Private Navigli Walking Tour

Discover the charming Navigli district of Milan on a private walking tour. Led by an expert guide, you’ll explore the historic canals, dating back to the 12th century, and learn about Leonardo da Vinci’s contributions to the innovative lock system. From Piazza Sant’Eustorgio, you’ll uncover the area’s ancient trades, vibrant nightlife, and notable landmarks like Darsena and Triumph Bridge. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this immersive experience offers a unique glimpse into Milan’s rich history and contemporary culture.

Key Points

• A 2-hour private walking tour of Milan’s historic Navigli canal district, starting from Piazza Sant’Eustorgio and covering highlights like Darsena and Naviglio Grande.
• Commentary on the 12th-century origins of the canals and Leonardo da Vinci’s improvements to the lock system.
• Led by a licensed English-speaking guide, with opportunities for an optional aperitivo or meal at traditional Milanese trattorias.
• Wheelchair accessible and with a 24-hour cancellation policy for a full refund.
• Comfortable walking shoes recommended, and itinerary may be subject to change.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The private Navigli Walking Tour offers a 2-hour guided exploration of Milan’s historic canal district. Priced from $92.79 per person, this private tour allows guests to discover the Navigli’s charming bridges, ancient trades, and vibrant nightlife.

Exploring from Piazza Sant’Eustorgio to the Darsena, the tour includes commentary on the canals’ 12th-century origins and Leonardo da Vinci’s lock system improvements.

With a licensed English-speaking guide, visitors can enjoy an immersive and insightful experience. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Comfortable shoes are recommended for this walking tour.

Itinerary and Highlights

Starting location for the private Navigli Walking Tour is Piazza Sant’Eustorgio, right in front of the basilica.

The 2-hour guided walk takes guests along the iconic Navigli canals, with stops at key highlights like the Darsena, Triumph Bridge, Naviglio Pavese, and Naviglio Grande.

Along the way, guests will learn about the 12th-century origins of the canals and Leonardo da Vinci’s improvements to the lock system.

The tour also explores the area’s rich history of ancient trades and local life on the waterways, as well as the famous nightlife district of Navigli.

Guided Experience

Although led by a live, English-speaking tour guide, the Navigli Walking Tour offers an insightful commentary on the history and culture of the iconic Milan district.

Exploring the canals, the guide shares the origins of the 12th-century waterways and Leonardo’s improvements to the lock system. Visitors learn about the area’s ancient trades and local life along the picturesque Navigli.

After the 1.5-hour guided walk, participants can enjoy an optional aperitivo or meal at traditional Milanese trattorias, immersing themselves further in the vibrant Navigli lifestyle.

What’s Included

The Navigli Walking Tour package includes a licensed English-speaking tour guide, who provides insightful commentary on the history and culture of the iconic Milan district throughout the 1.5-hour guided walk.

The tour also includes:

1. Exploration of the Navigli canals, their 12th-century origins, and Leonardo’s improvements to the lock system.

2. Discovery of the tradition of ancient trades and local life along the waterways.

3. Opportunity to enjoy an aperitivo or meal at traditional Milanese trattorias after the tour.

4. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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Important Information

Participants will meet at Piazza Sant’Eustorgio, in front of the basilica, to begin the tour.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves a 1.5-hour guided walk along the Navigli canals.

The itinerary is subject to change, so it’s best to check availability for the starting times.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, but participants should inform the tour operator in advance.

It’s important to note that the tour guide’s commentary is provided in English.

Food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included unless specified.

Exploring the Navigli District

As the tour begins at Piazza Sant’Eustorgio, visitors embark on a captivating exploration of Milan’s historic Navigli district.

The guided walk takes them along the charming canals, where they’ll:

1. Learn about the 12th-century origins of the Navigli and Leonardo da Vinci’s improvements to the lock system.

2. Discover the tradition of ancient trades and local life that have thrived along the waterways for centuries.

3. Venture down Vicolo dei Lavandai, a picturesque alley that was once a hub for laundry workers.

4. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and dining options that have made the Navigli one of Milan’s most popular neighborhoods.

The History of the Navigli Canals

Though Milan’s Navigli canals have a history dating back to the 12th century, it was Leonardo da Vinci’s improvements to the lock system in the early 1500s that truly transformed the city’s waterways. These canals were originally used for irrigation and transportation, but over time they became hubs of commerce and culture. Today, the Navigli district is renowned for its picturesque scenery, lively nightlife, and rich history.

| Year | Event |

| — | — |

| 12th century | Navigli canals established |

| Early 1500s | Leonardo da Vinci’s lock system improvements |

| Today | Navigli known for scenery, nightlife, history |

Experiencing Milanese Nightlife

After exploring the historic Navigli canals, visitors can enjoy the vibrant nightlife that has made this district a beloved destination for locals and travelers alike.

The Navigli district is renowned for its:

1. Lively bars and pubs along the canals, offering aperitivos, cocktails, and a lively atmosphere.

2. Trendy clubs and music venues that attract a young, fashionable crowd.

3. Traditional "trattorias" and restaurants serving authentic Milanese cuisine and regional wines.

4. Bustling night markets and street food vendors, creating a festive and convivial atmosphere.

Whether seeking a lively night out or a more relaxed evening, the Navigli district has something to offer every visitor.

The Sum Up

The Private Navigli Walking Tour provides a captivating glimpse into Milan’s historic canal district. Guests will explore the canals’ origins, discover Leonardo da Vinci’s innovative lock system, and visit iconic sites like Darsena and Triumph Bridge. With an expert guide, they’ll uncover the district’s rich history and vibrant nightlife, capping off the experience with an optional meal or aperitivo. It’s a must-do activity for anyone seeking to enjoy the charming Navigli neighborhood.

You can check availability for your dates here: