After several attempts for restoration and revitalization, the Seminario di Milano––Europe’s oldest seminary––closed in 2002. With this news came the inevitable shutdown of the stunning piazza between the buildings, and, thus, the Milanese lamented the loss of what was once a serene square tucked away from the bustle of city life.
Over two decades later, the piazza is finally accessible to city dwellers and travelers once again, thanks to the careful renovation project by the Lungarno Collection. Owned by the Ferragamo family, Portrait Milano opened in December of 2022 as the flagship Milan location as part of their Portrait Collection, a selection of boutique hotels within the Lungarno Collection inspired by Salvatore Ferragamo himself that offers guests “ultra-tailored hospitality.”
The seminary-turned-hotel still boasts the prodigious baroque entrance designed in 1652 by Francesco Maria Richini that opens directly into the 3,000 square meter piazza. Refurbishment efforts were led by esteemed architect Michele De Lucchi, who intended not to shroud the building’s history, but showcase the hidden beauty within its ancient walls. The interiors were designed by the brilliant architect Michele Bönan, who has worked on several other Portrait Collection projects.
The guest rooms and suites are sanctuaries of elegance and tranquility. Each space boasts a harmonious fusion of sleek lines, luxurious fabrics, and state-of-the-art amenities––all crafted by Ferragamo, naturally. The rooms offer a contemporary retreat, allowing guests to unwind in a setting that caters to their every need: an iPad is pre-loaded with suggested daily itineraries, and even allows for hyper-specific turndown service requests within a multitude of categories ranging from types of pillows to sweet treats.
While the ground floor of the property is inclusive to all, the second floor creates an oasis of privacy for guests. Portrait Milano offers 73 rooms including 20 suites, 23 rooms with garden views, 64 rooms that are at least 40 square meters, and a Presidential Suite of 160 square meters. Each of the 27 rooms on the second floor have sitting areas in the bright glazed loggia, a comfortable corner to relax with a cup of tea or coffee, while the garden-view accommodations provide glimpses around this “secret” corner within the heart of the city.
Room interiors are entirely inspired by Milan’s parlors that abounded during the 1950s, and are further enhanced by Florentine craftsmanship––an homage to the city in which the Lungarno Collection was founded. Bönan ensured that the iconic Ferragamo red chromatic scheme is present throughout each space, in contrast with the complementary color of green––a deeply Milanese decision.
The on-site restaurant, bar, giardino, and colonnade 10_11 (“Ten Eleven”) is open daily, serving Northern Italian-inspired cuisine. The dishes are elevated, yet inspire dreams of gathering around a table helmed by an Italian nonna: “Mondeghili”––Milanese meatballs––are served on a wire tray fresh out of the kitchen, and authentic veal tonnè tastes unlike anything you’ve ever had before (and you better finish the whole thing). Be sure to experience Executive Chef Alberto Quadrio’s signature pasta in bianco––his take on this traditional “white pasta” dish is made with just two ingredients: pasta and Parmigiano Reggiano. Ask anyone from the beverage team to serve you their favorite drink from the menu; all are inspired by those found in some of Milan’s oldest recorded bars, dating back to the Middle Ages.
Spend your afternoons wandering around the expansive piazza, which is now filled with fashion- and culinary-related splendors that the whole city is invited to enjoy, such as the legendary European steakhouse Beefbar, cutting edge Italian fashion shop Antonia as well as Maria Sole Ferragamo’s SO-LE Studio.
With its modern aesthetics, unparalleled location, and commitment to exceptional service, Portrait Milano invites guests to embrace the essence of Milan’s cosmopolitan charm and indulge in a truly unforgettable stay.
Top Takeaways
Location: Portrait Milano is strategically located within the Piazza Quadrilatero within the city center of Milan, Italy.
Star-rating: Five-star.
The Vibe: Portrait Milano is the intersection of sophisticated elegance and contemporary charm. The property exudes a captivating atmosphere that seamlessly blends modern aesthetics with timeless sophistication, offering guests a luxurious experience in the heart of Milan.
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: Ever wondered what it would be like to have a living space entirely designed by a luxurious Italian fashion house? You no longer have to wonder: the furnishings are opulent, the linens are plush, and of course everything is made by Ferragamo. Plus, the lighting in the wash rooms made entirely of Italian marble offer perfect lighting.
Food + Drink: The on-site restaurant, bar, giardino, and colonnade 10_11 (“Ten Eleven”) is open daily, serving Northern Italian-inspired cuisine and cocktails. Legendary European steakhouse Beefbar is also accessible within the property’s piazza.
Any Neighborhood Recs?: Some of Milan’s iconic sites and best shopping is just a stone’s throw away from the property, within the Piazza del Duomo. Grab a sweet treat from Pasticceria Marchesi, one of Milan’s oldest and finest pastry shops.
What’s Nearby? Duomo Square; Giardino Perego; PAC – Pavilion of Contemporary Art; GAM Milano; Villa Necchi Campiglio; Piazza Meda
Amenities: Wellness center; Restaurant & bar; Airport shuttle; Garden; Pet-friendly; On-site parking
Rooms: Portrait Milano offers 73 rooms including 20 suites, 23 rooms with garden views, 64 rooms that are at least 40 square meters, and a Presidential Suite of 160 square meters.
Pricing: Rates start at 850€ a night.
Closest Airport: Milan Linate Airport
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