Milan spotted by locals
Art and Museums
The "Museo di Storia Naturale", one of the largest natural history museums in Europe and the oldest museum in the city, is home to many valuable mineral, botanical and zoological collections. A few of the attractions you will see in the museum include a large fossil collection, reconstructions of extinct animals and dioramas with stuffed animals shown in their natural habitats originating both from Europe and other exotic places.
Tickets: regular tickets from 5 euro, reductions available.
Opening Hours: Tues-Sun 9am-5.30pm. Closed on Monday
238 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Museo de Historia Natural de Milán
55 Corso VeneziaThe "Museo di Storia Naturale", one of the largest natural history museums in Europe and the oldest museum in the city, is home to many valuable mineral, botanical and zoological collections. A few of the attractions you will see in the museum include a large fossil collection, reconstructions of extinct animals and dioramas with stuffed animals shown in their natural habitats originating both from Europe and other exotic places.
Tickets: regular tickets from 5 euro, reductions available.
Opening Hours: Tues-Sun 9am-5.30pm. Closed on Monday
Located upstairs from one of Italy’s most prestigious art schools, this gallery houses Milan’s collection of Old Masters, much of it ‘lifted’ from Venice by Napoleon. Rubens, Goya and Van Dyck all have a place, but you're here for the Italians: Titian, Tintoretto, Veronese and the Bellini brothers. Much of the work has tremendous emotional clout, most notably Mantegna's brutal Lamentation over the Dead Christ.
Audio guides are available in Italian, French, English, Spanish, German and Russian (€5). Highlights include the glass-walled restoration laboratory, where you can see conservators at work. Additionally, every third Thursday atmospheric musical concerts are held amid the artworks, and entrance to the museum is just €3. And if all that art-gazing has whet your appetite, there's also an elegant new bar/cafe for light snacks or cocktails.
782 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Pinacoteca di Brera
28 Via BreraLocated upstairs from one of Italy’s most prestigious art schools, this gallery houses Milan’s collection of Old Masters, much of it ‘lifted’ from Venice by Napoleon. Rubens, Goya and Van Dyck all have a place, but you're here for the Italians: Titian, Tintoretto, Veronese and the Bellini brothers. Much of the work has tremendous emotional clout, most notably Mantegna's brutal Lamentation over the Dead Christ.
Audio guides are available in Italian, French, English, Spanish, German and Russian (€5). Highlights include the glass-walled restoration laboratory, where you can see conservators at work. Additionally, every third Thursday atmospheric musical concerts are held amid the artworks, and entrance to the museum is just €3. And if all that art-gazing has whet your appetite, there's also an elegant new bar/cafe for light snacks or cocktails.
HangarBicocca is a place for contemporary art exhibitions, located in the Bicocca district of Milan, Italy. The buildings used to be a Pirelli factory reconverted into 10,900 square metres of exhibition galleries.
Since its creation in 2012, several artists have been exhibited such as Marina Abramovic, Alfredo Jaar and Anselm Kiefer.
Free entry.
237 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Pirelli HangarBicocca
2 Via ChieseHangarBicocca is a place for contemporary art exhibitions, located in the Bicocca district of Milan, Italy. The buildings used to be a Pirelli factory reconverted into 10,900 square metres of exhibition galleries.
Since its creation in 2012, several artists have been exhibited such as Marina Abramovic, Alfredo Jaar and Anselm Kiefer.
Free entry.
It is really hard to describe MUDEC in one sentence or one word. The most obvious one would be “museum” but that word seems almost too simplistic. While I have the utmost respect and appreciation for museum and galleries, MUDEC is more than a simple “museum”. It is a meeting place where people, cultures and ideas come together. To quote their website, they are “dedicated to the interdisciplinary research of world cultures”.
The space in itself has a strong identity and was built on the site of the old Ansaldo factory in the industrial and hip Tortona area of Milan. In addition to its astonishing permanent collection, MUDEC also holds beautiful temporary exhibitions such as Gaugin, Jean-Michel Basquiat or Frida Kahlo.
When you are done appreciating the art, you can enjoy exploring the book store or the design store. While the bookshop usually has books and works inspired or related to the current exhibitions, the design shop showcases some of the most interesting items in contemporary design.
452 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Mudec
56 Via TortonaIt is really hard to describe MUDEC in one sentence or one word. The most obvious one would be “museum” but that word seems almost too simplistic. While I have the utmost respect and appreciation for museum and galleries, MUDEC is more than a simple “museum”. It is a meeting place where people, cultures and ideas come together. To quote their website, they are “dedicated to the interdisciplinary research of world cultures”.
The space in itself has a strong identity and was built on the site of the old Ansaldo factory in the industrial and hip Tortona area of Milan. In addition to its astonishing permanent collection, MUDEC also holds beautiful temporary exhibitions such as Gaugin, Jean-Michel Basquiat or Frida Kahlo.
When you are done appreciating the art, you can enjoy exploring the book store or the design store. While the bookshop usually has books and works inspired or related to the current exhibitions, the design shop showcases some of the most interesting items in contemporary design.
The Fondazione Prada is a cultural space that transcends space and time due to its unique nature. The visionary Rem Koolhaas at the lead of OMA architecture studio conceived this brilliant venue that presents a unique articulate architectural concept that fuses with art.
Formed around the courtyard of an old distillery in the Largo Isarco neighborhood, every room and space offers a specific tactile experience. Each room where the art is presented has been carefully studied and presented with unique materials and visual displays to ensure that guests have a full visual experience. The art blends in with the geometrical and minimal architecture to fuse into a single image in the visitor’s mind. Just like in every museum, some of the art is permanent while other projects are temporary like the Trittico where you can see Damien Hirst’s famous Love Lost.
