Andrea Cherchi
Andrea Cherchi

With Europe on the road to recovery after the coronavirus pandemic in the country, Italy is open for the summer holidays. With the simultaneous arrival of summer, locals and soon tourists will once again flock to the Bel paese to enjoy the summer sun. Not every city is of course lucky enough to have a beach, but Milan has come up with an innovative solution for residents and visitors this summer. Italy’s second city, Milan has opened a new green space in addition to the many beautiful parks the city has to offer. However, this one is unique. “Lido Bam” or “Bam Beach” as it is known, is a green oasis where you can relax or sunbathe in the heart of the city’s business district, Porta Nuova. The “beach” opened in Milan’s Parco Biblioteca degli Alberi on Sunday 21st June.

Lido Bam is home to 80 parasols which are scattered across the park, with deckchairs spaced accordingly to respect the social distancing rules in force since the virus lockdown began easing in Italy. Additional hygiene and safety measures include clearly marked areas on the ground to guarantee social distancing and sanitisation of the seats several times a day.

In order to visit Milan’s beach oasis, which is already in high demand, you’ll have to book your place online or on the official app, “Portanuova Milano”. Prices range between 4 and 8 euros: 4 euros for 2 hours and 8 euros per person for the whole day. Dogs are also allowed but must be inside your designated circle and kept on a lead. The opening hours also vary depending on the day:

  • Monday: 15:00-20:00
  • Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00-20:00

And of course, you’re thinking, if this is a beach, where is the water? In the absence of the sea or a swimming pool, there are several fountains ideal for cooling off in the hot sun. Milan's urban beach will be open until 31st August 2020 and is complete with small bars and food trucks where you can buy a refreshing ice lolly, a beer or something to eat under your parasol.