Bar Hopping in Milan

If you’re thinking about experiencing Milan beyond the usual tourist spots, a bar hopping tour might be just what you need. This particular experience promises to take you off the beaten path into the city’s more authentic, lively, and lesser-known bars and neighborhoods. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve read enough reviews and details to give you a solid idea of what to expect—and who it might suit.

One aspect I really appreciate about this tour is its focus on local hotspots rather than the typical tourist trap bars. Plus, the guides seem genuinely knowledgeable and friendly, making the whole evening feel like a fun and relaxed exploration. On the flip side, some travelers noted that drinks are not included in the ticket price, which is worth considering if you’re on a tight budget. This experience seems well-suited for curious travelers who love discovering hidden corners, enjoying good drinks, and meeting new people.

If you’re into lively evenings that combine culture, drinks, and a sense of discovery, this tour could be a great fit. It’s less about sightseeing and more about soaking in Milan’s vibrant night scene—perfect for solo travelers, small groups, or friends looking for a casual, engaging night out.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Focuses on local bars and less touristy spots, giving you a genuine taste of Milan’s nightlife.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides are praised for their friendliness and insights into the city’s history and culture.
• Flexible Group Size: With a max of 50 travelers, it’s social but not overcrowded.
• Cost and Value: The ticket includes a welcome drink, snacks, and some entry tickets, but drinks are paid for separately at the bars.
• Short but Sweet: At around 3 hours, it’s a quick way to kickstart an evening or get a feel for Milan’s lively side.
• Ideal for Adults: Participants must be 18+; it’s geared toward those looking for a relaxed, adult-oriented night out.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The tour kicks off at P.za del Duomo at 7:00 pm, right in the heart of Milan, near public transportation. From there, your guides will lead you through a series of carefully selected spots, each offering a different flavor of Milanese nightlife.

The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, making it manageable even if you’re tight on time or want to keep your evening casual. The tour includes four main stops, each with its own vibe and appeal. The itinerary is designed to balance sightseeing with socializing, offering a mix of sightseeing, drinks, and stories.

Stop 1: Brera District (50 minutes)

This charming neighborhood is the perfect starting point. Known for its artistic vibe and cobblestone streets, Brera is packed with hidden gems and lively bars. Guides share stories about the area’s history and culture, adding context to your visit. The tour includes admission tickets to some locations here, which means you get a taste of the local scene early on.

Travelers often mention their love for the way guides share fascinating insights into Milan’s traditions and history, making the experience feel both fun and educational. It’s a great chance to snap photos of the picturesque streets and get your first drinks—whether a spritz, wine, or craft beer.

Stop 2: Duomo di Milano (40 minutes)

Next, you’ll pause at the iconic Duomo for a quick photo break and a refreshment. This is a perfect opportunity for a selfie in front of one of Milan’s most famous landmarks. The tour’s free admission tickets to the Duomo mean no extra costs here, making it a convenient stop.

Many reviews highlight the guide’s ability to weave stories about the Duomo, enhancing the visual experience with historical tidbits. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a second drink, with the option to choose your favorite from the selection.

Stop 3: Colonne di San Lorenzo (50 minutes)

This historic spot is known for its lively outdoor bars and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s a favorite among locals and offers a taste of Milanese evening life. You’ll have a third refreshment while soaking in the vibrant energy that this historic area radiates.

Reviews mention the friendliness of guides and the chance to try different drinks and snacks at this stop. It’s a good place to mingle and enjoy the genuine taste of Milan’s nightlife scene.

Stop 4: Naviglio Grande (40 minutes)

The tour concludes along this picturesque canal, renowned for its bohemian vibe and lively bars. Here, you’ll enjoy your last refreshment and take in the lively ambiance. Many travelers appreciate this spot for its mix of old-world charm and modern buzz.

Having been praised for its relaxed yet lively atmosphere, Naviglio Grande offers a perfect ending to the evening. It’s a popular area for both locals and visitors, making it a fitting finale for your night out.

Drinks, Snacks, and Additional Costs

The ticket price of $111 covers the guided tour, a welcome drink, snacks at some bars, and admission tickets for some stops. However, drinks at the bars are paid for separately, which many reviews note as an important consideration. This means your overall cost could rise depending on how many drinks you enjoy.

Participants must be 18 or over, which is typical for alcohol-related tours, but worth noting if you’re traveling with younger friends or family.

What’s Included and Not

You’ll get a mobile ticket for easy access, and the tour is designed to be flexible with meeting points and assistance with transportation afterward. It’s well-organized for travelers who prefer to focus on enjoying the experience rather than logistics.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews paint a generally positive picture. Many highlight the friendly guides, especially mentioning Gilberto’s great hospitality and tips. One reviewer loved that despite a no-show, the guide waited and still made the experience fun.

People also appreciate the variety of bars, from upscale to dive, which keeps the evening interesting. Multiple reviews mention the excellent drinks recommendations, especially the wine and cocktails suggested by guides, elevating the experience.

While most are enthusiastic, one traveler pointed out that, despite paying for the ticket, drinks are an additional expense. This is a common setup in bar tours, but it’s worth considering your budget.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This experience is ideal if you’re looking to explore Milan’s local nightlife in a relaxed, social setting. It’s perfect for solo travelers wanting to meet others, small groups, or friends eager to discover hidden bars and enjoy good company.

If you’re someone who appreciates storytelling, appreciates local culture, and enjoys trying different drinks, you’ll likely find this tour very rewarding. However, if you prefer a fully inclusive experience with drinks included in the price, this might feel a little pricey or less straightforward.

Final Thoughts

This bar hopping tour offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, socializing, and tasting Milan’s lesser-known venues. The guides’ friendliness and local knowledge shine through, making the experience both enjoyable and educational. The stops are thoughtfully chosen to reflect different aspects of Milan’s vibrant nightlife, from historic plazas to bohemian canals.

For travelers who love discovering authentic spots without the crowds, this tour provides a fantastic overview. The price is reasonable considering the guided experience, snacks, and entry tickets, but remember that drinks are extra.

Overall, if you’re in Milan and want a fun, relaxed evening that gets you out of the tourist zones and into the local scene, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, drinks are paid for separately at each bar, although a welcome drink is included to start the evening.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, many reviews mention it’s a good way to meet others. The friendly guides and small group atmosphere make it easy to socialize.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, from 7:00 pm to around 10:00 pm.

What is the age requirement?
Participants must be 18 or over, since alcohol is served during the tour.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t refunded.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at P.za del Duomo and ends at Colonne di San Lorenzo, both centrally located and accessible by public transportation.

If you’re craving a lively night out that offers a slice of Milan’s authentic nightlife, this bar hopping tour could be just what you need. It’s a relaxed, friendly way to see some of the city’s hidden bars and learn a little more about Milanese culture—all while enjoying good drinks and great company.