The Canals of Milan

Ciao Amici!

I’m back from Italy and miss it already.

During my time there, I spent 3 days in Milan and fell in love with the beautiful architecture and urban landscape.

One of the most iconic features of  Milan is its canals. Centuries ago, the whole city was connected by canals, but today, only the two canals in the Navigli neighborhood, Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese, are still flowing.

This area is known in tourist guidebooks as a place for lively aperitivo and nightlife scenes, but I went during the day. It was quite different – shops with artisanal works were open for browsing, lots of people were enjoying the afternoon with a book in the cafés or having a gelato with with friends while walking along the water.

Before this area became a chic hotspot for cocktails and clubs, it was a working class neighborhood and when strolling along the canals, you can spot old stone washboards where inhabitants did their laundry. Alongside the bars and lounges, there are still historic case di ringhiera, houses with railings that are characteristic of Milan.

Have you been to Milan? Let me know what you think of the city. And if you’re curious to learn more, hit me up for more information about what to eat, drink and do in Milan!

A presto,

Lisa