How to Choose Between Visiting Yelapa or Sayulita (when you only have time for one)
Both Sayulita and Yelapa are the two best beach town day trip destinations from Puerto Vallarta. Each of them have a completely different vibe! Sayulita is a happy laid back …
The post How to Choose Between Visiting Yelapa or Sayulita (when you only have time for one) appeared first on Like Where You’re Going.
The 6 Best Hotels in Milan
Posted: 3/27/2024 | March 27th, 2024
Italy’s second-largest city is best known as the fashion and design capital of the world, drawing millions of visitors each year. There’s also a ton of history here too (the city used to be the capital of the Western Roman Empire). And, shortly, Milan will take center-stage on the world’s arena as host city to the 2026 Winter Olympics.
But no matter what brings you to Milan, it’s important to pick a good hotel while you are here. I’ve been visiting the city for years and have stayed in a ton of different places.
To help you find a hotel that suits your needs and budget, here’s my list of the best hotels in Milan:
1. Brera Prestige B& B
This three-star hotel is in a perfect location in the heart of Brera, only a 10-minute walk from the famous Duomo (cathedral). There are just a few rooms at this newly renovated boutique property, which is stylish and modern. Each room has soundproof windows, a mini fridge, a desk, and a flatscreen TV. The rooms are decorated in calming, neutral tones, and even have chromotherapy lights that you can turn different colors (each color has different purported healing properties, but it’s also just fun too).
The bathrooms are spacious with a walk-in shower and bidet. The staff is very friendly too. It’s a nice and quiet place that’s still central to everything. Just note that, while it’s called a B& B, it does not actually offer breakfast.
2. B& B Hotel Milano Sant’Ambrogio
This three-star hotel in Centro Storico offers simple rooms with large-scale photographs of Milan on the walls. The bright and airy rooms are a pretty good size and have lots of natural light thanks to the large windows. The beds are really comfortable, and all rooms have a desk, flatscreen TV, and wardrobe. The bathrooms are on the smaller side but have walk-in showers and bidets.
I especially love the fact that the breakfast buffet is quite varied and includes lots of pastries as well as fresh orange juice (it costs 9.50 EUR though). There’s also a rooftop terrace with great views as well as a little snack bar downstairs if you want to grab some late-night munchies but not leave the hotel. Overall, the hotel offers great value for first-time visitors who want to stay somewhere central but not spend an arm and a leg.
3. Art Hotel Navigli
This four-star hotel is full of art (walking down the halls, it almost feels like you’re in a modern art museum). The hotel also has a wellness center with a small gym, sauna, and steam room. I love the expansive breakfast buffet too. It starts early (7am) and there’s a nice spread with eggs, meat, fresh pastries, and seasonal fruit. You can even make your own fresh juice with the juice maker.
The rooms are a bit dated, but they’re spacious and each has a flatscreen TV, minibar, electric kettle, and Nespresso machine. The showers are a bit small and dated as well, though they have great water pressure. It’s a unique place to stay that’s just steps from one of the Navigli’s beautiful canals.
4. Magna Pars l’Hotel à Parfum
This five-star hotel continues the tradition of the perfume factory in which it is housed, with a perfume laboratory on site and calming scents throughout the property. The entire property features soft tones and has modern art everywhere. There’s an excellent complimentary buffet breakfast, rooftop bar, wine lounge, and a wellness center with a steam room and gym.
Each of the hotel’s 68 spacious suites has its own unique scent, which have also inspired the unique artwork created by local artists adorning the walls. All suites have floor-to-ceiling windows, hardwood floors, and comfy beds (you can even choose your pillow from a pillow menu). Every suite includes a desk, flatscreen TV, minibar, and leather chaise longue to relax in. The luxurious bathrooms are huge and entirely made of marble, with bespoke toiletries that are (of course) uniquely scented. Overall, this hotel is the perfect option for travelers looking for a luxurious retreat that’s still close to the Navigli canals with its great bars and restaurants.
5. BB Hotels Aparthotel Isola
Located in the street-art-filled neighborhood of Isola, this aparthotel offers spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchenettes. Each apartment includes a cooktop, dishwasher, and electric kettle. There’s a little supermarket right underneath the apartments too, making this the ideal choice if you want to prepare your own meals (there’s no breakfast offered).
