The Shimmering Lights - Gattopardo House
My first introduction to Milanese nightlife began when I sauntered into the magnificent Gattopardo House, one of Milan’s best kept secrets. Once a church, now transformed into a thriving hotspot for night owls in the know. Upon my first visit, I was instantly captivated by its unique ambiance--a harmonious blend of the sacred renaissance architecture and the intoxicating energy of techno music thumping off the ancient walls. It was like history was dancing with the present. And trust me, it was one heck of a jig! Tip for first-time visitors: Don’t forget to check the schedule before showing up. They throw different themed parties throughout the week.
Belle Epoque Glamour - Old Fashion Club
An evening at the exuberant Old Fashion Club was like stepping into a time machine that deposited me slap-bang in the middle of what I reckon the Belle Epoque must have felt like. This legendary establishment, with its polished charm and timeless elegance, pays homage to the glorious past while keeping its finger firmly on the pulse of current trends. From hip-hop Mondays to Latin Wednesdays, there's a unique twist waiting for you every night. Pro-tip: Sundays are extravagant and the spot tends to get packed, so make sure to book a table or arrive early.
Tunnel Vision - Tunnel Club
Trust Milan to transform an old railway deposit located under the central station into a cutting-edge mecca for techno and house enthusiasts--the legendary Tunnel Club. The club hosts international DJs and has what I believe is the most avant-garde sound system in the city. Once, I was lucky enough to witness a set by Carl Cox--words fail me, honestly. Just brace yourself for an extraordinary sensory experience. My personal advice: The cloakroom is quite small, so travel light.
Swing in The Secret Garden - Bobino Club
Bobino Club's appeal lies in its versatility; an after-work lounge that smoothly transitions into a bustling nightclub. Its magic lay in its serene 'secret garden' that gave me an alluring escape from the often-chaotic Milanese nightlife. I still remember shuffling my feet to swing music under the twinkling stars. If you’re a food enthusiast like me, the club offers excellent aperitivo options. Beware though--once there, it's almost impossible not to get swept away by the infectious atmosphere and dance the night away.
Achesitral Delight - Alcatraz
My next destination, Alcatraz, was a totally different experience. One of the largest clubs in Milan, it's known as much for its high-energy concerts as it is for its thrilling disco nights. What took me by surprise, though, was the impeccable acoustics. It was pure bliss listening to a live set of local indie bands echoing perfectly through this spacious structure. The tip here: It can get chilly inside due to its warehouse location, so a light jacket wouldn't go amiss.
A Story-Cook for The Soul - The Tocqueville
The Tocqueville is unlike any other club I've been to. It ranks high on my list for its one-of-a-kind storytelling events. The narrative nights, where anyone can share their experiences, struck me as both insightful and entertaining. Followed by a DJ's tunes, it's an evening of laughter, a few tears, and lots of dancing. I remember sharing a heartfelt story from my past, only to end up dancing the night away amidst applause and a new set of friends.
Behind the Red Curtains - Hollywood Rythmoteque
What's our tour without a visit to the infamous Hollywood Rythmoteque? Frequented by celebrities and fashion icons, with an intriguing red curtain facade, it's every bit as glamorous as its name suggests. Here, I witnessed firsthand the blend of fashion and music. Worth noting--it's one club that can make rock music and champagne flutes coexist harmoniously. Just a heads-up: Be dressed to the nines, the dress code isn't flexible.
Hybrid Haven - Plastic.
I ended my adventurous night tour at the cult-worthy, other-worldy Plastic. This club-cum-cultural centre is like a hybrid haven, beloved by artists and musicians alike. From its eye-catching interiors to its exuberant crowds, at Plastic, I felt less like I was in a Milanese nightclub and more like I'd been transported into a conceptual art piece. Can't overlook this tip: Plastic is an unconventional and unique club, making it a must-visit spot for those looking for something a little different.
The cities lights may dim at the crack of dawn, but the spirit of Milan's nightlife continues to shimmer, refusing to be tamed. So if you're in Milan, and the night seems to call out to you as it did to me, do not ignore it - the city has plenty of secrets tucked away, waiting to be discovered after sunset.
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