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Historic neighborhood · Milão, Lombardia
Navigli
Area of Milan’s old canals, with the Darsena, the Naviglio Grande and the Naviglio Pavese, full of bars, restaurants and waterside markets.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Navigli
The Navigli are the artificial canals that linked Milan to rivers and lakes in the region and were used to transport goods, including the marble used for the Duomo. The network began in the 12th century, and the lock system was refined in the following centuries; Leonardo da Vinci studied Milan’s locks while he lived in the city.
Today the Naviglio Grande and the Naviglio Pavese remain open-air and start from the Darsena, the old dock of Porta Ticinese. The banks have become pedestrian promenades, with old houses, studios, bars and restaurants. On the Naviglio Grande, the Vicolo dei Lavandai preserves the stones where washerwomen used to wash clothes.
At night, the Navigli are among Milan’s busiest spots, especially at aperitivo time. On the last Sunday of each month, the Naviglio Grande usually hosts the Mercatone dell'Antiquariato, a large antiques market along the banks.
Near the Darsena, the Basilica di Sant'Eustorgio and the columns of San Lorenzo on Corso di Porta Ticinese complete a walk through the southern part of the center.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1.5 to 3 hours, depending on time spent at a bar or restaurant.
Best time
In the late afternoon to see the light on the water and continue with an aperitivo. On the last Sunday of the month during the day for the antiques fair.
How to get there
Metro M2 (green), Porta Genova station, a few steps from the Naviglio Grande. The Darsena is about a 10-minute walk from there. Tram 3 links the Duomo to the area.
Tip
The busiest bars are on the bank of the Naviglio Grande. For a relaxed dinner, book ahead. Watch your belongings in crowded places.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Navigli
What are the Navigli?
They are Milan's historic canals. The Naviglio Grande and the Naviglio Pavese remain open-air, both branching from the Darsena, the city's former dock.
What's the best time to go?
In the late afternoon and evening, when bars serve the aperitivo and the banks fill up.
How do I get to the Navigli by metro?
On line M2 (green), Porta Genova station, which is a few steps from the Naviglio Grande.