City on the water – Milan. Milanese canals. Navigli district
One of the most romantic places in Milan is the famous Navigli canals. ‘City on the water’ – this is how the capital of Lombardy was referred to a hundred years ago. Unfortunately, much has changed since then. But tranquility and Italian charm can still be found by peeking into the old courtyards by the canals.
The glory and grandeur of Milan are indeed connected with the canals. In their time, these were trade routes linking northern and southern Europe. Leonardo da Vinci understands their significance and refers to them multiple times in his works. For several years now, this place has been favored by artists, with workshops of the most famous designers hidden in the alleys, and the trendiest cafes located right here.
To this day, only 3 canals have been preserved in Milan: Naviglio Pavese and Naviglio Grande in the southwest of the city, and Naviglio della Martesana in its northeastern part. Together with the surroundings of the 750-meter water basin of the Darsena, which was a medieval river port, they form the basis of the Navigli district.
You can take a ride on a public boat (the trip takes about an hour), tickets must be purchased in advance. You can order a cocktail and mini snacks.
There are no private boats on the Canals.
