11 Best 3 Star Hotels in Milan

Milan, Italy’s financial and cosmopolitan fashion capital, is synonymous with everything luxurious, whether it’s the designer stores, the neighborhoods, or the stays. While five-star accommodations have always been more in number, there has been a profusion of 3-star hotels in Milan to cater to a wide range of travelers. After all, not everyone wants to or can afford five-star stays now, can they? What’s even better is that quite a few of them are tucked very conveniently in the historical city center, Centro Storico. Moreover, they range from boutique hotels and traditional 3-star stays to bucolic, old-timey homes-turned-stays with a thoroughly Milanese flavor. Here’s a detailed guide to the best 3-star stays in Milan.

Hotel Midway

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We begin with Hotel Midway, which is one of the best 3-star stays near the Centrale Metro Station. We had a choice of many spacious rooms and suites at this hotel, all of which are modern to the hilt. What’s more, they were all fitted with mod-cons that made our stay comfortable, including satellite flat-screen TVs, safety deposit boxes, fridges, plush beds, and contemporary bathrooms with large showers. At the end of a long day, the space was exactly what we needed to unwind and get a good night’s sleep.

The rest of the hotel was equally impressive. It boasted a bar and a shared lounge, and even though there was no restaurant, we were served a fantastic breakfast spread every morning. Aside from room service, the hotel also offered luggage storage and an ATM, with a staff that spoke not only Italian and English but also Chinese and Spanish.

Locanda Pandenus

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We nearly did miss the entrance to the bolt hole of Locanda Pandenus, which is tucked right above a bustling café/bistro in the heart of the Brera neighborhood. We squeezed our way past the busy bar, with the coffee fragrance following us upstairs to this hideaway. Meaning “inn” in Italian, this “locanda” had only four rooms, all with rich textures and fabrics and retro geometric motifs. What we loved and made our stay all the more comfortable was the elegant bathrooms with white-and-black marble which exuded a timeless appeal.

The rest of the “locanda” was equally impressive. Downstairs, the itsy-bitsy-but-amazing lounge was perfect for sitting back and unwinding. The bistro was where all the action was; it was where we’d enjoy delicious breakfasts, aperitifs, and endless cups of coffee. Finally, the staff was warm and helpful, even assisting us in arranging guided walking tours of the neighborhood.

Hotel Metrò

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Hotel Metrò was it was a mere 15-minute drive from Piazza Duomo, thanks to our rental car. Aside from the secure offsite parking, there were a lot of things we loved about this hotel, especially the extremely comfy air-conditioned rooms and suites. Thanks to the Wi-Fi access, we could plan our itinerary for the next day without any issues. Moreover, all rooms and suites featured parquet floors, modern bathrooms with slippers, satellite TVs, and tea/coffeemakers.

Our days began with superb breakfast spreads at the terrace breakfast room-cum-restaurant, which served other delicious meals as well. So, we never had to step out for food. Did we mention that this hotel allowed pets, and that too for no extra charges? Yep.

Victor Boutique Hotel

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Best location. We wanted to stay as close to the Duomo as possible, which is why we were thrilled to have found the Victor Boutique Hotel. It was tucked in the street right opposite the Duomo Square’s main entrance. So, despite there being no restaurant on the property, we were never want for places to eat and drink as we were surrounded by lots of choices for breakfast, midday snacks, and dinner. Aside from the 24-hour reception, it was the helpful staff that made our stay as memorable as it was comfortable.

The hotel was more than just the location, by the way. Firstly, it offered free Wi-Fi everywhere, even in the rooms. So, we didn’t have to worry about finding information on our itinerary for the next day. Moreover, all the digs featured minimalist designs and mod-cons including flatscreen TVs, fridges, desks, and even kettles and coffee machines. Did we mention that the private bathrooms were spacious and had complimentary bath products? Yep.

Ostello Bello Milano Duomo

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Ostello Bello Milano Duomo is one of the best hotels in Milan Italy near Duomo, which is why we were so excited to stay here. This lively and fun 3-star hostel put us just a 10-minute walk from Duomo, with the quiet street location ensuring we got plenty of rest. We had tons of choices for both dorms and private rooms. Nevertheless, they all came with quirky designs and decor, immaculate private bathrooms, and well-designed bunks. Moreover, all bunks came with thoughtful necessities like plug sockets, large underbed drawers, reading lamps, and USB ports.

