The best bars in Milan if you fancy a classic aperitivo; or one with a modern twist.

The countdown to the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics is on. If you are planning to be in Milan for the event, or anytime later this year, there is one thing must do. Go for aperitivo

While the same is true for any other destination in Italy, keep in mind that Milan is considered the birthplace of Italy’s famous aperitivo culture. In fact, Milan is the birthplace of most of Italy’s well-known bitters, from Campari to Amaro Ramazotti and Fernet-Branca. Consequently, it is not surprising that many of the most iconic Italian cocktails were originally created in the capital of Lombardy. Thus, it’s only polite to honour the tradition and head out for a pre-diner cocktail.

It goes without saying, you can order a classic Italian aperitivo at any bar or restaurant in the city. But if you are looking for a special aperitivo experience then there is no way around Milan’s most popular spots.

In the unlikely case you are not familiar with this amazing Italian aperitivo, check out my post A quick introduction to the amazing Italian aperitivo culture.

For an even quicker introduction, aperitivo in Italy usually starts around 5pm and wraps up at around 8pm. Aperitivo is not indented as happy hour or a substitution for dinner although almost any bar in Milan will offer either a complimentary snack (few of them) or have a buffet of small bites (most of them) where you can help yourself to a snack or two when ordering an aperitivo.

Below is my list of 15 favourite bars located in various parts of the town.

Bar Camparino, Piazza del Duomo 21 (Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II)

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, itself is one of the most iconic landmarks not to be missed. It’s stunning, it’s stylish, and it is the place to be seen. So, head to Bar Camparino, grab an outside table, order a Campari soda (or whatever you fancy) and watch the people walking by watching you.

Opened in 1915 by no other than legendary Gaspare Campari’s son Davide, Bar Camparino boasted an innovative soda water system that allowed the bartenders to easily mix up a large number of refreshing Campari Soda. The bar was also the first to serve this by now iconic drink, and many claim that the creation of the Campari Soda was the starting point of Italy’s famous aperitivo hour.

Bar Basso, Via Plinio 39

Originally opened in the 1930’s, this iconic bar where in the 1970s the Negroni Spagliato was created by mistake is a place not to be missed. It might not look fancy from the outside, but you will get some of the best cocktails in the whole city here.

Inside, the bar is cozy and quite antique, with its mirrors, chandeliers, and dark wood furnishings. Expect a large menu beyond the Negroni Spagliato, listing round about 500 drinks.

Very popular particularly during Fashion Week and over the weekends while weekdays are usually quieter.

Bar Quadronno, Via Quadronno 34

Loved by Miuccia Prada, founder and head designer of the ominous fashion label and Matthieu Blazy during his days as chef designer at Bottega Veneta (who even named a bag after the place), Bar Quadronno is another of the most iconic bars in the city.

Founded in the early 1960s, the small place has very much preserved its authentic charm. Famously recognized as Milan’s first late-night sandwich shop, Bar Quadronno is still cherished for its high-quality sandwiches while boasting a long list of classic and modern cocktails.

Nottingham Forest, Viale Piave 1

Owned and run by Dario Comino, a celebrated Italian barkeeper, this is easily one of the coolest bars in town, and definitely one of the most talked-about. The cocktails lean on the modern, innovative side, incorporating unexpected ingredients and fashionable garnishing’s.

The inside boasts travel-inspired design, including exotic masks and artifacts which makes the place feeling almost surreal. BTW, the place was named after a bar in Antigua rather than the namesake forest in the UK. 

Make sure to come early as places at this rather smallish place are quickly fill up.

Pasticceria Cucchi, Corso Genova 1

Pasticceria means bakery, and Pasticceria Cucchi is indeed a legendary pastry shop, and hands down one of the best places in town for a coffee and cake in the afternoon. Founded in 1936 it boasts a historic, inviting atmosphere which has attracted artists, writers and locals ever since.

If you fancy to try a handmade panettone or other pastries, or perhaps a special breakfast, this is the best place in town.

Come here after 5pm (the recognized start of the Italian Aperitivo time) and all the cakes are gone. Instead, the counter will be laden with an array of delicious small bits to be enjoyed alongside a classic cocktail.

Terrazza Aperol, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Overlooking Pizza del Duomo, this spot offers perhaps one of the most awesome views of the stunning Cathedral.

The spot is one of the newer ones and forms part of Mercato del Duomo, although the location is quite iconic as it occupies the historic home of the first Caffè Motta (opened in 1928). Today, it is a vibrant rooftop bar, open from 11am to midnight (and 1am on Saturdays).

The flagship cocktail here is the iconic Aperol Spritz but the bar serves any of the classic cocktails rooted in Milan’s history as well.

While popular with locals too, the place is a bit more on the touristy side, and prices reflect this as well. Considering the spectacular and unique view of the Duomo, it’s worthwhile though.

Bar Magenta, Via Giosuè Carducci 13

This place near the Duomo and former Dominican convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie (hosting Leonardo da Vinci’s famous Last Supper painting) is one of the long-established classic aperitivo bars in the city. Inside, Liberty-style décor creates a classic, elegant atmosphere. During the warmer months, the outside spot is the perfect location to see and be seen.

Expect a generous buffet with a wide range of small bits along with expertly mixed classic and modern cocktails.

Mag Café, Ripa di Porta Ticinese 43

Located right along the Naviglio Grande, offering beautiful views over the canal, this spot is particularly popular during the warmer months of the year. Still, if you love to sip a classic cocktail at a place looking vintage and moody, Mag Café is your happy place. Go for a Negroni, which is among the best in town here. Otherwise, Mag Café offers a range of classic cocktails along with some creative twists and new, innovative creations.

Spritz Navigli, Ripa di Porta Ticinese 9

In case you fancy lighter, no-frill cocktails, and relaxed vibes along the Naviglio, this is your place. The classic Aperol Spritz (while not originally from Milan) is the star here, but you can easily order any of the classics.   

Otherwise, expect a classic buffet-style aperitivo with a variety of Italian staples from pizzas, pastas, salads and even desserts.

Bar Jamaica, Via Brera 32

It might sound a bit like a tourist trap, but this place in the bustling Brera district is one of Milan’s most historic spots for aperitivo. Originally founded in 1911, Bar Jamaica quickly turned into a hotspot for artists, writers and intellectuals. 

Bar Jamaica boasts a classic cocktail menu leaning towards the classic Campari cocktail range and served simple yet very traditional Milanese food including focaccia, cotoletta alla Milanese, and pasta dishes.

La Tartina, Via S. Carpoforo 4

If you fancy your cocktails with a side of tasty sandwiches, La Tartina is your place. Locally referred to as ‘tartine’ these small sandwiches with fresh, innovative toppings resemble Spanish tapas or indeed Italian crostini. Otherwise, expect a range of innovative salads, fish and meat dishes.

Cocktails here are excellent too and you can expect a lively crowd.

Deus Café, Via Genova Thaon di Revel, 3

This one is a must for motorcycle afficionados. Located next to the Deus Ex Macchina store in Milan’s popular Isola district it boasts a cool industrial-style design including vintage gas pumps and surfboards.

The drinks menu offers everything from the classics to fun house creations. To go with your drink are charcuterie boards, focaccia, pasta and mini burgers.

A trendy spot with international vibe.

10 Corso Como, Corso Como 10

Fashionistas know what this place is about. Perhaps one of the most famous fashion spots in all of Milan, the drinks here are as stylish and top-notch as the crowd that will you encounter. Expect the classics like Negroni and Spritz along with a refined selection of small bites.

Make sure to come in time to fit in a tour around the design and fashion shops of 10 Corso Como before they close.

Associazione Salumi e Vini Naturali, Corso Garibaldi 41

This hidden gem is the perfect place if you fancy a glass of wine board over a cocktail.

Located in the Brera district, Associazione Salumi e Vini Naturali is indeed a classic enoteca featuring over 600 lables of natural wines. Classic charcuterie boards and focaccia are the perfect pairing.

This is one of the few aperitivo spots where you can reserve a place, so take advantage!

Rumore Bar at Portrait Milano, Corso Venezia 1

Possibly one of the most expensive, but the stylish Rumore bar located within the Ferragamo-owned Portrait Milano hotel is without doubt one of the trendiest spots to sip your aperitivo in the whole city right now.

Named in honour of famous Italian singer Raffaella Carrà and her popular song ‘rumore’, the atmosphere is part American Bar, part refined Italian charm. Think velvet, large mirrors, polished marble, wood and even a disco ball!

The bar serves modern interpretations of the classics and creative inventions inspired by film, music and poetry while you will also find a wide range of famous and niche Champagne labels.

The spot usually fills up quickly, despite the price tag, so make sure to reserve your spot well in advance.

So, if you are headed to Milan, make sure to plan your itinerary to include at least one aperitivo. After a day spend sightseeing or shopping, this is the perfect way to unwind and get ready for dinner.