Well-place Lugano home base close to shops, dining – all the good stuff.

Modest rooms have modern touches, like sleek decor and plenty of plugins.

Free WiFi satisfies both biz travelers and social media addicts.

Brand new place on a quiet street in Parabiago, the City of the Shoes. Cool moveable panels absorb or deflect the sun’s heat to increase energy efficiency.

Breakfast starts at 6am so early flights don't equal hunger pangs.

Complimentary breakfast features a mix of American classics (cereal!) and European favorites (prosciutto!).

Thankfully-soundproofed airport hotel is also blissfully close to Lake Maggiore. (Alpine views! Boat rides to Isola Bella island!)

Funky furniture in the lobby gives the place a cool, quirky vibe.

24-hour bar at your fingertips... 'cause it's 5 o'clock somewhere.

Super easy to get around: Linate Airport is 20 minutes away, the Sesto San Giovanni train station is a ten-minute walk and there’s a bus stop across the street.

Terminal 1 to the left, Terminal 2 to the right. Closer to your flight, and you’d be on the tarmac.

Whatever time you stumble in, the 24-hour front desk serves up service with a smile.

Fans of the Alfa Romeo brand, rejoice. The museum is only about 3km away (!).

Hit all the local biggies, and keep your peepers open for Clooney sightings(!).