Milan is also known by the nickname “Milan to drink“. From this you can easily understand that, in Milan, the aperitif is a real must for the evening. In the late afternoon, wherever you are, you can meet people, seated at a table, while sipping a drink with friends, accompanied by a few snacks. Read on to discover the best cocktail bars in Milan.

The most popular drinks are the classic Aperol Spritz or the stronger and less sweet Campari Spritz (the spritz, made with Aperol or Campari, Prosecco and soda) and the Negroni — composed of gin, vermouth and Campari.

The Milanese capital is full of places ready to welcome customers from all over the world with their ever-changing specialities, concepts, and atmospheres. Whether you’re looking for a taste of the traditional or the modern (or a little bit of both), here are our best cocktail bars in Milan for an aperitivo.

Bar Martini -Corso Venezia, 15

Chic and sophisticated to the right point, the Martini Bar is the result of the synergy between Martini and Dolce & Gabbana, who have created a glamorous corner in the city that offers customers a complete sensory experience. The air is international, and the lunches, aperitifs, and dinners in the beautiful courtyard have the flavours and colours of Mediterranean cuisine, plus some imaginative touch of the chef.

Fonderie Milanesi- Via Giovenale, 7

Here, nothing is left to chance. With a refined style and keen attention to detail, this haunt is far from the usual clichés and hopes to make people feel at home in their living room. The inner courtyard offers a charming atmosphere where climbing ivy, lanterns, and hanging lights surround you while you savour a drink or enjoy a glass of wine, helping you to forget that you are in the middle of the city.

Al Cortile -Via Giovenale, 7

A hidden treasure conceived by the Food Genius Academy on the occasion of EXPO 2015. It is a 200-square-meter loft that even houses showrooms for emerging artists, architects, and designers.

Here, to satisfy your hunger, the best students of the Academy take care of it from the kitchen. Once they have finished their studies, they join the brigade, according to the application of the “learning by doing” method of learning.

Terrazza di Maison Moschino, Hotel Moschino-Viale Monte Grappa 12

Super chic and very fashion. The terrace of the Moschino hotel was opened in 2014 as a place for an aperitivo.
The Moschino Terrace is a strictly summertime locale; every night, there is a great aperitivo with high-quality finger foods, lounge music and a well-frequented atmosphere. The Moschino terrace’s aperitivo is a must-try during the Summer.

Ceresio 7 – Via Ceresio 7

Trendy, 1950’s Vintage, popular place to spot local celebs. Lounge by the rooftop pools and enjoy panoramic views of the city. There’s nothing like watching the sunset after a long day and dipping your feet in the pool while sipping a cocktail.

Wait staff bring the aperitivo to you while you relax and catch up with good friends. And yes – as long as you’re in good company, the pretentious divas could fall off the roof for all you care. To truly experience the vibe of Milan, a cocktail here is a must.