Piazza Gae Aulenti: Milan's Modern Heart
Experience Milan's modern architectural marvel at Piazza Gae Aulenti, a vibrant hub with stunning skyline views, innovative design, and captivating water features.
Piazza Gae Aulenti, inaugurated in 2012, stands as a symbol of modern Milan, a testament to innovative urban regeneration. Dedicated to the renowned Italian architect Gae Aulenti, the piazza is a raised, circular space in the heart of the Porta Nuova district, connecting the historic center with the city's modern financial area. Designed by Argentine architect Cesar Pelli, the piazza is elevated six meters above street level, offering panoramic views of the Milan skyline. It's surrounded by striking skyscrapers, including the Unicredit Tower, the tallest building in Italy, and the Bosco Verticale, a pair of towers covered in lush vegetation. The piazza itself features three circular infinity fountains, adding to the dynamic atmosphere with water displays, light shows, and music. Piazza Gae Aulenti is a hub of activity, hosting concerts, events, and photoshoots. It's also a popular destination for nightlife, with many shops, restaurants and bars in the vicinity. The square is designed with eco-sustainability in mind, featuring solar panels that power the adjacent towers. Underground, you'll find transportation links, parking, and retail spaces, making it a functional and aesthetically pleasing urban center. From the piazza, you can see iconic Milanese landmarks such as the Garibaldi Towers, Palazzo Lombardia, and the Pirelli Tower. The square is not only a visual spectacle but also a place for interaction, with art installations like Alberto Garutti's 'Egg' connecting different levels of the structure, allowing people to communicate through the pipes. Whether you're admiring the architecture, enjoying the water features, or soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, Piazza Gae Aulenti offers a unique and unforgettable Milanese experience.
Local tips
- Visit at night to witness the mesmerizing light and water show in the piazza's fountains.
- Take the opportunity to view Milan's skyline from the piazza, including the iconic Unicredit Tower and Bosco Verticale.
- Explore the shops and restaurants located around the piazza for a complete experience.
- Use public transport to reach the piazza, as it is well-connected by metro, tram, and train.
- Look for events and concerts happening in the piazza for an engaging cultural experience.
A brief summary to Piazza Gae Aulenti, 8
- Piazza Gae Aulenti, 8, Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, 20124, IT
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Milano Centrale Station, take the M2 (Green Line) or M5 (Lilac Line) to Garibaldi FS station. Piazza Gae Aulenti is directly in front of the station's entrance. A single ticket costs €2.20 and is valid for 90 minutes. Alternatively, a 24-hour pass costs €7.60.
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Walking
From Corso Como, cross the pedestrian bridge that directly connects to Piazza Gae Aulenti. The walk is short and offers views of the surrounding architecture. No costs involved.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Milan. A short taxi ride from Milano Centrale Station to Piazza Gae Aulenti typically costs between €10 and €15, depending on traffic and the time of day. The initial fare on weekdays is around €4.10.
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Parking
Several parking garages are located near Piazza Gae Aulenti, including Parcheggio Gae Aulenti and Autosilo Garibaldi. Expect to pay around €3.00 per hour, with daily rates reaching up to €18.00. Note that the area is within Milan's Area C, a limited traffic zone, so check access restrictions for your vehicle.
