We arrive at Milan Zentrale on Nov 1 and are booked for 1 night at Hotel Bristol in Via Domenica Scarlatti. I know the hotel is very close to the station, but just want to make sure we take the correct exit so that we don't go around in circles.
So, get off the train, walk straight through, go down one level and cross Piazza Luigi de Savoia. Is that the right way ? Any modern-day "landmarks" within the station, such as Mcdonalds or Starbucks, near the correct exit ?
Yeah it is a big station. You want to make sure go out the main exit and then the hotel direct is on the left
Map it out on Google maps https://goo.gl/maps/bdzZSUV3YSXMBXj37 and print a copy of it or if you have a smart phone with data access Google maps .
use the street view feature on Google maps before you go to get an idea what to look for as it is a 4 minute walk
One point to note when you're buying tickets, the name of the station is Milano Centrale.
Hotel Bristol appears to be almost visible from the station. Have a look at Google Maps to get an idea of the location. The walking directions on the map state:
Head northeast on Via Roberto Lepetit toward Piazza Luigi di Savoia, 35 m
Continue straight onto Piazza Luigi di Savoia , 19 m
Turn right onto Via Domenico Scarlatti - Destination will be on the left