Navigli Boat Tours - Milan Canal Cruises

You have seen Milan from the top of a bus. Now, see it from below the street level. A boat tour on the Navigli offers a completely new perspective.

The Experience

The boat cruises are usually 50-60 minutes long. They depart from the Alzaia Naviglio Grande.

• The Perspective: You glide under historic stone bridges. You look up at the fishermen dangling their lines and the couples kissing on the banks.
• The Quiet: Unlike the noisy streets, the canal is (relatively) peaceful. The sound of water against the hull is soothing.

What You See

The Darsena (The Harbor)

This was the ancient port of Milan. Recently renovated, it's now a wide basin where people picnic on the grass banks. From the boat, you feel like you are entering a fortress.

The "Case di Ringhiera"

From the water, you get the best view of the traditional Milanese working-class houses with their long shared balconies. You can see laundry hanging out and old ladies watering their geraniums.

San Cristoforo Roadside Church

At the end of the route, you see this double church complex (two churches joined together). It was traditionally the point where travelers would pray for a safe journey as they left Milan by water.

Practical Tips

• Tickets: Often sold separately from the Bus Tour, but check for "Land & Water" bundles.
• Timing: Sunset cruises are magical but book up fast.
• Mosquitoes: In high summer, bring repellent. Being on the water means bugs.