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Naviglio Grande: Milan's Historic Canal District

Explore Milan's historic Naviglio Grande: a vibrant canal district with picturesque waterways, lively nightlife, and artistic charm.

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The Naviglio Grande, Milan's oldest and most important canal, is the centerpiece of the vibrant Navigli district. Dating back to the 12th century, this 50-kilometer canal once served as a vital trade route. Today, it's a picturesque area filled with cafes, bars, galleries, and shops, offering a glimpse into Milan's past and a hub for its lively nightlife.

A brief summary to Naviglio Grande

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit the Naviglio Grande in the late afternoon or evening to experience the vibrant nightlife and aperitivo scene.
  • Take a boat tour along the canal for a unique perspective of the Navigli district.
  • Explore the art galleries and artisan workshops that line the canal.
  • Visit the Mercatone dell'Antiquariato, an antique market held on the last Sunday of each month.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Milano Centrale Station, take the Green Line (M2) metro towards Abbiategrasso/Assago Forum and get off at Porta Genova FS. The Naviglio Grande is a short walk from the station. A single metro ticket costs €2.20 and is valid for 90 minutes.

  • Walking

    From the Duomo, walk west along Via Torino, then turn south onto Corso di Porta Ticinese. Continue until you reach the Darsena, where the Naviglio Grande begins. The walk is approximately 2 kilometers and takes about 25-30 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Milan. A taxi from Milano Centrale Station to Naviglio Grande typically costs between €13-€16 and takes approximately 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.

Unlock the Best of Naviglio Grande

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Discover more about Naviglio Grande

The Naviglio Grande, meaning "Big Canal," is the oldest of Milan's canals, with its origins stretching back to 1177. This impressive feat of medieval engineering was initially built to connect the Ticino River to Milan, facilitating trade and irrigation. Over the centuries, it played a crucial role in the city's development, transporting goods like coal, wood, salt, and rice. Today, the Naviglio Grande is the heart of the Navigli district, a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The canal is lined with charming cafes, restaurants, and bars, making it a perfect spot for an afternoon stroll or an evening aperitivo. The area is also known for its thriving art scene, with numerous galleries and artists' studios showcasing contemporary works. Visitors can explore the canal by foot along the Alzaia Naviglio Grande, the towpath on the left bank, taking in the sights of historic buildings, artisan workshops, and the Vicolo dei Lavandai, a historic washhouse. Boat tours offer a unique perspective of the Naviglio Grande and its surroundings, passing by landmarks such as the Church of San Cristoforo and the Darsena, the ancient dock. The Naviglio Grande's blend of history, culture, and nightlife makes it a must-see destination in Milan.

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