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

Exploring Milan’s Modern Marvels: A Deep Dive into the Skyscrapers Guided Tour

Milan has long been known for its historic cathedrals and Renaissance art, but its skyline has undergone a striking transformation in recent years. The Milan Skyscrapers Guided Tour offers a chance to explore this dynamic, contemporary side of the city, focusing on the district born from Milan’s 2015 World Expo redevelopment. This private, 3-hour walk takes you through a landscape of glass towers, lush vertical forests, and cutting-edge urban design, led by an articulate expert guide.

One of the standout features of this experience is its focus on architecture and urban renewal, giving you insights into how Milan balances its historic charm with ambitious modern projects. We particularly appreciate how the tour combines informative commentary with authentic sites—not just viewing the buildings but understanding the vision behind them. However, keep in mind that this tour requires a moderate level of physical activity, as you’ll be walking through districts and climbing to terraces.

This tour is best suited for travelers with an interest in architecture, sustainable urban design, or simply those curious about Milan’s new face. If you’re looking for a curated, in-depth look at Milan’s skyline that also includes a taste of local cuisine at the end, this experience ticks many boxes.

Key Points

Expert-led—guides are knowledgeable in architecture and design.
Focus on sustainability—explores eco-friendly projects like the Vertical Forest.
Comprehensive itinerary—from the Unicredit Tower to Gae Aulenti Square and Isola.
Great value—includes a private tour, personalized attention, and a visit to Eataly.
Good for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking and some elevation.
Book in advance—on average, booked 45 days ahead, reflecting high demand.

Discovering Milan’s Future: An In-Depth Review of the Skyscrapers Tour

Unveiling Milan’s New Skyline

Our journey begins in the Porta Nuova district, a symbol of Milan’s post-Expo renaissance. This area was almost entirely reconstructed after the 2015 World Expo, transforming into a hub of sleek skyscrapers and innovative architecture. Our guide emphasized how this revival not only modernized the city but also aimed to promote eco-sustainability, with some of the buildings incorporating green design elements.

We loved the way our guide articulated the blend of old and new, highlighting how Milan retains its historic roots while embracing forward-looking architecture. The skyline from one of the scenic terraces offers breathtaking views of the city’s new face, with skyscrapers gleaming in the sunlight. The guide explained that this project involved leading architects and was part of a broader strategy to elevate Milan’s global image.

The Architectural Highlights: Unicredit Tower and Gae Aulenti Square

Next, the tour takes you along Corso Como, a lively street known for its nightlife and design shops. By night, it’s a favorite for locals and visitors alike, adding a vibrant backdrop to the architectural sights. Here, you’ll reach Gae Aulenti Square, the centerpiece of Milan’s modern development.

The Unicredit Tower stands proudly at the square’s heart. As the tallest building in Europe, it’s a jaw-dropping sight, especially when seen up close. Our reviewer, 843francescap, shared that their experience in July was “entirely satisfying,” praising their guide Valerio for his insightful commentary. The tower’s glass façade reflects the city’s dynamic energy, and standing beneath it gives you a real sense of Milan’s urban ambition.

Exploring the Vertical Forest: Nature Meets Sky

A highlight of this tour is the visit to Isola, a historic district where old “railing houses” with shared galleries and courtyards create a charming contrast to the modern skyscrapers. Here, the Vertical Forest towers are a true marvel. These buildings, awarded as the most beautiful urban project of the World in 2016, incorporate 900 trees and over 20,000 plants, transforming urban reforestation into high-rise living.

Walking around these towers, we appreciated how they serve as a model of biodiversity and urban reforestation—integrating green spaces into densely populated areas without expanding the city’s footprint. The fact that these towers are not only aesthetic but also functional in improving air quality and biodiversity is truly inspiring.

The Taste of Italy at Eataly

Closing the tour with a visit to Eataly offers more than just a culinary interlude. It’s an opportunity to sample regional specialties from across Italy, from Valle D’Aosta to Sicily. The guide’s recommendation to try local products makes it an ideal spot for food lovers. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or a more substantial fare, Eataly’s diverse offerings make it a perfect ending point.

Practical Details and Value

The private nature of this tour means you’ll enjoy personalized attention, which is particularly valuable given the complexity of the sites and their stories. The tour costs about $265 per person, which might seem steep, but it includes a knowledgeable art historian guide, the private experience, and the visit to Eataly—adding value through depth and exclusivity.

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it manageable even for those with tight schedules. Since it’s only a walking tour and the terrain is moderate, travelers with average physical fitness should be comfortable, though standing and climbing terraces might require some stamina.

From Reviews to Real Experience

Feedback from past participants consistently echoes the quality of the experience. “Valerio, our guide, was fantastic,” says one reviewer, emphasizing how his insights made the modern architecture come alive. Others have appreciated how the tour showcases Milan’s most visually stunning developments, with many noting that the views from the terraces are “breathtaking” and add a “wow factor” to the experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This guided tour strikes a fine balance between educational content and visual spectacle. It’s ideal for travelers who love architecture, sustainability, or urban design, and who want to see beyond Milan’s iconic Duomo. The tour’s focus on new districts offers a fresh perspective on the city, perfect for those wanting to explore Milan’s modern identity.

While it may seem pricey at first glance, the depth of knowledge provided by a professional guide, combined with the exclusive visits and the scenic views, makes it a worthwhile investment if you’re keen on understanding Milan’s latest architectural feats.

For anyone who enjoys stunning cityscapes, engaging stories behind buildings, and authentic local flavors at Eataly, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that reveals how Milan is shaping its future—one skyscraper and one green tower at a time.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
Approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable and engaging experience without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
A private tour with a professional art historian guide and a visit to Eataly, where you can sample regional Italian foods.

Do I need to have special physical fitness?
A moderate level of physical activity is required as you’ll be walking and climbing terraces, but it’s suitable for most travelers with average fitness.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Eataly Milano Smeraldo and ends back at the same point, so no need for additional transportation.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The skyline views, especially from terraces and Gae Aulenti Square, provide fantastic photo opportunities.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specified, the moderate physical activity suggests it’s better suited for older children or teenagers comfortable with walking.

What language is the tour conducted in?
Typically in English, but it’s best to confirm with the provider if you have specific language needs.

Are there any restrictions on access?
The tour involves walking through districts with scenic terraces, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

What if I want a group discount?
Group discounts are available, and booking 45 days in advance is common, so plan ahead to secure the best rate.

To sum it up, the Milan Skyscrapers Guided Tour offers a captivating look at the city’s modern transformation, blending architecture, sustainability, and local cuisine into an experience that’s both educational and visually stunning. It’s perfect for design enthusiasts, eco-conscious travelers, and anyone curious to see how Milan is rewriting its skyline. While it does involve some walking, the breathtaking views and insightful commentary make it a worthwhile addition to your Milan itinerary.