Last Updated on 10 May 2025 by Vanessa
Crazy Cat Café Milan opened in 2015 after its founders visited a cat café in Osaka, Japan. They had such a wonderful experience that they decided to bring the idea to Milan, giving it an Italian twist: a cozy, cat-filled vibe paired with delicious food, great coffee, and all the charm you’d expect, with cats at the heart of it all.
It was the first cat café to open in Lombardy and has since become a beloved spot for Milan locals. Don’t be surprised if you see a queue outside, it’s super popular!
But this café isn’t just about cuddling adorable cats.
Their mission is to educate visitors about adopting cats and interacting with them respectfully.
The last time I was there with a friend, I noticed how the staff guided people on how to approach cats (because not everyone knows how!). It’s a great mix of fun, food and education.
They also regularly organize special events to raise money for nonprofits and promote awareness about cat welfare.
The cats live their best lives here with overhead paths to climb, countless scratching posts, piles of toys, and cozy beds in every corner and shelf. There’s even a private area where they can rest if they need some alone time.
For us humans, the café is just as magical. It’s beautifully decorated, super cozy, and the ideal spot to enjoy a cappuccino and a slice of cake, a brunch, or even an aperitivo. The food is fantastic, and the whole experience is unforgettable.
If you’re planning a trip to Italy, Milan is absolutely worth visiting and love cats (or just a unique experience), the Crazy Cat Café is a must when you’re in the city!
Welcome to Crazy Cat Café Milan
The cats
The true stars of the Crazy Cat Café are its 11 adorable, adopted cats.
Each one has their own unique personality and backstory, but there’s one thing they all have in common: this café is their forever home. So, no, you can’t adopt them but honestly, who wouldn’t want to live here? It’s basically a cat paradise.
All the cats are European breed strays and have names inspired by music legends, Italian and international. You’ll meet Freddie, Elvis, Jimi, Joey, Mina, Blondie, Bowie, Elton, Gaber, Amy, and Lana Del Rey.
It’s like hanging out with a furry rock-and-roll hall of fame.
I have a bit of a soft spot for Freddie. He’s a white-and-grey sweetheart with one eye (he lost the other due to an infection when he was a kitten). He’s full of charm and energy and last time I visited, he struck a pose for my photo like a total diva. You’ll often find him snoozing by the entrance, behind the counter.
Not all of their stories are dramatic; some of them were simply adopted from shelters. But every single one of these cats is now living their absolute best life here at the café, where they’re loved, spoiled, and free to roam, nap, and play as they please.
Curious to learn more about their stories before meeting them? You can read all about them on the café’s website.
Read next: Sip, Snuggle, Repeat: Your Guide to All the Cat Cafés in Italy
When to visit
Crazy Cat Cafe is open everyday except on Mondays, here’s what you can expect depending on what time you want to visit:
Breakfast
If you’re a morning person, you can drop by for breakfast Tuesday to Friday from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM or on weekends from 9:00 AM to 10:15 AM. Just note that you can’t book breakfast in advance, it’s first come, first served.
Brunch
Brunch is a weekend highlight!
On Saturdays and Sundays, the café serves brunch in three shifts: 11:00 AM, 12:30 PM, and 2:00 PM. Each shift lasts 90 minutes, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy your meal and the cats’ company.
It is a fixed price at €25 and includes:
- Homemade lemonade
- A hot drink (filtered coffee, cappuccino, or tea)
- A main course (you can choose from several kinds of waffles)
- A side dish
- Dessert
You can also have a cocktail for an extra cost.
Since spots are limited, it’s a very good idea to book in advance.
Check out the full brunch menu and all the details here.
Lunch
Lunch is available Tuesday to Friday from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM (not served on weekends). The menu has lots of options, from Italian classics like pasta to international dishes like poke and even meat or fish dishes.
Unlike brunch, lunch is à la carte, so you can order exactly what you’re craving. They also cater to all preferences, with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.
Afternoon treats
Afternoons are my favorite time to visit. You’ll find an array of homemade desserts, like classic Italian tiramisù, creamy cheesecakes, and seasonal Milanese specialties like panettone. Pair them with an Italian coffee, a hot chocolate, or a tea or juice.
There are savory options too, like quiches or focaccia, if you’re in the mood for something salty.
Last time I went, I ordered the vegan pumpkin and chocolate cake with whipped cream and a plant-based chocolate cappuccino. My friend went for the panettone with zabaione cream and a lavender latte. Believe me, it all tasted just as incredible as it looked in the pictures!
A short afternoon visit here is the perfect way to catch your breath if you’re exploring Milan’s highlights in one day and need a little downtime during a busy adventure!
Aperitivo
The Milanese aperitivo, cat café style!
Every day from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, all drinks are €10 and come with a side of chips.
Special Events
The café also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, from bingo nights to magic workshops. Keep an eye on their calendar here.
Read next: Matera: The Ultimate James Bond Experience With a Feline Twist – Is it Really Worth the Hype?
Not just food
If you fall in love with the cups your coffee or cappuccino is served in (and trust me, you will), you can actually buy them.
These mugs and cups are subtly cat-themed in the most elegant way and made from fine Tognana porcelain, so they’re not just beautiful but also practical, they’re dishwasher and microwave safe! Perfect as a souvenir or a treat for yourself.
