Milano can boast quite an impressive number of 97 parks and garden spaces: so, there’s plenty of choice for those who want to spend some time under the leafy shade of the trees, sunbathing on a blanket or sitting contemplatively on a bench.

Restrictions still apply for large gatherings and all current guidelines must be followed in order to prevent the spread of further contamination but you can safely go to the park with your family to enjoy nature outdoors.

Here we’ve compiled a complete map of all the parks and gardens in the city, o you can feel free to choose the one that most inspires you or that’s closest to where you are.

We’ve recommended some in every area of Milano.

If you’re in Parco Sempione, you’ll find an itinerary for late 19th architecture in the area that is not to be missed; it will be your guide for an afternoon walk to discover some of the city’s architectural gems.

A bicycle is the epitome of summer freedom: everyone, of all ages, loves to pedal around the city and take bike trips out of town.

If you don't have your own bike, you can use one of the bike-sharing services which are simple to operate if you have a credit card and a mobile phone to download the app. To name two: BikeMi, bicycles can be rented and then returned to the designated parking stations around the city and the free-floating services with bikes that are scattered around the city and can be booked, picked up and left locked-up anywhere.

We certainly had you all in mind when we designed the following cycling itineraries: choose the one you like best, hop on and... have fun!

In the city:

• From Città Studi to the Porta Venezia Gardens
• From Cinque Giornate to Parco Sempione
• From Benedetto Marcello to the Conservatory
• From the Prada Foundation to Chiaravalle
   

Themed cycling itineraries:

• Following Leonardo’s footsteps in the centre of Milano
• Following Leonardo’s footsteps on the Navigli

1. Bike itinerary on the Naviglio Grande
2. Bike itinerary on the Naviglio Martesana
3. Bike itinerary on the Naviglio di Bereguardo
4. Bike itinerary on the Naviglio di Paderno

• Bike itineraries to discover Art Nouveau in Milano
• Bike itinerary from Porta Romana to Chiaravalle

There’s almost nothing better than a relaxing dip in the pool to beat the summer heat. Some swimming pools in Milan have now reopened and adhere to very specific rules to ensure the safety of all users.

Check out our itinerary of the best swimming pools in Milano, but also take a look at the official Milanosport website for the full list with opening times and online ticket procedures.

But aside from the swimming pools did you also know that you can also surf in Milano? At the Idroscalo - affectionately nicknamed ‘Milano beach’ - you can practice quite a few water sports, both in, on and off the water.

Wakeparadise Milano has wakeboard systems suited both to beginners who want to approach the discipline and to more experienced riders who want to hone their skills. The water sports park also has a Surf Pool where you can ride the awesome artificial wave (1.6 m high and 10 m wide) to make you feel as if you’re in Hawaii! Located south of the Idroscalo, you can spend an entire day dedicated to water sports under the watchful eye of highly qualified staff.

And then there are Milano’s Navigli and everything you can do along the banks of the canals; the choice is yours: strolling canoeing or water tours.

Find out what awaits you in ‘Milano on the Water’ here.

Milano beach, as it is affectionally nicknamed, is at the Idroscalo, but this year two sui generis ones have been added.

The first is at Mare Culturale Urbano (Cultural Urban Seaside - the name says it all!), a 17th century farmstead which has a summer programme aptly called ‘Il lungomare di Milano’ (The Milan Waterfront). For summer fun this year it has introduced a beach, concerts, DJ sets, karaoke, stand-up comedy, poetry evenings and... outdoor cinema!

To be able to practice sport again after a long time confined indoors is something everyone appreciates: so why not set off immediately?

These are the routes for a city-run, as suggested by the Generali Milano Marathon experts.

If, instead of running, you prefer something more adventurous such as skateboarding or climbing, we’ve compiled a list of places in the city where you can take part, whereas here you can find some ‘open-air gyms’ so you don’t miss out on your workouts.

Did you just put your walking shoes on? Here are two urban trekking itineraries not to be missed.

After all this cycling, walking, swimming and running you’ll need some nourishment! Preferably outdoors, of course.

So, we’ve put tother a handy must-go guide to the increasingly popular kiosks scattered around the city where you can enjoy the best gelati, smoothies, panini, spit-roast chickens or even poke bowls, if healthy food is more your thing!

If you’re chilling at the Idroscalo, check out Magnolia, or spread a picnic blanket on the grass for an outdoor packed lunch.

And, if you can’t bear to part with your four-legged friends, take a look at our list of pet-friendly places in the city.

If, on the other hand, you prefer to sit together at a table and savour traditional or innovative food made with zero-miles produce in a peaceful setting, here’s our advice on where to eat in the typical cascine. There are lots in Milano but please remember to always call first to book and to acquaint yourself with all the rules to follow!

Yes, paddling in a canoe or kayak in Milano really is an option! At East River, on the Martesana cycle path near the Turro metro, you can rent a canoe or kayak and, even if you’re not an expert, you can enjoy a lesson from a professional instructor to make it more fun.

Enjoy!