Discover the captivating charm of Milan’s historic canals and vibrant Navigli neighborhood on this private guided tour. Over two hours, you’ll explore the city’s waterways, starting at Piazza Sant’Eustorgio and visiting the renowned Portinari Chapel. As you stroll through the Navigli District, you’ll gain insights into Milan’s rich history and local traditions, all while enjoying a personalized experience tailored to your pace. What secrets and stories await within this enchanting corner of the city?
Key Points
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This 2-hour private tour explores Milan’s historic canals and Navigli neighborhood, starting at Piazza Sant’Eustorgio and including a guided visit to the Portinari Chapel.
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The tour provides insights into Milan’s canal network, Leonardo da Vinci’s contributions, and local traditions, with a focus on sustainability and a local perspective.
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The tour is conducted by an English-speaking guide and is wheelchair accessible, with complimentary headsets provided for groups of 7 or more.
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Customers have positively reviewed the tour’s value for money, guided exploration, and insights into the canal network and local traditions.
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Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and water is advised during warmer months, with advance notification required for any mobility concerns.
Tour Overview
The guided tour offers a private exploration of Milan’s historic canals and the Navigli neighborhood.
Explore Milan’s historic canals and the vibrant Navigli neighborhood on a private guided tour.
Lasting 2 hours, the tour costs $141.91 per person and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve now and pay later.
The tour starts at Piazza Sant’Eustorgio, where visitors explore the Portinari Chapel and the Navigli District on a guided sightseeing walk.
Along the way, they’ll discover Leonardo da Vinci’s contributions and local traditions.
The tour includes an English-speaking guide and is wheelchair accessible. Headsets are provided for groups of 7 or more.
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Itinerary Highlights
Starting at Piazza Sant’Eustorgio, in front of the Basilica di Sant’Eustorgio, the tour includes a 1-hour guided visit to the Portinari Chapel. Next, guests explore the Navigli District on a 1-hour guided sightseeing walk, with a stop at the charming Vicolo dei Lavandai (Alley of the Laundress). Throughout the tour, the guide shares insights into Milan’s historical canals, Leonardo da Vinci’s contributions, and local traditions.
| Itinerary Highlights | | | |
|———————|——————|——————|——————|
| Starting Point | Piazza Sant’Eustorgio, in front of Basilica di Sant’Eustorgio | | |
| Main Stops | Portinari Chapel (1-hour guided visit) | Navigli District (1-hour guided sightseeing walk) | Vicolo dei Lavandai (Alley of the Laundress) |
| Tour Includes | Exploration of Milan’s historical and picturesque corners | Insights into the canal network, Leonardo da Vinci’s contributions, and local traditions | |
Tour Features
A live tour guide is available in English, French, German, and Italian, catering to the diverse language preferences of guests.
This private group experience allows visitors to explore Milan’s historical and picturesque corners at their own pace. The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity.
Entrance fees to the Portinari Chapel are included, and groups of 7 or more receive complimentary headsets for a seamless audio experience.
With a focus on sustainability, this tour offers an opportunity to experience Milan from a local perspective, immersing guests in the city’s rich history and traditions.
What to Bring and Know
Comfortable shoes for walking are recommended, as the tour involves approximately 2 to 2.5 kilometers of exploration.
Visitors should dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour takes place outdoors. Bringing a water bottle is advised, especially during warmer months.
While the tour is wheelchair accessible, guests with mobility concerns are encouraged to notify the operator in advance.
The tour provides a headset for groups of 7 or more, allowing participants to easily hear the guide’s commentary.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Reviews
Customers have generally provided positive feedback on the Private Milan Canals Tour, with an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 7 reviews.
Reviewers have praised the tour’s value for money, with a 3 out of 5 rating in this category. Couples, groups, solo travelers, and families have all shared positive experiences, highlighting the guided exploration of Milan’s historical and picturesque corners, the insights into the canal network and Leonardo da Vinci’s contributions, and the local traditions covered.
The tour’s private group experience, wheelchair accessibility, and provision of headsets for larger groups have also been well-received.
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Although Milan is renowned for its striking architecture and bustling fashion scene, the city’s hidden gem lies in its intricate network of canals and the charming Navigli district.
Winding through the city, these historic waterways offer a unique glimpse into Milan’s past. The tour explores the Portinari Chapel, a remarkable example of Renaissance architecture, and takes visitors on a guided stroll through the Navigli area, known for its lively atmosphere, artisan shops, and traditional Milanese eateries.
Highlights include the picturesque Vicolo dei Lavandai, or "Alley of the Laundress," showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Leonardo Da Vinci’s Contributions to Milan’s Waterways
As a renowned polymath, Leonardo da Vinci‘s impact on Milan’s waterways can’t be overstated.
During the Renaissance, da Vinci designed complex systems of canals and locks to improve navigation and irrigation. He proposed innovative solutions to manage Milan’s waterways, including the Naviglio Grande, a major canal that connected the city to Lake Maggiore.
Da Vinci’s engineering prowess left an indelible mark on Milan’s infrastructure, with his contributions still visible today in the picturesque Navigli District.
Leonardo da Vinci’s engineering prowess left an indelible mark on Milan’s infrastructure, with his work still visible in the Navigli District.
This guided tour provides visitors a unique opportunity to explore the historical significance of da Vinci’s work and its enduring influence on the city’s iconic canals.
What makes the Navigli neighborhood so captivating for visitors? Its rich tapestry of local traditions and authentic experiences.
Strolling along the canals, you’ll stumble upon:
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Vicolo dei Lavandai, where historical laundry washing traditions come to life.
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Lively outdoor markets, offering a glimpse into Milanese culinary culture.
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Charming cafes and bars, where locals gather to socialize over aperitifs.
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Artisan workshops, showcasing the neighborhood’s long-standing craftsmanship.
Immersed in this vibrant neighborhood, travelers can truly connect with the soul of Milan and its people, creating lasting memories of their Navigli experience.
The Sum Up
This private tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Milan’s historic canals and charming Navigli neighborhood. Led by an English-speaking guide, visitors can discover the city’s rich heritage, from the captivating Portinari Chapel to the local traditions of the vibrant Navigli District. With a wheelchair-accessible route and personalized pace, this tour provides an immersive and insightful experience for a deeper appreciation of Milan’s architectural and cultural wonders.
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