Historic canals by day and a trendy nightlife hub by night, the Navigli district charms with its waterside cafes, art studios, and lively aperitivo scene.

Full description: Milan’s Navigli district offers a unique scenery not found elsewhere in the city – picturesque canals lined with colorful buildings, vintage shops, and bustling bars. The two main canals, Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese, date back to medieval times when they were used to transport goods (marble for the Duomo was floated in on these canals!). Nowadays, Navigli is celebrated for its vibrant evening atmosphere, picturesque canals, and iconic aperitivo culture Late afternoon until late night, the canal-sides fill up with young locals and visitors enjoying aperitivi – for the price of a drink, many bars here offer lavish buffets of appetizers. As you sip a Negroni or Spritz by the water, streetlights start twinkling on the canal’s surface, and the whole area buzzes with cheerful energy. It’s a quintessential Milan experience.

By day, Navigli has a more laid-back charm. You can browse artisan workshops, art galleries, and vintage boutiques in the side streets. On the last Sunday of every month, the Naviglio Grande hosts a famous antiques market sprawling along the canal. It’s also possible to take a boat tour on the canals for a different perspective on the city. To reach the Navigli from Hotel Aurelia, take Metro Line M2 (the Green line) directly to Porta Genova – the district’s gateway – in about 15 minutes. (From the Porta Genova station, walk a couple of minutes to find the canal.) Alternatively, a taxi takes 15–20 minutes. Plan to arrive in late afternoon if you want to snag a good spot by the water. Whether you’re after a romantic stroll at sunset or a lively night out, Navigli won’t disappoint – its mix of old-world charm and trendy vibes is a highlight of Milan’s social life