Also part of this unique experience is the Bar Luce created by Wes Anderson. This is an actual typical Italian bar where you can drink coffee and order a panino or dessert in full vintage fashion from Italy in the 1950s and 1960s. The space in beautiful and contributes to the experience!
548 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Fondazione Prada
10 Via Giovanni LorenziniThe Fondazione Prada is a cultural space that transcends space and time due to its unique nature. The visionary Rem Koolhaas at the lead of OMA architecture studio conceived this brilliant venue that presents a unique articulate architectural concept that fuses with art.
Formed around the courtyard of an old distillery in the Largo Isarco neighborhood, every room and space offers a specific tactile experience. Each room where the art is presented has been carefully studied and presented with unique materials and visual displays to ensure that guests have a full visual experience. The art blends in with the geometrical and minimal architecture to fuse into a single image in the visitor’s mind. Just like in every museum, some of the art is permanent while other projects are temporary like the Trittico where you can see Damien Hirst’s famous Love Lost.
Also part of this unique experience is the Bar Luce created by Wes Anderson. This is an actual typical Italian bar where you can drink coffee and order a panino or dessert in full vintage fashion from Italy in the 1950s and 1960s. The space in beautiful and contributes to the experience!
Sightseeing
Situated in a beautiful "Liberty-style" (Art Nouveau) building in Sempione Park, Acquario Civico is one of the oldest aquariums in the world, featuring an impressive multimedia library and a spectacular tunnel that allows visitors to pass "underwater," surrounded by countless species of fish.
The Aquarium is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:30, last admission at 17:00 (with ticket).
The ticket office closes at 4:30 pm. Closed on Mondays.
Full ticket € 5.00
Reduced ticket € 3.00
73 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Acuario Cívico de Milán
2 V.le GadioSituated in a beautiful "Liberty-style" (Art Nouveau) building in Sempione Park, Acquario Civico is one of the oldest aquariums in the world, featuring an impressive multimedia library and a spectacular tunnel that allows visitors to pass "underwater," surrounded by countless species of fish.
The Aquarium is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:30, last admission at 17:00 (with ticket).
The ticket office closes at 4:30 pm. Closed on Mondays.
Full ticket € 5.00
Reduced ticket € 3.00
Torre Branca, with its 108.6 meters, is the 10th highest structure in Milan. You can see it standing out through the trees of Parco Sempione, near Triennale - Palazzo dell’Arte. Its distinctive hexagonal design structure, made of special steel pipes (Dalmine), was designed by Gio Ponti and Cesare Chiodi.
Its modern elevator allows you to climb to the belvedere in less than one minute. During terse days, from the Platform located at the top of the Tower, you can admire the whole City skyline as well as great part of Lombardy plain, Alps and Apennines.
It was inaugurated in 1933, during the 5th edition of the Triennale, with the name of “Torre Littoria”. Following a major renovation work sponsored by the company "Distilleria Fratelli Branca”, the tower is now open to visitors with the name of "Torre Branca" and hosts some radio repeaters.
Ticket: €6
92 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Torre Branca
2 Viale Luigi CamoensTorre Branca, with its 108.6 meters, is the 10th highest structure in Milan. You can see it standing out through the trees of Parco Sempione, near Triennale - Palazzo dell’Arte. Its distinctive hexagonal design structure, made of special steel pipes (Dalmine), was designed by Gio Ponti and Cesare Chiodi.
Its modern elevator allows you to climb to the belvedere in less than one minute. During terse days, from the Platform located at the top of the Tower, you can admire the whole City skyline as well as great part of Lombardy plain, Alps and Apennines.
It was inaugurated in 1933, during the 5th edition of the Triennale, with the name of “Torre Littoria”. Following a major renovation work sponsored by the company "Distilleria Fratelli Branca”, the tower is now open to visitors with the name of "Torre Branca" and hosts some radio repeaters.
Ticket: €6
If you are fed up with all the historical and religious buildings in milan then visit this area of modernness. Located right opposite the porta garibaldi station this is home to the unicredit building the tallest building in milan. There are also some car showrooms and a large water feature in the centre of the square
751 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Plaza Gae Aulenti
1785 Piazza Gae AulentiIf you are fed up with all the historical and religious buildings in milan then visit this area of modernness. Located right opposite the porta garibaldi station this is home to the unicredit building the tallest building in milan. There are also some car showrooms and a large water feature in the centre of the square
Right next to The Last Supper museum, this church is worth a visit in its own right. Once inside make sure to go out the side door to walk around the small courtyard that has lovely cloisters. There is also a great view of the dome from here.
581 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Santa Maria delle Grazie
Piazza di Santa Maria delle GrazieRight next to The Last Supper museum, this church is worth a visit in its own right. Once inside make sure to go out the side door to walk around the small courtyard that has lovely cloisters. There is also a great view of the dome from here.
San Bernardino alle Ossa is a very peculiar church in Milan due to its bizarre and sinister decoration: made up of a great number of human skulls and bones.
San Bernardino alle Ossa is rather curious and very different to the rest of churches in Milan. Note that some people might be sensitive to this type of decoration, while others will be fascinated to see how the skulls and bones are used to decorate the ossuary’s walls.
75 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa
Piazza Santo StefanoSan Bernardino alle Ossa is a very peculiar church in Milan due to its bizarre and sinister decoration: made up of a great number of human skulls and bones.
San Bernardino alle Ossa is rather curious and very different to the rest of churches in Milan. Note that some people might be sensitive to this type of decoration, while others will be fascinated to see how the skulls and bones are used to decorate the ossuary’s walls.
Due to its sumptuous interiors rich in gold and frescoes from the school of Leonardo, it has been dubbed the 'Sistine Chapel of Milan'.
It’s not uncommon to find churches that are divided into two sections, usually one for the noble and the clergy, and one for commoners, but there was a different kind of “division” here. In fact, from the early 16th century to the early 19th century, San Maurizio was the home of cloistered nuns, who could only pray in the back of the monastery. For no reason could they go outside: they were only able to talk to their parents or receive the holy communion through two very small hatch windows on given occasions.
Thanks to a huge restoration, San Maurizio returned to its original splendor in 2015. The vaults in the back are just gorgeous, and the frescos by Bernardino Luini depicting outdoor landscapes really make you wonder, especially now that we know what a lockdown really is about.
175 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore
15 Corso MagentaDue to its sumptuous interiors rich in gold and frescoes from the school of Leonardo, it has been dubbed the 'Sistine Chapel of Milan'.
It’s not uncommon to find churches that are divided into two sections, usually one for the noble and the clergy, and one for commoners, but there was a different kind of “division” here. In fact, from the early 16th century to the early 19th century, San Maurizio was the home of cloistered nuns, who could only pray in the back of the monastery. For no reason could they go outside: they were only able to talk to their parents or receive the holy communion through two very small hatch windows on given occasions.
Thanks to a huge restoration, San Maurizio returned to its original splendor in 2015. The vaults in the back are just gorgeous, and the frescos by Bernardino Luini depicting outdoor landscapes really make you wonder, especially now that we know what a lockdown really is about.
Il Quadrilatero del Silenzio is an area of Milan hidden from traffic and the crowd’s noises, where Liberty stile reigns supreme. Villa Invernizzi is suitably located in this area, not far from Corso Venezia, where effectively one of the 2 impressive entrances appear. What has always astonished me is the side on Via dei Cappuccini, with its massive black and golden gate and the beautiful garden.
Taken from a fairy tale, the Mansion was not sufficiently original in the eyes of Cavalier Invernizzi and thus he decided to refresh the atmosphere with a covey of pink flamingos. They spend their quiet lives in the garden of the Mansion, used to keeper’s attention and glances of passersby. Perhaps they’re thinking of their ancestors which I like to imagine came from Africa or Latin America in the 1970’s, as legend says, and never left. They give a bizarre touch of pink to a town so often grey.
The building is still private, so it’s only possible to take a look from outside the garden. Unless you’re brave enough to go to the doorman’s office and ask politely for a short visit…Maybe he’ll be in a good mood that day!
51 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Villa Invernizzi
Il Quadrilatero del Silenzio is an area of Milan hidden from traffic and the crowd’s noises, where Liberty stile reigns supreme. Villa Invernizzi is suitably located in this area, not far from Corso Venezia, where effectively one of the 2 impressive entrances appear. What has always astonished me is the side on Via dei Cappuccini, with its massive black and golden gate and the beautiful garden.
Taken from a fairy tale, the Mansion was not sufficiently original in the eyes of Cavalier Invernizzi and thus he decided to refresh the atmosphere with a covey of pink flamingos. They spend their quiet lives in the garden of the Mansion, used to keeper’s attention and glances of passersby. Perhaps they’re thinking of their ancestors which I like to imagine came from Africa or Latin America in the 1970’s, as legend says, and never left. They give a bizarre touch of pink to a town so often grey.
The building is still private, so it’s only possible to take a look from outside the garden. Unless you’re brave enough to go to the doorman’s office and ask politely for a short visit…Maybe he’ll be in a good mood that day!
Neighborhoods
Cobblestoned narrow streets with many restaurants and little shops is definitely worth exploring, but expect to walk everywhere. The Sunday street market with stalls selling collectables and costume jewellery was also fun to explore. The district really comes alive in the evenings
756 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Brera
Cobblestoned narrow streets with many restaurants and little shops is definitely worth exploring, but expect to walk everywhere. The Sunday street market with stalls selling collectables and costume jewellery was also fun to explore. The district really comes alive in the evenings
Very close to the Duomo stands the oldest district of Milano, traditionally named "Cinque Vie": this area got its name because of its function as the confluence of a number of streets: Via Santa Marta, Via del Bollo, Via Bocchetto, Via Santa Maria Fulcorina and Via Santa Maria Podone. This was already a dynamic crossroads of trade in Roman and Medieval times.
The district still keeps its commercial relevance today, providing an impressive concentration of galleries, craft and antique shops, ateliers and artist studios, and shops dedicated to clothing and contemporary design as well, with a marked emphasis on research. This district of the city, with a definitely radical-chic vibe, is ideal for a peaceful walk away from the traffic of the thoroughfares.
19 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Cinque Vie
Very close to the Duomo stands the oldest district of Milano, traditionally named "Cinque Vie": this area got its name because of its function as the confluence of a number of streets: Via Santa Marta, Via del Bollo, Via Bocchetto, Via Santa Maria Fulcorina and Via Santa Maria Podone. This was already a dynamic crossroads of trade in Roman and Medieval times.
The district still keeps its commercial relevance today, providing an impressive concentration of galleries, craft and antique shops, ateliers and artist studios, and shops dedicated to clothing and contemporary design as well, with a marked emphasis on research. This district of the city, with a definitely radical-chic vibe, is ideal for a peaceful walk away from the traffic of the thoroughfares.
Milan’s Chinese neighborhood is an interesting location for a quiet walk or to take a look at the typical products displayed at the shiny windows at both sides of the road. Its pedestrian paths with cobblestone pavements and its three-storey houses give the area a retro allure, though featuring a strong Eastern personality thanks to traditional Chinese ornaments. Christmas, Chinese New Year and the Oriental Design Week offer one on the liveliest atmospheres packed with events and are the best times to admire a triumph of lantern lighting and decorative elements.
