UNAHOTELS Cusani Milano

The UNA Hotel Cusani is situated in a six-story building with an exposed-beam facade and teal accents. It was once a Radisson, taken over by the Italian UNA hotel chain in 2001, and decor still maintains an impersonal but refined business-hotel vibe. The lobby runs into the dining, bar, and lounge areas, and decor features neutral tones with glossy beige floors, rich wood accents, and patterned carpeting that sets off sitting areas, which include a few smart chesterfields, plus armchairs with leathery upholstery in yellow, white, and blue. It's all perfectly tasteful, but lacks the design flourishes of an upscale hotel (which is how it's advertised). The lobby bar and restaurant, while nice, aren't really happening hangout spots, and most guest head elsewhere in the neighborhood. Business travelers will certainly feel at home here, but this hotel attracts it's share of tourists, particularly couples who can make use of the double beds.

The UNA Hotel Cusani is well located on a main thoroughfare between Sforzesco Castle (five-minute walk) and the Duomo (11-minute walk). Restaurants, cafes, and major attractions are in easy walking distance, as are Milan's artsier and more fashion-oriented areas. For sights farther out, the Cairoli metro stop is just a two-minute walk. Malpensa Airport is about an hour away via public transit or 45 minutes via car, and the central train station is a 10- to 15-minute drive. Parking is available on-site, but costs an extra fee.

The hotel's 92 rooms are decorated in neutral brown and white for sophisticated, contemporary style that's tasteful, if not exactly memorable. Dark wood furniture pairs well with fresh white walls, while framed panoramic pictures of landmarks adds an artsy touch and a hint of personality. Bathrooms feature off-center checkerboard tiled floors, bidets, and nice rainfall showers with either combination tubs or separate tubs. 

Rooms have air-conditioning, desks, open wardrobes, safes, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, and free Wi-Fi. There are also lightly stocked minibars (a couple of beers, soft drinks, and water), which are restocked daily and entirely free in Executive Rooms and Suites. Bathrooms have hairdryers and individual toiletries. Coffee and tea service isn't standard, but room service is available. Suites can be big with a bit more style, plus extra space like separate sitting or dining areas. Some rooms have Juliet balconies. Double-glazed windows keep rooms fairly well insulated from noise on the busy road below.

While the UNA can fall a bit short on atmosphere, it does a better job providing a nice range of amenities for an urban property, including dining facilities and upscale services. The free buffet breakfast is a draw, featuring hot and cold options ranging from fresh fruit and pastries to eggs and bacon. There's also an on-site restaurant with an international lunch and dinner menu, plus a bar with a daily happy hour, serving drinks and casual dishes until late, though both are situated off the lobby and maintain the hotel's overall impersonal business vibe.

Wellness facilities here are rather limited, but there is a small fitness area with a treadmill, stationary bike, elliptical, weight machine, and a couple of exercise balls. There's no spa or pool. For business guests, there are two stylish meeting rooms, a computer in the lobby for guest use, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. 

Guests can expect attentive staff, with concierge and room service available. Laundry service, ironing service, and babysitting can be arranged, and small pets are allowed for an extra fee. Parking is available on-site, but it costs extra.