The Best Aperitivo Spots in Milan
When in Milan, you cannot miss the famous Italian aperitivo tradition. It's a pre-dinner ritual where locals gather to have drinks and finger food while catching up with friends. To truly party like a local, you need to know the best aperitivo spots in the city. My favorites include:
- Ceresio 7: This stunning rooftop bar offers incredible views of the Milanese skyline, along with delicious cocktails and aperitivo snacks.
- Bar Basso: A historic Milanese bar, Bar Basso is known for its signature Negroni Sbagliato cocktail and a lively atmosphere.
- Nottingham Forest: Ranked among the world's best bars, this innovative spot serves unique aperitivo drinks and small bites.
- Deus Café: Located in the trendy Isola district, this café-bar is a great place to start your evening with a refreshing Aperol Spritz and delicious nibbles.
Discover Milan's Hidden Gems
While Milan offers many famous bars and clubs, locals love to explore the hidden gems scattered throughout the city. To truly party like a local, you should visit these off-the-beaten-path spots:
- Mag Café: This cozy, vintage-inspired bar is situated along the Navigli canals and offers expertly-crafted cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere.
- Frida: Located in the vibrant Isola district, Frida is a lively bar with an eclectic mix of vintage furniture and a charming courtyard.
- Bar Luce: Designed by filmmaker Wes Anderson, Bar Luce is a stylish café with a retro vibe, perfect for a relaxing drink with friends.
- The Botanical Club: As the first Italian micro-distillery, this unique bar offers an incredible selection of gin-based cocktails and a lush, green setting.
Experience the Best of Milan's Club Scene
As a city known for its fashion and nightlife, Milan boasts a variety of clubs to suit any taste. To experience the best of the local club scene, check out these top venues:
- Amnesia Milano: This popular techno club hosts world-renowned DJs and offers spacious dance floors and great sound systems.
- Club Haus 80's: If you're a fan of 80's music, this lively club is a must-visit. With themed nights, colorful décor, and an energetic crowd, you'll be partying like a true Milanese.
- Alcatraz: One of Milan's largest clubs, Alcatraz hosts live music events, DJ sets, and themed parties in a massive, warehouse-style space.
- Volt Club: This intimate club offers cutting-edge electronic music and a sleek, modern atmosphere for a truly memorable night out.
Indulge in Late-Night Eats
After a night of dancing and partying, locals in Milan love to indulge in some late-night eats. To satisfy your post-party cravings, head to these popular spots:
- Pizzeria Spontini: Open until 3 am on weekends, this famous pizzeria offers delicious, thick-crust pizza slices that will hit the spot after a night out.
- Kebab King: For a quick and satisfying meal, grab a kebab or falafel sandwich at this popular late-night joint.
- Cioccolati Italiani: Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop of creamy gelato or a decadent hot chocolate at this beloved dessert spot.
- Luini Panzerotti: Open until 2 am, this iconic bakery serves mouth-watering panzerotti – a crispy, fried pastry filled with tomato and mozzarella.
Explore Milan's LGBTQ+ Scene
As a diverse and inclusive city, Milan boasts a thriving LGBTQ+ scene with numerous bars, clubs, and events catering to the community. To experience Milan's vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife, visit these popular venues:
- Mono Bar: This stylish bar is known for its friendly atmosphere, signature cocktails, and fun theme nights.
- PUNK: A popular gay club in Milan, PUNK offers a lively dance floor, energetic DJ sets, and a welcoming environment.
- Inferus Club: This underground club is a favorite among the LGBTQ+ crowd, offering techno beats, a dark atmosphere, and a unique experience.
- Leccomilano: A trendy bar and restaurant, Leccomilano hosts weekly LGBTQ+ events and offers a relaxed, inclusive vibe.
Attend Milan's Annual Festivals and Events
Throughout the year, Milan is host to numerous festivals and events that showcase the city's rich culture and vibrant party scene. To truly party like a local, be sure to attend these annual celebrations:
- Milan Fashion Week: As one of the fashion capitals of the world, Milan's Fashion Week is an iconic event filled with glamorous parties and exclusive after-show events.
- Milano Pride: Celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, Milano Pride is a week-long event featuring parades, concerts, and parties throughout the city.
- Milan Design Week: Known as Salone del Mobile, this week-long celebration of design attracts thousands of visitors and offers an array of parties and events.
- Milano Film Festival: This annual film festival brings together filmmakers, actors, and film enthusiasts for screenings, workshops, and parties across the city.
Stay Safe and Respectful While Partying in Milan
As with any city, it's important to stay safe and respectful while enjoying Milan's vibrant nightlife. Keep these tips in mind when partying like a local:
- Always keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
- Travel in groups or with a friend, especially when walking through unfamiliar areas at night.
- Don't overindulge in alcohol and be sure to stay hydrated throughout the night.
- Respect local customs and dress codes – Milan is a fashionable city, so dress to impress!
- Be considerate of noise levels when leaving bars and clubs late at night, as many venues are located in residential areas.