169 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Chinatown
Milan’s Chinese neighborhood is an interesting location for a quiet walk or to take a look at the typical products displayed at the shiny windows at both sides of the road. Its pedestrian paths with cobblestone pavements and its three-storey houses give the area a retro allure, though featuring a strong Eastern personality thanks to traditional Chinese ornaments. Christmas, Chinese New Year and the Oriental Design Week offer one on the liveliest atmospheres packed with events and are the best times to admire a triumph of lantern lighting and decorative elements.
The Navigli is part of historic Milan. In the ancient days, the entire city was linked with canals, similar to Venice. Today, most of the canals are gone, but the Navigli remains a canal-based neighborhood. There are two major canals: Naviglio Pavese and Naviglio Grande. The Naviglio Grande's bridges greet visitors at dusk with an amazing view. The Navigli district specializes in clubs, cafes, and vintage shops. Lifestyle reigns supreme here. You can start the walk from the Colonne di San Lorenzo, an antique colonnade in front of the Basilica di San Lorenzo. During the daytime, this place acts as a meeting point for artists and students reading books or chatting with friends; the nights turn it into a stepping-stone for club hoppers.
350 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Navigli
The Navigli is part of historic Milan. In the ancient days, the entire city was linked with canals, similar to Venice. Today, most of the canals are gone, but the Navigli remains a canal-based neighborhood. There are two major canals: Naviglio Pavese and Naviglio Grande. The Naviglio Grande's bridges greet visitors at dusk with an amazing view. The Navigli district specializes in clubs, cafes, and vintage shops. Lifestyle reigns supreme here. You can start the walk from the Colonne di San Lorenzo, an antique colonnade in front of the Basilica di San Lorenzo. During the daytime, this place acts as a meeting point for artists and students reading books or chatting with friends; the nights turn it into a stepping-stone for club hoppers.
Drinks and food
Scalo Farini is a perfect choice for aperitivo.
As with the Aperitivo buffet, the choice of cocktails is endless.
Prices are very reasonable at € 9 for any 1st drink and € 6 from the 2nd onwards (of course including the buffet).
The buffet is amazing with some Spanish influences. I like that it’s a nice mix between fried snacks and salads, there is always a large selection.
Get here early for the aperitivo (between 18:55 and 19:10 is best) to find a seat as the place fills up quickly (there is seating both inside and outside). The design is modern and clean and the crowd relaxed and unpretentious.
Although I usually come here for the famous aperitivo, Scalo Farini also serves great “home-cooked” fare for lunch and dinner.
16 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Scalo Farini
27 Via Carlo FariniScalo Farini is a perfect choice for aperitivo.
As with the Aperitivo buffet, the choice of cocktails is endless.
Prices are very reasonable at € 9 for any 1st drink and € 6 from the 2nd onwards (of course including the buffet).
The buffet is amazing with some Spanish influences. I like that it’s a nice mix between fried snacks and salads, there is always a large selection.
Get here early for the aperitivo (between 18:55 and 19:10 is best) to find a seat as the place fills up quickly (there is seating both inside and outside). The design is modern and clean and the crowd relaxed and unpretentious.
Although I usually come here for the famous aperitivo, Scalo Farini also serves great “home-cooked” fare for lunch and dinner.
Frida, is one of the places that, for me, defines the spirit of Isola. Hidden behind a graffiti wall, you need to know the place to find it. Frida is a great bar with affordable drinks, a decent Aperitivo, cool events, interesting people and a great terrace where you can sit even when it rains. On Saturdays and Sundays, Frida also serves one of the best brunches in town.
Frida is also a vintage shop with a great selection of both new and old items and an event space that you can rent for your private events.The people that work here are as cool as the place itself, don’t hesitate to ask them for their favorite spots in the city.
236 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Bar Frida
3 Via Antonio PollaiuoloFrida, is one of the places that, for me, defines the spirit of Isola. Hidden behind a graffiti wall, you need to know the place to find it. Frida is a great bar with affordable drinks, a decent Aperitivo, cool events, interesting people and a great terrace where you can sit even when it rains. On Saturdays and Sundays, Frida also serves one of the best brunches in town.
Frida is also a vintage shop with a great selection of both new and old items and an event space that you can rent for your private events.The people that work here are as cool as the place itself, don’t hesitate to ask them for their favorite spots in the city.
Colibrì is close to the main branch of the Università Statale di Milano. It’s a small and colourful bookshop/bar/bistrot that is comforting enough when your brain hurts from reading too much Hegel, and serves as the coziest post-lecture aperitivo place. Morning to evening, there’s always a good excuse to pop in and browse between the books or have a slice of that wonderful cheesecake they serve.
12 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Colibrì
9 Via LaghettoColibrì is close to the main branch of the Università Statale di Milano. It’s a small and colourful bookshop/bar/bistrot that is comforting enough when your brain hurts from reading too much Hegel, and serves as the coziest post-lecture aperitivo place. Morning to evening, there’s always a good excuse to pop in and browse between the books or have a slice of that wonderful cheesecake they serve.
Cascina Cuccagna, is a peaceful hangout for lazing around, especially during sunny days. In a 17th century farmhouse turned public space featuring a very good restaurant, a self-service bar with homemade bakery snacks, a wonderful garden growing vegetables, a hostel, bike and wood workshops, a wine shop, a farmer’s market offering selected local produce and various events.
The restaurant, Un posto a Milano (with seats both in- and outside) serves up delicious and conscious dishes at a fair price, including many vegetarian options. If you don’t feel like a sit-down meal, you can pick up a focaccia or cake and drinks, and sit in the garden. I can also recommend the cocktails.
Keep your eyes open for flyers promoting their countless events, ranging from exhibitions to wine tastings.
87 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Cascina Cuccagna
2 Via Privata CuccagnaCascina Cuccagna, is a peaceful hangout for lazing around, especially during sunny days. In a 17th century farmhouse turned public space featuring a very good restaurant, a self-service bar with homemade bakery snacks, a wonderful garden growing vegetables, a hostel, bike and wood workshops, a wine shop, a farmer’s market offering selected local produce and various events.
