Italy

Where the Locals Go Out for Drinks in Milan, Italy

Where the Locals Go Out for Drinks in Milan, Italy

There are some incredible places to grab a drink and relax in Milan, Italy. Whether you want a cozy wine bar, a bustling spot for people-watching with a spritz, or a swanky spot for a fancy night out, I have you covered. Here is a guide to my favorite and what I consider to be the best bars and where the locals go out for drinks in Milan, Italy.

N’ombra de Vin

N’ombra de Vin is a local favorite to stop in for a glass of wine or a spritz. If you ask a Milanese for the best bar in Milan, I guarantee more than half may name this spot. It definitely leans on the pricier side, which shouldn’t be a surprise as it is definitely about being seen and making a statement. Don’t be surprised if you spot a famous soccer player, model, or influencer.

I recommend trying to reserve a table, especially if you want to sit outside during aperitivo. However, there is also plenty of space downstairs. On Thursdays, there is usually live music taking place downstairs.

Mom Cafe

Mom Cafe is a quintessential Italian bar – it is one of my favorite bars in Milan. There isn’t much space on the inside, so the crowds spill out onto the surrounding streets. One thing I notice in Italy is that there is not much mingling at bars (as opposed to the US).

However, Mom Cafe is definitely all about mingling! You’ll likely start chatting with neighbors standing next to you. Just be prepared to have a long wait for ordering drinks given the crowds.

Camparino

Camparino not only has an incredible location steps away from the Duomo, but serves up delicious Campari-based drinks. Did you know Campari was invented in Milan? It is a slightly-bitter liquor (think of it as a sibling to Aperol) that makes delicious cocktails.

Come here and try a Campari spritz or one of the other variations of drinks on their menu. You can either take a seat or bring your drink outside and stand with a view of the Duomo. The bonus is Camparino is also located in the Galleria Emanuelle II, a gorgeous and historic mall full of high-end shopping.

Bar Basso

If you love the Campari drinks listed above, then you need to venture to Bar Basso. Bar Basso is a must-be on a list for the best bars in Milan given it is the original birthplace of the famous Negroni Spagliato. Essentially, is a Negroni but rather uses Prosecco in replacement of the gin. AKA a little easier to handle if you’re a lightweight (lol).

Radetzky

You will find Radetzky located on the busting Corso Garibaldi. It is a popular spot to meet up with friends after work or on the weekends. In fact, all of Corso Garibaldi makes a fun spot given the entire street is lined up with fun bars.

Cantine Isola

The next best bar in Milan is located in the Chinatown neighborhood. Here, we wander to the cozy wine bar Cantine Isola. There is an ENORMOUS selection of wines to try. The workers are extremely helpful and will allow you to sample until you find the exact taste you’re craving.

Grab a glass or bottle and then head outside to drink and mingle in the street.

Vesta

Vesta is definitely the priciest bar I’ve included on this list, but it is worthwhile. You come here to drink beautiful cocktails surrounded by beautiful people in a beautiful setting (you’re in the posh Brera neighborhood, after all).

It tends to be crowded on the weekends and during events (Fashion Week, Design Week), so plan accordingly.

I hope I am leaving you with plenty of options for drinking in Milan! This wraps up the best bars in Milan, Italy. Are there any favorite spots you enjoy? Let me know!

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