The apartments are minimally decorated but have lots of natural light thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows, and closets to store your stuff in. The bathrooms are spacious too, with a bidet, walk-in shower, towel warmers, and complimentary toiletries. This is a great choice for long-term travelers who want the full functionality of an apartment a bit away from the touristy Duomo area.
6. Bulgari Hotel Milano
Housed within an 18th-century palazzo in Brera, this five-star boutique hotel is run by the fashion house of the same name. The Bulgari Hotel boasts lavish interiors crafted by renowned Italian architect Antonio Citterio, featuring exquisite marble, rich woods, and sleek furnishings. It’s right next to the botanical gardens, and the hotel has a huge private garden of its own, complete with a garden bar/restaurant. Another one of the hotel’s restaurants, The Bulgari Bar, serves breakfast 24/7. There’s a tranquil indoor swimming pool and spa too.
The hotel’s rooms are spacious and decorated with elegant Bulgari furnishings and wooden accenting. All rooms feature comfy beds, desks, walk-in closets, and minibars. The bathrooms are huge, with deep soaking tubs, walk-in showers, and complimentary bath products. If you want to spend some money, this is the hotel to do it at!
***
Whether you’re visiting for fashion, design, history, or art, choosing a great hotel is paramount. As the city draws so many tourists, there are a lot of hotels in Milan. But not all of them are worth staying at. Choose from one of the list above and enjoy your visit to Italy’s second-largest city!
Book Your Trip to Milan: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
Safety Wing (best for everyone)
Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)
Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.
Need a Guide?
Rome has some really interesting tours. My favorite company is Take Walks. They have expert guides and can get you behind the scenes at the city’s best attractions.
Want More Information on Milan?
Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Venice for even more planning tips!
The post The 6 Best Hotels in Milan appeared first on Nomadic Matt’s Travel Site.
https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/best-hotels-milan/
The 6 Best Hotels in Milan
Posted: 3/27/2024 | March 27th, 2024
Italy’s second-largest city is best known as the fashion and design capital of the world, drawing millions of visitors each year. There’s also a ton of history here too (the city used to be the capital of the Western Roman Empire). And, shortly, Milan will take center-stage on the world’s arena as host city to the 2026 Winter Olympics.
But no matter what brings you to Milan, it’s important to pick a good hotel while you are here. I’ve been visiting the city for years and have stayed in a ton of different places.
To help you find a hotel that suits your needs and budget, here’s my list of the best hotels in Milan:
1. Brera Prestige B& B
This three-star hotel is in a perfect location in the heart of Brera, only a 10-minute walk from the famous Duomo (cathedral). There are just a few rooms at this newly renovated boutique property, which is stylish and modern. Each room has soundproof windows, a mini fridge, a desk, and a flatscreen TV. The rooms are decorated in calming, neutral tones, and even have chromotherapy lights that you can turn different colors (each color has different purported healing properties, but it’s also just fun too).
The bathrooms are spacious with a walk-in shower and bidet. The staff is very friendly too. It’s a nice and quiet place that’s still central to everything. Just note that, while it’s called a B& B, it does not actually offer breakfast.
2. B& B Hotel Milano Sant’Ambrogio
This three-star hotel in Centro Storico offers simple rooms with large-scale photographs of Milan on the walls. The bright and airy rooms are a pretty good size and have lots of natural light thanks to the large windows. The beds are really comfortable, and all rooms have a desk, flatscreen TV, and wardrobe. The bathrooms are on the smaller side but have walk-in showers and bidets.
I especially love the fact that the breakfast buffet is quite varied and includes lots of pastries as well as fresh orange juice (it costs 9.50 EUR though). There’s also a rooftop terrace with great views as well as a little snack bar downstairs if you want to grab some late-night munchies but not leave the hotel. Overall, the hotel offers great value for first-time visitors who want to stay somewhere central but not spend an arm and a leg.
3. Art Hotel Navigli
This four-star hotel is full of art (walking down the halls, it almost feels like you’re in a modern art museum). The hotel also has a wellness center with a small gym, sauna, and steam room. I love the expansive breakfast buffet too. It starts early (7am) and there’s a nice spread with eggs, meat, fresh pastries, and seasonal fruit. You can even make your own fresh juice with the juice maker.
