Advertisement

Water Sports (non-boat) in Milan

Milan isn’t what most people expect when it comes to water sports, but if you know where to look, there’s quite a bit happening beyond just lounging by the canals. The city’s network of canals, especially around Navigli, turns into a hub for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) during the warmer months. I’ve lost count of how many evenings I spent paddling as the sun set over old bridges and small bars lighting up the water’s edge.

If you want a break from city vibes, head to Idroscalo, just a short ride out of Milan’s center. It’s this artificial lake originally built for seaplanes, but nowadays it’s a favorite spot for windsurfing, kayaking, and even wakeboarding if you’re feeling adventurous. Don’t expect ocean waves – it’s calm and flat water, great for learning or just relaxing on a kayak for an hour or two.

One tip: Midweek afternoons at Idroscalo tend to be quieter. You’ll dodge the weekend rush and get more space to enjoy. And if you’re visiting in winter, well, water sports slow down but locals switch to ice skating nearby or grab an espresso at the place overlooking the lake. Milan’s water sports scene might fly under the radar, but for those who like mixing culture with a bit of splash, it’s worth the effort.
Part of the My Guide Network Since 2006 180+ destinations
Search by Map

A local’s take on water sports

If you ask me, Idroscalo is worth carving out a morning or afternoon for. Not only can you try wakeboarding or kayaking, but the atmosphere is just chill enough to remind you you’re close to a big city, but not inside its hustle. Plus, there’s a small bar nearby with decent coffee and sometimes live music in summer. I remember going after a long weekday meeting,paddling on the lake made everything feel way less serious.

If you stick to the canals, go early or late in the day to avoid the tourist crush and tiny tourist boats. And if you’re feeling brave, rent a paddleboard yourself. It might be a bit awkward at first, but you’ll be rewarded with a unique view of Milan’s historic side better than any walking tour can offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about Milan’s water sports scene? Here are a few answers you might find useful.

Absolutely! The Navigli canals often have SUP rentals, especially in summer. Just be ready to share space with kayaks and rowers, and don’t expect huge waves – it’s all about calm paddling and soaking up the views.

That’d be Idroscalo, sometimes called Milan’s 'sea' by locals. It’s a manageable 20-minute bike or tram ride from the city center and has dedicated zones for wakeboarding and windsurfing, plus gear rental if you don’t have your own.

Yes, especially around Navigli and Idroscalo. There are several places renting kayaks, SUP boards, and gear. Booking ahead during weekends is smart though, as spots fill up quickly in warmer months.

Definitely. The calm canals and Idroscalo’s flat lake waters make for ideal beginner conditions. Plus, many rental places offer quick intro lessons or pointers if you ask.

Late spring through early autumn is your best bet. I’d say May to September when the weather’s warmer and water conditions are comfortable. In winter, it’s too chilly for most water activities.

Explore Things To Do Categories

City Tours (1760 places) If you want to get a real feel for Milan, joining a city tour can be one of the best ways to see it. But don’t expect just the usual spots like the Duomo or Galleria Vittorio Emanuele , some tours take you through lesser-known neighborhoods like Isola or the Navigli canals, where locals actually hang out in the… Explore
Family-Friendly Experiences (1368 places) Planning time in Milan with the kids? You're in luck,there’s more than just the Duomo and fashion here. The city actually has plenty of spots where little ones won’t be bored stiff. Take Parco Sempione, for example. It’s huge, with plenty of green space for running, a pond with ducks, and even a small playground… Explore
Attractions & Tickets (1224 places) Milan’s got way more to offer than the Duomo and the Last Supper, though those are great starting points. You’ll want to book tickets early if you’re set on seeing Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece at Santa Maria delle Grazie , they sell out fast, especially in spring and fall. And don’t overlook the chance to climb to… Explore
Cultural Tours (1128 places) If you want to feel Milan beyond the surface, cultural tours here are the way to go. It isn’t just about ticking art galleries or the Duomo off your list , it’s walking in the footsteps of old Milanese, hearing stories only a local would know, and maybe sharing a gelato in a tucked-away piazza. Take a stroll through… Explore
Heritage Sites (1100 places) Milan's heritage sites aren't just old buildings standing still in time. They’re stories you can touch. Take Castello Sforzesco, for example. It’s huge and filled with unexpected quiet corners away from the crowds where you can almost hear echoes of dukes and artists. And the way the sunlight filters through the… Explore
Historical Landmarks (1084 places) Milan isn’t just Italy’s fashion capital, it’s a city where history rubs shoulders with daily life in the most unexpected ways. You can’t talk about landmarks here without starting at the Duomo. It’s more than a cathedral – scale the rooftop for views that feel like a secret shared only with locals. But don’t skip the… Explore
Tastings (1032) • Guided Walks (950) • Private Tours (926) • Museums (674) •

Top Things To Do in Milan

See All →

Top Things To Do in Milan

Click to See All

Trusted local guides, read by millions every month

  • 2006 online since
  • 26.2M page views a month across the network
  • 14 languages

180+ destination guides, one network

Every guide covers a single destination on its own website, with events, restaurants, things to do and places to stay chosen from local recommendations.

My Guide Network Locations

Nearby Destinations

Also nearby: My Guide French RivieraMy Guide MunichMy Guide Slovenia

See all destinations

Add to your trip
Day {[{day.day}]} {[{day.dateFormat}]}
MorningAfternoonEvening

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.

Add to day {[{trip.popover.day}]}Add to trip Cancel
Added to your trip Added to day {[{trip.toast.day}]}, MorningAfternoonEvening Saved to your trip Already in your trip Transfer saved to your trip Save your trip to get fresh suggestions Staying in {[{trip.toast.label}]} Base cleared Trip deleted Link copied Could not save your trip Something went wrong, please try again