Gigative · Experiences
Milan Navigli Food and Drinks Tour with Aperitivo

About this experience
Experience Milan the way locals do on a journey across the vibrant Navigli district. From aperitivo to dessert, this experience captures the essence of Milanese social life, where great food and connection go hand in hand. Wander along historic canals and lively streets as you explore a neighborhood shaped by tradition, creativity, and a dynamic culinary scene. Along the way, enjoy a curated progression of tastings that reflect both regional heritage and modern Milanese culture. Savor iconic specialties like focaccia di Recco and farinata, and risotto alla Milanese, prepared with the care and precision this classic deserves. End on a sweet note with authentic artisanal gelato, crafted with natural ingredients and a silky, velvety texture that embodies the essence of Italian tradition. This is more than a food tour: it’s Milan, lived and tasted.
What to expect
Stop 1 · 30min
Visit Sciuè Navigli, where Milanese aperitivo meets Neapolitan pizza tradition. Enjoy pizza fritta with a classic locally crafted beer from Lombardy’s oldest brewery, all in the vibrant ambiance of the Navigli canals (stop and tasting can vary depending on departure time).
Stop 2
Step inside one of Milan’s most authentic housing styles. Discover shared balconies overlooking inner courtyards that tell the story of working-class community life, now reimagined as creative hubs, offering a quiet, intimate glimpse of Milan just steps from the lively Navigli canals.
Stop 3
Visit one of the most atmospheric corners of the Navigli. This historic alley recalls a time when washerwomen used the canal for daily work, with original stone washboards still visible. The flowing water and preserved setting offer a vivid glimpse into Milan’s pre-industrial past and community life.
Stop 4
Explore Milan’s historic canal district, where waterways once powered trade and daily life. Today it’s a lively neighborhood blending history, creativity, aperitivo culture, and charming streets along the water.
Stop 5 · 30min
Stop at a beloved spot on the Naviglio Grande, known for top-quality meat sourced from a renowned local butcher. Enjoy polenta with Gorgonzola and a selection of premium charcuterie or carpaccio, paired with a glass of wine, all in a cozy yet contemporary Milanese setting (stop and tasting can vary depending on departure time).
Stop 6 · 10min
This Milan institution from 1994 is dedicated to Ligurian specialties. Enjoy farinata, the classic chickpea focaccia baked in copper pans, or the famous focaccia di Recco, filled with creamy cheese.
Stop 7 · 50min
Stop at an iconic restaurant in the Navigli, famous for reimagining Milanese classics. Enjoy risotto alla Milanese with saffron, a rich ossobuco meatball or venison ragu, perfectly paired with a glass of wine.
Stop 8 · 15min
End your tour with authentic artisanal gelato crafted by a husband-and-wife team for 15+ years. Made with natural ingredients and milk instead of cream, it’s lighter, silkier, and true to Italian tradition.
What’s included
- Local English-speaking guide
- Sip on Italian wine while you sit just steps away from the city’s iconic canals
- End your experience with a classic Italian dessert to leave your sweet tooth smiling
- Enjoy a food journey from aperitivo to dessert in Navigli district, with 7 food tastings & 3 drinks
- ‘Food & the City’ Insider Tips
Not included
- Gratuities / Tips for the guide
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Extra drinks
Tour & ticket options
Options may have different inclusions and meeting points. Choose your option when booking on Viator.
Small-group Food Tour (12 pax)
Taste your way through Navigli's canalside aperitivo, six stops of Milanese classics, three pours and finish with a gelato. Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
Upgrade to a Private Food Tour
Explore Navigli's canals and six tastings at your own pace, with a guide dedicated entirely to your group. Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
Meeting & pickup
- Your guide will be waiting for you right in front of the main monument and wearing our purple Eating Europe bag!
End point
- This is the endpoint of the afternoon tour.
- This is the endpoint of the morning tour.
Please aim to arrive 15 minutes early, so the tour can start on time. You do not need to print out a page to join the tour - showing us the confirmation email you will receive on your phone is fine!
Before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This activity requires a minimum of 2 guests. Should this not be met, we will contact you directly to help you get rescheduled or reimbursed.
- Children under 4 years old do not need a ticket and can join the tour for free. However, food is not included. Paid tickets with food included are available for ages 4 and up.
- Please note that the tastings mentioned are a selection of the delicious foods we often feature. Both offerings and tour stops may vary by day or season, but you're sure to enjoy a delightful array of local flavors!
- Have dietary requirements? Simply email us or add a note at booking, and we’ll do our best to accommodate vegetarians, gluten-free guests or other dietary needs where we can. For guest safety, this experience isn’t suitable for those with severe or life-threatening food allergies to ingredients found on the tour, and the company cannot take responsibility for any food allergies or intolerances.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
