Starhotels Ritz in Milan

⭐ 1-star experience
1. The moment the entrance door opened, I was really shocked. I had two suitcases and several bags in both hands, but the entrance had stairs that went down about one floor. A doorman-like staff member at the bottom of the stairs made eye contact with me but didn’t offer any help—just stood there watching while I struggled to carry my luggage down one by one.

2. I tried to pay the city tax in cash at the reception, but one of my €10 bills!!!! had a small tear (nothing major, just a slight rip). They refused to accept it and kept repeating that I should go to a bank to exchange it. As someone who works in banking myself, I know that any considerate staff member would have easily accepted such a bill. It was really frustrating.

In the end, I paid by card, but the receptionist didn’t provide any basic information—just handed me the room key. I had to ask whether breakfast was included, and even then, he only said “yes” without explaining when or where it was served. The reception service was truly disappointing.

In the end, I used that same €10 bill at another shop without any issue, which only made me more upset at the receptionist’s attitude.

⭐ 5-star experience

1. My husband went to return our rental car, so I came up to the room alone with the luggage. The room was clean, but it was filled with a strong, headache-inducing perfume smell. I tried to endure it for about two hours because I didn’t want to deal with the reception again, but it was too strong, so I finally called them. The maintenance staff who came up completely changed my impression of the hotel. He explained that the previous guest might have used a strong perfume, and that the smell can linger even after cleaning. He kindly changed my room and later checked again to make sure everything was okay. I was really grateful for his help.

2. The breakfast wasn’t extensive, but everything was fresh, neat, and delicious. The staff were friendly and quick to clear the tables.

⭐ Overall impression
The front desk service was so poor that it made me not want to stay for the full four days, but the rest of the experience—especially the helpful maintenance staff and pleasant breakfast—made up for it in the end.