How to Live Like a Local in Milan, Italy
Milan, often regarded as the fashion capital of the world, is a bustling metropolis that exudes sophistication, creativity, and culture. But beyond its glamorous reputation, Milan is also a city with deep traditions, charming local spots, and hidden treasures waiting to be explored. To truly live like a local in Milan, it’s essential to immerse yourself in the city’s rhythm and discover the experiences that locals cherish. Here’s how you can live like a Milanese and embrace the city’s unique lifestyle.
1. Explore the Navigli Markets
The Navigli district, a network of canals designed by Leonardo da Vinci, is one of the most vibrant and picturesque areas in Milan. While tourists may flock to the area for its scenic beauty, the locals know that Navigli is also home to some of the best markets in the city. The Mercatone dell’Antiquariato is held on the last Sunday of every month, offering antiques, vintage goods, art, and jewelry. Exploring the Navigli markets is not just about shopping but also about soaking in the lively atmosphere, engaging with local vendors, and discovering unique treasures.
The area is also known for its Flea Market along the Naviglio Grande, which features everything from old records to retro furniture. You can spend an entire afternoon browsing the stalls and then relax at one of the many riverside cafes. The markets offer a glimpse into Milan’s rich history and are a favorite weekend activity for locals.
2. Enjoy a Gig or a Theatrical Show
Milan’s cultural scene is vibrant, offering an abundance of live music gigs, theater performances, and art events. For a local experience, avoid the tourist-heavy venues and seek out smaller theaters and music venues frequented by Milanese residents. The Blue Note jazz club, located in the Isola district, is a favorite among jazz lovers, offering intimate performances by local and international artists.
For theater enthusiasts, the Piccolo Teatro di Milano, founded by the renowned Italian director Giorgio Strehler, is an institution in the city. It offers performances in Italian, often with a modern twist on classic plays. If you want to truly immerse yourself in Milan’s cultural life, attending a theatrical performance or live gig is a great way to experience the local arts scene.
3. Eat Traditional Food in a Trattoria
Milan is home to world-class restaurants, but to experience the city like a local, skip the high-end dining spots and head to a trattoria, a traditional Italian eatery that serves hearty, home-cooked meals. Trattorias offer a more authentic and affordable way to enjoy Milanese cuisine. A must-try is the risotto alla milanese, a saffron-infused creamy risotto, and cotoletta alla milanese, a breaded veal cutlet.
Popular trattorias include Trattoria Milanese, where locals gather to enjoy classic dishes in a cozy atmosphere, and Al Garghet, known for its welcoming environment and homemade pasta. When dining at a trattoria, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a local’s kitchen, enjoying recipes passed down through generations.
4. Shop Like a Local
While Milan is synonymous with luxury shopping, locals prefer smaller boutiques and vintage stores over the high-end fashion streets like Via Montenapoleone. To shop like a Milanese, head to the Porta Ticinese area, where you’ll find unique clothing stores, concept shops, and quirky independent boutiques that offer a more curated selection of items.
Another local favorite is Corso di Porta Romana, a street that combines fashion with history. Here, you’ll discover small boutiques selling artisanal goods, handmade shoes, and stylish outfits without the price tag of designer brands. Additionally, the East Market, a monthly vintage market, is a treasure trove of clothing, accessories, and furniture, perfect for those who love one-of-a-kind items.
5. Enjoy the Nightlife
Milan has an eclectic and exciting nightlife that caters to all tastes. From rooftop bars with breathtaking views of the Duomo di Milano to underground clubs where you can dance the night away, the city offers a variety of experiences. To experience Milan like a local, start your evening with aperitivo, a pre-dinner drink accompanied by light snacks.
The Navigli district is one of the best areas to enjoy aperitivo, with numerous bars offering drinks and a buffet of delicious bites. Later, you can head to Bar Basso, a historic Milanese bar famous for inventing the Negroni Sbagliato. For those who prefer dancing, Tunnel Club in the Stazione Centrale area hosts some of the best electronic music nights in the city. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back evening or an all-night party, Milan’s nightlife will not disappoint.
6. Visit the Brera Botanical Garden
One of Milan’s hidden gems is the Brera Botanical Garden (Orto Botanico di Brera), located in the heart of the Brera district. This small, peaceful garden is a haven for nature lovers, offering a quiet retreat from the bustling city streets. The garden dates back to the 18th century and is home to a diverse collection of plants, trees, and medicinal herbs.
Locals often come here to relax, read a book, or enjoy a leisurely walk among the greenery. The garden is also part of the Brera Academy, one of Italy’s most prestigious art schools, so you might spot students sketching or painting the beautiful scenery. Visiting the Brera Botanical Garden offers a tranquil escape and a chance to experience Milan’s quieter side.
7. Do Watersports at the Idroscalo
For outdoor enthusiasts, Idroscalo, often referred to as Milan’s “seaside,” is a large artificial lake located just outside the city center. It was originally built as a seaplane airport but is now a recreational area where locals enjoy water sports and outdoor activities. From swimming and kayaking to windsurfing and wakeboarding, Idroscalo offers a range of water-based activities for all skill levels.
In addition to water sports, the park surrounding Idroscalo has cycling and running trails, picnic areas, and outdoor gyms. It’s a favorite spot for families, sports enthusiasts, and anyone looking to escape the city’s hustle and enjoy a day in nature.
8. Take a Walk in the Porta Venezia District
The Porta Venezia district is one of Milan’s most diverse and vibrant neighborhoods, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and multicultural atmosphere. A walk through Porta Venezia will take you past elegant Art Nouveau buildings, grand boulevards, and charming side streets filled with cafes and shops.
One of the highlights of the area is the Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli, a beautiful public park where locals come to relax, jog, or enjoy a coffee at one of the park’s kiosks. The park is also home to the Civic Museum of Natural History and the Planetarium, making it a popular spot for families and science enthusiasts. Exploring the Porta Venezia district gives you a taste of local life in one of Milan’s most beloved neighborhoods.
9. Visiting a House Museum
Milan is home to several house museums, where you can step into the past and experience how the city’s elite once lived. These museums are former residences of Milanese nobility or wealthy families, now preserved to showcase art, furniture, and personal collections. One of the most famous is Villa Necchi Campiglio, a stunning 1930s villa that offers a glimpse into the glamorous lives of Milan’s high society during the early 20th century.
Another must-visit is the Poldi Pezzoli Museum, an elegant 19th-century home filled with art, antique furniture, and precious objects. Visiting a house museum allows you to see a different side of Milan’s history, beyond its churches and monuments, and provides insight into the personal stories of its former residents.
10. Take a Trip to the Ortica Quarter
For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the Ortica quarter, an up-and-coming neighborhood known for its street art and creative vibe. Once an industrial area, Ortica has been transformed into an open-air art gallery, with murals covering the walls of buildings, telling stories of Milan’s history, workers’ struggles, and the Italian resistance during World War II.
The Ortica Mural Project is a collaboration between local artists and the community, creating a vibrant and colorful neighborhood that’s a joy to explore on foot. In addition to its street art, Ortica is home to trendy bars, cafes, and live music venues, making it a great place to experience Milan’s alternative side.
To live like a local in Milan is to embrace the city’s diverse experiences, from its bustling markets and historic trattorias to its hidden gardens and trendy neighborhoods. Whether you’re exploring the Navigli markets, dining at a trattoria, or discovering street art in Ortica, Milan offers countless opportunities to connect with its rich culture and vibrant community. By stepping away from the tourist spots and immersing yourself in local life, you’ll experience a side of Milan that is authentic, creative, and endlessly inspiring.