SUP on the Navigli: a wellness retreat in Milan

Imagine gliding softly along Milan’s historic canals, feeling the city’s buzz fade into tranquility as you paddle on a stand-up paddleboard (SUP). For around $55.80 per person, you can enjoy a 1.5 to 3-hour guided experience that’s as much about reconnecting with yourself as it is about exploring Milan’s waterways. Led by friendly guides, this tour takes you through the famous Navigli district, a place where urban energy meets serene waters—a perfect setting for a relaxing break from city life.

What we love most? First, the combination of gentle movement and mindful relaxation—it’s a surprisingly accessible way to slow down and tune into your surroundings. Second, the unique perspective on Milan’s history and architecture from the water offers a fresh, peaceful view that you simply can’t get from the busy streets. The only thing to keep in mind is that, while no experience is needed, balance and comfort on a paddleboard do matter, so expect a slow, easy-paced adventure.

This experience suits anyone looking for a different way to experience Milan, whether you’re a curious traveler, a nature lover, or someone seeking a mindful moment. It’s especially good if you appreciate authentic local atmospheres and want a break from typical sightseeing. The small-group format, with guides who are attentive and knowledgeable, makes it intimate and engaging.

Key Points

• Unique Water Perspective: Enjoy Milan’s historic canals from the calm of the water, a perspective few travelers get to experience.
• Mindfulness and Relaxation: Combining paddling with guided meditation helps you unwind and reconnect.
• No Experience Needed: The tour is suitable for beginners; the instructor explains all safety and paddling basics.
• Cultural Touch: Visit the Associazione Nazionale Marinai d’Italia to explore maritime artifacts and traditions.
• Inclusive and Flexible: Equipment is provided, and you can change comfortably at the meeting point.
• Authentic Small Group: Guides are attentive, adding a personal touch that enhances your experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Location and Setting

The tour begins at the Darsena, a lively part of Milan where the city’s waterways converge. From this hub, you’ll be led to the Naviglio Grande, a historic canal lined with charming cafes, old warehouses, and vibrant street art. As you paddle, you’ll notice how the urban landscape softens—the noise of traffic diminishes, replaced by the gentle lapping of water and the sights of traditional boat houses and scenic bridges.

This area is a favorite among locals for its lively atmosphere and hidden corners. On the water, you’ll get a rare sense of peace that’s often missing in the bustling city streets. The water’s stillness makes it an ideal spot for beginners, with the instructor offering clear guidance to ensure everyone feels comfortable.

The Itinerary: From Welcome to Relaxation

Welcome and Introduction

The tour kicks off at the Associazione Nazionale Marinai d’Italia, where you’re welcomed and given a brief overview. We found this part charming—it’s a window into Italy’s maritime past, with artifacts and stories that add context and depth to your experience. It’s a nice way to start, grounding you before you get on the water.

Equipment and Safety Briefing

Next, your instructor walks you through basic paddling techniques and safety rules. All equipment—SUP boards, paddles, and life jackets—are provided. The instructor’s friendly approach makes it easy for beginners; they emphasize staying relaxed, which is key to enjoying SUP. We appreciated that no previous experience is necessary, but you should be prepared to take it slow.

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Paddle along the Navigli

Once on the water, the real fun begins. The guided paddle takes you through calm waters, where you can admire the architecture, bridges, and natural scenery. The pace is gentle, allowing you to take in the atmosphere and perhaps snap a few photos. Several reviews noted how much they enjoyed seeing the city from this peaceful vantage point, with one traveler mentioning how the contrast between urban dynamism and tranquility was striking.

Mindfulness Session

Midway, you’ll be invited onto your SUP for a relaxing meditation. Floating on water naturally encourages mindfulness, and the guide gently leads you through simple breathing and relaxation exercises. One reviewer highlighted how “Stefano made the trip so memorable,” noting the calming effect of the meditation on the water. It’s designed to be accessible, even for those who’ve never practiced meditation before.

Herbal Tea and Reflection

The tour ends with a warm herbal tea, sipped while seated on your paddleboard or at the water’s edge. This is a relaxing moment to reflect on your experience, enjoy the connection to nature, and savor some local flavors. The tea and peaceful setting make for a gentle conclusion to what is both a sporty and introspective outing.

What Makes It Special?

• Historic and Cultural Insights: Visiting the Associazione Nazionale Marinai d’Italia adds a special touch, blending history with the physical activity. You learn about Italy’s maritime traditions, giving context to the water you’re paddling on.
• Authentic Experience: The small group and attentive guides ensure personalized attention, making the experience feel intimate and relaxed.
• Wellness Focus: The combination of paddling, mindfulness, and herbal tea creates a holistic, calming experience perfect for stress reduction.

Considerations and Tips

While the experience is designed to be accessible, keep in mind that balance and comfort on a paddleboard are important. If you’re especially unsteady or prone to motion sickness, it might be worth considering how you’ll feel floating on water for a couple of hours. Also, weather conditions can affect the experience—on very windy or rainy days, the paddle might be less smooth, so check the forecast.

It’s also worth noting that smartphones should be set aside during the tour to allow full immersion and mindfulness. The guide will take photos for you, so don’t worry about missing pictures.

Absolutely, if you’re looking for a different way to explore Milan, this SUP experience offers a blend of culture, nature, and relaxation that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s especially good for travelers who want more than just city sights—a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and see the city from a fresh perspective. The reviews consistently praise the guides, particularly Stefano, for their professionalism and friendly demeanor, which enhances the overall value and comfort of the tour.

For those with a curiosity for local traditions and maritime history, or simply seeking a peaceful break amid a busy trip, this activity delivers a memorable and authentic experience. It’s also ideal for groups or families, since it’s suitable for all ages and skill levels.

This SUP tour on Milan’s Navigli district is a well-balanced outing that combines mild sport, mindfulness, and local culture. The small-group setting and expert guidance ensure that everyone, regardless of experience, can enjoy the water and relax fully. The cost reflects good value for a thoughtfully curated activity that offers more than just paddling—it’s about rediscovering Milan from a peaceful, water-based vantage point.

While it may not suit those looking for high-adventure or intense physical activity, it’s perfect for travelers craving a gentle, culturally-rich escape. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this experience provides a distinctive, calming perspective on Milan’s vibrant life.

Is prior paddleboarding experience necessary? No, the tour is suitable for beginners. The instructor provides a safety briefing and basic paddling instructions, making it accessible even if you’ve never been on a SUP before.

What should I wear? No special clothing is required, but comfortable attire like a tracksuit or sports leggings is recommended. You can change at the meeting point’s facilities.

How long does the tour last? The experience lasts between 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on availability and your group’s pace. Check the starting times when booking.

Will I get wet or need to swim? While the tour is on calm waters, you’ll be wearing a life jacket, and falling in is unlikely but always a small possibility. It’s best to be comfortable with water safety basics.

Can I bring my phone or camera? To fully enjoy the experience, it’s recommended to set your smartphone aside during paddling. The guide offers to take photos and videos for you.

What is the meeting point? The tour begins at the Darsena, Milan, at the Associazione Nazionale Marinai d’Italia, a convenient and scenic starting spot.

Is the herbal tea included? Yes, the tour concludes with a warm herbal tea, adding to the feeling of relaxation.

In all, this water-focused activity offers a peaceful, enriching way to explore Milan—perfect for those who want to see the city from a new angle, slow down, and enjoy a touch of mindful calm amidst urban life.

You can check availability for your dates here: