Navigli Aperitivo and Brera Design Walk
Curated Lists Editorial Overview
Milan's iconic aperitivo hour along the Navigli canals, followed by a design-lover's walk through the Brera district: independent galleries, concept stores, and historic espresso bars
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16 pinned placesFeatured Places
Discover the best spots in this carefully curated guide. Each location has been personally visited and vetted to ensure an authentic and memorable experience.
Mag Cafe
Nestled along the banks of the Navigli, this charming café draws in locals and travelers alike with its vintage decor and vibrant atmosphere. As the sun sets, it transforms into a buzzing aperitivo spot, where the clinking of glasses mingles with the sounds of laughter, creating a perfect backdrop for a leisurely evening.
Bar Basso
A legendary establishment known for its innovative cocktails, Bar Basso has been a staple in Milan’s nightlife since the 1940s. Famous for its signature Negroni Sbagliato, this bar combines a retro vibe with a contemporary twist, making it an essential stop for those looking to experience Milan's aperitivo culture.
Rita Cocktails
This stylish cocktail bar is a hidden gem in the Navigli district, celebrated for its creative concoctions and laid-back atmosphere. With an emphasis on fresh ingredients, Rita's expertly crafted drinks pair perfectly with the lively chatter of patrons enjoying their aperitivo in a cozy setting adorned with art and eclectic decor.
The Winery 1 Aaron Brussolo
Known for its extensive selection of wines and cozy ambiance, La Vineria invites you to indulge in a leisurely aperitivo hour. The rustic wooden interiors and soft lighting create an intimate atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for wine lovers to sip and share stories before exploring the artistic streets of Brera.
Pavè - Break
This artisanal bakery and café is renowned for its mouthwatering pastries and artisanal coffee. Whether you’re grabbing a pastry for a quick snack or settling in for a relaxed aperitivo with friends, Pavé’s warm atmosphere and stylish decor provide the perfect setting to unwind before exploring Brera's design wonders.
N'Ombra de Vin
Set in a historic wine cellar, N'Ombra de Vin offers a unique experience for wine enthusiasts. With its impressive selection of wines and intimate setting, it’s a favorite among locals for aperitivo, where the ambiance echoes with laughter and clinking glasses, creating a festive prelude to your Brera design walk.
Café Trussardi
Located in the heart of Milan’s fashion district, Cafè Trussardi combines contemporary design with a sophisticated ambiance, making it a stylish spot for an upscale aperitivo. The elegant design and delectable small plates create a perfect blend of luxury and comfort, setting the tone for an evening of design exploration.
Rossana Orlandi
This innovative design gallery and store showcases a unique collection of contemporary art and furniture, making it a must-visit for design lovers. After enjoying a drink at a nearby bar, visitors can explore this creative haven, where the boundaries between art and design blur in an inspiring way.
Cova Montenapoleone
An institution in Milan since 1817, Caffè Cova is synonymous with elegance and sophistication. Its splendid interior and rich history provide a perfect backdrop for an afternoon of aperitivo, where one can enjoy exquisite pastries and fine wines before embarking on a stroll through Brera's artistic streets.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
This independent gallery showcases a rotating collection of contemporary artworks, making it a vibrant stop for art enthusiasts in Brera. The intimate environment invites visitors to engage with the art and artists, providing a stimulating contrast to the bustling aperitivo scene just a few steps away.
Bar Luce
Designed by filmmaker Wes Anderson, Bar Luce is an artistic café that feels like stepping into a movie set. The quirky decor and playful atmosphere make it an ideal spot for a pre-dinner aperitivo, where you can sip on creative cocktails while soaking in the design-centric surroundings of the nearby Brera district.
Pinacoteca di Brera
Home to one of Italy's most important art collections, the Pinacoteca di Brera is a cultural treasure that captivates visitors with its stunning artworks. After a day of aperitivo, an evening visit to this historic gallery allows for a tranquil stroll through the halls of art, merging Milanese culture with design.
Foundry Napoleonic Eugenia
This unique venue combines a historic foundry with a contemporary art gallery, hosting exhibitions that bridge the past and present. It’s a fascinating stop for those interested in the intersection of art and industry, making it an inspiring addition to your evening in Brera after a lively aperitivo.
Birrificio Italiano Milano
This craft beer bar offers a relaxed atmosphere for those looking to try something different during aperitivo hour. With a wide selection of local and international beers, Brewdog provides a refreshing alternative to traditional cocktails, making it a favorite among the trendy crowd in the Navigli area.
Caffè Pascucci Milano Centrale
An iconic coffee shop in Brera, Caffè Pascucci is renowned for its rich blends and welcoming ambiance. It's the perfect spot to recharge with a coffee or a light snack before continuing your exploration of the artistic treasures that surround this vibrant neighborhood.
INCONTRI by SADLER
This chic eatery offers a modern take on traditional Italian dishes, with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. It's an ideal place to enjoy an aperitivo-style dinner, where the lively atmosphere invites conversation and celebration, perfectly setting the tone for a night in the design-rich Brera district.
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This guide was last updated on April 11, 2026. We regularly review and refresh our guides to ensure all places are still open and worth visiting.
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