Tre Torri

Tre Torri Milan Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: Tre Torri, CityLife, and Milan’s Modern Renaissance

Tre Torri (“Three Towers”) rises at the heart of Milan’s CityLife district, an area that epitomizes the city’s ongoing transformation from its historical trade fair roots to a beacon of sustainable urban innovation. Designed by architectural luminaries Arata Isozaki, Zaha Hadid, and Daniel Libeskind, these three landmark skyscrapers—Allianz Tower, Generali Tower, and PwC Tower—anchor a district renowned for its car-free zones, extensive green spaces, and vibrant shopping and cultural venues. CityLife’s pedestrian-friendly design, commitment to environmental stewardship, and integration of heritage with cutting-edge development make Tre Torri a must-visit destination for architecture enthusiasts, shoppers, families, and travelers alike (CityLife Official Site; CityLife Shopping District; Wikipedia CityLife Milan.

Introduction
Historical Evolution of Tre Torri and CityLife
Architectural Significance: The Three Towers
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets & Accessibility
Shopping, Dining, and Leisure at CityLife
Sustainability and Urban Innovation
Nearby Attractions & Practical Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Key Facts and Figures
Conclusion
References

Historical Evolution of Tre Torri and CityLife

From Trade Fair Grounds to Urban Landmark

The CityLife district occupies the former site of Milan’s Fiera Campionaria, an international exhibition complex that shaped the city’s business and cultural landscape throughout the 20th century. With the fair’s activities relocating to new venues in the early 2000s, a vast redevelopment opportunity emerged (3daysinmilan.com; milanretreats.com). A 2004 international design competition resulted in a visionary masterplan by renowned architects, prioritizing mixed-use development, green space, and sustainability (en.wikipedia.org; webuildvalue.com).

CityLife is now one of Europe’s largest car-free urban zones, with underground roads and parking, expansive parks, and the central Piazza Tre Torri—a lively, multi-level public square that connects the towers, shopping district, and transportation links (one-works.com; domusweb.it).

Architectural Significance: The Three Towers

Allianz Tower (“Il Dritto” – The Straight One)

Architect: Arata Isozaki with Andrea Maffei
Height: 209 m (second tallest in Italy)
Floors: 50
Completion: 2015

Isozaki’s Allianz Tower is a study in minimalist verticality, its glass façade reflecting and multiplying the cityscape. Transparent elevators on the sides offer panoramic views, and a replica of the Madonnina crowns its summit—honoring Milanese tradition (domusweb.it).

Generali Tower (“Lo Storto” – The Twisted One)

Architect: Zaha Hadid
Height: 177 m
Floors: 44
Completion: 2017

Hadid’s Generali Tower is distinguished by its dramatic twist, symbolizing movement and energy. Its spiraling design required state-of-the-art engineering and seamlessly integrates with the CityLife Shopping District below (coliving.joivy.com; domusweb.it).

PwC Tower (“Il Curvo” – The Curved One)

Architect: Daniel Libeskind
Height: 175 m
Floors: 31
Completion: 2020

Libeskind’s contribution is a sculptural tower inspired by Renaissance art, with facades of over 5,000 glass panels. Its complex curvature symbolizes unity and dialogue among the towers and the city (focchi.it; domusweb.it).

Piazza Tre Torri and Public Space

The central Piazza Tre Torri, designed by One Works, unites the towers and park with the metro station beneath. Its two levels accommodate movement, events, and leisure—connecting retail, green space, and transportation in a seamless, vibrant urban core (one-works.com).

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets & Accessibility

Visiting Hours

Piazza Tre Torri & CityLife Park: Open daily, dawn to dusk.
CityLife Shopping District: Typically 10:00 AM–9:00 PM (check for holiday variations).
Guided Tours: Periodically available; check official or local tourism sites for schedules.

Tickets and Entry

Public Plaza, Park, and Shopping District: Free access.
Special Events/Exhibitions: Tickets may be required; refer to event organizers or the official website.

Accessibility

Metro: Tre Torri station (M5) is directly beneath the plaza.
Bus & Tram: Several lines serve the area.
Parking: Ample underground parking for drivers.
Pedestrian/Cyclist Friendly: Extensive car-free zones and cycling paths ensure safe, easy movement.
Facilities: Accessible walkways, restrooms, baby-changing stations, and multilingual information desks.

Shopping, Dining, and Leisure at CityLife

CityLife Shopping District

Italy’s largest urban shopping center with over 100 stores, restaurants, and a 7-screen cinema (ArchDaily).
Three interconnected zones:
1. A double-story mall designed by Zaha Hadid Architects.
2. The spacious Piazza Tre Torri.
3. An open-air promenade reflecting Milan’s traditional shopping streets.
Dining: More than 20 establishments, from casual cafes to gourmet restaurants.
Events: Regular markets, festivals, and cultural happenings animate the plaza year-round (CityLife Shopping District).

CityOval Milano (Palazzo delle Scintille)

This historic 1923 pavilion, currently being restored, will become CityOval Milano—a major venue for exhibitions and cultural events, set to open in late 2025 (Urbanfile).

Sustainability and Urban Innovation

CityLife is a benchmark for sustainable urban development:

Car-free design: Underground traffic, extensive pedestrian and cycling paths.
Green energy systems: Use of groundwater, district heating, and solar panels.
LEED™ GOLD pre-certification for office buildings.
170,000 m² park with 1,500+ trees, uniting green space with the city (coliving.joivy.com; milanretreats.com).

Nearby Attractions & Practical Tips

Key Attractions

Palazzo delle Scintille (CityOval Milano): Historic event venue.
CityLife Park: Ideal for walking, cycling, and relaxation.
Sforza Castle, Duomo di Milano, Santa Maria delle Grazie: Easily reached by metro/tram (Full Suitcase).

Visitor Tips

Best times: Spring and autumn for mild weather and outdoor events.
Family-friendly: Playgrounds, open spaces, and safe pedestrian routes.
Pets: Welcome in most outdoor areas (leash required).
Safety: Well-lit, with regular patrols and security staff.
Plan ahead: Check official event calendars for guided tours and special exhibitions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need tickets to visit Tre Torri?
A: No, public plazas, the park, and shopping district are free to access; only ticketed events require purchase.

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Public areas are open dawn to dusk; shops and restaurants usually operate 10:00 AM–9:00 PM.

Q: Can I tour inside the towers?
A: The towers are primarily private (office/residential); guided tours focus on architecture and the district, not tower interiors.

Q: Is it accessible for families and those with reduced mobility?
A: Yes—flat walkways, elevators, and accessible restrooms are provided.

Q: How do I get there?
A: Metro Line 5 (Tre Torri station); also accessible by tram, bus, or car (with underground parking).

Key Facts and Figures

CityLife Area: 366,000 m²
Parkland: 170,000 m², 1,500+ trees
Allianz Tower: 209 m, 50 floors
Generali Tower: 177 m, 44 floors
PwC Tower: 175 m, 31 floors
CityLife Shopping District: 30,000 m², 100+ shops and restaurants
LEED™ GOLD pre-certification for offices
Car-free zone: Among the largest in Europe

Conclusion

Tre Torri and CityLife exemplify Milan’s blend of historic legacy and visionary urbanism. From their architectural grandeur and sustainable design to the lively retail, green spaces, and cultural venues, they offer an accessible, enriching experience for every visitor. Plan your trip, explore the district, and discover why Tre Torri stands as a symbol of Milan’s 21st-century renaissance.

For the latest updates, guided tour bookings, and event information, consult the CityLife official website and download the Audiala app for curated audio guides and exclusive offers. Follow our channels on social media for tips and event news.