Malta

For the unfussy traveler looking for a clean, quiet and affordable spot in the center of Milan, the Hotel Malta is a solid pick. It may not be flush with amenities, but the one-star Malta does boast a prime location in Citta’ Studi.  

The 15 tiny, tidy guestrooms at the Hotel Malta seem to reflect conflicting tastes. Walls are painted white and yellow with floral borders, while bedding comes in vivid solids or stripes. Framed prints and bright accents clash a bit, but the rooms are impeccably clean and equipped with a telephone, TV and soundproof windows. The hotel is not air conditioned, but fans are available.

Even the dated, earthen-colored tiles in the narrow private bathrooms seem to gleam.

The Torre de Gaudio family, who runs the Hotel Malta, has a thing for sunflowers. They pop up everywhere from planters to paintings, and even in plastic throughout the entryway and up the stairs.

Note to Internet addicts, the Hotel Malta has Wi-Fi, but it's not the most reliable.