Porta Nuova & Isola

Overview

Porta Nuova and the adjacent Isola neighborhood represent Milan's dramatic transformation into a contemporary European capital, with futuristic skyscrapers rising above a formerly industrial railway district.

Highlights

• Bosco Verticale: Stefano Boeri's award-winning vertical forest, two residential towers hosting 900 trees and 20,000 plants on their balconies.
• Piazza Gae Aulenti: A striking elevated circular piazza surrounded by glass towers with choreographed fountain shows.
• UniCredit Tower: Italy's tallest building at 231 meters, topped by a distinctive stainless-steel spire.

History

The area was Milan's railway marshaling yards until the massive urban regeneration project began in 2009. The 2-billion-EUR development transformed derelict land into Italy's most ambitious contemporary architecture district, completed in stages through 2018.

Visitor Tips

• Contrast Walk: Walk from the gritty, street-art-covered lanes of Isola directly into the gleaming Porta Nuova plaza for a dramatic contrast.
• Isola Character: The Via Pastrengo side retains independent bars, vinyl shops, and working-class trattorias.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.