A Sensory Journey at Magna Pars L’Hotel à Parfum, Milan
Where Luxury, Tranquility, and the Art of Perfumery Converge
Tucked away on a peaceful street in Milan’s fashionable Navigli district lies one of Italy’s best-kept luxury secrets: Magna Pars L’Hotel à Parfum—the world’s first “perfume hotel.” Built on the former headquarters of Marvin, a cosmetics-pharmaceutical company, this remarkable property is a rare blend of understated elegance, artistic vision, and olfactory immersion.
Founded by Giorgia Martone and her sister, the hotel, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, is a living tribute to the art of perfumery. At the heart of the experience is LabSolue, the on-site artisanal perfume lab where guests can explore a curated collection of 68 unique essences, each designed for a specific suite and crafted in collaboration with renowned Noses. It’s more than a hotel stay—it’s a multi-sensory journey into the soul of Italian fragrance. (LabSolue combines ‘laboratory’ and ‘absolute’ - two fundamental aspects of perfume making blended to create the brand name).
The Scented Soul of the Hotel
From the moment you walk through the doors, you’re enveloped in calm and quiet. The air is delicately scented, and everything from the lobby to the suites carries an aura of curated beauty. Each guest is invited to explore the perfume laboratory LabSolue, where the fusion of science and artistry sparks genuine curiosity—even for those with only a casual interest in fragrance.
During my visit, the hotel was celebrating “15 Lavanda”, a tribute to the “blue gold” of perfumery—lavender. The scent transported me to sun-kissed Mediterranean fields in full bloom, a fitting metaphor for the relaxing and immersive experience that awaited. A lovely touch was the complimentary vile of “15 Lavanda” eau de parfum ready to take home to extend our incredible experience.
Design & Comfort
The rooms are striking in their simplicity—mostly white, spacious, and bathed in natural light. My suite felt like a personal sanctuary, with a bed so comfortable I was tempted to cancel my plans and stay in. What truly stood out was the pillow menu—five different options tailored for various sleeping needs, from natural feather to hypoallergenic to ergonomic designs for neck and back support. A thoughtful touch rarely seen, even in top-tier hotels.
The bathroom? A spa-like haven with a generous rain shower, plush towels, and luxe amenities. A complimentary bottle of Prosecco and personalized welcome note added an elegant, warm flourish upon arrival. The minibar was fully stocked, and the hotel’s shelves were lined with stunning books on perfume and art, encouraging leisurely, sensory reading sessions.
Food & Atmosphere
The generous, luscious breakfast buffet….
The breakfast buffet is a highlight. Served until 10:30 a.m. (with no rush to clear things away), it’s a veritable feast: fresh fruits, artisanal pastries, gourmet meats and cheeses, juices and smoothies—all served with your beverage of choice, brought directly to your table. The scrambled eggs were, quite simply, the fluffiest and most flavorful I’ve ever had, accompanied by crisp bacon and juicy sausages. You can enjoy breakfast in the serene interior lounge or the enclosed open-air courtyard, lush with greenery and birdsong.
For those preferring privacy in the morning, room service breakfast is available between 7:00 and 10:30 a.m., with dishes averaging around €15 plus a €12 service charge—well worth it for a calm, solo start to the day.
Amenities & Vibe
A small gym, spa, rooftop bar, and indoor lounge bar complete the experience, but the most memorable feature is the sense of spaciousness and serenity. There are charming hidden nooks and corners throughout the hotel—ideal for reading, reflecting, or simply being alone in comfort.
The staff deserve special mention: young, hip, warm, and genuinely helpful. There’s no stuffiness or pretense here—just down-to-earth hospitality that complements the hotel’s refined aesthetic.
Another standout feature—especially for pet owners—is just how dog-friendly Magna Pars is. In fact, it’s the first hotel I’ve ever checked into where a plush, spotless dog mattress was already waiting in the room, along with a bowl filled with high-quality dry dog food that looked surprisingly enticing. It’s clear that four-legged companions are not just tolerated here—they’re truly welcomed in style. That extra touch reflects the hotel’s thoughtful approach to hospitality and comfort for all guests, furry ones included.
Final Thoughts
Magna Pars L’Hotel à Parfum is not just a place to sleep—it’s an invitation to experience Milan through scent, style, and soul. Every corner has been designed with intention and grace. Whether you’re a perfume aficionado or simply seeking a calm and artful escape, this is a hotel that lingers in your memory—like a fine fragrance.
L’Absolu-ly recommended!
Food and Beverage Offerings
DA NOI IN: A Fragrant Feast for the Senses
Dining at DA NOI IN, the hotel’s signature restaurant, is a continuation of the hotel’s multisensory experience. By day, the Bistro Menu offers light, fresh dishes that reflect Italian seasonality and precision. But it’s in the evening that the magic truly happens. The Dinner Menu evolves into an elegant, gourmet affair that includes the unique Menu à Parfum—a culinary concept where each dish is elevated by aromatic accents inspired by the world of perfumery. Plates arrive infused with fragrance, with presentations that echo a perfumer’s atelier—delicate glassware, essence droppers, and handcrafted aromas turn every bite into an immersive celebration of flavor and scent. It’s not just dinner—it’s performance art on a plate.
Liquidambar Lounge Bar: Where Fragrance Meets Mixology
The hotel’s Liquidambar Lounge Bar is equally captivating. Named after the fragrant North American tree whose resin inspired one of the hotel’s bestselling essences (LabSolue 207), this space bridges nature, fragrance, and cuisine. A gleaming white onyx bar anchors the room, surrounded by cozy seating and views of the lush internal garden, where Liquidambar trees now grow. The cocktail menu is inventive, with bespoke creations that subtly incorporate aromatic elements, complemented by artisanal bites and a cellar that showcases the best of Italian viticulture. Whether you’re unwinding with a signature cocktail or sipping a glass of wine among perfumed blooms, Liquidambar offers an atmosphere of refined, sensory pleasure.