The rooms are a bit dated, but they’re spacious and each has a flatscreen TV, minibar, electric kettle, and Nespresso machine. The showers are a bit small and dated as well, though they have great water pressure. It’s a unique place to stay that’s just steps from one of the Navigli’s beautiful canals.
4. Magna Pars l’Hotel à Parfum
This five-star hotel continues the tradition of the perfume factory in which it is housed, with a perfume laboratory on site and calming scents throughout the property. The entire property features soft tones and has modern art everywhere. There’s an excellent complimentary buffet breakfast, rooftop bar, wine lounge, and a wellness center with a steam room and gym.
Each of the hotel’s 68 spacious suites has its own unique scent, which have also inspired the unique artwork created by local artists adorning the walls. All suites have floor-to-ceiling windows, hardwood floors, and comfy beds (you can even choose your pillow from a pillow menu). Every suite includes a desk, flatscreen TV, minibar, and leather chaise longue to relax in. The luxurious bathrooms are huge and entirely made of marble, with bespoke toiletries that are (of course) uniquely scented. Overall, this hotel is the perfect option for travelers looking for a luxurious retreat that’s still close to the Navigli canals with its great bars and restaurants.
5. BB Hotels Aparthotel Isola
Located in the street-art-filled neighborhood of Isola, this aparthotel offers spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchenettes. Each apartment includes a cooktop, dishwasher, and electric kettle. There’s a little supermarket right underneath the apartments too, making this the ideal choice if you want to prepare your own meals (there’s no breakfast offered).
The apartments are minimally decorated but have lots of natural light thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows, and closets to store your stuff in. The bathrooms are spacious too, with a bidet, walk-in shower, towel warmers, and complimentary toiletries. This is a great choice for long-term travelers who want the full functionality of an apartment a bit away from the touristy Duomo area.
6. Bulgari Hotel Milano
Housed within an 18th-century palazzo in Brera, this five-star boutique hotel is run by the fashion house of the same name. The Bulgari Hotel boasts lavish interiors crafted by renowned Italian architect Antonio Citterio, featuring exquisite marble, rich woods, and sleek furnishings. It’s right next to the botanical gardens, and the hotel has a huge private garden of its own, complete with a garden bar/restaurant. Another one of the hotel’s restaurants, The Bulgari Bar, serves breakfast 24/7. There’s a tranquil indoor swimming pool and spa too.
The hotel’s rooms are spacious and decorated with elegant Bulgari furnishings and wooden accenting. All rooms feature comfy beds, desks, walk-in closets, and minibars. The bathrooms are huge, with deep soaking tubs, walk-in showers, and complimentary bath products. If you want to spend some money, this is the hotel to do it at!
***
Whether you’re visiting for fashion, design, history, or art, choosing a great hotel is paramount. As the city draws so many tourists, there are a lot of hotels in Milan. But not all of them are worth staying at. Choose from one of the list above and enjoy your visit to Italy’s second-largest city!
Book Your Trip to Milan: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
Safety Wing (best for everyone)
Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)
Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.
Need a Guide?
Rome has some really interesting tours. My favorite company is Take Walks. They have expert guides and can get you behind the scenes at the city’s best attractions.
Want More Information on Milan?
Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Venice for even more planning tips!
The post The 6 Best Hotels in Milan appeared first on Nomadic Matt’s Travel Site.
https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/best-hotels-milan/
The 6 Best Hotels in Milan
Posted: 3/27/2024 | March 27th, 2024
Italy’s second-largest city is best known as the fashion and design capital of the world, drawing millions of visitors each year. There’s also a ton of history here too (the city used to be the capital of the Western Roman Empire). And, shortly, Milan will take center-stage on the world’s arena as host city to the 2026 Winter Olympics.
But no matter what brings you to Milan, it’s important to pick a good hotel while you are here. I’ve been visiting the city for years and have stayed in a ton of different places.
To help you find a hotel that suits your needs and budget, here’s my list of the best hotels in Milan:
1. Brera Prestige B& B
This three-star hotel is in a perfect location in the heart of Brera, only a 10-minute walk from the famous Duomo (cathedral). There are just a few rooms at this newly renovated boutique property, which is stylish and modern. Each room has soundproof windows, a mini fridge, a desk, and a flatscreen TV. The rooms are decorated in calming, neutral tones, and even have chromotherapy lights that you can turn different colors (each color has different purported healing properties, but it’s also just fun too).