The restaurant, Un posto a Milano (with seats both in- and outside) serves up delicious and conscious dishes at a fair price, including many vegetarian options. If you don’t feel like a sit-down meal, you can pick up a focaccia or cake and drinks, and sit in the garden. I can also recommend the cocktails.
Keep your eyes open for flyers promoting their countless events, ranging from exhibitions to wine tastings.
In Navigli it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the cacophony of shouts & colors, walking through its charming channels the body quickly gets accustomed to the plethora of bars, staggering tourists and cobblestones all around, until something unusually secluded strikes the senses. No banners surrounding it, just a window of weird ornaments grasping a wooden door with a black, tiny shutter. Knocking on its shiny surface summons a deep voice from behind, which unveils the arcane: it’s a little bar, the actual smallest bar in the world, “il bar più piccolo del mondo”. Backdoor 43 is an atypical place, 43 square feet delimiting a smooth wooden chamber saturated with odd memorabilia & bottles embedded in its walls.
The barman welcomes you with a V per Vendetta mask and a friendly, open attitude. Any explanation, dialogue and confrontation is primed, while his experienced hands play and mix with an astonishing number of whiskey bottles. This spirit will be the liquid epicenter of the 2 hours you’ll be able to spend inside, the number of actual cocktails limited but often changing, tastes focused on simplicity and the supreme quality of a few ingredients.
This Italian attitude intertwines uniquely with a vintage Neo-victorian aesthetic, all collaborating to create a cozy, relaxing atmosphere that you can further mold by putting your music playlist on the speakers. 3 people maximum will be allowed to enter for each session, 1 week minimum the time in advance to book, but the experience will stay, carved inside like a little, somehow hidden magnetic wooden door.
11 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Backdoor 43
43 Ripa di Porta TicineseIn Navigli it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the cacophony of shouts & colors, walking through its charming channels the body quickly gets accustomed to the plethora of bars, staggering tourists and cobblestones all around, until something unusually secluded strikes the senses. No banners surrounding it, just a window of weird ornaments grasping a wooden door with a black, tiny shutter. Knocking on its shiny surface summons a deep voice from behind, which unveils the arcane: it’s a little bar, the actual smallest bar in the world, “il bar più piccolo del mondo”. Backdoor 43 is an atypical place, 43 square feet delimiting a smooth wooden chamber saturated with odd memorabilia & bottles embedded in its walls.
The barman welcomes you with a V per Vendetta mask and a friendly, open attitude. Any explanation, dialogue and confrontation is primed, while his experienced hands play and mix with an astonishing number of whiskey bottles. This spirit will be the liquid epicenter of the 2 hours you’ll be able to spend inside, the number of actual cocktails limited but often changing, tastes focused on simplicity and the supreme quality of a few ingredients.
This Italian attitude intertwines uniquely with a vintage Neo-victorian aesthetic, all collaborating to create a cozy, relaxing atmosphere that you can further mold by putting your music playlist on the speakers. 3 people maximum will be allowed to enter for each session, 1 week minimum the time in advance to book, but the experience will stay, carved inside like a little, somehow hidden magnetic wooden door.
Let me start by saying that if you love animals this IS the place for you! Cats are free to run around and jump on tables as they please. If you are one of those odd human beings that hate cats, I strongly recommend you avoid this spot! The Crazy Cat Café is a bar, bistro, coffee shop that just opened in the centre of Milan. This place is also the home of 6 wonderful cats, Mina, Bowie, Elvis, Freddie, Blondie and Patti that can usually be found napping on tables or playing with friendly customers. These adorable furry balls were all adopted from shelters or difficult situations and given a home where they could grow and play.
I recommend the café for an aperitivo during the week, as there is often a line to get a table during the weekend. You can enjoy a cocktail with an assorted array of cheeses or various finger food. The atmosphere is home-like and cozy with sofas, a piano and vintage wood tables.
33 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Crazy Cat Café
5 Via Napo TorrianiLet me start by saying that if you love animals this IS the place for you! Cats are free to run around and jump on tables as they please. If you are one of those odd human beings that hate cats, I strongly recommend you avoid this spot! The Crazy Cat Café is a bar, bistro, coffee shop that just opened in the centre of Milan. This place is also the home of 6 wonderful cats, Mina, Bowie, Elvis, Freddie, Blondie and Patti that can usually be found napping on tables or playing with friendly customers. These adorable furry balls were all adopted from shelters or difficult situations and given a home where they could grow and play.
I recommend the café for an aperitivo during the week, as there is often a line to get a table during the weekend. You can enjoy a cocktail with an assorted array of cheeses or various finger food. The atmosphere is home-like and cozy with sofas, a piano and vintage wood tables.
Perfect location in a typical "old Milan" courtyard. Specialty cocktails and a great buffet for 10-14 euros depending on the drink you choose. All the food tastes fresh and flavorful. And they have lots of vegetarian options! There is barely any seating indoors, though, so definitely a better place in nicer weather.
103 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Fonderie Milanesi
7 Via GiovenalePerfect location in a typical "old Milan" courtyard. Specialty cocktails and a great buffet for 10-14 euros depending on the drink you choose. All the food tastes fresh and flavorful. And they have lots of vegetarian options! There is barely any seating indoors, though, so definitely a better place in nicer weather.
No banner outside, no signs, absolutely nothing until you arrive at the entrance: a concrete slope with bike racks. The fact that you have to discover it is quite typical of Milan: in the city of the Italian advertising industry it is considered posh to be hidden from the crowds, so that only few know about you.
You’ll definitely have a local experience here, and will probably end up talking to some locals in no time, as they have (untypical for Milan) long tables where you sit next to other customers. Take your time, as the waiters are very friendly but extremely slow.
