Milan Skyscrapers Guided Tour: Porta Nuova, Unicredit tower & Vertical Forest

Exploring Milan’s Modern Skyline with the Skyscrapers Guided Tour

The Milan Skyscrapers Guided Tour offers a fascinating look at the city’s most recent architectural marvels. Priced at $265.09 per person and lasting about 3 hours, this private experience takes visitors through Milan’s Porta Nuova district, showcasing how the city transformed for the 2015 World Expo. The tour is ideal for those interested in contemporary architecture, urban sustainability, and Milan’s evolving skyline.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on eco-friendly projects like the Vertical Forest towers and Italy’s tallest building, the Unicredit Tower. Led by an art historian guide, it provides a detailed narrative of Milan’s modernization. The tour ends at Eataly, where participants can sample regional Italian foods, making it both a visual and culinary journey. The private tour format ensures a personalized experience, perfect for architecture aficionados or curious travelers alike.

While the tour involves walking through some of Milan’s most recent developments, it’s important to note that moderate physical fitness is recommended. It does not include hotel transfers, so visitors should plan to meet at the designated starting point. The high overall rating of 5.0 out of 5 from four reviews signals strong satisfaction, especially regarding the insights into Milan’s new skyline.

Key Points

• Private, guided experience focused on Milan’s modern architecture
• Highlights include the Unicredit Tower and the Vertical Forest
• Learn about Milan’s post-2015 Expo renewal and eco-sustainable projects
• Tour lasts about 3 hours and involves walking in the Porta Nuova district
• Ends at Eataly, allowing for regional food tastings

Starting Point at Eataly Milano Smeraldo

The tour begins at Eataly Milano Smeraldo, located at Pza XXV Aprile, 10, easily accessible via public transportation. This central meeting point is well-suited for travelers staying in Milan, given its proximity to key areas. The tour concludes back at the same location, simplifying logistics for participants.

Guests can expect a well-organized start, with confirmation of booking provided instantly. Since this is a private tour, only your group participates, ensuring a tailored experience focused on your interests. No hotel pickup or drop-off is included, so plan accordingly.

The Transformation of Porta Nuova Post-Expo

The Porta Nuova district represents Milan’s latest skyline overhaul. The guide explains how a significant reconstruction project was driven by Milan’s hosting of the 2015 World Expo. This renewal introduces cutting-edge architecture designed by leading architects, drastically changing the city’s traditional silhouette.

The tour directs attention to scenic terraces atop several buildings, offering panoramic views of the city’s new urban landscape. You’ll see how Milan balances the old and the new, with historic districts coexisting alongside futuristic skyscrapers. The district epitomizes Milan’s status as one of Italy’s most charming and modern cities.

Discovering Corso Como and Its Nighttime Charm

Walking along Corso Como, the guide highlights its role as a lively hub of Milanese nightlife and design. By night, this street buzzes with energy, and the landmark Gae Aulenti square stands out with its contemporary vibe. The Unicredit Tower, a European skyscraper and the tallest in Italy, dominates the square.

The guide provides insights into Milan’s tallest skyscraper, the Unicredit Tower, emphasizing its status as a symbol of Milan’s modern financial district. Its height and design showcase Milan’s ambitions in architecture and urban development. Visitors learn how this tower reflects the city’s move toward sustainable urban growth.

The Iconic Vertical Forest Towers of Isola

At the Isola district, the tour explores the Vertical Forest towers, awarded in 2016 as the world’s most beautiful urban project. These buildings are a true urban reforestation model, featuring 900 trees and over 20,000 plants integrated into their structure.

The guide explains how these towers promote biodiversity and help regenerate the environment without expanding the city’s footprint. The Vertical Forest exemplifies eco-sustainable architecture, blending urban living with nature. Visitors will appreciate the distinctive design, which offers striking green facades that contrast with Milan’s traditional cityscape.

Visiting the Unicredit Tower in Piazza Gae Aulenti

The Unicredit Tower commands attention in Piazza Gae Aulenti. Standing as one of Europe’s tallest skyscrapers, it symbolizes Italy’s financial strength and architectural innovation. Its tall, sleek profile is a highlight of the tour and offers excellent photo opportunities.

The guide shares details about the tower’s design and construction, highlighting its significance in Milan’s skyline. This visit underscores Italy’s capacity for modern architectural excellence, especially in a city known for its historic architecture.

Exploring the Greenery of the Vertical Forest

The Vertical Forest towers are the highlight of urban biodiversity in Milan. The guide discusses how the 900 trees and 20,000 plants create a living building that improves air quality and urban cooling. This innovative project demonstrates how eco-architecture can reshape city living.

The towers are not only visually impressive but also serve as models for future sustainable development. This part of the tour appeals particularly to those interested in environmentally conscious design and urban ecology.

Ending at Eataly for Italian Food Sampling

The tour concludes at Eataly, the renowned Italian food market. Here, visitors can sample a variety of regional delicacies from across Italy, including specialties from Valle D’Aosta to Sicily. This culinary experience complements the architectural journey, offering a taste of Italy’s gastronomic diversity.

The end point at Eataly allows for continued exploration or a relaxed meal after the tour. It’s a fitting way to wrap up a trip through Milan’s modern urban landscape with regional flavors.

Practical Details and Booking Considerations

This private tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness due to the walking involved. It does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, requiring participants to meet at the designated Eataly Milan Smeraldo location. Since the tour is often booked 45 days in advance, early reservation ensures availability.

With a full refund policy available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, travelers can plan with confidence. The guides’ expertise and the personalized nature of the tour create a rich, immersive experience into Milan’s contemporary architecture and sustainable urban projects.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour appeals most to architecture lovers, urban planners, and sustainability enthusiasts. It provides an inside look at Milan’s recent skyline and innovative eco-projects, making it ideal for those interested in modern design and urban development. The culinary ending at Eataly is a bonus for food lovers eager to explore Italy’s regional cuisines.

While it does involve walking and standing, the moderate physical activity level makes it accessible to most. It’s best suited for visitors who want a comprehensive, expert-led overview of Milan’s new architecture in a personalized setting.

Milan Skyscrapers Guided Tour: A Modern Milan Experience

This 3-hour private tour offers a compelling glimpse into Milan’s post-Expo renewal and urban sustainability initiatives. From the Unicredit Tower to the Vertical Forest, each stop provides insights into innovative architectural solutions that redefine the cityscape.

The personalized guidance from an art historian enriches the experience, making complex architectural concepts accessible and engaging. The tour’s ending at Eataly ensures a delicious conclusion to a day of exploring Milan’s modern architectural achievements.

This experience is especially rewarding for those curious about Milan’s future-oriented projects and green urban living. It combines visual spectacle with educational value, making it a worthwhile addition to any Milan itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, providing enough time to explore key sites without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Eataly Milano Smeraldo, located at Pza XXV Aprile, 10.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, but moderate physical fitness is recommended due to walking involved in the itinerary.

Are hotel transfers included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. Participants are responsible for meeting at the starting point.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Highlights include the Unicredit Tower, Vertical Forest towers, Corso Como, and the new Milan skyline post-2015.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private experience, ensuring personalized attention from the guide.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is recommended at least 45 days in advance through the provider, Raphael Tours & Events.

What makes this tour unique?
The focus on eco-sustainable architecture and Milan’s modern skyline development sets this tour apart, providing insights into urban reforestation projects and contemporary design.

What is the cost of the tour?
The price is $265.09 per person, reflecting its private, expert-led nature.