Navigli
The old canal district where Leonardo da Vinci took part in the design. Today it is Milan's centre for aperitivo and nightlife, with bars and restaurants lining both banks.
The Navigli is Milan's canal system. Built in the Middle Ages to transport the marble for the cathedral, it included lock gates designed by Leonardo da Vinci. In the 20th century, most of the canals were filled in. Only the Naviglio Grande, the Naviglio Pavese and the Darsena basin, where the two meet, remain. Today this is Milan's most lively neighbourhood, with bars, restaurants, trattorias and antique shops along the canals. The aperitivo hour, from 18:00 to 21:00, is the best way to experience how Milanese people unwind after work. For €10–15, you can order a Spritz or a Negroni and help yourself to a buffet of snacks. A canal boat trip (about an hour) lets you see the old laundry houses (Vicolo dei Lavandai) and the stone bridges from the water. On the last Sunday of each month, a large antiques flea market takes place along the canals, and in mid-April there is a canal flower market. After its 2015 Expo renovation, the Darsena has become an open waterfront square. Nearby, on Porta Ticinese street, the Roman columns in front of the church of San Lorenzo are another nightlife landmark popular with young people.
Getting there: Porta Genova station on metro line M2 is about a 5-minute walk, or take tram line 2 or 9. Keep an eye on your belongings at night, when crowds are heavy.
Opening hours
Open all day; bars and restaurants mostly open until 01:00–02:00
Nearby sights
- Basilica of San Lorenzo & Colonne di San Lorenzo
- Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio
- Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology
- San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore
- Biblioteca e Pinacoteca Ambrosiana
- The Last Supper (Santa Maria delle Grazie)
- Santa Maria presso San Satiro
- Museo del Novecento