Discover Navigli and Its Secret Places

Discover the enchanting Navigli district, where historic canals and vibrant culture converge. Stroll along picturesque waterways, exploring hidden courtyards adorned with colorful murals and marveling at architectural gems like the Portinari Chapel. A guided walking tour unveils Navigli’s rich history and lively dining scene, offering a tantalizing taste of authentic Milanese life. Whether you’re seeking historic charm or contemporary aperitivo delights, this captivating neighborhood promises an unforgettable adventure waiting to be uncovered.

About Your Stay

• Explore the historic Navigli district, known for its vibrant atmosphere, picturesque architecture, and Leonardo da Vinci’s canal dams.
• Discover the Portinari Chapel’s 15th-century frescoes and intricate architectural details within the Church of Sant’Eustorgio.
• Enjoy the neighborhood’s hidden gems, including charming courtyards, intimate wine bars, and artisanal boutiques.
• Indulge in the Navigli district’s vibrant dining culture, savoring local specialties, wood-fired pizzas, and the Venetian-style tapas known as cicchetti.
• Join a guided walking tour to explore the area’s hidden alleyways, historic sites, and gain insider tips for the best aperitivo experiences.

Navigli: A Historic Waterway

Milan’s Navigli district is a historic waterway that has long captured the imagination of visitors. The canals were built in the 12th century to connect the city to nearby rivers and facilitate trade and transportation.

Today, the Navigli are known for their vibrant atmosphere, with lively cafes, bars, and boutiques lining the water’s edge. Visitors can stroll along the canals, admiring the picturesque architecture and the locks and dams created by the brilliant mind of Leonardo da Vinci.

The Navigli district offers a glimpse into Milan’s rich past and the ingenuity of its people, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city.

Exploring the Portinari Chapel

After exploring the picturesque canals of Navigli, visitors can venture deeper into the district’s rich history by discovering the captivating Portinari Chapel.

Tucked away within the Church of Sant’Eustorgio, the chapel boasts a remarkable collection of frescoes from the 15th century. Visitors can admire the stunning artworks, which depict scenes from the life of St. Peter Martyr.

Plus, the chapel’s intricate architectural details, including its vaulted ceilings and ornate altarpiece, offer a glimpse into Milan’s artistic heritage.

For those interested in the city’s cultural treasures, the Portinari Chapel is a must-visit destination within the vibrant Navigli neighborhood.

• Admire the 15th-century frescoes depicting scenes from the life of St. Peter Martyr
• Explore the chapel’s intricate architectural details, including its vaulted ceilings and ornate altarpiece
• Discover the Portinari Chapel’s significance as a cultural and historical treasure within the Navigli district

Leonardo Da Vinci’s Canal Dams

Along With the captivating Portinari Chapel, the Navigli district also showcases the ingenious canal dams designed by the renowned polymath Leonardo da Vinci. These dams, built in the early 16th century, allowed for the regulation of water levels in the canals, enabling efficient transportation and irrigation. Da Vinci’s innovative engineering prowess is evident in the intricate mechanisms and clever design of these structures.

Feature	Description
Purpose	Water level regulation
Design	Intricate mechanisms
Legacy	Efficient transportation and irrigation

Exploring these canal dams provides a glimpse into the brilliant mind of Leonardo da Vinci and the rich engineering history of the Navigli district.

Neighborhood Gems and Hidden Treasures

Beneath the bustling streets of Milan’s Navigli district, the neighborhood conceals a trove of hidden gems and unexpected treasures.

Tucked away from the main canals, you’ll discover:

• Charming courtyards adorned with vibrant murals and lush greenery, offering a peaceful respite from the city’s hustle and bustle.

• Intimate wine bars and family-run trattorias serving up authentic regional cuisine and local vintages, where you can rub shoulders with locals.

• Artisanal boutiques and studios showcasing the work of talented Milanese designers, artisans, and craftspeople, providing a glimpse into the city’s creative spirit.

These neighborhood gems and hidden treasures offer a chance to experience the true essence of Navigli, beyond the typical tourist highlights.

Dining and Aperitivo Experiences

Navigli’s dining and aperitivo experiences offer a window into the district’s vibrant culinary culture.

From cozy cafes to lively bars, the area is dotted with spots to savor local specialties and indulge in the quintessential Italian ritual of the aperitivo.

Visitors can sip on Negronis or Aperol Spritzes while nibbling on small plates of cicchetti, the Venetian-style tapas.

Many establishments also serve hearty pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and seasonal fare showcasing the region’s produce.

With insider tips from the tour guide, travelers can discover the best places to enjoy an evening of food, drinks, and socializing like a true Milanese.

Walking Tour Highlights

The walking tour’s highlights include exploring the district’s hidden alleyways, where centuries-old buildings and quaint courtyards beckon.

Visitors will discover:

• Intriguing frescoes in the Portinari Chapel, a masterpiece of Renaissance art commissioned by a prominent Milanese family.

• Ingenious canal dams created by the brilliant mind of Leonardo da Vinci, an engineering marvel that once powered the city’s industries.

• Insider tips on the best spots for an authentic aperitivo, allowing guests to soak up the lively atmosphere of this vibrant neighborhood.

With a professional guide leading the way, the Navigli walking tour offers a captivating glimpse into Milan’s rich history and culture.

Planning Your Navigli Adventure

Typically, travelers planning to explore Milan’s captivating Navigli district will find it helpful to familiarize themselves with the area’s unique layout and attractions beforehand.

The 2.5-hour walking tour offers an excellent introduction, covering hidden gems, historic buildings, and Da Vinci’s canal dams. With a maximum group size of 15, the tour provides a personalized experience and insider tips on the best places to eat, drink, and enjoy an aperitivo.

Practical details like the meeting point, start time, and dress code requirements ensure a smooth and hassle-free adventure.

Whether seeking to uncover Navigli’s rich history or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, this tour is an ideal way to plan an unforgettable exploration of this enchanting district.

Questions About Staying Here

Are Group Discounts Available for the Walking Tour?

Yes, the tour provider offers group discounts. Prices start from €156.00 per person, but the exact rate varies depending on the group size, with larger groups receiving a lower per-person cost.

Can the Meeting Point Be Changed Upon Request?

The meeting point cannot be changed upon request. The tour begins at the Colonne di San Lorenzo and returns to the same location. Participants must arrive at the designated meeting point to join the 2.5-hour walking tour of Milan’s Navigli district.

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour may not be suitable for young children. The 2.5-hour walking pace and content focused on the Navigli district’s history and architecture could be challenging for families with young kids. Parents should consider their children’s interests and stamina before booking this tour.

Can We Stop for a Meal During the Tour?

Yes, the tour provides opportunities to stop for a meal or drink during the 2.5-hour experience. The guide will offer recommendations on the best places to enjoy an aperitivo or traditional Milanese cuisine along the canals.

Are There Any Accessibility Options for Disabled Travelers?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but travelers with limited mobility may still participate. The meeting point and most of the tour route are near public transportation, making it accessible for most visitors.

Worth The Stay

Navigli offers a unique chance to take in Milan’s rich history and vibrant culture. From captivating architectural wonders to hidden gems and lively dining scenes, this enchanting district promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you explore it on your own or join a guided tour, Navigli’s charm and allure are sure to leave a lasting impression. Plan your visit and discover the secrets of this remarkable neighborhood.