A lake and forest area in the Indro Montanelli Public Gardens

Live like a local

9 ideas for your staycation in Milan

May 05, 2021

Milan is home to a surprisingly large variety of tranquil gardens. Take a break from exploring Milan’s grand sites and luxury shopping, and spend some time wandering the historic public gardens, botanical havens and hidden cloisters that bring a dose of greenery to the city.

Golf Club Milano

Head to the prestigious Golf Club Milano for a game on this historic 27-hole course. Set within the confines of the ancient Monza Park, the club offers a stunning location and has hosted a number of national and international championships since the 1950s, including eight Italian Opens.

Via Regina Margherita 25, 20853 Monza MB

Naviglio Grande Canal

Naviglio Grande, running through the heart of the city’s up-and-coming neighbourhood of Navigli, is worth visiting for its postcard-perfect views alone. The picturesque canal is lined with restaurants, art galleries and independent boutiques. For the best vistas, pass over the waterway’s pretty bridges.

Navigli District

Navigli Canal during dusk with busy restaurants and boats

Arco della Pace

Pay a visit to the grand, neoclassical Arco della Pace (‘Arch of Peace’) at the entrance to the Parco Sempione, before heading into the park proper for a tranquil walk or to explore the sites, like the Arena Civica, Napoleon’s early 19^th century amphitheatre.

Piazza Sempione, 20154

Brera

A short walk north from the busier tourist areas of the city, Brera is an arty, bohemian district made up of picturesque winding streets decorated with colourful hanging baskets. Take some time to wander down the Brera alleys and enjoy a relaxed stroll along the cobbles of this fashionable and historic quarter.

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Colorful buildings in Brera near Hotel Principe in Milan

Indro Montanelli Public Gardens

Taking an amble through the Indro Montanelli Public Gardens is a relaxing way to experience some true Milanese culture, whilst taking in some of the city’s oldest and most beautiful architecture. Open and green, these gardens have an air of tranquillity and romance, yet are child friendly thanks to the playgrounds and duck pond – ideal for entertaining younger travellers.

Bastioni di Porta Venezia, 20121

Parco Sempione

Parco Sempione is arguably the most popular park in the city and is often compared to New York’s Central Park. The enormous 95-acre space is packed full of attractions including the medieval Sforza Castle and the beautiful Arch of Peace, making it an ideal place to while away an entire afternoon.

20154

Orto Botanico di Brera

A prime attraction for green-fingered visitors with a passion for conservation, Orto Botanico di Brera is a tiny botanic garden hidden behind Brera Palace. However, what it lacks in size, it makes up for in plant life. From medicinal plants and herbs to fragrant flowers and historic plant species, there’s much to discover in this inviting urban oasis.

Via Brera 28, 20121

Guastalla Gardens

At nearly 500 years old, Guastalla Gardens is one of the oldest and most charming parks in Milan. A public space since 1939, it retains many of its original characteristics, including a beautiful Baroque lake, a small neoclassical temple and various statues which were erected back when it was the private garden of a school.

Via Francesco Sforza, 20122

Il Giardino di Villa Reale exterior, Milan

Parco di Monza

Monza Park is a vast walled park in the nearby city of Monza that’s well worth a visit. Extending over an area of 688 hectares (6.88km²), it is the largest walled park in Europe. Created back in 1805, it sits alongside the Lambro river and is home to a beautiful Villa Reale, making it a true jewel of neoclassical architecture.

Via Regina Margherita, 20900 Monza MB

If you’re planning a special getaway close to home we have just the thing for you. Our Ultimate Staycation offer at Hotel Principe di Savoia gives you all the comfort and care you need – let us look after you.

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