KOALA HOSTEL, Milan

The hostel sits on a quieter street off the main boulevard, close to two metro lines that connect directly to the city centre and Milano Centrale station. The Duomo is a 10-15-minute metro ride away. For Bergamo airport, take the M2 from Loreto to Caiazzo then the Orioshuttle. Several restaurants and supermarkets are within a five-minute walk along Corso Buenos Aires. The immediate area around the hostel has a higher number of unhoused individuals, particularly after dark.

All dormitories feature tiled floors, lockers, and modern décor. Shared bathrooms are the norm, though some rooms include a private bathroom. Beds are standard hostel bunks; some are wobbly and mattresses can be thin or uncomfortable. Rooms vary in size-some are spacious enough to accommodate luggage under the bed, but others are cramped, especially with three bunk beds. The property does not have air conditioning; only fans are provided, which can make summer nights very warm. Heating is available in winter but may be inconsistent. Windows often do not seal well, letting in street noise and light. Some rooms have been described as having mould on walls or stained bedding. Only padlock lockers are available; bring your own lock. The overall standard of furnishings and cleanliness is basic and noticeably aged.

The hostel has a bar and snack bar for drinks and light bites. The shared kitchen is open from 7 AM to 11 PM and includes a fridge, stove, and basic cooking equipment. However, the kitchen has been reported as dirty, and equipment may be worn or broken. There is no restaurant. Corso Buenos Aires, a five-minute walk away, offers many cafes, pizzerias, and grocery stores including Lidl and Tiger, providing convenient alternatives.

The hostel organises free daily walking tours, movie nights, and karaoke sessions, along with paid bike rentals and bike tours. A shared lounge with a bar, board games, and table tennis encourages socialising. There is no pool, spa, or fitness centre on site.

Wi-Fi is free throughout the building, though connectivity in some rooms can be weak. Luggage storage is free before check-in and after check-out until 7 PM; after that, a fee applies. The 24-hour front desk offers locker rentals (bring your own padlock or buy one for €3), a tour desk, and fax/photocopying for an extra charge. Daily housekeeping is free; laundry is available for an additional fee. Parking is available on site for €15 per day without reservation. Access is via a doorbell entry; the reception is in a separate building from some rooms, but security includes 24-hour staff, CCTV, and key card access. Pets are not allowed.