78 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Upcycle Bike Cafè
59 Via A. M. AmpèreNo banner outside, no signs, absolutely nothing until you arrive at the entrance: a concrete slope with bike racks. The fact that you have to discover it is quite typical of Milan: in the city of the Italian advertising industry it is considered posh to be hidden from the crowds, so that only few know about you.
You’ll definitely have a local experience here, and will probably end up talking to some locals in no time, as they have (untypical for Milan) long tables where you sit next to other customers. Take your time, as the waiters are very friendly but extremely slow.
One of the most famous bar in the city, with outstanding cocktails, good aperitivo food plates, excellent service and an overall ambience that is hard to beat. The bar has a rustic, and very cozy looking decor with hundreds of small and large bottles everywhere. It’s usually pretty cramped, but in my opinion, this only makes the place more enjoyable.
117 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Lacerba
4 Via OrtiOne of the most famous bar in the city, with outstanding cocktails, good aperitivo food plates, excellent service and an overall ambience that is hard to beat. The bar has a rustic, and very cozy looking decor with hundreds of small and large bottles everywhere. It’s usually pretty cramped, but in my opinion, this only makes the place more enjoyable.
A laid back wine bar in a shockingly beautiful location. While enjoying a glass of wine (follow the recommendation of the waiters, they know their stuff), the stunning beauty of Saint Eustorgio church will nourish your soul.
18 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Enoteca Naturale
19/a Via Santa CroceA laid back wine bar in a shockingly beautiful location. While enjoying a glass of wine (follow the recommendation of the waiters, they know their stuff), the stunning beauty of Saint Eustorgio church will nourish your soul.
If you like good interesting tastes, you simply can't miss this spot. Simply one of the best cocktail bars in Milan, if not the best one, and surely one of the most complete. You can ask every cocktails every invented and a few more.
175 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Rita
1 Via Angelo FumagalliIf you like good interesting tastes, you simply can't miss this spot. Simply one of the best cocktail bars in Milan, if not the best one, and surely one of the most complete. You can ask every cocktails every invented and a few more.
La Buttiga is a craft beer room situated at the far end of Via Paolo Sarpi in Milan’s Chinatown.
This small taproom is one of the few single-brand pubs in Milan and serves craft beers from the Buttiga brewery, based in Piacenza, some 70 km south of Milan. This taproom literally gets packed with people and good mood from 17:00 on every day and it’s as cheerful as it gets.
19 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Buttiga Beer Room
64 Via Paolo SarpiLa Buttiga is a craft beer room situated at the far end of Via Paolo Sarpi in Milan’s Chinatown.
This small taproom is one of the few single-brand pubs in Milan and serves craft beers from the Buttiga brewery, based in Piacenza, some 70 km south of Milan. This taproom literally gets packed with people and good mood from 17:00 on every day and it’s as cheerful as it gets.
Night life
Cox18 is one of the most popular squats in Milan and arguably one the oldest and most authentic.
Back in the 1970s, Milan was heavily affected by the social and political turmoil of the so-called “Years of lead”. In this context, squats like Cox18 were the home of the countercultures that deconstructed the fabrics of society and offered a different solidarity network. The building situated at via Conchetta 18 was occupied and reclaimed a number of times since 1976, and today Milan is still in real need of a venue that brings people together like Cox18 does. Because that’s what “Conchetta” used to do in the first place, being a gathering point for the “outsiders” in the fast-expanding Italian capital of wealth and fashion.
Whether you’re out with friends to grab a drink (maybe at Frizzi & Lazzi) or in search of an alternative night out, Cox18 will give you a different perspective on Milan’s lifestyle and culture. Look for the tight wooden gate framed by street artist Blu’s graffiti and step into one of Old Milan’s typical courtyards: you will find all sorts of events going on, from readings at the Calusca library, to the vvvery late night punk shows or electronic dj sets.
Offering an alternative space for education and entertainment, as well as a number of solidarity initiatives, Cox18 has been and still is a consistent point of reference in Milan’s subculture.
Open only for the events, check the fb page: facebook.com/Cox18
15 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Cox18
18 Via ConchettaCox18 is one of the most popular squats in Milan and arguably one the oldest and most authentic.
Back in the 1970s, Milan was heavily affected by the social and political turmoil of the so-called “Years of lead”. In this context, squats like Cox18 were the home of the countercultures that deconstructed the fabrics of society and offered a different solidarity network. The building situated at via Conchetta 18 was occupied and reclaimed a number of times since 1976, and today Milan is still in real need of a venue that brings people together like Cox18 does. Because that’s what “Conchetta” used to do in the first place, being a gathering point for the “outsiders” in the fast-expanding Italian capital of wealth and fashion.
Whether you’re out with friends to grab a drink (maybe at Frizzi & Lazzi) or in search of an alternative night out, Cox18 will give you a different perspective on Milan’s lifestyle and culture. Look for the tight wooden gate framed by street artist Blu’s graffiti and step into one of Old Milan’s typical courtyards: you will find all sorts of events going on, from readings at the Calusca library, to the vvvery late night punk shows or electronic dj sets.
Offering an alternative space for education and entertainment, as well as a number of solidarity initiatives, Cox18 has been and still is a consistent point of reference in Milan’s subculture.
Open only for the events, check the fb page: facebook.com/Cox18
Storico circolo associativo nel cuore di Porta Romana, è uno dei locali più attivi del panorama milanese. Il club, con i due spazi separati che lo compongono (il grande salone eventi al piano superiore e la magica Palestra Visconti nei sotterranei) ha ospitato nella sua lunghissima storia centinaia di eventi, spettacoli e concerti, alternando grandi ospiti internazionali e piccole realtà locali.
Ottima cucina, bellissimo dehor, ambiente amichevole e rilassato.