The bathrooms are spacious with a walk-in shower and bidet. The staff is very friendly too. It’s a nice and quiet place that’s still central to everything. Just note that, while it’s called a B& B, it does not actually offer breakfast.
2. B& B Hotel Milano Sant’Ambrogio
This three-star hotel in Centro Storico offers simple rooms with large-scale photographs of Milan on the walls. The bright and airy rooms are a pretty good size and have lots of natural light thanks to the large windows. The beds are really comfortable, and all rooms have a desk, flatscreen TV, and wardrobe. The bathrooms are on the smaller side but have walk-in showers and bidets.
I especially love the fact that the breakfast buffet is quite varied and includes lots of pastries as well as fresh orange juice (it costs 9.50 EUR though). There’s also a rooftop terrace with great views as well as a little snack bar downstairs if you want to grab some late-night munchies but not leave the hotel. Overall, the hotel offers great value for first-time visitors who want to stay somewhere central but not spend an arm and a leg.
3. Art Hotel Navigli
This four-star hotel is full of art (walking down the halls, it almost feels like you’re in a modern art museum). The hotel also has a wellness center with a small gym, sauna, and steam room. I love the expansive breakfast buffet too. It starts early (7am) and there’s a nice spread with eggs, meat, fresh pastries, and seasonal fruit. You can even make your own fresh juice with the juice maker.
The rooms are a bit dated, but they’re spacious and each has a flatscreen TV, minibar, electric kettle, and Nespresso machine. The showers are a bit small and dated as well, though they have great water pressure. It’s a unique place to stay that’s just steps from one of the Navigli’s beautiful canals.
4. Magna Pars l’Hotel à Parfum
This five-star hotel continues the tradition of the perfume factory in which it is housed, with a perfume laboratory on site and calming scents throughout the property. The entire property features soft tones and has modern art everywhere. There’s an excellent complimentary buffet breakfast, rooftop bar, wine lounge, and a wellness center with a steam room and gym.
Each of the hotel’s 68 spacious suites has its own unique scent, which have also inspired the unique artwork created by local artists adorning the walls. All suites have floor-to-ceiling windows, hardwood floors, and comfy beds (you can even choose your pillow from a pillow menu). Every suite includes a desk, flatscreen TV, minibar, and leather chaise longue to relax in. The luxurious bathrooms are huge and entirely made of marble, with bespoke toiletries that are (of course) uniquely scented. Overall, this hotel is the perfect option for travelers looking for a luxurious retreat that’s still close to the Navigli canals with its great bars and restaurants.
5. BB Hotels Aparthotel Isola
Located in the street-art-filled neighborhood of Isola, this aparthotel offers spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchenettes. Each apartment includes a cooktop, dishwasher, and electric kettle. There’s a little supermarket right underneath the apartments too, making this the ideal choice if you want to prepare your own meals (there’s no breakfast offered).
The apartments are minimally decorated but have lots of natural light thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows, and closets to store your stuff in. The bathrooms are spacious too, with a bidet, walk-in shower, towel warmers, and complimentary toiletries. This is a great choice for long-term travelers who want the full functionality of an apartment a bit away from the touristy Duomo area.
6. Bulgari Hotel Milano
Housed within an 18th-century palazzo in Brera, this five-star boutique hotel is run by the fashion house of the same name. The Bulgari Hotel boasts lavish interiors crafted by renowned Italian architect Antonio Citterio, featuring exquisite marble, rich woods, and sleek furnishings. It’s right next to the botanical gardens, and the hotel has a huge private garden of its own, complete with a garden bar/restaurant. Another one of the hotel’s restaurants, The Bulgari Bar, serves breakfast 24/7. There’s a tranquil indoor swimming pool and spa too.
The hotel’s rooms are spacious and decorated with elegant Bulgari furnishings and wooden accenting. All rooms feature comfy beds, desks, walk-in closets, and minibars. The bathrooms are huge, with deep soaking tubs, walk-in showers, and complimentary bath products. If you want to spend some money, this is the hotel to do it at!
***
Whether you’re visiting for fashion, design, history, or art, choosing a great hotel is paramount. As the city draws so many tourists, there are a lot of hotels in Milan. But not all of them are worth staying at. Choose from one of the list above and enjoy your visit to Italy’s second-largest city!
Book Your Trip to Milan: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
Safety Wing (best for everyone)
Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)
Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.
