Hotel Milano

Hotel Milano sits wedged between a row of colorful colonial-era buildings overlooking cobbled Fortaleza Street. While the hotel building dates back to the 19th century, its austere facade lacks the historic charm of its neighbors. The decor is equally stark inside, with beige walls, dark tiled flooring, and old-fashioned wooden furniture found throughout. There are a few interesting pieces of Chinese artwork here and there -- a relic from the building’s previous life as a warehouse with an owner who traveled to China frequently.

Guests are budget travelers of all ages who prioritize a great location over cushy on-site features. With nothing to do at the hotel, most guests tend to leave the property early in the morning to sightsee and return late at night only to sleep.  

Hotel Milano offers an excellent location for exploring Old San Juan, with attractions like Fort San Cristobal and San Juan Cathedral found less than a 10-minute walk away. There are tons of restaurants, shops, and bars located right outside the hotel along Fortaleza Street, and even more found within easy walking distance. The location is also convenient for pre- and post-cruise stays, with the San Juan Cruise Port located a 10-minute walk away. 

Good beaches are a bit more far-flung, with Condado Beach around a 15-minute drive away. San Juan’s airport can be reached in about 25 minutes by car. Hotel Milano doesn’t offer parking, but several moderately priced public parking lots are found within a few blocks of the hotel.

Guest rooms at Hotel Milano are tidy, but their drab carpeting and dated furniture could use a refresh. Rooms are furnished with either one queen or two double beds, which are covered with busy-printed duvets. Walls are decorated with lovely photos of Old San Juan. The housekeepers leave a few small pieces of chocolate on the bedside tables for arriving guests. Some rooms feature good views of San Juan, while others have tiny windows set high on the wall, obscuring any potential views. 

All rooms include air-conditioning and TVs (most of which are flat-screen). Free Wi-Fi is also standard, although some guests report the connection can be spotty. Closets with mirrored sliding doors hold mini-fridges. Tiled bathrooms offer round sinks. Some have shower/tub combos, while others feature shower stalls. Bathrooms include wall-mounted hairdryers, in addition to off-brand bottles of shampoo and soap bars. Some guests complain that rooms smell musty.

Given its rates, it's not surprising that Hotel Milano has minimal features. But a few on-site perks add to its comfort. The hotel rooftop is home to an independently owned restaurant called Punto de Vista. The restaurant draws guests and non-guests alike with its top-notch Puerto Rican cuisine, including excellent mofongo. The restaurant’s casual interior is decorated with dark oak barrels, while the outdoor terrace offers pleasant views over Old San Juan. A public computer and printer are available for guest use in the hotel lobby, and free Wi-Fi is offered throughout.