24 Hours at Hotel Milu Milano
A Chic Urban Retreat in the Heart of the City
There is something special about Milan. While Rome feels eternal and Florence romantic, Milan has an energy that is distinctly modern—a city of fashion, design, and effortless urban cool. On my recent trip, I wanted to experience the city from a slightly different perspective—not in one of the grand, historic palaces or the international five-star chains, but in a place that felt contemporary, intimate, and connected to the city’s rhythm. That’s how I found Hotel Milu, a stylish four-star boutique hotel that just opened in July. The hotel is perfectly positioned at the corner of Corso Buenos Aires and Piazza Guglielmo Oberdan, directly at Porta Venezia. This is one of Milan’s most exciting areas: a gateway to the city’s famous shopping street, steps from the Indro Montanelli Gardens, and only a few Metro stops from the Duomo. It’s the kind of location where you feel instantly connected to the city, with cafés, restaurants, and boutiques literally outside the door.
Arrival and Parking – Surprisingly Easy in Milan
Arriving in Milan by car can sometimes be a challenge, but Hotel Milu made the experience unexpectedly easy. The hotel itself does not have a private garage, but they recommended Garage Majno, just a two-minute walk away. Parking in central Milan is often both a logistical headache and a financial shock, so I was pleasantly surprised to find the rate at just €25 per night—a true steal for this city. Accessing the garage was straightforward, the staff there was friendly, and within minutes of parking, I was already checking into the hotel. Check-in at Milu was relaxed and informal, reflecting the hotel’s boutique spirit. Instead of a bustling, heavily staffed reception like you might find in a grand hotel, the team here is small, friendly, and efficient. I appreciated how seamless the whole process was: a warm welcome, a brief orientation about the hotel amenities, and then I was on my way to the room.
Design and Comfort – A Room as airy as bright
Milanese hotels can often be compact, with rooms designed primarily for sleeping after long days of shopping and sightseeing. That’s why my spacious room at Hotel Milu was such a delight. There was ample space to unpack, work, and relax, and the interiors struck a perfect balance between sleek contemporary design and cozy comfort. The color palette was soft and modern, with warm wooden floors, neutral tones, and subtle lighting that created a calm, welcoming atmosphere. Large windows flooded the space with daylight, making the room feel even more expansive. The king-size bed was supremely comfortable, with crisp linens and just the right amount of plushness to sink into after a day of exploring Milan. Across from the bed, a brand-new coffee machine with capsules was ready to greet me—a small but meaningful detail that I genuinely appreciated. There’s something so comforting about that first coffee upon arrival, enjoyed while looking out over the city streets below.
Another standout detail was the complimentary minibar, which felt far more generous than what many hotels offer at this category. Stocked with still and sparkling water, soft drinks, and even some snacks, it immediately elevated the sense of hospitality. In an era when many hotels charge €7 for a Coke, having a fully included minibar felt like a thoughtful and refreshing touch. The bathroom continued the theme of functional elegance. While not oversized, it featured a walk-in rainfall shower, fluffy towels, and high-quality bath products, all arranged with a designer’s eye for practicality and style. After a long day in the city, stepping into that shower felt like a small luxury.
The Lounge – My Favorite Spot in the Hotel
While the room was a pleasure to retreat to, Hotel Milu’s first-floor lounge quickly became my favorite spot in the building. Open 24/7 for in-house guests, this cozy and stylish space offers complimentary soft drinks, water, and a self-service coffee machine. I loved having a place to pause for a cappuccino in the afternoon or grab a cold sparkling water before heading out again. In a city like Milan, where everything comes with a price tag, this gesture of generosity truly stands out. It’s also a quiet corner to read, check emails, or simply watch the city life pass by from the window—a detail that makes Milu feel more like a home than a hotel.
Breakfast – A Lovely Start to the Day
Breakfast at Hotel Milu is served in a bright and intimate space on the first floor. While it doesn’t aspire to the grandeur of the city’s five-star hotels, it is charming and satisfying for a four-star boutique property. The buffet features freshly baked pastries, seasonal fruits, cheeses, and cold cuts, complemented by juices and freshly brewed coffee. Eggs and other simple hot dishes can be prepared to order. It’s the kind of breakfast that sets you up for a day in the city without feeling overwhelming, and I particularly enjoyed the fresh croissants with a cappuccino while planning my morning itinerary.
Service and Atmosphere – Boutique Hospitality Done Right
What makes Hotel Milu shine is not just its design or location, but the thoughtful, guest-focused approach. The staff is discreet yet attentive, always ready to help with a restaurant suggestion, a taxi, or even a small detail like storing luggage after checkout. There’s a sense that the hotel was designed with travelers in mind, from the generous minibar and 24/7 lounge to the seamless check-in and central location. The atmosphere throughout the hotel reflects modern Milanese style—chic without being cold, contemporary without feeling sterile. It’s the kind of place where design enthusiasts will notice the careful choices, but where any traveler will simply feel comfortable and welcome.
Final Thoughts
Staying at Hotel Milu Milan was a reminder that boutique four-star hotels can deliver an experience that is every bit as memorable as a larger five-star property, especially when the focus is on thoughtful details and genuine comfort. From the spacious, beautifully designed room and included minibar to the 24/7 lounge and surprisingly easy parking at Garage Majno, everything about the stay felt well-considered and guest-friendly. For travelers seeking a stylish urban base in Milan, without the formality of the city’s grand hotels but with all the comforts and small luxuries that make a stay memorable, Hotel Milu is a property I would happily return to. It’s the kind of hotel that makes Milan feel welcoming, effortless, and just a little more personal.