Ingresso con tessera arci (costo 10-15 euro).
23 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Circolo Arci Bellezza
16/A Via Giovanni BellezzaStorico circolo associativo nel cuore di Porta Romana, è uno dei locali più attivi del panorama milanese. Il club, con i due spazi separati che lo compongono (il grande salone eventi al piano superiore e la magica Palestra Visconti nei sotterranei) ha ospitato nella sua lunghissima storia centinaia di eventi, spettacoli e concerti, alternando grandi ospiti internazionali e piccole realtà locali.
Ottima cucina, bellissimo dehor, ambiente amichevole e rilassato.
Ingresso con tessera arci (costo 10-15 euro).
To enter Masada you need a 12€ membership card, for which you have to subscribe at least 48 hours before the event. For many this is a hassle, for others a blessing. A 'high' cost and the fact that they are very taxing at the entrance means that at Masada the audience is very well selected. Here you will find people who really want to dance, friendly people, and in general the atmosphere is welcoming. The artists who come through here are a treat, every now and then you'll find some crazy names from the techno scene. A place like this is very rare to find in Milan and in Italy in general.
15 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Masada
41 Viale Carlo EspinasseTo enter Masada you need a 12€ membership card, for which you have to subscribe at least 48 hours before the event. For many this is a hassle, for others a blessing. A 'high' cost and the fact that they are very taxing at the entrance means that at Masada the audience is very well selected. Here you will find people who really want to dance, friendly people, and in general the atmosphere is welcoming. The artists who come through here are a treat, every now and then you'll find some crazy names from the techno scene. A place like this is very rare to find in Milan and in Italy in general.
Tempio del Futuro Perduto is a squat community built on passion, inclusivity, and creativity.
The complex is located just opposite the Monumental Cemetery in the Bullona district of Milan. Inside its labyrinth-like structure, you’ll find an on-site library, largely composed of books donated by the club’s visitors. Another room is filled with clothes to be given to charity.
During the day, the cultural centre functions as a vinyl store and a school for dancing, African drumming, and self-defence. The garden invites people for an occasional BBQ with DJs or live music in summer.
At night, the venue turns into a sweaty rave, welcoming people from any walk of life to enjoy the crisp Funktion One sound system. The music played in this underground Milanese club is as diverse as its visitors. In Tempio del Futuro Perduto you’ll hear everything from harder strains of techno to experimental A/V shows.
Tempio del Futuro Perduto
9 Via Luigi NonoTempio del Futuro Perduto is a squat community built on passion, inclusivity, and creativity.
The complex is located just opposite the Monumental Cemetery in the Bullona district of Milan. Inside its labyrinth-like structure, you’ll find an on-site library, largely composed of books donated by the club’s visitors. Another room is filled with clothes to be given to charity.
During the day, the cultural centre functions as a vinyl store and a school for dancing, African drumming, and self-defence. The garden invites people for an occasional BBQ with DJs or live music in summer.
At night, the venue turns into a sweaty rave, welcoming people from any walk of life to enjoy the crisp Funktion One sound system. The music played in this underground Milanese club is as diverse as its visitors. In Tempio del Futuro Perduto you’ll hear everything from harder strains of techno to experimental A/V shows.
With a cosy and familiar atmosphere, Nidaba offers a varied and always quality live music programme. A highly recommended venue to spend an evening with friends or even alone, listening to good music.
46 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Nidaba Theatre
12 Via Emilio GolaWith a cosy and familiar atmosphere, Nidaba offers a varied and always quality live music programme. A highly recommended venue to spend an evening with friends or even alone, listening to good music.
Shops
While you are taking a stroll on Alzaia Naviglio Grande, do make a stop at one of the most popular shops in the area: Supergulp is one of the best, if not the best comic bookstore in Milan.
Located in the heart of the Navigli area, Supergulp Milano Navigli is a true point of reference for comic book lovers of all ages. I’m talking about two floors of anything that comes to mind when you think of the world of comic books and graphic novels.
It’s super colourful and very well-equipped with the best Italian and international graphic novels: most of them translated into Italian, and some of them in the original editions. Go down the stairs to explore the impressive manga catalogue: once you’re in the basement, do check out the rich collection of Marvel and DC books and a great repertoire of the Milanese publishing house Bonelli.
On top of that, every now and then Supergulp also schedules presentations and signing sessions from the most popular authors and publishing houses. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, the friendly staff will help you browse or will place an order for you; if you need a tip or a recommendation, do ask about the new arrivals. Maybe the souvenir for that friend of yours from your trip to Milan will be an action figure or a designer toy straight from Supergulp! POW!
9 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Supergulp Milano
54 Alzaia Naviglio GrandeWhile you are taking a stroll on Alzaia Naviglio Grande, do make a stop at one of the most popular shops in the area: Supergulp is one of the best, if not the best comic bookstore in Milan.
Located in the heart of the Navigli area, Supergulp Milano Navigli is a true point of reference for comic book lovers of all ages. I’m talking about two floors of anything that comes to mind when you think of the world of comic books and graphic novels.
It’s super colourful and very well-equipped with the best Italian and international graphic novels: most of them translated into Italian, and some of them in the original editions. Go down the stairs to explore the impressive manga catalogue: once you’re in the basement, do check out the rich collection of Marvel and DC books and a great repertoire of the Milanese publishing house Bonelli.
On top of that, every now and then Supergulp also schedules presentations and signing sessions from the most popular authors and publishing houses. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, the friendly staff will help you browse or will place an order for you; if you need a tip or a recommendation, do ask about the new arrivals. Maybe the souvenir for that friend of yours from your trip to Milan will be an action figure or a designer toy straight from Supergulp! POW!
