Milan · Navigli and Ticinese
Navigli and the Darsena
A district of canals and low houses to the south-west of the centre, made around the old river port. It is a place to walk, browse and have an aperitivo rather than tick off sights.
- 3 h
- Free
- Booking: not needed
- Navigli and Ticinese
Data checked on October 5, 2026
The Navigli are the surviving part of a medieval canal network, improved over the centuries with help from Leonardo da Vinci's engineering work. The Naviglio Grande and the Naviglio Pavese meet at the Darsena, the old river port, which is now a waterfront for evening strolls. Side streets hold small shops, galleries and the washing alley, Vicolo dei Lavandai.
What to look for
- The Darsena at sunset
- Vicolo dei Lavandai and its stone washbasins
- The Naviglio Grande towpath
- The monthly antiques market
Opening hours
Always open.
Open at all hours. On the last Sunday of every month the Naviglio Grande hosts a large antiques market along the bank.
Source: YesMilano (Comune di Milano), checked October 5, 2026
Tickets and booking
Free.
Getting there
Take M2 to Porta Genova or Romolo and walk a few minutes to the canal.
Tip
Arrive an hour before sunset, walk the Naviglio Grande towpath, and stay for the evening when the bars fill. Weekend evenings are the busiest.