Need a Guide?
Rome has some really interesting tours. My favorite company is Take Walks. They have expert guides and can get you behind the scenes at the city’s best attractions.
Want More Information on Milan?
Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Venice for even more planning tips!
The post The 6 Best Hotels in Milan appeared first on Nomadic Matt’s Travel Site.
https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/best-hotels-milan/
The 6 Best Hotels in Milan
Posted: 3/27/2024 | March 27th, 2024
Italy’s second-largest city is best known as the fashion and design capital of the world, drawing millions of visitors each year. There’s also a ton of history here too (the city used to be the capital of the Western Roman Empire). And, shortly, Milan will take center-stage on the world’s arena as host city to the 2026 Winter Olympics.
But no matter what brings you to Milan, it’s important to pick a good hotel while you are here. I’ve been visiting the city for years and have stayed in a ton of different places.
To help you find a hotel that suits your needs and budget, here’s my list of the best hotels in Milan:
1. Brera Prestige B& B
This three-star hotel is in a perfect location in the heart of Brera, only a 10-minute walk from the famous Duomo (cathedral). There are just a few rooms at this newly renovated boutique property, which is stylish and modern. Each room has soundproof windows, a mini fridge, a desk, and a flatscreen TV. The rooms are decorated in calming, neutral tones, and even have chromotherapy lights that you can turn different colors (each color has different purported healing properties, but it’s also just fun too).
The bathrooms are spacious with a walk-in shower and bidet. The staff is very friendly too. It’s a nice and quiet place that’s still central to everything. Just note that, while it’s called a B& B, it does not actually offer breakfast.
2. B& B Hotel Milano Sant’Ambrogio
This three-star hotel in Centro Storico offers simple rooms with large-scale photographs of Milan on the walls. The bright and airy rooms are a pretty good size and have lots of natural light thanks to the large windows. The beds are really comfortable, and all rooms have a desk, flatscreen TV, and wardrobe. The bathrooms are on the smaller side but have walk-in showers and bidets.
I especially love the fact that the breakfast buffet is quite varied and includes lots of pastries as well as fresh orange juice (it costs 9.50 EUR though). There’s also a rooftop terrace with great views as well as a little snack bar downstairs if you want to grab some late-night munchies but not leave the hotel. Overall, the hotel offers great value for first-time visitors who want to stay somewhere central but not spend an arm and a leg.
3. Art Hotel Navigli
This four-star hotel is full of art (walking down the halls, it almost feels like you’re in a modern art museum). The hotel also has a wellness center with a small gym, sauna, and steam room. I love the expansive breakfast buffet too. It starts early (7am) and there’s a nice spread with eggs, meat, fresh pastries, and seasonal fruit. You can even make your own fresh juice with the juice maker.
The rooms are a bit dated, but they’re spacious and each has a flatscreen TV, minibar, electric kettle, and Nespresso machine. The showers are a bit small and dated as well, though they have great water pressure. It’s a unique place to stay that’s just steps from one of the Navigli’s beautiful canals.
4. Magna Pars l’Hotel à Parfum
This five-star hotel continues the tradition of the perfume factory in which it is housed, with a perfume laboratory on site and calming scents throughout the property. The entire property features soft tones and has modern art everywhere. There’s an excellent complimentary buffet breakfast, rooftop bar, wine lounge, and a wellness center with a steam room and gym.
Each of the hotel’s 68 spacious suites has its own unique scent, which have also inspired the unique artwork created by local artists adorning the walls. All suites have floor-to-ceiling windows, hardwood floors, and comfy beds (you can even choose your pillow from a pillow menu). Every suite includes a desk, flatscreen TV, minibar, and leather chaise longue to relax in. The luxurious bathrooms are huge and entirely made of marble, with bespoke toiletries that are (of course) uniquely scented. Overall, this hotel is the perfect option for travelers looking for a luxurious retreat that’s still close to the Navigli canals with its great bars and restaurants.
5. BB Hotels Aparthotel Isola
Located in the street-art-filled neighborhood of Isola, this aparthotel offers spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchenettes. Each apartment includes a cooktop, dishwasher, and electric kettle. There’s a little supermarket right underneath the apartments too, making this the ideal choice if you want to prepare your own meals (there’s no breakfast offered).
