CityLife Milan: A Glimpse into Contemporary Milan

If you’re seeking a destination that showcases Milan’s modern and innovative spirit, CityLife is the perfect choice. Located just outside the traditional tourist circuit, this reimagined district spans 366,000 square meters in the heart of the city, seamlessly blending residential and commercial spaces with parks, shops, and public areas.

A Hub of Modern Design and Lifestyle

At the core of CityLife are three stunning skyscrapers designed by world-renowned architects Zaha Hadid, Arata Isozaki, and Daniel Libeskind.

A new addition, CityWave, is slated for completion in 2026, further enhancing this urban hub. When you want to immerse yourself in the cutting-edge side of Milan, a visit to CityLife is a must.

Experience CityLife in style – book your accommodation in the area now!

These iconic buildings have become a symbol of Milan’s contemporary identity and inspired the name of the nearby metro stop, Tre Torri, part of the M5 line.

CityLife Shopping District

The CityLife Shopping District offers a dynamic mix of indoor and outdoor spaces, making it a vibrant destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Here’s an updated list of what you can find in the shopping district as of January 2025:

• Fashion & Accessories: Accessorize, Adele Altman, Adidas, Boss, Calvin Klein, Chantelle Lingerie, Dixie, Foot Locker, Goldenpoint, Guess, Imperial, Jacadi, Jack&Jones, Levi’s, Marella, Max&Co, Napapijri, New Balance, North Sails, OVS, Pandora, Piquadro, Ray-Ban, Save The Duck, Snipes, Stefanel, Stroili Oro, Timberland, Tommy Hilfiger, U.S. Polo Assn., Valerio 1966, Yamamay.
• Beauty & Health: Aldo Coppola, Bes Estetica Solarium, CDI Poliambulatorio, CDI Prelievi, Centro Salus, dm drogerie markt, GrandVision, Juneco, L’Erbolario, Nashi Argan, Parafarmacia Lloyds, Sephora.
• Technology: DJI-Droni, Dyson, Just in Case, R-store Apple Premium Reseller.
• Home & Design: Croff, Excélsa, Flying Tiger Copenhagen, IKEA, Milano Home Design, Moleskine, Vorwerk-Folletto-Bimby.
• Supermarket: Carrefour Market.
• Bars & Restaurants: Antica Focacceria San Francesco, Billy Tacos, Bomaki, Botteghe Mare, Calavera Restaurant, California Bakery, Casa Bi, Cioccolatitaliani, Dispensa Emilia, East River American Pub, Feltrinelli Café Edit, Fra Diavolo, Illy, Juice Bar, La Piadineria, Macha, Meatball Family, Mediterranea, Panino Giusto, Peck, Poke House, Roadhouse Meatery, Svinazzando – La Boutique del Vino, Sweet Bakery and Café, That’s Vapore, Venchi, Wagamama.
• Entertainment: CityLife Anteo (cinema), Gamestop, Toys Con Te.
• Services: Il Barbiere, MUST (Tabaccheria).
• Automotive: Porsche.

The district’s architectural details are a testament to Milan’s contemporary flair. For instance, the seamless integration of design and function is evident in the stylish indoor shopping spaces, where elements like the bar connect elegantly to high-end ceiling designs.

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The Evolution: From Fairgrounds to Contemporary Icon

Before its transformation, the area now known as CityLife was home to the Fiera Campionaria, Milan’s historic trade fair.

Established in April 1920, the event grew to such a scale that it caused significant traffic congestion and occupied a prime urban location. In 2005, the trade fair relocated to Rho-Pero, just outside the city center.

To repurpose the old fairground, an international competition was held in 2004. The winning project, CityLife, stood out for its visionary architecture and focus on enhancing urban living.

Demolition of the original structures began between 2007 and 2008, making way for the vibrant, contemporary district that defines this part of Milan today.

Here’s 14 years of CityLife captured in a stunning timelapse by Alberto Fanelli:

Whether you’re strolling through its landscaped parks, marveling at its striking skyscrapers, or enjoying world-class shopping and dining, CityLife perfectly encapsulates the essence of Contemporary Milan.

Read also: How to Get from Malpensa Airport to Milan City Center