The futuristic Porta Nuova district

This new district has come into being thanks to a wave of urban renewal in the former suburbs of Isola, Varesine and Garibaldi. The new skyscrapers stand out against the blue sky and give the area a whole new face. The Unicredit Tower, at over 230 metres, is one of the most impressive in the area. Designed mainly from glass, it represents sustainability. Ecological as well as aesthetic, the district aims to be innovative and respectful of the environment.

At the centre of the modern architectural complex is the iconic Gae Aulenti square. It stands on an elevated circular platform. The designer buildings that surround it give the impression of a futuristic scene straight out of a science fiction film. When night falls, the bustling daytime business district doesn't go to sleep either: a host of bars, restaurants and even nightclubs open their doors to the more festive among us.

An architectural feat, the two towers known as "green forests" stand side by side with the contemporary buildings in the district. Trees and plants overhang the modern balconies and blend perfectly with the structure of the buildings. Two opposing elements living in symbiosis is the concept of architect Stefano Boeri, who designed this residential complex. An urban benchmark that is being exported abroad and echoes the ambition of the city of Milan to plant more trees in its city centre. The city of Lombardy is one of the greenest in Italy, and is a model of respect for the environment.

Holm oaks, beech, olive and apple trees intermingle and are strategically positioned on the façades of the buildings. This project is the result of a reflection on how to make vegetation an essential component of architecture. The glazed surfaces change with the seasons and take on their most beautiful colours.

A little further north, in a street that's a mix of residences and boutiques of all kinds, there's a café that's a bit special... A clever mix between a boutique, a concept store and a coffee shop. Welcome to Deus Café Isola, a place where you can go shopping, have a brunch, grab a bite to eat or just enjoy an aperitif. The famous Deus Ex Machina brand has imagined a place to live in an industrial and trendy setting, where tourists mingle with locals for an aperitivo or simply to try their hand at lazing around, the local custom.

📍 Address: Via Genova Thaon di Revel, Milan (20159)

⏰ Opening times:

Monday to Friday from noon to 1 a.m.

Saturday and Sunday from 10.30am to 2am

Tucked away among the huge buildings with their outsized looks is an authentic English pub that opened in the 2000s. A very popular address with locals who live or work in the area. At friends Pub, you can even try the famous Sunday roast, the British favourite. Try the selection of 12 different draught beers: IPA, Pale Ale... there's something for every palate.

📍 Address: Viale Monte Santo, Milan (20124)

⏰ Opening times:

Monday to Saturday from 6pm to 2am

Sundays from 12pm to 2am

Because this is pizza country, here's an address to satisfy your culinary desires. Using local, quality produce of controlled origin, Table Amami puts taste and authenticity at the heart of its dishes. The restaurant promises a gustatory journey in the pure Italian tradition.

📍 Address: Viale Amerigo Vespucci, Milan (20124)

⏰ Opening times:

Monday to Thursday from 10am to 11.30pm

Friday to Saturday, 10.30am to midnight

Sunday from 10am to 11.30pm

📍 Location: the district is located to the east of Milan.

🚌 How to get there:

By bus (line 43) stop "P.le Principessa Clotilde"

By tram (lines 9, 10, 33) stop "V.le Monte Santo"