Milan: Colonne di San Lorenzo and Navigli Guided Tour

Explore the lively heart of Milan’s ancient and bohemian sides with the Milan: Colonne di San Lorenzo and Navigli Guided Tour. This 2.5-hour experience offers an engaging look into Milan’s Roman roots, vibrant nightlife, and artistic spirit. Starting at the Colonne di San Lorenzo, the tour delves into the city’s ancient past before flowing into the famous Navigli area, renowned for its canals, eclectic shops, and lively evening scene.

This guided walk is perfect for those interested in history, architecture, and Milan’s contemporary culture alike. The tour includes visits to iconic landmarks like Basilica of Sant’ Eustorgio, the house of poet Alda Merini, and the Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore. With a small group limited to 8 participants and a live English guide, the experience feels personal and insightful, though it involves a good amount of walking and some urban exploration.

Key Points

• Discover Milan’s Roman monument: The Colonne di San Lorenzo are the most visible Roman ruins in the city.
• Explore the Navigli district: A historic area with nearly a thousand years of history, known today for its vibrant nightlife and artistic vibe.
• Visit key landmarks: Including the Basilica of Sant’ Eustorgio and San Lorenzo Maggiore.
• See the house of Alda Merini: One of Italy’s most important poets, reflecting the district’s bohemian spirit.
• Learn about Milan’s economic history: The tour explains how the ancient canals played a role in the city’s prosperity.
• Small group size: Limited to 8 people, ensuring a personal experience.

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Starting Point at the Colonne di San Lorenzo

The tour begins at the Colonne di San Lorenzo, a well-known Roman monument and a lively nightlife hub. The guide waits with a company logo, making it easy to locate. This site is not only a key historical ruin but also a popular gathering spot, especially in the evenings.

The Colonne di San Lorenzo are the best-preserved Roman remains in Milan and sit in front of the Basilica of San Lorenzo, an impressive Christian monument notable for its central-plan architecture. The guide provides context about its significance during the Roman era and its role in Milan’s history.

Walking Along Corso di Porta Ticinese

From the Colonne di San Lorenzo, the tour heads along Corso di Porta Ticinese, a lively street connecting the historic center with modern Milan. This street is a hub of activity, lined with shops, cafes, and small craft stores, reflecting the district’s bohemian vibe.

The walk offers a chance to see second-hand shops and alternative clubs, making it clear why the Navigli area is considered Milan’s artistic and nightlife district. The street leads toward the Porta Ticinese, a historic gate that has long served as a gateway for commerce and exchange.

Visiting the Basilica of Sant’ Eustorgio and Its Bell Tower

On the way, the guide highlights the Basilica of Sant’ Eustorgio, one of Milan’s most significant religious buildings. It features the tallest bell tower in the city, reaching 73 meters. The basilica’s history stretches back nearly a thousand years, and it played an important role in Milan’s trade routes, linking the city to the south.

The guide shares stories about the basilica’s architecture and its role in Milan’s faith and commerce history, enriching the walk with cultural insights.

Crossing Porta Ticinese into the Navigli District

The area dividing Colonne and Navigli is Porta Ticinese, historically a place of exchange. Entering the Navigli district, visitors will see the artificial canals that once fueled Milan’s economic growth through trade.

The Navigli area boasts nearly a thousand years of history, with old views suspended in time. The canals are lined with charming shops and courtyards, giving visitors glimpses of a bustling past still alive today.

The urban redevelopment of the Darsena has revitalized the district, making the Navigli a hub for both history buffs and nightlife lovers.

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Pausing at Vicolo dei Lavandai and Alda Merini’s House

The tour makes a pause at Vicolo dei Lavandai, an alley famous for its stone washboards and rustic wooden shelters—a reminder of Milan’s once-thriving laundry industry. It’s a charming snapshot of everyday life from a bygone era.

A visit to the house of Alda Merini offers a glance into the life of one of Italy’s most important poets. Her home stands as a symbol of the district’s bohemian and artistic spirit, connecting visitors to Milan’s creative soul.

Walking Down Ripa di Porta Ticinese and Enjoying the Aperitivo

The tour concludes along the Ripa di Porta Ticinese, one of Milan’s most beautiful streets, praised by the New York Times. This street is famous for its trendy cafes and bars offering aperitivo—the classic Milanese happy hour.

Here, visitors will find numerous spots to relax and enjoy Milan’s vibrant evening scene. The guide points out popular venues where locals gather for drinks and small bites, embodying the city’s lively social culture.

Practical Details: Logistics and Group Size

The meeting point is clearly at the Colonne di San Lorenzo, where staff with the company logo greets participants. The tour ends back at the same location, making logistics straightforward.

This experience is designed as a small group tour with a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and engaging atmosphere. The live English-speaking guide provides insights into Milan’s past and present, making the walk both informative and personable.

It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes, bring a camera for snapshots, and carry water. The tour involves moderate walking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable on their feet.

Comparing Similar Experiences in Milan

This guided tour offers a blend of history and culture, with specific highlights like the Roman Colonne and the bohemian Navigli district. For those interested in exploring Milan beyond its main attractions, it provides a more authentic glimpse into the city’s layered personality.

Similar experiences include canal cruises with audio guides, street food walking tours, and visits to the Duomo’s terraces. However, this tour’s focus on history, architecture, and local life makes it a well-rounded choice for those wanting an enriching overview of Milan’s ancient roots and modern cultural scene.

Final Thoughts on the Milan: Colonne di San Lorenzo and Navigli Tour

This 2.5-hour guided walk strikes a good balance between history, culture, and lively urban exploration. The small group size and expert guide ensure a personalized experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy walking tours that combine storytelling with sightseeing.

While it involves a fair amount of walking and isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, it offers a genuine connection to Milan’s Roman past and its bohemian present. The tour’s pacing allows enough time to appreciate landmarks and soak in the district’s atmosphere without feeling rushed.

This activity delivers solid value for anyone interested in Milan’s historical sites, artistic corners, and nightlife. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a concise but meaningful look at the city’s layered identity.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Where does the tour start and end? The tour begins and ends at Colonne di San Lorenzo.
• How long does the tour last? It lasts approximately 2.5 hours.
• Is the tour suitable for all ages? The tour involves moderate walking and is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
• What’s included in the price? The guided tour itself, visits to key landmarks, and insights into Milan’s history are included.
• Are meals or drinks included? No, food and drinks are not included.
• What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a camera, and water are recommended.
• Is there a minimum number of participants? Yes, the tour operates with a small group of up to 8 people.
• Can I cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Is this tour available in languages other than English? The information specifies English as the language.
• Do I need to book in advance? Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure a spot and benefit from flexible payment options.

This guided walk through Milan’s Roman and bohemian districts offers a lively, insightful, and manageable way to see the city’s layered history and modern culture in just a few hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby