Around Milan: Exploring the Isola neighborhood

Just a stone’s throw from Garibaldi Station and the futuristic Porta Nuova district lies Isola, one of Milan’s most captivating corners, where old railing houses mix with trendy bars and a distinctly bohemian vibe.

An evocative name, a challenging past, and a leading role in the present. This is Isola, the neighborhood that captures the genuine soul of Milan, constantly balancing history and innovation. Located north of the city center, it organically extends the sleek, futuristic lines of Porta Nuova while fiercely maintaining its strong identity.

Its streets tell stories of challenges and rebirth, and boast a lively atmosphere built on contrasts: contemporary boutiques stand beside historic workshops, traditional eateries meet sophisticated gourmet venues, and modern architecture rubs shoulders with the classic Milanese railing houses. This vibrant setting is further fueled by a great creative buzz, thanks to numerous design studios, art galleries, and cultural hubs.

History and fun facts

The name Isola, meaning "Island," refers to the long period of isolation the area endured after the railway was built in the 19th century.

Starting as a landscape of rural farms, it grew into a working-class hub thanks to nearby industrial sites like Pirelli, Brown-Boveri, and the Napoleonic Foundry. For decades, it was literally cut off, accessible only by a single pedestrian bridge until after World War II.

Later, as Milan experienced its economic boom, Isola became a refuge for smugglers, loan sharks, and robbers, quickly earning a reputation as a place to steer clear of.

The recent process of gentrification has transformed Isola into one of Milan's most attractive areas, transforming its aesthetic without losing its soul. The neighborhood has embraced modernity while fiercely protecting its history, creating a unique microcosm brimming with fascinating narratives.

What to see in the Isola neighborhood

The Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest), the celebrated residential complex designed by Stefano Boeri, is an excellent starting point for exploring the area. It stands next to BAM (Biblioteca degli Alberi — Library of Trees), the large botanical park connecting Isola to Piazza Gae Aulenti in Porta Nuova.

Leaving behind the Casa della Memoria and the imposing Palazzo Ziggurat, home to Google’s offices, you enter the heart of Isola around Via Pietro Borsieri and Via Genova Thaon di Revel. Along these streets, a charming sequence of workshops, artisan shops, and cozy bars unfolds, inviting visitors to experience the unique 'small town' feel that makes this area of Milan unique.

A must-see is Santa Maria della Fontana, a Renaissance sanctuary built in 1506 over on the site of an ancient miraculous spring. This mandatory stop is cherished not only for its unique history but also for the splendid frescoes preserved within its walls.

A little further on lies the Fonderia Napoleonica Eugenia (Napoleonic Eugenia Foundry). This former 19th-century factory is where the bronze for the monument to Victor Emmanuel II in Piazza Duomo was cast. Today, it has been repurposed as a museum and event venue.

The historic Covered Market in Piazzale Lagosta is also worth a visit. Opened in the 1940s, it now hosts artisan shops selling high-quality food products, all offered with a plastic-free approach.

But Isola is also a treasure trove of hidden gems. Take time to explore the Museum of the Typewriter in Via Menabrea, or find tranquility among the trees at Isola Pepe Verde, a charming community-managed garden. Finally, history hides in a popular housing courtyard on Piazzale Lagosta, which once hosted the ancient Mojazza Cemetery. Here, a tombstone still marks the burial spot of the poet Giuseppe Parini.

Take note of these addresses

The retail scene in Isola is as unique and eclectic as the neighborhood itself. Here, you'll find everything from the ethical jewelry at UrOburo, to the handcrafted pieces at Rapa. The area also draws major international brands, like Deus Ex Machina, which established its sole Italian location here. And for a true local experience, a stroll through the bustling market on Via Garigliano is a must.

When it comes to dining, the neighborhood offers a wide choice of appealing spots, spanning from historic venues to innovative concepts. For those seeking tradition, Da Tomaso is the ideal place to enjoy authentic Milanese cuisine. Meanwhile, Ratanà offers Lombard classics reinterpreted with a contemporary twist, served on a charming outdoor dehor during the summer months. For pizza, Berberè is a guaranteed choice, and for an exotic dining experience, be sure to bookmark Casa Ramen.

When evening falls, the neighborhood comes alive, concentrating the action around Via Borsieri, Via Pastrengo, and Piazza Archinto. The choice of venues here is vast: options range from the naturally-infused cocktails at Wooding to the specialty gin produced at the Botanical Club (which features an annexed micro-distillery). Don't miss an aperitivo at Frida, famous for its mural-filled courtyard, and for a night out in true New York style, there's the Blue Note, Milan's most famous jazz club.

Transportation

Today, the Isola district is well-connected to the rest of Milan through four different Metro stops: Isola (on the M5/Lilac line), Garibaldi and Gioia (on the M2/Green line), and Zara (on the M3/Yellow line). The area is also served by several surface transport lines, including trams 2, 7, and 33, and bus routes 60 and 70.

Furthermore, the proximity of the Milano Garibaldi railway station guarantees fast connections both to the surrounding region and to major Italian cities via national rail lines.

The real estate market in Milan's Isola neighborhood

Buying a house in Milan's Isola is a great choice, especially as an investment. Property values have seen a major boost, driven by the transformation of Porta Nuova and the neighborhood’s great quality of life.

Architecturally, the neighborhood blends "Old Milan" style railing houses with elegant Art Nouveau palaces, skyscrapers, modernist rationalist buildings, and brand new developments. The district is also witnessing increasing demand from businesses and professionals alike, who are attracted by its vibrant atmosphere and the extensive range of services it provides.