Navigating the Navigli in Milan
History
It may come as a surprise to learn that Venice isn’t the only large Italian city with canals. Although located inland, Milan was once a port city with canals connecting to Lake Como, Lake Maggiore, Switzerland and the Adriatic Sea.
The extensive canal system, known as Navigli, expanded over centuries and benefited from Leonardo da Vinci, who designed the innovative lock system. Considered major transportation arteries, the canals moved products as well people, including the material for Milan’s magnificent Duomo.
With the growth of much faster rail and road transportation, the waterways became redundant and by the middle of the 20th Century, most of the inner canals in Milan were covered over to make space for tram and vehicle traffic.
Navigli Today
Today the Navigli district is a picturesque neighborhood located around Milan’s historic harbour, the Darsena, and two canals restored for navigation – the Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese. The Darsena, redeveloped as part of Expo 2015, is located at the intersection of theĀ two canals.
During the daytime, locals and savvy tourists linger in the cafes or browse the shops and galleries, while tour boats ply the waterways during warmer months. In the evening, the Navigli is a popular spot with gorgeous sunset views and ample opportunities for happy hour, aperitivo in Italian, and some of Milan’s best nightlife.
Mercatone del Naviglio Grande
On the last Sunday of the month, the Naviglio Grande is transformed into one of Milan’s largest flea markets known as the Mercatone del Naviglio Grande. Almost 400 tables line both sides of the canal with an extensive selection of items including antique furniture, leather goods, ceramics, clothing, toys, and art.
Access
The Navigli is only 5 km and a 15-minute taxi ride from central Milan.
Travel Tips
- The Porto Genova Milano train station located at the intersection of Via Vigevano and Via Valenza is the best place to find a taxi after a visit to the Navigli in Milan.
- The Ā concierge at the Four Seasons Hotel Milano recommended Restaurant El BrellƬn for lunch and this choice was supported by our taxi driver. Unfortunately,Ā the restaurant was closed when we visited.
- Navigli Lombardi offers seasonal boat tours along the Navigli.
You might be interested in reading about our recent stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Milano.
Oh my god that food bar with the converted car is amazing!! Worth a visit for that alone! Great write up.
This place looks amazing! I haven’t been to this part of the world yet but I am planning on going there soon. It’s great to see a preview of it already through your post!
Had no idea there was other canal cities in Italy, but it totally makes sense lol. That flea market is my kind of way to spend a day!
I had no idea that other places had canals like Venice, but I guess it makes sense when I think about it! Also that pottery in the last shot is absolutely beautiful … I’m always a bit sad when I see things like that and know I have no way of getting it home.
It’s funny isn’t it, the Navigli really isn’t that well known. I was taken there one evening by a local – fabulous place to sit out in the evening
There’s really that awesome vibe that we feel when looking at the Canals in Europe, I don’t know if its just me, or if it’s a thing that you guys feel too. I am also really interested in seeing the Mercatone del Naviglio Grande. I love bringing home trinkets in every place I visit, and this looks like the best place to find interesting things.
What? Another canal in Italy that I haven’t heard about? I feel like I wasted so much time in the years I lived there!
The car bar looks absolutely amazing! I’d definitely stop by and buy something!
Thanks Monica. The car bar was eye-catching and popular.
Thank you Monica – the car bar is irresistible š
I never think of any city other than Venice as having canals but clearly I’m missing out. How lovely!
You aren’t the only one Vanessa! I wasn’t sure what to expect when I planned to visit the Navigli and I was pleasantly surprised.