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Milanese and curious travelers, are you ready to take a leap into the future without leaving our beloved Milan? Forget Gothic spires and hidden courtyards for a moment. Today we take you to CityLife, a place where the horizon is drawn by bold curves and sky-defying lines. But beware, it is not just a riot of glass and steel!
CityLife Milan is one of the city’s most modern and innovative neighborhoods, featuring futuristic skyscrapers and vast green spaces. This extraordinary urban redevelopment project has transformed the former Fiera Campionaria area into a hub for archistars, designers, shopping enthusiasts and foodies.
In this guide, we will reveal all the secrets to experiencing CityLife at its best: from its architectural icons to its relaxing oases in the park, via shopping and the most original experiences you can have. Get ready to discover an unprecedented and sparkling face of Milan.
A brief history of an urban metamorphosis
Before we dive into its current wonders, let’s take a small step back. Where today you admire futuristic skyscrapers and manicured lawns, until a few years ago stood the beating heart of Milan’s historic Fiera Campionaria. A place laden with memories, but begging for a new life. The story of CityLife Milan is, in fact, an extraordinary narrative of urban redevelopment, an ambitious project that transformed a disused industrial area into a symbol of Milan projected into the future: more sustainable, connected and, above all, incredibly livable.
Work began around 2005, marking the beginning of a new era for this part of the city, in an intervention that not only redesigned the skyline but infused new energy into the city’s daily life.
The Three Towers
There they are, the undisputed stars of the skyline: the CityLife skyscrapers. But to call them simply “skyscrapers” would be reductive. Think of them rather as monumental, inhabited and vibrant sculptures, born of the genius of three of the most celebrated contemporary architects. CityLife’s towers are known by the nicknames The Straight, The Crooked and The Curved, and each has a unique design that reflects the vision of their famous designers.
The Straight (Isozaki Tower)
At an imposing 209 meters, the Isozaki Tower, affectionately called “The Straight,” is the elegant sentinel of the trio. Designed by the Japanese master Arata Isozaki (recently deceased, paying tribute to him is a must) together with Andrea Maffei, it is striking in its almost severe linearity, but made dynamic by slightly convex modules that slender its figure. Observe it closely: some see in it an inspiration to Brancusi’s “Endless Column.” Today it is the prestigious headquarters of the Allianz Group, and its top soars as the highest point in Italy by number of floors.
The Crooked (Hadid Tower)
The Hadid Tower, or “Lo Storto,” is pure poetry in motion. It bears the unmistakable signature of the late Zaha Hadid, the “Queen of Curves,” and twists on itself with an almost unreal grace. This dynamic twist, which seems to defy the laws of physics, makes it an irresistible photographic subject from every angle. It is the home of the Generali Group, and its sinuous silhouette has become one of the most recognizable symbols of the new Milan.
The Curved (Libeskind Tower)
Completing this incredible architectural triptych is the Libeskind Tower, “The Curved.” Designed by Daniel Libeskind, this tower almost seems to bow respectfully to its companions and the city. Its distinctive concave shape, part of an ideal sphere that wraps around Three Towers Square, creates a fascinating dialogue with the other buildings. Currently the headquarters of PwC Italia, it closes the circle of this open-air museum of architecture within CityLife Milan.
Our advice? Take the time to admire them from different perspectives, perhaps walking around the square or relaxing in the park: every corner reveals new details!
The Park of CityLife
But CityLife is not just concrete and glass, quite the contrary! The true vibrant and social heart of the neighborhood is its magnificent park, an oasis of no less than 170,000 square meters (the third largest park in downtown Milan). It is the perfect place to unplug and regenerate.
What to do in the CityLife park? There are plenty of options: you can take relaxing walks or have a jogging session on the well-designed paths that wind through lawns and trees. If you’re with little ones, the play areas are modern, inclusive and a lot of fun. You can even take a Fitness Trail guided by a virtual personal trainer!
If you feel like relaxing, look for the perfect nook for a slightly chic picnic or just reading a good book with a breathtaking view of the skyscrapers. It’s a great idea to enjoy CityLife for free!
Don’t miss the Flower Gardens, a delightful corner of urban biodiversity that is passionately cared for.
You can also simply sit on a bench and be lulled by the fascinating contrast between the quietness of nature and the grandeur of futuristic architecture.
Shopping District: more than a mall
Fancy some healthy shopping or a gourmet break? The CityLife Shopping District is the answer to your desires! Forget the classic enclosed malls: here a more airy and integrated experience awaits you , a true “open-air mall” (although part of it is indoor, perfect for gloomy days). Among CityLife’s stores you’ll find a mix of experiences to please all tastes: from well-known international brands to design gems, from technology to trendy clothing.
But the real highlight, especially for those seeking convivial experiences, is the Food & Beverage offerings. You are spoiled for choice among ethnic or traditional restaurants, cozy cafes for a quick break, bistros for a curated lunch or places to indulge in a great aperitif in CityLife, perhaps admiring the bustle of the square.
And to end the evening? The Anteo CityLife cinema awaits you with its quality programming. The atmosphere is always lively but pleasantly relaxed, perfect for meeting and enjoying the city. And they often organize interesting events and meetings!
Widespread art and Instagrammable corners of CityLife
If you plan to take a tour of this neighborhood, have your smartphone ready! CityLife is an open-air photo set, dotted with corners perfect for your shots. In addition to the majesty of the towers, the entire neighborhood is dotted with contemporary art installations, thanks mainly to the ArtLine Milano project: a public art trail that winds through the park, inviting you to discover site-specific works by international artists.
But what are the must-see Instagrammable places in CityLife? Here are a few tips:
At the foot of the towers: to capture dizzying perspectives and their grandeur.
From the heart of the park: framing the skyline emerging from the greenery.
Dancing fountains: a striking sight, especially in the evening.
Architectural details: focus on Hadid’s curves, Isozaki’s modules, Libeskind’s geometries.
ArtLine’s sculptures: integrate art into your visual narrative.
Practical tips for exploring the neighborhood
Ready to discover CityLife? Here are some practical tips:
How to get to CityLife
The most convenient and sustainable way is undoubtedly the subway. The M5 (Lilla) Line takes you directly to the heart of the neighborhood with no less than two dedicated stops: Tre Torri (perfect for the square and the towers) and Portello (convenient for the northern part of the park and the Shopping District).
When to take a tour
CityLife is beautiful to discover at any time. During the week you will find a quieter atmosphere, ideal for enjoying the park and architecture in peace. On weekends, the neighborhood comes alive, especially in the Shopping District area. Then sunset gives a magical light that sets the glass of the towers ablaze.
Events
CityLife is a living place! Keep an eye on www.city-life.it and the social pages of associations that organize events in the neighborhood, such as @SmartCityLifeMilano, which shares events and news from the CityLife park.
Themed markets, outdoor concerts, children’s activities and events where sport is the protagonist, such as MILANO RUNNING FESTIVAL PRESENTED BY SKY WIFI, could make your visit even more special.
So, have we convinced you? CityLife Milan is more than just a real estate project; it is the vibrant testimony of how Milan knows how to constantly reinvent itself, combining architectural boldness, respect for the environment and a new idea of urban sociality. So, our invitation is simple: go there!