The apartments are minimally decorated but have lots of natural light thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows, and closets to store your stuff in. The bathrooms are spacious too, with a bidet, walk-in shower, towel warmers, and complimentary toiletries. This is a great choice for long-term travelers who want the full functionality of an apartment a bit away from the touristy Duomo area.
6. Bulgari Hotel Milano
Housed within an 18th-century palazzo in Brera, this five-star boutique hotel is run by the fashion house of the same name. The Bulgari Hotel boasts lavish interiors crafted by renowned Italian architect Antonio Citterio, featuring exquisite marble, rich woods, and sleek furnishings. It’s right next to the botanical gardens, and the hotel has a huge private garden of its own, complete with a garden bar/restaurant. Another one of the hotel’s restaurants, The Bulgari Bar, serves breakfast 24/7. There’s a tranquil indoor swimming pool and spa too.
The hotel’s rooms are spacious and decorated with elegant Bulgari furnishings and wooden accenting. All rooms feature comfy beds, desks, walk-in closets, and minibars. The bathrooms are huge, with deep soaking tubs, walk-in showers, and complimentary bath products. If you want to spend some money, this is the hotel to do it at!
***
Whether you’re visiting for fashion, design, history, or art, choosing a great hotel is paramount. As the city draws so many tourists, there are a lot of hotels in Milan. But not all of them are worth staying at. Choose from one of the list above and enjoy your visit to Italy’s second-largest city!
Book Your Trip to Milan: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
Safety Wing (best for everyone)
Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)
Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.
Need a Guide?
Rome has some really interesting tours. My favorite company is Take Walks. They have expert guides and can get you behind the scenes at the city’s best attractions.
Want More Information on Milan?
Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Venice for even more planning tips!
The post The 6 Best Hotels in Milan appeared first on Nomadic Matt’s Travel Site.
https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/best-hotels-milan/
The 6 Best Hotels in Milan
Posted: 3/27/2024 | March 27th, 2024
Italy’s second-largest city is best known as the fashion and design capital of the world, drawing millions of visitors each year. There’s also a ton of history here too (the city used to be the capital of the Western Roman Empire). And, shortly, Milan will take center-stage on the world’s arena as host city to the 2026 Winter Olympics.
But no matter what brings you to Milan, it’s important to pick a good hotel while you are here. I’ve been visiting the city for years and have stayed in a ton of different places.
To help you find a hotel that suits your needs and budget, here’s my list of the best hotels in Milan:
1. Brera Prestige B& B
This three-star hotel is in a perfect location in the heart of Brera, only a 10-minute walk from the famous Duomo (cathedral). There are just a few rooms at this newly renovated boutique property, which is stylish and modern. Each room has soundproof windows, a mini fridge, a desk, and a flatscreen TV. The rooms are decorated in calming, neutral tones, and even have chromotherapy lights that you can turn different colors (each color has different purported healing properties, but it’s also just fun too).
The bathrooms are spacious with a walk-in shower and bidet. The staff is very friendly too. It’s a nice and quiet place that’s still central to everything. Just note that, while it’s called a B& B, it does not actually offer breakfast.
2. B& B Hotel Milano Sant’Ambrogio
This three-star hotel in Centro Storico offers simple rooms with large-scale photographs of Milan on the walls. The bright and airy rooms are a pretty good size and have lots of natural light thanks to the large windows. The beds are really comfortable, and all rooms have a desk, flatscreen TV, and wardrobe. The bathrooms are on the smaller side but have walk-in showers and bidets.
I especially love the fact that the breakfast buffet is quite varied and includes lots of pastries as well as fresh orange juice (it costs 9.50 EUR though). There’s also a rooftop terrace with great views as well as a little snack bar downstairs if you want to grab some late-night munchies but not leave the hotel. Overall, the hotel offers great value for first-time visitors who want to stay somewhere central but not spend an arm and a leg.
3. Art Hotel Navigli
This four-star hotel is full of art (walking down the halls, it almost feels like you’re in a modern art museum). The hotel also has a wellness center with a small gym, sauna, and steam room. I love the expansive breakfast buffet too. It starts early (7am) and there’s a nice spread with eggs, meat, fresh pastries, and seasonal fruit. You can even make your own fresh juice with the juice maker.
The rooms are a bit dated, but they’re spacious and each has a flatscreen TV, minibar, electric kettle, and Nespresso machine. The showers are a bit small and dated as well, though they have great water pressure. It’s a unique place to stay that’s just steps from one of the Navigli’s beautiful canals.
