Naviglio Grande

A navigable waterway since 1272, this channel, which is a tributary of Darsena, represents the pulsating vein of this vibrant city. It was the first artificial waterway bulit in Europe to improve the city's inhabitants' living conditions. Nowadays its banks hosts several wine bars, beer shops and ice cream parlours, not to mention a series of richly coloured houses. On the Ripa, one bank of the attached canals, you'll find lots of clubs and bars to have an Italian "aperitivo". After a refreshing drink and some taste of finger food, most Milanese love taking walks along the canal shores. From the bridges, which are pretty steep, you can enjoy a wonderful 360° view.