Discover the Best Cocktail Bars in Milan: An Insider’s Guide

Last Updated on September 27, 2025 by spritzience

Discover the Top 20 Cocktail Bars in Milan: An Insider’s Guide

Milan is a city that takes its cocktails seriously, there is no shortage of incredible bars to choose from. To help you choose we at Spritzience created an insider’s guide to the top 20 cocktail bars in Milan. These bars offer unique experiences and exceptional cocktail lists.

From the best outdoor cocktail oasis to unmatched pool views and vibrant cocktails, these bars have something for everyone. Don’t miss out on aperitivo snacks worth savoring and the iconic design and ambiance of some of Milan’s most stylish cocktail bars.

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What makes Milan Cocktail Culture Unique?

The city’s cultural heritage, fashion capital status, and vibrant nightlife have all played a role in shaping the cocktail culture in Milan. The influence of Italian craftsmanship and attention to detail can be seen in the artistry and presentation of cocktails in Milan’s bars. The city’s history of innovation and creativity has also influenced the experimental and unique cocktails found in its cocktail bars.

My favorite thing is that Milanese bartenders make true cocktails using innovative mixology, to create original and creative cocktails. What do I mean by true cocktails? Well, Milan’s bars tend to employ real bar men who know how to mix a great cocktail, they take their time to might it right, from muddling and shaking to layering and garnishing, each step is carefully executed to enhance the flavors and presentation of the cocktail. High-quality spirits, fresh fruits and herbs, homemade syrups, are just some of the ingredients used in Milan’s top cocktails.

These barmen do what it takes to create a great cocktail, it’s not about slinging out cocktails as fast they can like I so often experienced in NYC. This is a city where cocktails are invented (the negroni sbagliato at Bar Basso) along with the liquor to make them (Campari used in the famous Camparino Bar).

What makes cocktail bars in Milan stand out as the best?

It’s a mix of a great ambiance, creativity in cocktail recipes, exceptional service, attention to detail in presentation, and a unique theme or concept.

Cocktail Bars in Milan – Best Outdoor Cocktail Oasis

One of the highlights of Milan’s cocktail scene is the abundance of outdoor cocktail bars where you can enjoy your favorite drinks in a beautiful setting. Here are some of the best outdoor cocktail bars in Milan:

• Diana Garden: Inside the Sheraton Diana Majestic, what makes this bar standout is its hugh windows that open up onto an oasis like garden complete with water features and high end comfy outdoor couches. One of my favorite things about this bar is that they have a resident DJ who is generally spinning from 6-10 pm most nights. They also offer a great Jazz Brunch on Sundays once a month.
• Mandarin Garden: Located in the Mandarin Oriental luxury hotel, this cocktail bar offers an oasis of sophistication and elegance. The lush garden courtyard provides a magical atmosphere for enjoying refined signature cocktails themed “around the world”.
• Tommasi Milano: This laid back bar is a great spot for people watching on sunny afternoon. They’ve done a great job converting a town square into an outdoor bar, with comfy seats and lots of plants, making it a great spot to also admire the architecture of the turn of the 19th century buildings nearby.

Aperitivo Snacks Worth Savoring

Pasticcerias

No visit to Milan’s cocktail scene would be complete without savoring the delicious aperitivo snacks that accompany your drinks. Here are some must-try options:

• Biffi: A pasticceria beloved by Milanese since it opened in 1847. What I like about this spot is that they still display all the finger foods for aperitivo on the bar, on silver platters, while the waiters in white jackets and bow ties sling cocktails. There’s an air of old school elegance as you look at the antique wooden bar and crystal chandeliers, it feels so dolce vita to me.
• Caffe Carlino: Another pasticceria in Milan, with great cocktails and bow tie clad waiters – while the eating area is modern floor to ceiling glass, their is a nostalgic feel with the home made aperitivi snacks served up on 3 tiered silver tea trays. When I want to have quality aperitivi snacks – this is my go to place. I also like to pick up some of the bite size desserts and ice cream cakes – like you’ve never seen before for dessert later.
• Cova Montenapoleone: If you want to follow in the steps of Ernest Hemingway this your spot. If you enjoyed “A Farewell to Arms” you might remember that the main character goes to the Cova for snacks while he was convalescing…and now you can to. Cova has a delightful back garden where you can enjoy an apertif with their home made snacks, or enjoy a coffee at the bar near the main entry.

Cocktail Bars

• Rita’s Tiki Room: Walk inside this Navigli institution and you’ll feel like you’re entering a glamourous tiki bar. With a range of delicious tiki drinks, served up in unique tiki glasses this is my favorite place to come when I’m feeling blue and need a bit of a pick me up. Don’t miss aperitivo from 18 to 21, where a tray of snacks accompanies your drink.

Cocktail Bars in Milan

Fashion and Shoe Designers Have Their Day

Exploring Milan’s cocktail bars is not just about the drinks, but also about immersing yourself in the city’s design culture. These bars are carefully designed to create a specific atmosphere, making them the perfect backdrop for a night out with friends or a romantic evening. Whether you’re a design enthusiast or simply appreciate beautiful spaces, Milan’s cocktail bars are sure to impress.

• Dolce & Gabbana Martini: Hidden through an arch, you’ll want to discover the many rooms of this design bar. It starts out in a glass enclosed garden, with 3 meter long chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, flanked by lemon trees…and the rest you need to explore for your self. Enjoy a range of innovative cocktails, aptly named “martini jewels” as you people watch and enjoy drinks and food served up by Dolce & Gabbana clad waiters. Reservations are a must.
• 10-11 Portrait Milano: 500 years ago, St. Charles Borromeo built a seminary was for the Archepiscopals, with grand colonnaded walls and an immense courtyard closed off from the city by magnificent arches. Today, you can enter what the Ferragamo’s (Ferragamo Group) have turned into the Portrait Hotel, with its’ 10-11 bar, named for the entrances on Via Sant Andrea 10 and Corso Venezia 11. Outside of the amazing architecture of the building itself, I love wandering the halls down to the bathrooms to see an immense photo gallery of Salvatore Ferragamo making shoes and sharing them with everyone from Hollywood Royalty to European Royals. Plus sitting at the bar, you can’t help taking in the timeless elegance of the design work to create this unique location.

Other Design Forward Cocktail Bars

• GinO12: Tucked away in a hidden corner of Navigli, GinO12 is a mecca for gin lovers. With its long metallic bar and exposed red brick walls, GinO12 offers a wide selection of gins from around the world, making it the perfect place to enjoy a refreshing spritz.
• Sogni: Brings back memories of early 20th century high design with its fabulous zinc and wood bar, and oversize burnished mirrors. It’s like stepping into a sitting room of that fancy famous long lost aunt or uncle you always wished you had, and having their butler pop out to take an order for pre-dinner drinks. Except that here the mixologist makes the drinks, and he pours so much creativity in, that you’ll find new cocktails you’ve probably never tried before, such as the Desiderio– made with bulleit, popcorn, carpano russo vermouth and fusetti bitters , or the Inconsscio- with grey goose, bread, mediterranean dyeing and datterino tomato water.

Cocktail Bars in Milan- The Ultimate Spritz Venues

The Historical Ones

No trip to Milan’s cocktail scene would be complete without indulging in the city’s love for the spritz. Here are some of the best venues to enjoy this iconic drink:

• Bar Basso: Famous for its Negroni Sbagliato, Bar Basso is a legendary Milanese institution. The lively atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails make it a must-visit for any spritz enthusiast. Don’t forget to raise a glass to Mirko Stocchetto, the chief barman who invented the Negroni Sbagliato, in 1972. This cocktail, made with prosecco instead of gin, has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
• Camparino: Back in 1867, Gaspare Campari -the inventor of Campari, opened the Caffe Campari in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele 11, just across from the Duomo. While this caffe no longer exists, the good news is that Mr. Campari’s son, Davide opened the Camparino in 1915 just across from his father’s caffe. The liberty furnishing, iconic mosaics and art nouveau bar are still intact and serving up Campari spritzes for a standing room only crowd. For a table, visit the modern upstairs, during aperitivo time and enjoy a silver tiered tray packed with goodies and an iconic cocktail such as a Campari Seltz or a Negroni Shakerato. Reservations are a good here.

Recent Openings

• Cordusio Garden: Recently opened in winter ’24, this is the fabulous new lobby bar inside the Gran Melia hotel. Amazing crystal chandeliers hang over this indoor garden complete with a white marble bar, inside a historical building from the early 1800s a block or 2 away from the Duomo. There are plenty of spritz options, such as the Barbera Spritz – made with Barbera Nizza DOCG-Gusti, pomegranate, mancino vermouth and perrier. And because bartender GianCarlo Mancino, a partner of “The World’s 50 Best Bars” created the cocktail menu you’re sure to find some unique cocktails to enjoy.

A Cocktail + A View of Milan

Unmatched Pool Views and Vibrant Cocktails

For those looking for a unique and unforgettable cocktail experience, Milan offers bars with unmatched pool views and vibrant cocktails. Here are some hidden gems to explore:

• Ceresio 7: Dean and Dan Caten of DSquared Fashion fame, helped turn the Iconic Enel building roof into a fashionistas dream pool bar. Enjoy an aperitif poolside or book a cabana and to take in the views and enjoy the glamourous people watching.
• Il Mirador: At the top of the 21 House of Stories hotel, this bar has a panaromic view a few steps away from the Navigli, ancient canals built by Leonardo da Vinci, used to ferry goods including the marble for the Duomo into the city center of Milan. Serving up a range of Mediterranean inspired tiki drinks, we like the Blue Hawaiian – with Rumpbliz white Blend, pineapple, coconut, blue curacao and lime.

Cocktail Bars in Milan – Rooftops with Panoramic City Views

For the best views of Milan’s stunning skyline, head to one of the city’s rooftop bars. Here are some top recommendations:

• Radio Rooftop Bar: Great Djs frequently spin here while you relax on design inspired furniture and take in the city views.
• The Roof Milano: Striking views of the Milan skyline from this spacious terrace wrapping around a city block of the roof.

The Charm of Vintage Inspired Hideaways

Step back in time with a visit to one of Milan’s vintage-inspired hideaways. These bars offer a nostalgic charm and a lounge-like atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a cocktail in a stylish setting. Here are some top recommendations:

• Backdoor43: A totally unique offering from the boys of MAG Café. Backdoor43 is known as the smallest bar in the world. Book your private bar for 1 hour at time, and the bartender will great and welcome you in. He’ll speak to you about your preferences to create cocktails uniquely for you. Invite your besties, and enjoy choosing the music for your private bar. Just be sure to curate your guest list as the bar has space for 3 people.
• Botanical Club: Great cocktails in the Isola neighborhood.
• The Doping Club: The Doping Club offers a dark and nostalgic atmosphere. The decor makes guests feel like they’ve stepped back in time. This exclusive bar serves refined, dandy-themed cocktails that are sure to impress. If the Great Gatsby had a decorator, this is what he would have created. Enjoy wandering through the mini rooms of the bar to take in a vintage titanic ship. Or gaze at cupboards of silver trophy cups and other chic vintage items. Seats range from vintage wooden movie theater seats to plush couches. Plus when there’s a breeze, the bar roof opens or fully retracts. What’s better than sip your cocktails while enjoying some fresh air?
• Officina Milano: This exclusive bar near the Navigli and Porta Ticinese offers a cocktail menu that combines vintage soul with cosmopolitan inspirations. Enjoy the unique decor and cool atmosphere in this former garage.
• Rumore: Vintage inspired decor created as a tribute to the Italian singer Raffaella Carra and her song “Rumore” (noise). Check on weekends for jazz bands, and lounge singers. Ensure to prebook your table.

