Milan’s canal district, also known as Navigli, has earned the reputation as one of the trendiest neighborhoods in the city. It’s situated in the southwest corner of Milan, about a thirty-minute walk from Piazza del Duomo.
Milan is a city with a history of artificial canals (navigli in Italian), many of which have been covered over now. In the past, these waterways, which connected to the Ticino and Adda rivers, were instrumental in the transport of goods and people. It might surprise you to know that the blocks of marble used to build the Duomo arrived in this fashion. It may also surprise you to discover that Leonardo da VInci sketched his ideas about these canals, and engineers who worked on the canal system adopted several of his ideas.
Today, the two canals, Naviglio Grande, and the smaller Naviglio Pavese converge with a 400-year-old harbor, known as the Darsena. The Darsena waterfront and banks of the adjacent Navigli canals serve as the hub of some of Milan’s liveliest night spots that stay open until four in the morning.
I found this area a welcome reprieve from the busier city life of Milan, especially near the tourist attractions.
With its bohemian flair, Navigli is filled with flea markets, pubs, boutique shops, art galleries, restaurants, street vendors, nightclubs, bookstores, pubs, and antique fairs. It’s a wonderful place to hang out, have an aperitivo, pick up an unusual gift, and watch people. Locals and tourists alike, young and old, find this neighborhood of Milan the place to go, especially on weekends, when the vibe is electric.
I loved visiting this special place in Milan, and next time, I will be sure to return at night and check out the night life.
Have you been to Milan? After visiting the iconic sights, why not enjoy the unique Navigli district with a flavor all its own? I guarantee it will be worth it.
For more information on Milan, check out their official tourism website, Yes Milano.
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Karen Neary
I’ve been to Milan, Margie, but I missed visiting the Navigli neighborhood. I was only there for a short visit, enough time to attend Mass at the Duomo.
margieinitaly
I can understand, Karen. I’ve been to Milan quite a few times, and this was the first time I’ve seen the canals in Navigli! Always something new to see!