Our experience with the Antica Locanda began by entering what appeared to be a clubhouse door, just large enough for children or perhaps Romans from the days of the Decemviirs to pass through without striking their heads. On the other side of the door is a large, stark lobby, with a small door to a private gym and a stairway leading to a very small lift. I later learned that the reception office is another floor up.

The staff kindly helped with our luggage, but the lift was so small, it took two trips to bring up our bags. We chose to walk up the stairs to our 3rd floor room. Before entering the hallway to our room, however, there was a heavy metal door to open with one of the four different keys you are issued, causing my wife to ask the gentleman showing us to our room if the building was once a bank and were we entering a vault?

The room: Yes, there was a wonderful terrace outside our "Bamboo Room". And the bathroom was spacious though glassed in like an aquarium giving the user little privacy without shutting a drape. And fortunately, we brought our own soap. We had been traveling Italy for nearly 3 weeks and brough a bit of clothing, perhaps a bit too much clothing, but nevertheless, the closet space was hardly enough for a few dresses and pants, shirts, and a sports jacket, and there was no drawer space, and the room so small, there was hardly a place to put our 4 pieces of luggage. However, housekeeping managed to stuff our bags under the bed while we were out...which wouldn't have been a bad thing had we an adequate drawer or closet to put the clothing still in the bags. Oh, and we discovered why they insisted on leaving the door to the terrace open while we were out. With it closed, there was a distinct odor coming from the bathroom, perhaps a sewer issue.

The first night we were there, at 11PM the street sweeper passed by under our window. And passed by again....and again. Then, young men from somewhere began talking loudly and playing with remote control cars in the street. This chattering and laughter kept up until we were so sleepy we finally fell asleep. The next evening we discovered that there is a restaurant and bar just below our terrace that apparently is open into the wee hours of night.

Also, a warning: if the staff recommends a restaurant nearby called the Nabucco, don't go!! I suspect there is a connection because otherwise, in my opinion, no one would suggest this place!! Speaking of food, the continental breakfast is included. However, they will offer eggs, ham and cheese as well but these are additional charges.

We felt that this room, carved out of an old industrial building and straddled up to rented flats I imagine are managed by the hotel as well, was trying to be too hip, too stylish while sacrificing nearly all comfort. It did offer WiFi, though the signal was a bit weak and the location within the center of town was terrific. Otherwise, for over 300Euro a night it was entirely too much faux style and too little substance.

While a little difficult to find, this hotel couldn't be in a more perfect location. BUT, once you’ve figured out where it is, you have to figure out how to get there. The actual hotel appears to be a portion of a larger building and the reception area is located on a level above the entry floor. First you must go up about 4 steps to even get to the elevator which, or course, is quite small. If you and your luggage can’t fit into the elevator, it’s another flight of stone steps up to the reception area. While the staff is very friendly, there is only occasionally someone available to assist you with your luggage. On the weekends, since the building was locked, you had to use a special key to gain access through a small door.
We were not fortunate enough to have a room with a terrace though the room was spacious and comfortable (but the bed was quite hard). We had breakfast in a room off the reception area, but had to tell the staff the night before if we wanted it. It was served by the staff and while it was adequate, there were no menu choices, and it was quite expensive for what was included (not free as is implied in other reviews).
My husband likes to follow world news when we travel. We had free internet access but were surprised to find there were no English-speaking TV channels available.
You can’t beat the location – just off Via Dante and a short distance to the castello and the Duomo, BUT you might be able to find a property which is a little more user-friendly.

Upon arrival there is no desk, indication, or even clues there is a hotel in this building. As soon as you find reception on the first floor and get to know your room, coming in and out of this place is just like coming in and out of home. The staff is kind, the breakfest was served in our private terraces and was amazing, the rooms were clear, clean and cozy. The location is also priviledged- right on the heart of Milan's city center. Highly recommended.

Wow, what a find.... Though hard(ish) to find, and not a grand entrance, this place is a real gem. The location is incredible, right in the heart of the main attractions. Clean, crisp bed linen, very comfortable bed. Ask for garden terrace, and have breakfast on the terrace. Staff so friendly and helpful, you'll be glad you searched for the place!