Elegantly reimagined, The Carlton is at the vanguard of Milan’s transformation

Over the past decade, Milan has quietly redefined itself. Once seen as a city of business, it’s become one of Europe’s most compelling cultural capitals – a place where art, design, and innovation beat to an increasingly vibrant rhythm. At the centre of this momentum stands a new icon: The Carlton, Milan – the 16th property in the Rocco Forte Hotels collection and its second in the city, opening this November. Following a meticulous multi-million-pound five-year renovation, it’s set to be the new jewel in Milan’s design-loving crown and is the perfect place from which to experience this cultural revival.

While Milan remains a city that thrives on contrast, its transformation is accelerating. Here, centuries-old palazzi share space with cutting-edge galleries, Michelin-starred restaurants hum alongside family-run trattoria, and Fashion Week glamour collides beautifully with a quiet aperitivo in a leafy courtyard. As the city prepares to welcome the Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, its skyline is being reimagined by projects such as CityLife (a new urban district) and Porta Nuova (a must-visit for its shopping scene), its creative edge sharpened by the likes of Triennale Milano, Fondazione Prada and Politecnico di Milano and its visitor numbers soaring, this is a city moving confidently into its future. And The Carlton is leading the way.

An ode to Milanese elegance

Set within two historic palazzi on the prestigious Via della Spiga and Via Senato, The Carlton is both a sanctuary and a statement. It revives one of Milan’s most storied hospitality names – once beloved by cultural figures, global travellers and the Milanese elite – and ushers it into a new era.

Rooted in decades of tradition, the Forte legacy is built on warmth, care and authentic service, where magnificent buildings in breathtaking locations are transformed into exclusive hotels and resorts. Naturally, this is reflected in The Carlton’s sophisticated new design, which blends modern master strokes with classic Milanese elegance. Overseen by Rocco Forte Hotels’ director of design Olga Polizzi, and with sumptuous interiors by celebrated duo Paolo Moschino and Philip Vergeylen, its 71 rooms and suites are styled to feel like private residences – think bespoke furniture, curated artwork and tactile Italian fabrics that perfectly balance intimacy with grandeur. After all, this is hospitality shaped by a family that has been at the heart of European travel for four generations, where heritage, artistry and timeless expertise converge to create an unparalleled standard of luxury. 

In the beating heart of the city

Set in the Quadrilatero della Moda, Milan’s fashion and design district, The Carlton is ideally located for travellers seeking a hotel that embodies the essence of the city. Infused with an international energy that resonates with the Milanese soul, it offers both vibrancy and a genuine sense of familiarity. Crucially, it is a space where guests can connect with both local and international kindred spirits, sharing conversations and experiences with those with similar passions.

In this ideal setting on Via della Spiga – a destination in itself for shopping and elegance – visitors are mere steps from the city’s most coveted boutiques and ateliers, as well as its iconic landmarks – the Duomo, La Scala opera house and Fondazione Prada – and the glass-domed shopping arcade Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Further uncover the intricacies of historic Milanese life at the Poldi Pezzoli Museum or view Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Refined flavours and soul-satisfying dishes

Milan is a city rich in gastronomy – and The Carlton does justice to this. Seasonally led menus shape its distinctive dining experience, from classic dishes to gourmet bites. At the heart of it all is The Carlton Bar, Milan’s new gathering point, where aperitivo is a ritual and a celebration. Cocktails are given a surprising twist by Maestro Salvatore Calabrese and small plates are perfect for sharing and pairing for everything from spontaneous get-togethers to long evenings of possibility.

Fulvio Pierangelini’s gastronomic philosophy – simplicity, sincerity and reverence for ingredients – brings lightness to every plate. Expect silver trolleys, dishes finished tableside, an exceptional wine list and a fine dining menu that evolves daily. Both the bar and restaurant flow into The Carlton Garden, which is perfect for alfresco events. The winter garden, with its soaring glass dome and cascading greenery, offers a peaceful moment for meaningful exchanges and quiet contemplation. Breakfast leads to an all-day dining menu and moments of repose from the ever-flowing Via della Spiga.

An urban oasis awaits

Away from the crowds, Milan’s urban sanctuaries, such as the Parco Sempione, Villa Necchi Campiglio and Castello Sforzesco, offer a welcome respite and a chance to reconnect with nature. Within The Carlton’s tranquil walls lies another calming retreat: the Irene Forte Spa takes wellness to another level with chromotherapy showers, a steam room, a sauna and a relaxation area. Treatments feature botanical-based, science-backed products from the Irene Forte Skincare line and are made with ingredients from the organic farm of Verdura Resort, a Rocco Forte Hotel, in Sicily. The Mediterranean nourishing treatment, which leaves skin silky smooth thanks to a Trapani sea salt body scrub and nourishing white wine body cream, will have you feeling blissed out in no time. 

The Carlton, Milan embodies the soul of the city. Be one of the first to experience this grand hotel, which brings a majestic heritage to a glorious new era. 

Jet off to Milan 

Win a luxury stay at The Carlton, Milan

British Airways High Life readers could be among the first guests to experience the height of Milanese elegance with the chance to enjoy a two-night stay at The Carlton. Relax in a spacious deluxe double room with daily breakfasts and a sumptuous dinner for two. For more information and to enter the prize draw, go here. Terms and conditions apply. Promoter: Rocco Forte Hotels

Terms and conditions
Open to UK residents aged 18 or over.
Only one entry per person. Winner selected at random.
Prize draw opens on 1 October 2025 and closes at 23:59 GMT on 2 November 2025. 
Prize valid from 8 November 2025 to 7 May 2026, subject to availability and blackout dates.
Not valid in conjunction with any other offer.
Airport transfers included. Other travel expenses not included.
No cash alternative. Prize is non-transferable and cannot be sold.