A Guide to Milanese Aperitivo Culture

The art of pre-dinner drinks, known as aperitivo in Italy, is a cherished tradition in Milan. It’s a time when locals gather at their favorite cocktail bars to socialize, relax, and enjoy a drink or two before dinner. Aperitivo time typically starts around 6 or 7 pm and lasts until around 8 pm. During this time, bars offer special menus with a wide variety of drinks and small bites to accompany them. Here are some key points to keep in mind about Milan’s aperitivo culture:

• Milanese cocktail bars often offer a buffet-style spread of appetizers and snacks to complement the drinks.
• Aperitivo menus feature a range of cocktails. From classic Italian aperitifs like the Aperol Spritz to innovative concoctions created by talented bartenders.
• Milan’s cocktail bars take pride in their aperitivo offerings, with each bar putting their own twist on the tradition.

So, the next time you visit Milan, make sure to immerse yourself in the art of pre-dinner drinks. And experience the vibrant aperitivo culture that the city has to offer

What Are the Must-Try Local Ingredients in Milanese Cocktails?

Milanese cocktails often feature local ingredients that add a unique twist to the drinks. Some must-try local ingredients include:

• Campari: a bitter liqueur that is a key ingredient in many classic Italian cocktails.
• Vermouth: a fortified wine infused with various botanicals, commonly used in aperitivo cocktails.
• Citrus fruits: Milan’s sunny climate produces delicious oranges and lemons. These are often used to add a refreshing twist to cocktails.

Looking for More Cocktail Inspiration?

I’ve often wondered- what makes for the best spritz aperitivo? Is it the bartender’s knowledge of mixology, the location where you’re enjoying the spritz. Or it could it be the aperitivo snacks that come with it to make it a spritz aperitivo? Or is it the company you’re with and the people watching? Came along with me on my Journey to The Best Spritz Aperitivo On Lake Como.

If you’re anything like me, the mere thought of indulging in a rich, velvety chocolate beverage makes your heart skip a beat. Check out our Ultimate Guide To the best European Chocolate Turin, Italy. We not only take you inside artisanal chocolate factories, but cover our favorite spots for Chocolate Drinks.

Planning A Trip to Milan

Start with my Milan Italy Travel Guide — it’s the overview page where I break down neighborhoods, logistics, and how to plan a trip that actually works.

Cocktail Bars in Milan – Resources

• Backdoor 43: Ripa di Porta Ticenese 43, Milano 20143 (Use their facebook page to book)
• Botanical Club Pastrengo: Via Pastrengo 11, Milano 20159, +39 02 365 23 846
• Camparino in Galleria: Piazza del Duomo 21, Milano 20121, +39 02 864 64435
• Ceresio 7: Via Ceresio 7, Milano 20154, +39 02 31039 221
• Cova Montenapoleone: Via Monte Napoleone 8, Milano 20121, +39 02 7600 5599
• DG Martini (Dolce & Gabbana): Corso Venezia 15, Milano 20121, +39 02 7601 1154
• Doping Bar: Piazza Ventiquattro Maggio 8, Milano 20123, +39 02 8941 5901
• Diana Garden: Viale Piave 42, Milano 20129, +39 02 2058 2081
• Giardino Cordusio (inside the Gran Melia Hotel), Piazza Cordusio 2, 20123, +39 351 366 7099
• Gin 012, Alzaia Naviglio Grande 12, Milano 20144, +39 02 8942 2261
• Il Mirador, Via Ascanio Sforza 7, Milano 20136, +39 02 890 79880
• LuBar: Via Palestro 16, Milano 20121, +39 02 83527769
• Officina Milano, Via Giovenale 7, Milano 20136, +39 392 860 0000
• Radio Rooftop Bar: Via Marco Polo 18, Milano 20124, +39 02 8422 0108
• Rita’s Tiki Room: Ripa di Porta Ticense 69, Milano 20143, +39 02 8355 5017
• Rumore (inside the Portrait Hotel), Corso Venezia 11, Milano 20121, +39 02 8688 2332
• Sogni: Via S. Calocero 8, Milano 20123, +39 02 4547 2909
• 10_11 (inside the Portrait Hotel), Via Sant’ Andrea 10, Milano 20121, +39 02 3679 95 850
• The Roof Milano (inside the Square Hotel): Via Alberico Albricci 2/4, Milano, +39 02 885 7900
• Tommasi Milano, Piazzo Giovine Italia 2, Milano 20123, +39 02 495 24 170