Being kinda everything urban nerds have on their wish list, that Japanese UFO landed in Navigli with nothing on board – when it comes to unnecessary baggage. Nippon minimalism runs through from A–Z. No fluffy-puff, no chichi, no HelloKitty. Craftsmanship, period. Also, when it comes to architecture & interiors, done to perfection by Italian powerhouse Park Associati. A bright positive void, cold colour palettes, wood, metal – playing around with the industrial charm of a 1930s building.
Go buy Japanese design & magazines, savour traditional food & treat yourself to delicious authentic dishes & drinks nowhere else available in Milan, snack through an aperitivo of hard-to-copy quality & inventiveness, stock up on inspiration during one of the regular events or grab your Mac to mix & mingle in the co-working space. Whatever you feel like – Tenoha thought of it. There’s just one downside to the thing. You have to go home to sleep. But until that, even your dog will be hosted with Japanese hospitality – indoors or in the garden.
21 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
TENOHA MILANO
18 Via VigevanoBeing kinda everything urban nerds have on their wish list, that Japanese UFO landed in Navigli with nothing on board – when it comes to unnecessary baggage. Nippon minimalism runs through from A–Z. No fluffy-puff, no chichi, no HelloKitty. Craftsmanship, period. Also, when it comes to architecture & interiors, done to perfection by Italian powerhouse Park Associati. A bright positive void, cold colour palettes, wood, metal – playing around with the industrial charm of a 1930s building.
Go buy Japanese design & magazines, savour traditional food & treat yourself to delicious authentic dishes & drinks nowhere else available in Milan, snack through an aperitivo of hard-to-copy quality & inventiveness, stock up on inspiration during one of the regular events or grab your Mac to mix & mingle in the co-working space. Whatever you feel like – Tenoha thought of it. There’s just one downside to the thing. You have to go home to sleep. But until that, even your dog will be hosted with Japanese hospitality – indoors or in the garden.
If you are a food lover, you will easily spend a couple of hours here. The time flies when you find gadgets, books, ingredients, vegetables, fruit, wine, EVERYTHING related to eat, drink, cook and enjoy life. Really great selection of all the best products from all over the country.
Plus, if you get hungry after all this shopping, there are a bunch of restaurants and food ready to eat here or to go.
481 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Eataly Milano Smeraldo
10 Piazza Venticinque Aprile If you are a food lover, you will easily spend a couple of hours here. The time flies when you find gadgets, books, ingredients, vegetables, fruit, wine, EVERYTHING related to eat, drink, cook and enjoy life. Really great selection of all the best products from all over the country.
Plus, if you get hungry after all this shopping, there are a bunch of restaurants and food ready to eat here or to go.
Relax and chill
If you are too tired of walking around, shopping or having too many aperitivos, then the place to go is Terme Milano. Honestly, I wouldn’t have expected to find a place like this one in the city.
Housed in an amazing building from the 1800s (originally built as a deposit station for the horse drawn trams and later serving as a base for one of the most important dancing schools of the city), this elaborate spa is simply gorgeous!
It consists of indoor and outdoor facilities. Outdoor you will find a relaxing green area, different types of warm water whirlpools and…the world’s only tram converted into a sauna.
Inside you will find a maze of water-based spa activities, saunas, steam baths, a salt room, themed relaxation rooms and a beautiful ‘health buffet’ room where you can sit down and grab a healthy bite and a tea before you continue indulging.
The Terme organizes various events (Aperitivo in the evenings, gourmet specials, afternoon tea, etc.).
Opening Times
Sun - Thu 09:30 - 23:00, Fri 09:30 - 00:30, Sat 08:30 - 00:30
Daily price: € 45
286 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
QC Termemilano
2 Piazzale Medaglie D'OroIf you are too tired of walking around, shopping or having too many aperitivos, then the place to go is Terme Milano. Honestly, I wouldn’t have expected to find a place like this one in the city.
Housed in an amazing building from the 1800s (originally built as a deposit station for the horse drawn trams and later serving as a base for one of the most important dancing schools of the city), this elaborate spa is simply gorgeous!
It consists of indoor and outdoor facilities. Outdoor you will find a relaxing green area, different types of warm water whirlpools and…the world’s only tram converted into a sauna.
Inside you will find a maze of water-based spa activities, saunas, steam baths, a salt room, themed relaxation rooms and a beautiful ‘health buffet’ room where you can sit down and grab a healthy bite and a tea before you continue indulging.
The Terme organizes various events (Aperitivo in the evenings, gourmet specials, afternoon tea, etc.).
Opening Times
Sun - Thu 09:30 - 23:00, Fri 09:30 - 00:30, Sat 08:30 - 00:30
Daily price: € 45
Located in a rather hidden block within the Porta Romana neighborhood – one of the loveliest in Milan, arguably -, Bagni Misteriosi is an open-air public swimming pool with a twist: you can rest comfortably on the synthetic grass as well as on the terrace, or on the wooden platform right on the water. The entrance is cheaper during weekdays and in the morning (10:00 till 14:00), and of course it’s highly recommended to book in advance, but either way these “mysterious baths” are just super beautiful, relaxing (and clean): far away from Milan’s noisy traffic, and right in front of Teatro Franco Parenti nonetheless, one of the best theaters in the city, as a matter of fact.
74 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Bagni Misteriosi
18 Via Carlo BottaLocated in a rather hidden block within the Porta Romana neighborhood – one of the loveliest in Milan, arguably -, Bagni Misteriosi is an open-air public swimming pool with a twist: you can rest comfortably on the synthetic grass as well as on the terrace, or on the wooden platform right on the water. The entrance is cheaper during weekdays and in the morning (10:00 till 14:00), and of course it’s highly recommended to book in advance, but either way these “mysterious baths” are just super beautiful, relaxing (and clean): far away from Milan’s noisy traffic, and right in front of Teatro Franco Parenti nonetheless, one of the best theaters in the city, as a matter of fact.