But that’s not all.
The café also has a selection of fun merchandise, including keychains and T-shirts featuring “Gattara” graphics, the Italian word for “cat lady”, I absolutely love them.
And for those with cats at home, you’ll find a variety of accessories, so your own kitties can enjoy a little slice of the Crazy Cat Café magic too.
Read next: Cute cats and cappuccinos: Gattò Bistrot in Portici has it all!
House rules
To make sure the Crazy Cat Café stays a safe and happy place for everyone (especially the cats), there are a few house rules to keep in mind.
- Keep it calm: no shouting, running, or anything else that might stress or annoy the cats.
- Kids under 12 must be supervised at all times.
- Respect their space: you can touch and play with the cats, if they’re in the mood. Don’t force interactions and never pick them up.
- Let them nap: cats spend a lot of time sleeping, and as tempting as it is to give them a little pet, it’s important to let them rest in peace.
- No feeding: the cats have their own meals, so don’t give them food from your plate.
- Play safely: use the provided toys to play with the cats, not your bare hands. This helps avoid accidental scratches and keeps everyone safe.
- No pets are allowed in the cafè
Read next: Classense Library in Ravenna Holds the Key to Ultimate Cuteness: Cats!
Useful info for visiting
Here’s everything you need to know for a stress-free and fun experience.
Address and How to Get There
The café is at Via Napo Torriani 5, Milan.
It’s very easy to reach, the nearest metro and train stations are Repubblica (a quick 6-minute walk) and Centrale (just 4 minutes away).
Opening Times
- Mondays: closed
- Tuesday to Friday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
It’s always a good idea to double-check the hours here before you go.
Reservations
Breakfast is first come, first served every day, so reservations aren’t accepted.
For lunch, afternoon breaks, and aperitivo, you can make reservations, but only during weekdays.
On weekends, you can only reserve for brunch, and trust me, you’ll want to! Spots fill up fast, so make sure to book in advance.
Planning a weekend afternoon visit? The first entry is at 3:30 PM, after brunch ends.
My tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to beat the queue that usually forms right at 3:30. Trust me, it’s totally worth it to skip the wait!
Maximum stay
Technically, you’re allowed to stay for 45 minutes, but the vibe here is often relaxed, especially on quieter days.
Last time I visited, it was a Saturday during the holiday season (so, pretty busy) and we ended up staying for about 90 minutes plus a bit of extra time to pay and sneak in one last cuddle with the cats.
They were really kind about it, which made the experience even better!
The only exception is brunch, you have a full hour and a half to enjoy your meal.
Vegan and Vegetarian Options
No matter when you visit, there are plenty of vegan and vegetarian options, both sweet and savory.
As a vegan, I always leave happy!
Last time, I couldn’t resist the pumpkin and chocolate cake with whipped cream, and it was every bit as amazing as it sounds.
Other Important Info
- Entry process
When you arrive, you’ll need to ring the doorbell to get in. For safety, there are two doors, and you’ll be asked to disinfect your hands with gel before entering. - Contribution fee: A €1.50 contribution per person is added to your bill, which helps cover the cats’ care (toys, food, vet visits, and more)
- Minimum order: There’s a €5 minimum order per person, so plan to at least grab a coffee or snack.
Read next: These Photos of Cats in Positano Will Give You Serious Wanderlust (Cat Lovers’ Itinerary Included!)
So, should you visit Crazy Cat Cafè in Milan?
Absolutely yes! It’s the perfect spot to relax during a day exploring Milan.
The cats are adorable and well cared for, the food is delicious and whether you stop by for brunch, coffee or an afternoon treat, it’s a unique and memorable way to experience the city.
If you’ve never visited Milan, you absolutely should!
One day is enough to see the main highlights like the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, Brera and Castello Sforzesco, but if you want to take it slow, a long weekend is even better. You’ll have time to explore, relax in cute cafès like this and even squeeze in an easy day trip from Milan to stunning places like Lake Como or Florence.
And don’t worry about breaking the bank!
The minimum order at the Crazy Cat Café is just €5, which is pretty reasonable considering everything is homemade and helps keep the cats happy and safe. Plus, you’ll find plenty of free things to do in Milan, so there’s something for every budget.
I hope you’ll have an amazing time here. Milan and its hidden gems, like the Crazy Cat Café, are always worth it!
Read next: A visit to the Torre Argentina Cat Sanctuary in Rome
Gaia is a designer from Milan with a big love for Italy. She has traveled to 22 countries, but to her, there’s no place like Italy. On her blog Italy Travel Plan, she shares the best tips and secrets to help you plan the perfect Italian adventure.
Avalon in Milan’s Crazy Cat Café
If you’re visiting the Crazy Cat Café in Milan, why not pair your coffee and cats with a perfect feline-themed read?
Avalon by Vanessa Morgan tells the story of a Belgian cat who became a global sensation as a movie star and cartoon character. This heartwarming and funny memoir is a must for cat lovers. It’s the ideal book to enjoy while surrounded by cats, celebrating the quirks and magic of our furry friends. Available in English and French.
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One Response
It sounds an amazing place to visit. I love the idea of it being the cats permenant home. It’s great that customers get shown how to approach the cats and they have somewhere quiet they can go to if they want.
Thanks for linking up with #pocolo Hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.