Experience the city in a one-of-a-kind way, thanks to the local touch.
Milan is famous around the world for fashion. Armani, Prada and Versace can all trace their roots back to the city. So, when it comes to choosing a hotel, it's only fitting to stay somewhere stylish. Strut forward, the four-star hotel, Avani Palazzo Moscova.
Avani Hotels & Resorts made its brand debut in Milan with the picture-perfect property. Located between Corso Como and Porta Nuova, it is home to an intriguing history. The building was previously Milan's first railway station, which was envisioned by the esteemed engineer Giulio Sarti. The exterior is a fine example of neoclassical architecture and is easy to spot thanks to the illuminated logo.
Avani Palazzo Moscova is well-located between the nightlife on Corso Como Street and the shops on Corso Garibaldi. The hotel boasts beautiful views of the bustling streets of Viale Monte Grappa and Via Melchiorre Gioia. Thanks to the knowledgeable staff, exciting excursions and plenty of photo opportunities, the only thing you'll have to worry about is what to wear.
Rooms and suites
Avani Palazzo Moscova is home to 65 rooms and suites. The rooms range from the Avani Single Room at 108 square feet, to the Avani Suite at 334 square feet. We checked into the Avani Superior Room, which features an upstairs and downstairs.
The Avani Superior Room draws inspiration from loft apartments, and the design wouldn't look out of place in Milan's fashionable sister city, New York. The bedroom is on the ground floor and the lounge area is on the first floor, and the upstairs can be used for a third guest. Plus, the bathroom is discreetly behind a sliding door with a rainfall shower.
While the room is compact, it's conveniently laid out with a minimalist, muted design. The soft shades of white are punctuated by the brand's signature purple on the cushions, curtains, and yoga mat. The high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows make it feel more spacious, and the mini rooftop terrace is a charming addition.
Restaurants and bars
When in Italy, do as the Italians do. Avani Palazzo Moscova boasts the beautiful restaurant, Forte Milano. Drawing inspiration from the sea, the venue includes black and white photos of the ships, fishing nets and helms. The all-day dining restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The breakfast brings together an a la carte menu, pretty pastries, and fresh fruits as well as juices.
Forte Milano is well worth visiting for dinner, and welcomes outside guests. As is the case in Italy, the venue comes alive after 9pm. Dinner is a dramatic affair with white tablecloths, dim lights and a fitting seafood-inspired menu. It's only natural to be drawn to pizza and pasta, but our highlights included the Seafood Risotto; Mixed Grill with fish fillet, prawns and squid; and the Tiramisu.
Facilities
What Avani Palazzo Moscova lacks in facilities, it makes up for with its close connections within the community. The AvaniFit gym and AmaTi Spa are on the simpler side, but still include a weights and machines, and a hammam, jacuzzi and sauna.
Avani Palazzo Moscova has drawn from the local landscape to offer one-of-a-kind experiences. The Vintage Shopping Tour felt like we had a best friend in the city, who knew the secret spots to shop. Our guide, Sarah Zarrillo explained: "I thought about how Milan was famous for fashion. I was inspired by my time in London, where vintage is popular. I didn't want to do a regular shopping tour, so I created a vintage shopping tour."
The Fiat 500 Tour included the expert guide, Frederico Vaccari, who took us around the city in the vintage car. Even though it was raining on our rounds, Milan shone brightly, from the Duomo Di Milano to Santa Maria Delle Grazie.
Avani Palazzo Moscova: experience the city of style in style.
GO: Visit www.nh-hotels.com for more information.