Eating Europe: Eating Milan Navigli Food Tour

Eating Europe is a food tour company that runs walking tours in several European cities, and its Milan offering focuses on the Navigli, the canal district south-west of the centre. The Eating Milan Navigli Food and Drinks Tour lasts around three hours, makes five stops and is limited to a maximum of 12 people, which keeps it sociable and allows time to talk to the guide and to the people running each place.

The tour introduces the food culture of Milan and Lombardy rather than generic Italian dishes. Typical tastes in the region include risotto alla milanese coloured with saffron, polenta with gorgonzola from the Lombard countryside, cured meats and cheeses, and desserts such as tiramisu, with Italian wine to accompany them. The exact stops and tastings can change with the season and the availability of partner businesses, so treat the online description as a guide rather than a fixed menu. Food and drinks are included in the price, and the portions add up to a substantial meal.

Walking along the canals between stops is part of the appeal. The guide explains how the Navigli once carried goods and building stone into the city and how the area has changed from working quarter to one of Milan's most popular places to eat and drink. The tour is a good way to get your bearings in a neighbourhood where restaurant quality varies widely, and many guests use it to find places to return to later in their stay.

The tour suits first-time visitors, couples, solo travellers who want company and small groups of friends. Tell the company about dietary needs when booking, as some requirements are easier to accommodate than others. Come hungry, wear comfortable shoes and allow time afterwards for a drink by the water. A private version of the tour is available for families or groups who prefer to book on their own.

Book online through the official website, which gives the meeting point once you reserve. The Navigli are a short walk from the Porta Genova stop on metro line M2. Evening departures are popular, so book a few days ahead, particularly at weekends and in summer.