The hostel’s epicenter is the happening bar, which features affordable drinks, great vibe, and lively events like karaoke nights, quizzes, pub crawls, and DJ sets. Moreover, there was even a games room with Nintendo Switch, table football, board games, and even the piano and three guitars. Aside from a co-working space, the hostel also offered free city walking tours. Thanks to the kitchen, we could even whip up light meals, which we could enjoy on beanbags and hammocks on the terrace.

Hotel Canada Milano Urban Chic

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One of the best hotels in Milan with parking is Hotel Canada Milano Urban Chic. Staying here was perfect since we’d rented a car for our road trip around Italy. Not only did the hotel offer us a discounted price but we also got safe covered parking in a garage right behind where we were staying. Hoever, there were many other reasons why we loved the hotel. For one, our days began with hearty and complimentary continental breakfasts. In fact, they easily kept us going till mid-afternoon. Moreover, we even had access to free Wi-Fi and a 24-hour reception. So, we could plan our itineraries on the fly and could get in and out of our room at any time.

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We were impressed by the modern rooms and suites, especially since they all came with large windows, minibars, and private bathrooms. With just 37 digs, staying at this 3-star stay felt intimate. Moreover, they all featured comforts such as wooden floors, blackout curtains, and luxe bathrooms with bathrobes and slippers.

Boutique Hotel Borgo Nuovo

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Best boutique hotel. We didn’t mind staying a bit outside Zone 1, which is why we chose the Boutique Hotel Borgo Nuovo. Even then, we were just a 15-minute drive from Centro Storico. We loved the many amenities of this stylish hotel, even though it was affordable. Our favorite was the swimming pool with daybeds, where we could enjoy swims and lounges with poolside drinks. Later on, we’d head to the sunroof and terrace to unwind and soak up the sun rays. After a long day of sightseeing, the in-room massage was divine. Rounding things up was the Italian-style breakfast served at the onsite restaurant, which had both indoor and outdoor areas.

We had the choice of amazing rooms and suites too, which featured both rustic and vintage trinkets and a modern and contemporary ambiance. Moreover, we had many choices across standard and superior ones, but they all had jewel-toned palettes that radiated opulence. Finally, they all featured private bathrooms with complimentary bath products and minibars.

Hotel Milano Navigli

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Budget doesn’t have to be basic, as Hotel Milano Navigli taught us. Tucked right right above a McDonald’s outpost in the hip Navigli district, this hotel’s frills were distinctly on the fewer side, but the excellent location, decor, and service won us over. Despite being a budget stay, we were offered a hearty breakfast every morning in the breakfast room downstairs. It even had a small bar and a terrace attached to it. It’s where we’d sip on evening drinks after a long day of sightseeing in the city and before we’d step out to enjoy Milan’s nightlife.

With just 22 rooms and suites, staying here felt really intimate and exclusive. What’s more, they all featured tons of Milan photos, lovely wooden furniture, and modern bathrooms. If you want to splurge, get rooms with terraces, which offer alfresco seating and superb views of the neighborhood. The best bit? Our room was one of these, so we’d sip on coffee and people-watch, with the room being soundproofed on the inside! That’s why it’s one of the best budget hotels in Milan.

Babila Hostel & Bistrot

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The contemporary yet classic Babila Hostel & Bistrot might be on the lower end of the 3-star spectrum, but it was completely worth it. Tucked in a stunning 1893-built neo-Gothic structure in the leafy Guastella neighborhood, the sociable hostel-hotel hardly felt like a 3-star stay! It featured a mix of original features and Scandi design, offering options for both private rooms and shared dorms, including three female-only dorms. Aside from being spick-and-span, the rooms had storage lockers, fresh linens, comfy beds, and modern decor. Finally, the private rooms had their own private bathrooms, while the shared dorms had shared bathrooms.

