Luckily I never had the need of finding a hostel or a cheap hotel in Milan, as the situation is quite unfriendly for the backpackers. Take the hotels out of the equation you have little choice left. It’s also easy to be tricked by those many properties tagging themselves “hostels” that are nothing but aseptic apartments stacked with bunk beds.
Most of backpackers are inevitably staying at the huge HI hostel that sits in a slightly dodgy area far away from the city centre. I would not recommend to go there unless it’s your only option left. The options, so far, are two brand new youth hostels that have the vibe and the attitude to deserve such name.
Ostello Bello
Via Medici, 4 (MM1-3 Duomo, Tram 2-3)
tel: +39 02 3658 2720; email: booking@ostellobello.com web: www.ostellobello.com
I can say that this is the first real hostel in Milan. Opened in 2011 and located right in the city centre (few minutes walk from Duomo) is busting with energy and ideas. It’s very pricey, true, but aligned to the milanese standards. It also offers more than just a bed, as they organize small gigs and provide quality food. I often go there to eat something or have a pint of their artisan beer.
“Everything you need to know about Milan”: Not quite a big book…
Hostel Colours
Via Desiderio, 24 (MM2 Lambrate, Tram 33-23, Bus 93-54-81)
Tel: +39 0236744492; email: info@hostelcolours.com; web: www.hostelcolours.com
There is a very recently opened hostel in Milan, I’ve seen its sign put up in 2012, and it’s called Hostel Colours. It’s few steps away from Lambrate station, well connected and perfectly located for the University and for the Lambrate Brewery, the Birrificio. It’ll come handy after a night of beer tasting over there.
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