The famous “Milano da bere” advertisement from the 1980s, with its background music by the Weather Report’s Birdland, has become a well-known reference about Milan. It’s an aspect of the city that visitors often associate with, especially when it comes to its bustling business and social scene, rather than tourism alone.

Covering all aspects comprehensively without being mundane is challenging because the offerings are so diverse. There’s a plethora of magazines that list events and attractions in the city, usually available for free from numerous local stands. Milan brims with significant events and activities, particularly during specific times like Fashion Week and the Salone del Mobile. This latter event, having celebrated its 50-year anniversary, is one of the world’s most renowned furniture design exhibitions, attracting nearly 280,000 visitors, with 180,000 from abroad. During these periods, the array of shows, events, and exhibits is incredibly varied and alluring. Certain bars and city sections transform and host their events, becoming known to many international visitors during these times. However, you might wonder what these bars offer outside the “Salone del Mobile” period.

Here’s an itinerary of must-visit places in Milan that hold their appeal year-round, not just during the show. If you visit Milan off-season, you’ll experience these spots with fewer crowds or set the stage for another trip in April to compare. Start with the design bars at the Triennale of Milan, a well-known destination. Your journey could begin at the Triennale in Milan, located in the Palace of Art of Sempione Park (via Alemagna 6). While exploring the exhibitions—some of which are free and others with a fee and open until 10 PM—you can visit the DesignCafé inside, which features 54 different chairs crafted by various designers. Choose the one that suits you best. If weather permits, check out the Fiat Café in the garden, which stays open until 11:30 PM during summer. The park also offers unique seating, like a bronze armchair by Gaetano Pesce, which might be quite hot under the summer sun.

Milan’s nightlife kicks off early with the traditional aperitif. One iconic spot is the Basso Bar (Via Plinio 39), a historic temple of Milanese aperitifs known for inventing international cocktails like the Eat & Drink (ice cream with fresh fruit and liquor) and the Wrong Negroni (with sparkling wine instead of gin). The Salone del Mobile is a prime time for designers to meet, and though the bar usually closes on Tuesdays, it often stays open for private parties during this period. Such a tradition began in 1999 with a private gathering hosted by Maurice Stocchetti, welcoming about a thousand guests, including notable figures like Simon Le Bon.

The concept of happy hour, loved by some and less so by others, extends the Milanese aperitif tradition where you can often eat more than just snacks—it sometimes replaces dinner with main courses available. During the Salone, Tortona near Porta Genova becomes the epicenter, though crowds explore everywhere from Navigli to Corso Como, known for its trendy nightlife. Historic bars like the Bar Magenta (Via Carducci, 13) also get busy. Some less-known spots are worth checking out too, such as the Art Factory (Via Andrea Doria 17) and the Golden Temple (23 via delle leghe), which offer hearty buffets and stay open late.

The Milan Furniture Fair primarily occurs at the Milan Fair in Rho, but it affects the entire city. Besides dining spots, the Fuorisalone is a significant event, promoting the idea that “the show is outside!” This initiative emphasizes improving public spaces with creative ideas and projects showcased since 1995, affecting areas from the city center to the suburbs. This cultural enterprise hosts various events throughout the year, not just during the Salone. For example, in September, following the Milan Film Festival, they organize short film events in public spaces like the square between the Piccolo Teatro and the Castello Sforzesco, alongside food and drinks.

For night owls, another notable spot is Plastic (Plastic Gallery, Viale Umbria, 120), famed for hosting events and performances during the Salone del Mobile, especially featuring music and DJs. This nightclub has three rooms but is best known for its Privé, an Almodovar-film-like setting where a mix of fun-loving people, drag queens, and business professionals mingle.