Il Girasole

From the street, the red exterior of Il Girasole looks a lot like modern, student accommodation. However, on entering this former bicycle factory, a pleasant Old World-meets-New vibe is immediately apparent, and that easy-going style is matched with a glass of Prosecco that's offered on arrival. A classic typewriter sits on the neoclassical reception desk, flanked by a tropical fish tank and an old church pew. The eclectic decor is all done in a fun and quirky way, with a colorful sunflower theme throughout. Punchy art-work and Salvador Dali prints line the hallways, and you can expect exotic and sometimes humorous touches, like wire-frame animals and old transistor radios. Guests can unwind on the hotel's own private veranda, amid old, rural farming equipment and plant life. There’s also a social room with an old-fashioned billiards table for something a little different. The hotel's owners -- two brothers named Nicola and Matteo -- have created and light-hearted and cheerful atmosphere that tends to attract sightseers and family’s passing through Milan.

The Hotel is located on a quiet, residential street just off Viale Monza. This isn't central Milan, and the pace is a bit slower, though there are still a number of cafes, restaurants, and bars nearby, and it has a definitive locals-only vibe. For live music and drinks, head to the Blues House (only two blocks away), while the popular local seafood restaurant, Mamma Lina, is a seven-minute walk from the hotel. The nearest subway, Villa S.G., is a five-minute walk away, and it will take about 20 minutes to reach the city center, which is home to sights like the Duomo and DaVinci's famous works. It will take 20 minutes to reach Milan Linate Airport by cab, or one hour using public transport. It's about an hour to Milan Malpensa Airport by car (it's about an hour and 15 minutes away by train and metro). 

Rooms at Il Girasole vary in size and features, so it’s a good idea to speak to the owners before booking if you have any special requirements or preferences. In terms of furniture and bedding, everything is budget quality. Walls and bedding are traditional Mediterranean white, but you’ll see a bright and cheerful colors in the lamps, wardrobes, chairs, and ornamental decor. The higher priced Superior Rooms and Junior Suites have been individually decorated in various brightly hued styles. Funky artwork and details like miniature wooden chairs all add to the quirky vibe. Rooms are clean and come with desks, chairs, and tiny flat-screen TVs. Junior Suites (located at the rear) also come with a mini-fridge, small kitchenette, and a sofa bed. These suites are larger than Superior Rooms, and have a shared outside terrace with their own private tables and chairs. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, en-suite bathrooms, and air-conditioning. Some rooms have tiny balconies overlooking the courtyard (at the rear), or apartment buildings across the street at the front. The small bathrooms are tiled in bright colors and have tiny, glass-enclosed, stall showers. Hairdryers are provided.

The owners are noted for going the extra mile and guests are treated to a free glass of Prosecco upon arrival. Other than this, though, features are thin. A continental breakfast including fresh pastries and fruit is available for a fee, and the private veranda offers a calm place to sit and relax. A meeting room can be set up on request and there's a billiards table in the social room. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. There's also private parking available in the courtyard, though this is limited to about five spaces.