Grand Visconti Palace Hotel is a fab for those after grand and traditional styling without the snooty atmosphere. Well-sized rooms and a large garden (such a bonus for a city-centre hotel) make this a great four-star option for Milan.

The facilities

al V piano restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine in a grand rooftop room - dine under an antique mirror on ostrich-covered chairs. Visavis bar has everything from coffee to cocktails, while a banquet room next door is perfect for private functions. Head out to the large garden to get a breath of fresh air, or indulge in a massage at the Wellness Centre. An indoor swimming pool offers panoramic views of the park.

The rooms

The majority of the 172 rooms have classic Italian luxury decor, but some are more consciously modern. All rooms have Italian marble, Murano crystal lamps and Wi-Fi. Try and grab one with a corner window - they have the best rooftop views.