4. Magna Pars l’Hotel à Parfum
This five-star hotel continues the tradition of the perfume factory in which it is housed, with a perfume laboratory on site and calming scents throughout the property. The entire property features soft tones and has modern art everywhere. There’s an excellent complimentary buffet breakfast, rooftop bar, wine lounge, and a wellness center with a steam room and gym.
Each of the hotel’s 68 spacious suites has its own unique scent, which have also inspired the unique artwork created by local artists adorning the walls. All suites have floor-to-ceiling windows, hardwood floors, and comfy beds (you can even choose your pillow from a pillow menu). Every suite includes a desk, flatscreen TV, minibar, and leather chaise longue to relax in. The luxurious bathrooms are huge and entirely made of marble, with bespoke toiletries that are (of course) uniquely scented. Overall, this hotel is the perfect option for travelers looking for a luxurious retreat that’s still close to the Navigli canals with its great bars and restaurants.
5. BB Hotels Aparthotel Isola
Located in the street-art-filled neighborhood of Isola, this aparthotel offers spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchenettes. Each apartment includes a cooktop, dishwasher, and electric kettle. There’s a little supermarket right underneath the apartments too, making this the ideal choice if you want to prepare your own meals (there’s no breakfast offered).
The apartments are minimally decorated but have lots of natural light thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows, and closets to store your stuff in. The bathrooms are spacious too, with a bidet, walk-in shower, towel warmers, and complimentary toiletries. This is a great choice for long-term travelers who want the full functionality of an apartment a bit away from the touristy Duomo area.
6. Bulgari Hotel Milano
Housed within an 18th-century palazzo in Brera, this five-star boutique hotel is run by the fashion house of the same name. The Bulgari Hotel boasts lavish interiors crafted by renowned Italian architect Antonio Citterio, featuring exquisite marble, rich woods, and sleek furnishings. It’s right next to the botanical gardens, and the hotel has a huge private garden of its own, complete with a garden bar/restaurant. Another one of the hotel’s restaurants, The Bulgari Bar, serves breakfast 24/7. There’s a tranquil indoor swimming pool and spa too.
The hotel’s rooms are spacious and decorated with elegant Bulgari furnishings and wooden accenting. All rooms feature comfy beds, desks, walk-in closets, and minibars. The bathrooms are huge, with deep soaking tubs, walk-in showers, and complimentary bath products. If you want to spend some money, this is the hotel to do it at!
***
Whether you’re visiting for fashion, design, history, or art, choosing a great hotel is paramount. As the city draws so many tourists, there are a lot of hotels in Milan. But not all of them are worth staying at. Choose from one of the list above and enjoy your visit to Italy’s second-largest city!
Book Your Trip to Milan: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
Safety Wing (best for everyone)
Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)
Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.
Need a Guide?
Rome has some really interesting tours. My favorite company is Take Walks. They have expert guides and can get you behind the scenes at the city’s best attractions.
Want More Information on Milan?
Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Venice for even more planning tips!
The post The 6 Best Hotels in Milan appeared first on Nomadic Matt’s Travel Site.
https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/best-hotels-milan/
The Best Walking Tours in Florence
Posted: 3/27/2024 | March 27, 2024
Florence is one of the most popular cities in Italy. Its stunning Renaissance architecture gives it an iconic look, and the abundance of art could keep any traveler busy for weeks. There’s the Galleria de Uffizi, which holds some of the world’s most important Renaissance pieces; Michelangelo’s David, one of the most recognizable works in the world; and the towering Duomo, a Gothic cathedral and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
To see it all and learn about this beautiful destination, I always like to take a walking tour (or three!) while I’m here. I think walking tours are a great way to learn about a place and see some non-touristy sites.
And Florence has a lot of them! From introductory free tours to in-depth history and food tours, here’s my list of the best walking tours in Florence.
Best Overall Tour
Take Walks
Take Walks is my go-to tour company in Italy, offering access to places that no other gets and featuring incredibly knowledgeable guides. I always have fun and learn a ton on these tours. I can’t recommend them enough.
Their VIP David & Duomo tour offers exclusive access before or after all the other tours, providing a unique, skip-the-line experience without the crowds. They also have a Best of Florence tour that covers all the city’s highlights over a fun and educational three hours.
