated San Paolo Converso church, with the option of a live violin performance. True to the Meliá brand, the hotel is pet friendly, so there’s no need to leave four-legged companions at home.