Navigli Canal Boat Cruise in Milan
Make a splash in Milan one canal at a time with flowing stories of Milanese life!
Think Milan only struts its stuff on the runway? Wait until you see it from the water. Glide along the historic Navigli canals, drift under charming bridges, and peek at the towpaths that once hauled everything from wine to gossip. Leonardo da Vinci even tinkered with these waterways, proof Milan’s drama isn’t just on the streets. Skip the crowded sidewalks: this boat tour delivers history, charm, and a splash of sass straight to your seat.
What You Get With This Tour
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English-speaking on-board assistant
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5 languages commentary
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Boat cruise
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Max 10 people
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Hotel pick up/drop-off
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Personal expenses
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Gratuities
Tour Itinerary
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1
Starting location: Alzaia Naviglio Grande, 4
Board your electric boat and get ready to explore Milan’s historic canals in comfort and style. -
2
Naviglio Grande
Kick off your cruise along Milan’s most famous canal and admire the picturesque waterways and traditional canal-side architecture. -
3
Vicolo dei Lavandai
Float past the historic “Washerwomen’s Alley,” once bustling with laundry activity for the city’s wealthy families. -
4
San Cristoforo sul Naviglio
Pass by the iconic 13th-century church, a charming landmark steeped in local history. -
5
Club Canottieri Olona 1894
Glide past the historic rowing club, one of Milan’s oldest, with over a century of sporting tradition. -
6
Darsena di Milano
Explore the lively modern harbor area, full of bars, restaurants, and vibrant Milanese nightlife. -
7
Arrive back at Alzaia Naviglio Grande, 4
Conclude your scenic canal journey and disembark with memories of Milan’s hidden waterways.
Additional Information
Milan Navigli Canal Boat Tour Full Description
Your 1-hour adventure includes:
Comfortable boat ride along the Navigli canals
Informative audio guide highlighting history, art, and local life in 5 different languages
Stops at iconic bridges and charming canal-side streets
Stories about Leonardo da Vinci’s engineering and Milanese legends
Relaxed, self-paced experience with plenty of photo opportunities
Navigli Wonders
Begin your tour by boarding the new electric boat and set off along the charming canals. See the "case di Ringhiera," the typical houses of Milan’s working-class districts. Cruise towards the 13th-century church of San Cristoforo while listening to fascinating commentary from your guide. Float down an alley of cheesemakers and see where the delicious Mascarpone cheese is said to have been invented.
History, Clubs, and Architectural Gems
Pass by the historic headquarters of the Canottieri Milano Olona, one of the city’s oldest rowing clubs with over 100 years of history. Drift past the famous Vicolo dei Lavandai, an architectural gem responsible for washing the linen of wealthy families in the 18th century. Cross the Scodellino bridge and arrive at the modern Darsena, a lively area full of bars, restaurants, and clubs that still pulses with Milanese nightlife.
Leonardo’s Legacy and Scenic Vibes
Float towards the Trophy Bridge and continue to the Conchetta, designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Discover the 14 navigation basins connecting Milan and Pavia, still operational five centuries after their construction. Wrap up your cruise with stunning views of the canals, historic buildings, and lively waterfront, gaining a playful, scenic, and unforgettable perspective on Milan’s waterways.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
Bring your own headphones to enjoy the audio commentary, and don’t forget a fully charged mobile device for scanning the QR code. A camera or phone for photos is highly recommended.
Can I bring luggage or large bags on board?
No, luggage or large bags are not allowed on the boat.
What to bring?
Bring your own headphones to enjoy the audio commentary, and don’t forget a fully charged mobile device for scanning the QR code. A camera or phone for photos is highly recommended.
Will there be a host during the tour?
Yes, an English- and Italian-speaking host will assist you when boarding and provide help throughout the cruise.
What languages is the audio commentary available in?
The commentary is available in English, French, German, Italian, and Portuguese. Simply scan the QR code provided and connect with your own mobile device—no app download required.
Do I need to bring my own headphones?
Yes, please bring your own headphones to enjoy the 45-minute audio commentary.
Can I move around the boat to take photos?
Absolutely. You are welcome to sit, stand, or move around the boat to capture the best views.
Is the route a loop or a one-way journey?
The cruise travels along the canal and then returns the same way. However, the audio commentary highlights different points of interest on the way back.