The majority of the action all took place in the common areas downstairs. These included the buzzing bar which was very popular with both locals and tourists at aperitif hour. The convivial terrace attached to the bar was the perfect place to enjoy drinks, especially when the weather was nice. We especially loved the “relax room,” the games room, and the basement fitness center. Even though they offered a fantastic and free hearty breakfast (yay!), they even had a communal kitchen where we could whip up light meals.

BioCity Hotel

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Best value-for-money. We were just 15 minutes northeast of the city center when we stayed at the Biocity Hotel. The location might be a bit out of the way, but it makes up for that with its offerings and design. We loved the choice of room decor, which were all inspired by nature, right from lush forest backdrops to glacier and snow-inspired ones. Moreover, they all featured modern bathrooms, minibars, and comfy beds, with some rooms, like ours, even featuring Jacuzzis and small terraces.

It’s an organic, eco-friendly, and yet modern and simple property, whether it’s the eco-friendly lighting or from using renewable sources for energy. In fact, we even had zero-mile foods for breakfast! We especially loved the breakfast room with wooden shelves and massive windows with views of the city. Even though breakfast cost EUR 10/hour additionally, the small wellness area with a sauna, a relaxation room, and showers was perfect for unwinding. Furthermore, the hotel even had eco-friendly practices and cleaning products.

B&B Hotel Milano Sant’Ambrogio

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Best B&B hotel. We’ve always wanted to stay at a B&B in Italy, so imagine our delight when we found a 3-star B&B hotel in Milano! Welcome to B&B Hotel Milano Sant’Ambrogio, which also happens to be one of the best hotels in Milan Italy City Center. Sitting on the western fringes of the city center, this hotel has an unassuming and nondescript exterior, but don’t be put off. On the inside, it has a completely different vibe with gorgeous decor and the choice of many well-sized and spacious rooms and suites. We loved that they all have private bathrooms with luxe touches and gorgeous murals on the walls above the beds. In fact, it was unlike many other 3-star hotels we’d seen. Well-sized windows, comfy beds, and flatscreen TVs featured in all rooms, and our double room even had a terrace!

“We loved the unique experience of staying at this B&B hotel, which had everything we wanted: location, amenities, and excellent stays!”

WOW Travel

Even though it’s on the budget end of the spectrum, this hotel boasted a crock of delightful amenities. Our favorite spot was the huge terrace where we’d unwind on the comfy alfresco furniture with a book, music, and a glass of wine, soaking in the stunning views across the neighborhood.

Our Verdict!

While we’ve rounded up a long list of Milan’s 3-star stays, here’s a smaller one that will really help you decide.

• Best B&B Hotel: B&B Hotel Milano Sant’Ambrogio
• Best boutique hotel: Boutique Hotel Borgo Nuovo
• Best location: Victor Boutique Hotel
• Best value-for-money: BioCity Hotel

Where to Stay in Milan?

Just like any other Italian city, Milan has a fascinating variety of characterful and vibrant neighborhoods. What’s more, its 3-star stays aren’t limited to certain neighborhoods, but can be found everywhere. One of the best neighborhoods is Zone 1 of Milan, a.k.a. Centro Storico, which sits at the very heart of the city. It’s main attraction and landmark is the magnificent Duomo Cathedral, one of the most extraordinary churches in the world. What’s more, it also has excellent options for 3-star stays, which happen to be some of the best hotels in Milan Italy city center.

Next, there’s the artsy and bohemian Navigli in southwestern Milan. Sitting along the Naviglio Grande canal, it’s perfect for strolling along the old waterway, complete with bustling cafes and bars lining the route. Thirdly, there’s the cobblestoned and cultured streets of Brera, which is the go-to destination for shoppers, art connoisseurs, and more. It’s home to Quadrilatero Della Moda, or Quadrilatero d’Oro sitting to the northeast of the Duomo. It’s where high fashion rules in Milan. 

Can I get around Milan for cheap?

Milan’s metro, bus, and tram systems are way cheaper than cabs or Ubers, obviously, and make commuting easy as well.

Can I find a budget stay in Milan’s city center?

Yes, try the B&B Hotel Milano Sant’Ambrogio, which is one of the most gorgeous stays in the city center.

How long should I stay in Milan?

Three to four days is a good enough amount of time to explore Milan, especially if you have a limited number of days to explore.