Navigli​

Latest page update: 11 January 2025
By: Dion Protani
The Navigli is an area of Milan named after a system of canals just south of the city centre. The name comes from the word naviglio which is the singular form of "canal" in Italian with navigli the plural.

The area is particularly known for its nightlife which centres around the two canals of Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese along with the Darsena dock area just above them. 
Related links
Profile
The Navigli is a historic network of canals located in Milan, Italy. It dates back to the Middle Ages when the system was designed to facilitate transportation and irrigation for the city. The canals were created primarily to connect Milan to the nearby lakes and rivers, enabling the transportation of goods and raw materials.

The Navigli system reached its peak during the Renaissance period when Leonardo da Vinci himself worked on the improvement and expansion of the canals.

However, with the advent of modern transportation, the importance of the canals for commercial purposes gradually declined, leading to many sections being covered or filled in during the 20th century.Today, the Navigli is cherished for its historical significance and charming ambiance, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
Key features
The Navigli district in Milan consists of two main canals: Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese. Both canals are lined with picturesque and colorful buildings, creating a charming waterfront atmosphere.

Naviglio Grande is the larger and more prominent of the two canals. Along its banks, you'll find numerous bars, cafes, restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques. This lively promenade is a popular spot for locals and visitors to stroll, especially in the evenings when it comes alive with a vibrant nightlife.

Naviglio Pavese is a quieter and more residential area, but it still exudes a romantic and tranquil ambiance. The charming bridges that cross the canals add to the picturesque setting, making it a favorite spot for photography and leisurely walks.
Visitor information
  • Location: The Navigli district is located southwest of Milan's city center. It is easily accessible by public transportation, and the canals can be explored on foot or by bicycle.
  • Navigli Market: On the last Sunday of every month, the Navigli area hosts a lively and bustling antiques market, where visitors can browse through a wide array of unique and vintage items.
  • Aperitivo Culture: Milan's Navigli district is renowned for its aperitivo culture. Many bars and restaurants offer aperitivo, a pre-dinner ritual where customers can enjoy a drink accompanied by a selection of complimentary appetizers.
  • Art and Culture: The Navigli district is home to various art galleries and studios, showcasing the works of local artists and providing insight into Milan's vibrant art scene.
  • Boat Tours: Tourists have the option to take boat tours along the Navigli canals, providing a different perspective and a relaxing way to explore the area.
I Navigli di Milano
City: Milan

Province: Metropolitan City of Milan

Region: Lombardy

Nearest Metro station: Porta Genova FS - M2 - 300 m - 3 min walk

Close by: Columns of San Lorenzo, Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio

Recommended hotel: Château Monfort - Relais & Châteaux

Navigli​​​  Gallery

SITE SEARCH

If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. 

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ITALY

Italy Review is an independent guide to Italy, showcasing the very best that the country has to offer. Throughout the four thousand pages of the website you'll find comprehensive tourist information, opinion and original photos.

​Alongside the major tourist destinations that you've already heard of, there are thousands of others that may come as a surprise with the intention of the website to provide inspiration for your future trips to the country. 

The photos and descriptions on the website are all my own work and are the fruit of my extensive travels around the country. I've visited every place that's listed on the website which means I'm able to give useful advice for first-time visitors. 

​You can keep in touch with the latest developments in Italy via  my Facebook and Instagram pages. 

If you'd just like to start your exploration of Italy with some ideas of places to go then I'd recommend starting at the highlighted must see Italy page.  Or using the grid to your right you can click a photo to enter  the main menus.                 
Booking.com

THE ITALY REVIEW NETWORK SISTER SITES:

​All photos and images on the site that are marked with the © copyright symbol or with the Italy Review series logos are the property of Italy Review and must not be used elsewhere without prior permission. All written content on the website is also the property of Italy Review and its use is strictly limited to this website alone.