Best Free Tour
Florence Free Tour Tale
This is the best (and most popular) free tour in town. Its main offering is a solid introduction to Florence lasting two hours and covering all the highlights. It’s a great way to kick-start your trip if you’re on a budget.
For something more unique, there’s also a free tour that focuses on the city’s darker side, including some of the more eerie myths and legends from the past. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
While those may be the best free and paid tours in town, Florence as a lot more to offer. Here are four other insightful and educational tours:
1. Devour Food Tours
Devour is my favorite food tour company. Its offerings are always super informative and delicious. In Florence, Devour runs a few different ones, so there’s something for everyone.
If you love wine like I do, the Oltrarno at Sunset tour is the best choice for you. An evening tour, it lasts over three hours and includes stops at five family-run businesses, where you’ll sample aperitivi, dinner (including a taste of the famed Florentine steak), and desserts.
Devour also runs a filling 3.5-hour Tastes and Traditions tour that includes a visit to Sant’Ambrogio Market, as well as wine, espresso, and some unforgettable eats. On both tours, you’ll end up full and learn a ton.
Tours start at 79 EUR.
2. Italy Pass Tours
If you want to learn more about the Duomo, the massive cathedral that pokes up from the picturesque skyline, Italy Pass Tours runs an excellent short tour that serves as the perfect primer. You’ll get skip-the-line access and be able to tour the beautiful cathedral while learning about its history and how it intertwines with the famous Medici family that helped put Florence on the map. It’s an educational, affordable tour that goes into more detail than the standard free one, without being too long or overly academic.
Tours start at 13 EUR.
3. Tours and Tours
If you want to explore the home of some of the world’s best Renaissance art, Tours and Tours runs a 90-minute skip-the-line Uffizi Gallery tour. You’ll get to marvel at world-famous works by masters like Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci while avoiding the massive lines. They also run a short but insightful skip-the-line tour of Brunelleschi’s Dome. It’s a masterwork of engineering and offers amazing views over the city.
Tours start at 41 EUR.
4. Global Experiences
If you want to get off the beaten path and learn about Florence’s dark side, Global Experiences runs a bar crawl/ghost tour, which lasts three hours and takes you around town, showing you the sights while bouncing between cool bars. It also illuminates some of the more scandalous stories from the past, as well as darker and more mysterious tales. Overall, it’s a fun tour to take after a day of seeing the highlights.
The company also runs a more traditional food tour on which you’ll get to sample traditional Florentine steak, Tuscan meatballs, almond biscotti, gelato, and more!
Tours start at 60 EUR.
***
Florence is one of the most popular cities in Europe. It’s a gorgeous, energetic place that is bursting at the seams with amazing museums and galleries, UNESCO-worthy sights, and tons of history. By taking one of the walking tours above, you’ll be sure to have a fun, informative, and authentic visit to this Italian metropolis.
Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!
My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.
Book Your Trip to Italy: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
Safety Wing (best for everyone)
Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)
Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.
Want More Information on Italy?
Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Italy for even more planning tips!
The post The Best Walking Tours in Florence appeared first on Nomadic Matt’s Travel Site.
https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/best-walking-tours-florence/
Top 10 Places Not to Miss in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico in 2024
Consistently voted as one of the top 10 most friendliest cities in the world, Puerto Vallarta is a premier beach destination – unlike anywhere else in Mexico. It’s distinguished by …
The post Top 10 Places Not to Miss in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico in 2024 appeared first on Like Where You’re Going.
30+ Things to do in San Diego for Couples: Date Ideas + More!
There are so many things to do in San Diego for couples, including date ideas in nature, at the beach, incredible history, and amazing ideas for food lovers. Want to …
The post 30+ Things to do in San Diego for Couples: Date Ideas + More! appeared first on Adventures & Sunsets.
https://www.adventuresnsunsets.com/things-to-do-in-san-diego-for-couples/
10 Days in South Korea Itinerary: BEST Destinations and Tips!
If I had to create a 10 Days in South Korea Itinerary for myself before I ever went to Korea, below is how I’d do it to experience the most …
The post 10 Days in South Korea Itinerary: BEST Destinations and Tips! appeared first on Adventures & Sunsets.
https://www.adventuresnsunsets.com/10-days-in-south-korea-itinerary/