Milan, Italy’s fashion capital, is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. While it’s celebrated for its luxury shopping and high-end accommodations, the city also offers a range of budget-friendly hotels that provide comfort, style, and convenience without breaking the bank. In this guide, I’ll share my experience at one budget hotel in Milan and introduce several other highly recommended options for travelers looking to stay stylishly on a budget.
My Stay at Hotel Spadari al Duomo
Location: Via Spadari 11, Milan
Booking: I reserved my stay at Hotel Spadari al Duomo through Booking.com. The website offered a straightforward booking process, with detailed information about room types, rates, and cancellation policies. The reservation was confirmed immediately, and I appreciated the option for flexible dates.
How to Get There:
Arriving in Milan, I found that Hotel Spadari al Duomo is centrally located, just a short walk from the iconic Duomo Cathedral. To get to the hotel from Malpensa Airport, I took the Malpensa Express train to Milano Centrale. From there, I hopped on the M3 subway line (yellow line) and disembarked at Duomo Station. The hotel was a 5-minute stroll from the subway station, making it incredibly accessible.
Environment:
The moment I stepped into Hotel Spadari al Duomo, I was impressed by its modern, sleek design. The lobby is bright and inviting, with contemporary furnishings and artistic touches that create a welcoming atmosphere. The reception staff were friendly and efficient, providing me with a warm welcome and all the information I needed about the hotel’s amenities and local attractions.
Facilities:
The room I stayed in was compact yet thoughtfully designed. It featured a comfortable queen-sized bed with plush linens, a flat-screen TV, a small work desk, and ample storage space. The en-suite bathroom was clean and modern, equipped with a walk-in shower, fresh towels, and high-quality toiletries. One of the standout features was the complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, which was reliable and allowed me to stay connected throughout my stay.
The hotel also offers a complimentary breakfast, which included a variety of pastries, fresh fruit, yogurt, and coffee. The breakfast area was well-organized and bright, providing a pleasant start to my day. Additionally, there’s a small lounge area where guests can relax, read, or plan their day.
Experience:
My stay at Hotel Spadari al Duomo was delightful. The hotel’s location is unbeatable—situated right in the heart of Milan, it allowed me to explore major attractions like the Duomo Cathedral, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and La Scala Theater within walking distance. The room was quiet and well-maintained, ensuring a restful night’s sleep despite the bustling city outside. The staff were attentive and genuinely helpful, making recommendations for dining and sightseeing. The breakfast was a nice touch, providing a good start to my day of exploring.
Rating:
I would rate Hotel Spadari al Duomo a solid 4.5 out of 5. Its prime location, modern amenities, and excellent service made it an exceptional choice for a budget stay in Milan. It provided a luxurious feel without the hefty price tag, making it perfect for travelers looking to experience Milan’s charm without overspending.
Other Budget-Friendly Hotels in Milan
1. B&B Hotel Milano Sant’Ambrogio
Location: Via Carducci 1/5, Milan
Description:
B&B Hotel Milano Sant’Ambrogio is strategically positioned close to the historic Sant’Ambrogio Basilica and the lively Navigli district. This location is ideal for travelers who want to immerse themselves in Milan’s cultural and nightlife scenes. The hotel features modern, minimalist rooms with free Wi-Fi and an extensive breakfast buffet included in the rate. The breakfast offers a variety of pastries, cereals, fruits, and hot beverages, ensuring a good start to the day.
Why You Should Stay Here:
The hotel’s central location means that you’re within easy reach of Milan’s main attractions and dining options. Its affordability and the inclusion of breakfast make it a practical choice for travelers who want to experience Milan’s vibrant atmosphere without spending a fortune. The modern design and comfortable rooms add to the appeal, making it a solid option for budget-conscious travelers.
2. Hotel Berna
Location: Via Napo Torriani 18, Milan
Description:
Hotel Berna is conveniently located near Milano Centrale Railway Station, making it an excellent choice for travelers arriving by train or needing quick access to the airport. The hotel boasts a variety of amenities, including a complimentary breakfast buffet with a range of hot and cold options. The rooms are stylishly decorated with modern furnishings, and the hotel offers free Wi-Fi throughout.
Why You Should Stay Here:
The proximity to Milano Centrale is a major advantage, especially for those traveling by train or catching early flights. The hotel’s well-appointed rooms and extensive breakfast buffet offer great value for money. The attentive service and modern facilities enhance the overall experience, making it a reliable choice for a comfortable and convenient stay in Milan.
3. Hotel Ibis Milano Centro
Location: Via Camillo Benso Conte di Cavour 20, Milan
Description:
Hotel Ibis Milano Centro is located a short distance from Milan’s city center and major shopping areas. It offers straightforward, comfortable rooms with essential amenities, including free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour bar, and a restaurant. The hotel’s design is functional and contemporary, catering to travelers who value efficiency and reliability.
Why You Should Stay Here:
As part of the well-known Ibis chain, this hotel provides a consistent and dependable experience. Its location near shopping and dining options adds convenience for guests. The reasonable rates, combined with the hotel’s amenities and service, make it an ideal choice for travelers who want a reliable, budget-friendly option in Milan.
4. Hotel Charly
Location: Via Carlo Farini 81, Milan
Description:
Hotel Charly is a cozy, family-run establishment located in the northern part of Milan. It offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a buffet breakfast. The hotel’s decor is charming and homely, reflecting the personal touch of its owners.
Why You Should Stay Here:
The personal touch of a family-run hotel creates a more intimate and welcoming experience. The affordable rates, combined with the hotel’s comfortable rooms and friendly service, make it a great choice for those seeking a more personalized stay. The location provides a quieter environment while still being accessible to Milan’s main attractions.
5. Hotel Milano Scala
Location: Via dell’Ulisse 6, Milan
Description:
Hotel Milano Scala is an eco-friendly hotel located in the artistic Brera district, close to the Pinacoteca di Brera and other cultural sites. The hotel features stylish, modern rooms with complimentary Wi-Fi and a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the city. The eco-friendly practices, including energy-saving measures and sustainable materials, add a unique dimension to the stay.
Why You Should Stay Here:
The combination of eco-friendly initiatives and a chic design makes Hotel Milano Scala an appealing choice for environmentally conscious travelers. Its central location in the Brera district allows guests to explore Milan’s cultural and artistic highlights easily. The rooftop terrace provides a delightful space to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Milan is a city that offers a wealth of experiences, from its fashion boutiques to its historic landmarks. Staying at a budget-friendly hotel doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort or style. The hotels I’ve highlighted provide excellent value for money, each offering unique benefits that cater to different preferences.
My experience at Hotel Spadari al Duomo was particularly memorable, thanks to its prime location, modern amenities, and exceptional service. For travelers looking to explore Milan without overspending, the other recommended hotels offer a range of options that combine affordability with comfort and convenience.
Each hotel provides a distinct experience, ensuring that your visit to this vibrant city is both enjoyable and economical.
