I've just returned from a visit to Milan where I stayed at the Carlton Baglioni, for the second time. This is the kind of hotel I normally like, small and classic, but I have a complaint. This is a smoker preferred hotel. Smoking is permitted in the lobby bar, which is connected to the lobby through double open doors. This is a flagrant abuse of the Italian anti-smoking laws, and is not legal. Non-smokers, such as I, have the use of only a tiny lounge in the lobby with no charm or warmth, while all other common space is designated smoking permitted. The smoke travels throughout the hotel, up the stairs and into the halls, and nothing is done to limit it. I would have called the police to have them levy a very deserved fine but I had no time. Smoking laws are to be respected and are designed to protect the rights of non-smokers. When a hotel such as this behaves as if these laws did not apply to them it makes me very angry. What arrogance! Non-smokers should have preferred treatment in hotels and restaurants, and should not be treated as second class guests. I will never stay at this hotel again, nor in any other Baglioni, for that matter. I discussed this in person with the manager, Sr Licinio Garavaglia.

Had a lovely relaxing stay at this hotel. The staff were all very welcoming, if a little aloof. I was brought to my room by one of the front desk staff and they showed me how to use the lights, heat, shower and internet (though I needed my own cable). When I was checking out there did seem to be some issue as I was on a business trip and the stay was being invoiced. However I as I don't speak Italian I didn't understand what exactly was wrong and at no point was I queried. It was very professional. Breakfast was lovely - very relaxing and plenty to chose from. I also had afternoon tea, again a relaxing and luxurious treat to end my stay. One point for anyone staying here - I arrived at 7.30pm and there were no tables left in the restaurant. So I ended up walking around the area to find somewhere to eat. I eventually found a lovely restaurant across the road and the next left turn. A positive experience though as when I walked down Ave del Spiga (and I know I've spelt that wrong!!) the ground was covered in red carpet and there were snow machines blowing out snow flakes - it looked amazing!! I was glad that I'd had to leave the hotel otherwise I would never have seen this. Overall I really enjoyed my stay at this hotel and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for old-fashioned luxury while in Milan.

The Carlton Hotel Baglioni is located right in the middle of everything. You are close to the greatest shopping experience you could ever have. Via Della Spiga is such an experience it is better than Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills California. You are able to walk to Piazza del Duomo and Leonardo da Vinci’s famous “Last Supper” in the refectory of the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Don’t forget to see Teatro Alla Scala for experience of a life time. The Teatro Alla Scala is such a beautiful theater and the experience of seeing this was truly an occasion we will never forget.

This hotel is beautiful. It is very ornate and truly represents the Italian design. It is located about 10-15 minutes from the train station and 45 minutes from the main airport. We used a transfer to and from both the train station and the airport - the trips were arranged through the hotel directly. The rooms very decorated beautifully with heavy silk and satin drapery, gold leafing and marble. The beds were a little hard for my taste and the linens were not very soft - but it wasn't bad at all. The bathroom was very nice. The shower was very refreshing and the room came complete with a hairdryer - which was much easier to use than fumbling with my hairdryer and the electrical coverters. They even provided robes and slippers to lounge in. The hotel is located in the main shopping area where the designer shops line the streets behind the hotel. The front desk staff was very helpful in finding us a good restaurant and helping us set up informal tours. They even stored our luggage for us for a few hours after check-out and before we had to leave for our plane. I highly recommend this hotel.