LaFavia Milano

LaFavia Four Rooms is a homey boutique-style bed-and-breakfast with vintage charm, housed in a renovated private residence that dates to the 1800s. A tiny, posh lobby on the second floor has bright pops of color and a refined air, with velvety high-backed armchairs in bright orange, and an oval portrait of Lady LaFavia herself. The space connects to the property's gem: a lush roof garden that faces the backs of  Milanese buildings. Scattered landscaping and a thick row of trees and flowering bushes make it feel rambling and private, with rattan couches and floral-cushioned loungers contained in a rustic pergola. Guests can eat breakfast out here during summer, or on the attractive veranda that looks out to the garden. 

The intimate atmosphere and cozy accommodations appeal to couples who want to experience city living that's slightly out of the fray, and don't mind the limited amenities. Those with mobility issues should note that there's no elevator access to the the second floor.

LaFavia is situated in one of Milan's more residential areas, though it shares the street with restaurants and it's an easy walk to city sights, public transit, and neighborhoods of interest. In 10 minutes or less, guests can walk to clubs and skyscrapers in Porta Garibaldi, bustling Via Paolo Sarpi in Chinatown, Sempione Park, Corsco Como, and the edge of the artsy Brera Design District. The historic center is a bit farther, with the Duomo about 15 to 20 minutes away via public transit. The metro, light rail, and bus stops are all convenient, and Porta Garibaldi train station, a major transport hub, is a 10-minute walk away. Using public transit, it's 20 minutes to Milano Central Station and about an hour to Malpensa Airport. 

The hotel's four stylish guest rooms are individually decorated, with on-trend wallpaper, chic furniture, and vintage-inspired accents. They're all equipped with air-conditioning, console desks, armchairs, open hanging racks, safes, hairdryers, and free Wi-Fi, but no TVs. Bathrooms are teensy but pleasant, with glass-wall showers that have attractive geometric tiling, heated towel racks, and toiletries. Housekeeping comes daily. 

Barceloneta and La India units are smaller and relatively basic, and the more lavish La Palmera and Oaxaca rooms add private terraces with seating for eating alfresco, kitchenettes with essentials like cooktops, sinks, and fridges, small dining tables, and bathrooms with roomier showers and sinks. Guests staying in Barceloneta should note that it faces the street and may get some noise.

While amenities are limited at LaFavia, the hotel does provide one star feature -- a spacious outdoor garden terrace. On warm days, it's where a tasty organic breakfast is served daily, with continental fare like croissants, fruit, yogurt, eggs, coffee, and fresh orange juice when available from the property's citrus grove. The meal is included for guests staying in rooms without kitchenettes, and for those in larger accommodations, an extra fee buys either a simple Italian breakfast of coffee and brioche, or the full spread for slightly more. There's also a veranda for dining  indoors. Free mineral water, tea, and Nespresso coffee are offered all day in the common area. 

Other freebies include a loaner laptop, two bikes to borrow, and Wi-Fi throughout. Reception isn't open 24 hours, so guests should coordinate with staff for check-in. Laundry service can be arranged. This bed-and-breakfast is also eco-conscious, and offsets its emissions by planting trees in Costa Rica.