While Milan is known for its historic treasures and urban wonders, the broader Lombardy countryside is a whimsical locale absolutely worth exploring. Merge Milan’s extravaganza with Lombardy’s medieval villages, verdant hillsides, and lush vineyards for an authentic city break.
San Giacomo Horses & Agriturismo
Bed and Breakfast
Courtesy of San Giacomo Horses & Agriturismo
Located in the countryside just outside of Milan, San Giacomo offers everything that you could hope to experience at an Italian agriturismo. Its few, sumptuous rooms make for an intimate stay that feels more personal than even the smallest boutique hotel could ever offer. What separates from all other stay options, however, is its access to the property’s equine program – the property’s stud farm is one of the most important in Italy. Horse enthusiasts come from all over Europe, and further still, for access to the French and German bloodlines at San Giacomo.
Anyone flying in or out from Malpensa should consider staying nearby. While most of the area hotels are standard big-name brands – Hiltons and Marriots abound – there is a wonderful B&B that could be a perfect alternative. I Fiori di Malpensa is a rustic establishment combining excellent proximity to the airport with comfortable accommodations and owners that are eager to make your stay wonderful with amenities like free shuttle service to trains and Malpensa airport. Four guest rooms are available at the lodging, as well as a restaurant and bar.
Road tripping is one of the best ways to see Italy. The beautiful countryside is full of quaint villages brimming with history and culture that are inaccessible by public transportation. Including big cities on your itinerary can be difficult, because many of Italy’s biggest and most popular tourist centres often do not allow cars or foreign drivers, or charge prohibitive amounts for parking. Luci a San Siro can solve all those problems. This centrally-located B&B offers free parking, as well as first-rate access to Milan’s train system. Six colourful guest rooms are available at this lodging, which is situated close to San Siro football stadium – the home of both AC Milan and Inter Milan. The continental breakfast features superb selections of pastries and cured meat.
This castle on the eastern outskirts of Milan will take visitors back hundreds of years into the past, without skimping on any of the present comforts that modern travellers require. The romantic environs feature ample outdoor seating and brick-clad interiors that speak to a bygone era of dukes and duchesses from Italy’s rich history. Travelling couples will find this Castello to be the very definition of romantic escapes, with ample opportunities to view the sprawling estate and subtle touches like wrought-iron furniture and canopy beds that emanate luxury.
Most quality B&Bs in Italy are located just outside of town. But the Room Over the Sky inverts that rule-of-thumb by providing a quality B&B experience within city limits. Breakfasts consist of local cuisine, which is a welcome change of pace from the typical continental fare provided by its competitors. One of the main attractions at this lodging is the view. Twilight views of the nearby Duomo di Milano – Milan’s defacto symbol – are engrossing, dramatic and unforgettable.
Located in the Porto Venezia neighbourhood, Libeccio B&B is superlatively positioned to offer visitors a local’s experience in Milan. Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli, a major and historic park, is a gathering spot for families and friends looking to hang out and pass the time, while cafés and restaurants line many of the streets. Libeccio itself has been operating since the 1940s in a pre-war building that is walking distance to numerous restaurants offering modern spins on classic dishes from Milan and Lombardy. Transportation to other parts of the city can be found just 20 minutes away.
Ca’ Lina is a perfectly renovated B&B known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere. Romance permeates the air and beckons young couples looking for a quiet getaway, far from the bustle of city activity. Ca’ Lina is located in historic Lainate near the entrance to Villa Litta, a 16th-century historical landmark with impressive architecture. It is best known, however, for its nymphaeum – a grotto dedicated to a particular nymph or several nymphs. Luminaries of European history like composer Bach or author Stendahl took great inspiration from the palace, and the nymphaeum especially. A free breakfast is included and can be enjoyed on the terrace.
