Milan: Navigli District Canal Boat Tour with Aperitivo
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Local guide
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Non smoking
History
Milan’s Navigli district, with its intricate network of canals, traces its roots to the 12th century when the city’s ambitious engineering projects transformed the Lambro River into a vital waterway system. Designed by Leonardo da Vinci in the early 16th century, the Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese canals facilitated trade, irrigation, and urban growth, turning Milan into a bustling Renaissance hub. These waterways, lined with historic railing houses and architectural gems like the launderers’ alley, reflect the city’s evolution from an industrial powerhouse to a vibrant cultural enclave.
The Navigli’s evening life, alive with bars, restaurants, and aperitivo culture, embodies Milan’s modern fusion of tradition and innovation. The Church of San Cristoforo, one of the city’s oldest dating to the 12th century, and landmarks like the Canottieri Milano Olona rowing club highlight the district’s enduring role in leisure and community. This canal boat tour celebrates Navigli’s legacy, offering a serene cruise through Milan’s watery past while savoring contemporary aperitivo delights.
Highlights
- Enjoy a typical Milanese aperitivo on a canal boat
- Discover the lively Navigli district from its canals
- Sip on a glass of wine or an Aperol spritz
- Enjoy tasty snacks as you cruise
- Admire historic landmarks like the Church of San Cristoforo along the banks
Full Description
Embark on a relaxing canal boat tour through Milan’s enchanting Navigli district, renowned for its canals and vibrant nightlife, where you’ll savor a classic aperitivo experience. Meet at the pier 20 minutes before departure and board a comfortable boat for a gentle cruise along the Naviglio Grande. As you glide upstream, unwind with a refreshing Aperol spritz, red wine, or white wine, paired with finger food snacks, in a convivial atmosphere perfect for chatting with friends.
Take in the picturesque sights of traditional Milanese railing houses, now bustling with bars and restaurants, evoking the city’s historic charm. Pass by the ancient Church of San Cristoforo, one of Milan’s oldest landmarks, and the elegant headquarters of Canottieri Milano Olona rowing club. Glide through the famous launderers’ alley, an architectural treasure named for its past residents who washed clothes along the banks. For added insights, scan the onboard QR code to learn about the landmarks, or simply relax and enjoy the serene navigation, soaking up the district’s lively yet peaceful vibe.
What’s Included
- Canal boat tour along Naviglio Grande
- 1 alcoholic drink (Aperol spritz, red wine, or white wine)
- Finger food snacks
- Access to the onboard QR code for landmark information
Meeting Point
Meet at the specified pier address, provided in your booking confirmation, 20 minutes before departure time. The boat departs promptly from there, so check the location in advance. No refunds are available after departure. If arriving by public transport, the pier is accessible via nearby tram or metro stops in the Navigli area.
Price
From $41 per person
Traveler Reviews
- Great! Cocktails and the boat crew were excellent and very helpful!
- The canal is beautiful. Lovely, relaxing trip. It was very hot, but there was shade on the boat.
- I enjoyed the canal boat ride. The food and drink were very nice and more than I expected.
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
What is included in the Navigli canal boat tour ticket?
The ticket includes a relaxing canal boat cruise along the Naviglio Grande, one alcoholic drink (Aperol spritz, red wine, or white wine), finger food snacks, and access to an onboard QR code for information about landmarks. The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and offers a serene aperitivo experience. Additional drinks or food are not included. Check your booking for specific details.
What types of activities can I expect on the canal tour?
Expect a leisurely 1-hour boat cruise through the Navigli district, sipping on a drink and enjoying snacks while admiring historic sites like the Church of San Cristoforo and launderers' alley. You can scan the QR code for self-guided info or relax and chat. The tour provides a peaceful way to discover Milan's canals and aperitivo culture in a convivial setting.
Is the canal tour suitable for families with children?
The tour is family-friendly, with non-alcoholic alternatives to the drink available upon request. The relaxed boat ride and scenic views are enjoyable for children, but supervision is needed as it's an open-air vessel. Contact the operator to confirm child policies or availability of family options when booking.
Is the canal tour accessible for people with disabilities?
The boat may not be fully accessible for wheelchair users due to steps for boarding and limited space onboard. The pier area is generally accessible, but contact the operator in advance to discuss accommodations or mobility needs. Verify accessibility details when booking to ensure a comfortable experience.
What should I bring for the canal tour?
Bring comfortable clothing and sunscreen for daytime cruises, especially in hot weather, and a light jacket for evenings. A camera or smartphone is recommended for photos of the canals and landmarks. The drink and snacks are provided, but bring cash for extras if desired. Arrive 20 minutes early to check in smoothly.
