As the world’s fashion capital, drinking in Milan is a stylish and sophisticated affair.
The same can be said for its iteration of 'Happy Hour' - elsewhere in the world, you'll be throwing back 2-4-1 or discounted cocktails as a liquid dinner, and maybe you'll get to choose from a limited menu of small plates if you're lucky.
Meanwhile, the chic Milanese Aperitivo (it even sounds better than happy hour!) involves a choice of cocktails, spritzers, wine, or beer each and each glass arrives accompanied by delicious treats – charcuterie, focaccia and pasta are some of the delights served with an Aperol spritz or piña colada.
We've rounded up our favourite places to drink across Milan for your next aperitivo hour or night out.
Pandenus Tadino...for cocktails
In the Lazzaretto district, north of Giardini Pubblici, is a bakery that turns into a thriving bar in the evening, with great service and cocktails to see yourself into the night.
Via Alessandro Tadino, 15, 20124 Milano MI, Italy
Bar Magenta...for aperitivo
Special for its electric, bohemian atmosphere – the interior is nothing spectacular, so head outside and take advantage of its great aperitivo – 2 cocktails for 12€ with Italian bites included.
Via Giosuè Carducci, 13, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
Vinoir...for a wine
A beloved wine bar in Navigli, Vinoir is a cool hangout spot overlooking the Naviglia Grande.
Ripa di Porta Ticinese, 93b, 20143 Milano MI, Italy
Cantine Isola...for even more wine
In the heart of Chinatown you'll find this Milan-renowned wine bar, with a clientele ranging from 18 to 80. More senior patrons take the tables at the back – but don't worry, Nonna isn't there to judge! Take up a spot at the dark-wooded bar, ogle at the jaw-dropping volume of wine opposite, and order a glass of locally-produced red or white with a plate of bruschetta - you'll feel like you’ve been in Cantine Isola all your life.
Via Arnolfo di Cambio, 1A, 20154 Milano MI, Italy
Nottingham Forest...for out-of-this-world cocktails
A world-renowned cocktail bar in stylish Ponte Monforte, Nottingham Forest is more like a laboratory than a bar. Experimental cocktails use smoke, smells and bunsen burners to accentuate as the taste sensation. Vibrant décor and fun cocktail glasses makes Nottingham Forest a completely different drinking experience in Milan and one you should definitely go out of your way to find.
Viale Piave, 1, 20129 Milano MI, Italy
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