The Best Nightlife in Milan: A Guide to the City's Top Party Destinations

Derek Kingsworth

Exploring the Vibrant Navigli District

One cannot talk about Milan's nightlife without mentioning the trendy and vibrant Navigli District. The area is named after the ancient canals around which it was built, giving it a unique and charming atmosphere. It's the perfect place to start your evening with a myriad of cocktail bars, pubs, and restaurants lining the picturesque canals.
The area truly comes alive at night with both tourists and locals flocking to enjoy the buzzing nightlife. The district is known for its "aperitivo" culture - a pre-dinner drink accompanied by small snacks - a quintessential Milanese tradition. I recommend trying it out at one of the many bars along the Navigli Grande.

Clubbing at the Exclusive Corso Como

If you are into clubbing, Corso Como is the place to be. This upscale district is home to some of Milan's most exclusive clubs and bars. The nightlife here is vibrant and chic, with the party often going on until the early hours of the morning.
One of the must-visit venues in Corso Como is Hollywood Rythmoteque, a famous club that has been a part of Milan’s nightlife for more than three decades. Frequented by celebrities and fashionistas, it is renowned for its stylish crowd and electrifying music.

Soaking Up the Local Vibe in Brera

For those looking for a more local experience, the Brera district offers a more laid-back and artsy atmosphere. Known as the 'artist's neighborhood', Brera is filled with charming cobblestone streets, vintage shops, and bohemian bars. The nightlife here is more about sipping wine in an old-fashioned taverna or bar than about wild clubbing.
The heart of Brera's nightlife is arguably the Bar Brera, known for its vibrant atmosphere and fantastic cocktails. It's also a great place to people-watch and soak up the local vibe.

Dancing the Night Away at Armani Privé

If you are looking for a truly luxurious nightlife experience, then Armani Privé is the place to be. This elite club, located in the heart of Milan's fashion district, offers a sophisticated and stylish place to party.
The club has a chic and modern interior design, a fantastic sound system, and a well-stocked bar. The DJ's here play a mix of house, techno, and pop music, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Remember to dress to impress, as the dress code here is strictly upscale.

Cocktail Hunting in Porta Romana

Porta Romana is another district that boasts a lively nightlife scene. The area is particularly known for its cocktail bars, making it a great spot for all the cocktail enthusiasts out there. Most bars in this district are small and cozy, providing a more intimate atmosphere.
A notable venue in Porta Romana is the 'Rita & Cocktails', known for its innovative and delicious cocktails. It's a great place to start or end your evening, or even to just enjoy a nightcap.

LGBTQ+ Nightlife in Milan

Milan is also known for its vibrant and inclusive LGBTQ+ nightlife. The city offers a variety of gay bars, clubs, and events that cater to a diverse crowd. The Porta Venezia district is particularly popular among the LGBTQ+ community.
One of the most famous gay clubs in Milan is Plastic, known for its wild parties and diverse crowd. The club is open on Saturdays and attracts a mix of locals and tourists. Besides Plastic, there are numerous other venues in the city that offer LGBTQ+ friendly nightlife.