The Navigli district is located around the Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese canals. The canals were the main arteries of the city, through which a huge amount of goods came to Milan.

The most picturesque part of Milan

The original function of the canals has been replaced by an aesthetic one, and crowds of locals and tourists head to Navigli for the pleasant atmosphere and to sit in the numerous bars and restaurants that offer free refreshments during the "aperitivo".

Navigli

Sunset in Navigli

After dark, the bars as well as the guests' glasses start to fill up and the place is alive until late at night. During the day, the district comes alive with quirky shops selling unusual brands and second-hand shops, often offering second-hand designer goods.

Along the wide Darsena Canal, into which the two 'Navigli' canals flow, there is a beautiful pedestrian promenade with seating.

Navigli

Navigli gondola

Restaurants and cafés

Navigli is one of the most popular neighbourhoods for relaxed small cafes and restaurants. The whole area has a bit of a bohemian feel to it, nothing pretentious, but at the same time you can find some really high quality establishments.

It's most alive on the largest canal, the Navigli Grande, which is literally littered with gastropubs along its entire length.

Boat cruises on the Navigli

Enjoy the romantic district from a different perspective and take a boat cruise on the Navigli canals.

Most cruises are organised by the company NavigaMi, which departs from the quay at the beginning of the main Naivglio Grande canal (see location on the map).

There are always several variations of cruises lasting between 50 and 80 minutes.

Regular prices are between 19 eur and 29 eur and can be booked on navigami.com.

Boat trip on Navigli

Navigami boat

Accommodation in Navigli

To enjoy the atmosphere of "Italian Venice" to the full, stay right on one of the canals. Here you will find mainly private apartments with prices starting from 99 eur, which is more than affordable for central Milan.

We would choose, for example, the apartment 2 Navigli or the beautiful apartment with terrace of Laura's Home - I Navigli Che Vorrei.

You will also find classic hotels in the area, the best rated of which right by the canals are: