Milan’s grande dame hotel has to be the Principe di Savoia—which locals all call “Il Principe”—housed in an imposing building on the Piazza della Repubblica. Though the city is known for its quiet luxury, secret courtyards, and sober clothing, the interiors here are dramatic, with velvet finishing, patterned rugs, and princely bed-frames. Step into the Principe Bar for a martini, and, if budget allows, book yourself the presidential suite, which extends across the two top floors of the building and comes complete with three en-suite bedrooms, painted ceilings, a spa, and a pool. You might recognize it from Sofia Coppola’s 2010 film Somewhere. —Elena Clavarino

Elena Clavarino is a Senior Editor at AIR MAIL