In Milan, you’re constantly reminded that you’re in the fashion and business capital of Italy. Impeccably suited men sip morning espressos at sleek caffè counters, while chic women navigate cobblestone streets in sky-high heels. I’ll admit it: I’m an Italy addict. Maybe it’s the scenery, the people—or just the Prosecco. For my ninth Italian vacation, I chose Milan, where even the tourists seem more elegant, with nary a backpack in sight.
The Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano) took nearly 600 years to complete—construction began in 1386 and wasn’t officially finished until 1965. It’s one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world and features over 3,400 statues, including one of Napoleon Bonaparte. Photo: Getty Images For Unsplash+
What brought you to this hotel?
The ME Milan is part of the global Spanish hotel chain Meliá, known for more than 400 stylish properties across four continents, all exuding a distinctly European vibe.
Location, Location, Location
Situated just off Piazza della Repubblica, a leafy square north of the city center, the ME is perfectly placed. It’s close to Milan’s efficient train and metro systems and within walking distance of key attractions: the sublime Duomo, the legendary La Scala Opera House, and Santa Maria delle Grazie, home to Da Vinci’s The Last Supper. Pack a pair of comfy shoes—you can walk to them all.
Milan’s Teatro alla Scala, opened in 1778, is a global icon of opera and ballet—where legends like Verdi and Maria Callas made history. Photo: dbrnjhrj – stock.adobe.com
Breakfast in Bed?
Absolutely. The ME offers 24-hour room service.
But for something special, head up to Radio Rooftop, the hotel’s sky-high restaurant. It’s ideal for a more-than-continental breakfast, with everything from decadent, Instagram-worthy pastries to healthy fare—and even full English breakfasts with bacon, sausage, ham, and eggs made to order. Judging by the number of early meetings, it’s a favorite among local professionals and business travelers alike.
Radio Rooftop Bar features twin terraces with stunning views of Porta Nuova and Piazza della Repubblica. Photo: ME Milan Il Duca, Italy
When Did It Open – and What’s the Vibe?
Opened in 2015, the ME Milan Il Duca features sleek, contemporary design with a laid-back, luxury feel. The ambience is finely tuned, from the evolving lobby scent to mood-matching music throughout the day. The palette—neutral tones of beige, grey, and taupe—is brightened by bold, often cheeky photographic portraits. The lobby’s art rotates regularly, keeping the space fresh and inspiring.
Beyond ME suite. Photo: ME Milan Il Duca, Italy
How Are the Rooms?
All 132 rooms (including 32 Junior Suites) are modern and well-appointed, with understated colors, clean-lined furnishings, touch-screen lighting, and well-stocked minibars. Bathrooms are marble-clad with twin sinks, rainfall showers, heated towel rails, and eco-friendly amenities. A thoughtful touch: complimentary purse-sized tubes of Italian-made hand cream and lip balm by Bigelow Apothecaries.
Housekeeping services the rooms twice daily, and returning to a fresh pair of ME slippers on a linen mat beside the bed is a cozy, welcoming detail.
Extra ME+ Junior Suite with City View. Photo: ME Milan Il Duca, Italy
How’s the Staff?
Outstanding. Unlike the sometimes overly formal service at other luxury hotels, the ME team is chosen for personality and warmth.
“We strive for as much interaction with our guests as possible,” said Susanna Concesa, the hotel’s Groups and Events Manager. “We want the ME to feel like a home—not just a building where you sleep.”
Who’s It For?
The clientele is a mix of mid-week business travelers and weekend leisure seekers, both domestic and international. Of course, this can vary by season, but the vibe is always cosmopolitan.
What We Loved
A tucked-away library off the lobby features plush couches, English-language newspapers, and often a chilled bottle of Prosecco waiting to be poured.
Library. Photo: ME Milan Il Duca, Italy
By evening, Radio Rooftop transforms into a buzzing bar—ideal for aperitivo hour and people-watching, especially if you enjoy brushing shoulders with local fashionistas. Prefer something lower-key? The garden patio near the entrance, lit with fairy lights and manned by purple-coated doormen, offers charming, ground-level elegance.
And if you’re missing your dog back home, you’ll be comforted by MeMe, the hotel’s adorable dog-in-residence. This fluffy little VIP greets guests in the lobby and is always ready for a cuddle or photo op.
Room for Improvement
The hotel’s signage is undeniably stylish—but so discreet it’s easy to miss, especially if you’re arriving on foot from the train station.
Need to Know
Learn more or book your stay at the ME Milan Il Duca Hotel
ME Milan Il Duca
Piazza della Repubblica 13
20124 Milano
Tel. +39 02 35403218
Rooms from $516 CAD
