As temperatures rise, proximity to Milan’s central parks becomes an increasingly important factor when choosing where to stay. The city is home to several expansive green spaces, from Parco Sempione, stretching behind the Sforzesco Castle, to the more intimate Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli in Porta Venezia. Alongside these, smaller yet characterful pockets of greenery offer a quieter way to experience the city during the summer months.
Among these, there is Parco Palestro, one of Milan’s most elegant historic gardens. Originally part of the grounds of the neoclassical Villa Belgiojoso Bonaparte, the park is defined by its landscaped paths, shaded trees, small ponds and proximity to The Natural History Museum, Milan’s oldest civic museum and is today the centre of the Science Garden. It offers a more refined and local atmosphere compared to larger parks, making it particularly appealing in the warmer months.
Just a one-minute walk from Parco Palestro, Hotel Milu Milano is uniquely positioned to offer both immediate access to green space and proximity to the city’s cultural and commercial centre. Located in the vibrant Porta Venezia neighbourhood, the hotel occupies a historic building where original architectural elements, such as exposed brick uncovered during renovation, have been preserved and integrated into the design. Interiors combine terrazzo, mirrored surfaces and curated artworks by Carmel Ilan, creating a space that feels both contemporary and deeply connected to its context.
Its scale and design make it particularly suited to travellers looking for a more considered stay, where the rhythm of the day can move easily between the city and its quieter, greener corners. Mornings might begin with a walk through Parco Palestro, followed by galleries, cafés and boutiques in the surrounding area, before returning to a space that feels intimate and design-led rather than overtly luxurious.
In a city often defined by its pace and polish, this offers a different perspective on Milan in summer: one that is slower, more local and rooted in place.
