How long does it take to walk the Tortona Design District?

The walk takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. This includes time to admire the architecture and take photos, but you should allow extra time if you plan to go inside the museums like Mudec or Armani/Silos.

Is the Tortona district worth visiting?

Absolutely, especially for fans of design, fashion, and modern architecture. It offers a unique look at Milan's industrial heritage and is home to some of the city's most innovative creative spaces.

Where does the Tortona walking route start?

The route typically starts at the 'Ponte di Ferro' (Iron Bridge) near the Porta Genova metro station. This bridge acts as the gateway between the Navigli district and Tortona.

Can I see street art in Tortona?

Yes, Via Tortona and the surrounding side streets are known for high-quality street art and murals. Note that these are often temporary and change frequently during major events like Design Week.

What is Armani/Silos?

Armani/Silos is a fashion art space and museum dedicated to the work of Giorgio Armani. It is located in a converted 1950s granary and is a major architectural highlight of the district.

Are there many places to eat in Tortona?

Yes, the area is packed with 'industrial-chic' cafes and bistros. Many showrooms and creative hubs like BASE also have their own internal cafes that are open to the public.

Is the Tortona district accessible for strollers?

Generally, yes. The neighborhood is flat with paved sidewalks. The only obstacle is the steps on the iron bridge at the start, which can be avoided by taking a slightly longer route via the street-level crossing.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step into the creative heart of Milan with this self-guided walk through the Tortona district. Once a gritty industrial zone dominated by steelworks and granaries, Tortona has undergone a radical transformation to become the world's premier design and fashion hub. This neighborhood stroll captures the essence of Milanese 'Industrial Chic,' where weathered brick facades now hide high-end showrooms, creative labs, and avant-garde museums. As you explore independently, you will witness how the city has repurposed its 20th-century heritage into a vibrant ecosystem for innovation. This walking route is particularly special because it takes you away from the Gothic spires of the Duomo and into a landscape of minimalist lines and functional beauty. You will encounter the monumental Armani/Silos, a former cereal warehouse turned fashion temple, and BASE Milano, a sprawling creative community housed in the old Ansaldo steel plant. The journey culminates at Mudec, the Museum of Cultures, where David Chipperfield’s modern architecture seamlessly integrates with the district's factory roots. This walking tour Milan experience is a must for anyone interested in how urban decay can be reinvented as a center for global style. Whether you are visiting during the frenzy of Milan Design Week or on a quiet weekday, this neighborhood offers a unique perspective on the city's modern identity. Discover the hidden courtyards of Via Tortona and the sleek silhouettes of world-class architecture at your own pace, without the constraints of a traditional guided tour Milan. By the end of this self-guided adventure, you will understand why Tortona is the beating heart of Milanese cool. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

The iconic iron bridge connecting the Navigli to the design district

Giorgio Armani’s minimalist fashion museum in a repurposed granary

The sprawling creative community hub at BASE Milano

Superstudio, the pioneer of the district's fashion transformation

David Chipperfield’s stunning 'glass cloud' architecture at Mudec

Hidden courtyards and industrial-chic showrooms along Via Tortona

Tour Stops (6)

Il Ponte Di Ferro

Start your self-guided walk at the iconic Green Bridge, or Il Ponte di Ferro. This weathered iron structure is more than just a crossing; it is a symbolic gateway. Behind you lie the historic Navigli canals, but as you cross over the railway tracks of Porta Genova, you are entering Milan’s industrial future. Built in the early 20th century, the bridge served the workers of the surrounding factories. Today, it offers a gritty, panoramic view of the tracks that once brought raw materials to the neighborhood. Notice the contrast between the old ironwork and the sleek, modern buildings appearing on the horizon. It is the perfect spot to capture the 'Industrial Chic' aesthetic that defines this district.

Armani/Silos

Standing before the Armani/Silos, you are looking at a masterclass in architectural repurposing. This building was originally a granary for the Nestlé company, built in 1950. In 2015, Giorgio Armani transformed it into an exhibition space to mark 40 years of his career. The design is intentionally minimalist, reflecting Armani’s own aesthetic—monolithic, grey, and powerful. The architect chose to keep the hive-like shape of the silos, which is why it’s called 'Silos.' While the permanent collection inside showcases decades of high fashion, the exterior itself stands as a monument to Milan's ability to turn functional industrial spaces into temples of luxury and art.

BASE Milano

Welcome to BASE, a 12,000-square-meter creative hub located within the former Ansaldo steelworks. This is where the district’s industrial past meets its social future. BASE is an 'open' space that hosts everything from artist residencies and co-working spaces to music festivals and technology workshops. As you walk through the large courtyard, look for the original industrial details: high ceilings, exposed concrete, and massive windows. This stop highlights the 'sharing economy' side of Tortona. It’s a place where the community gathers to innovate. There is often a temporary exhibit or a pop-up installation here, so the atmosphere changes frequently, reflecting the fluid nature of Milanese design.

Superstudio Events

Superstudio is often credited as the spark that ignited the Tortona revolution. In the early 1980s, photographers and fashion editors realized that the abandoned factories here provided the perfect high-ceilinged, naturally lit spaces for studios. Flavio Lucchini and Gisella Borioli transformed this former bicycle factory into Superstudio, the first major private hub for fashion and design in the area. Today, it remains a prestigious venue for Milan Design Week. While the interior is often closed for private events or high-profile fashion shoots, the exterior and the surrounding gates often feature bold branding and modern art that signal your arrival in the core of the fashion district.

Via Tortona

Take a slow stroll down Via Tortona itself, the neighborhood’s main artery. This street is a living gallery. Keep an eye out for the many 'cortili' or hidden courtyards tucked behind unassuming gates; these often lead to secret gardens, high-end furniture showrooms, or boutique advertising agencies. The street art here is volatile and changes often, with murals frequently being replaced by new commissions. This stretch perfectly encapsulates the district's vibe: a mix of rough industrial history and polished modern elegance. During the 'Fuorisalone' in April, this street becomes an outdoor festival, but on a regular day, it offers a quieter look at the everyday life of Milan's creative elite.

Mudec - Museum of Cultures

Your journey ends at Mudec, the Museum of Cultures. Designed by British architect David Chipperfield, this building is a stunning example of contemporary architecture nestled within an industrial shell. From the street, the building retains its squared, factory-like appearance to match the neighborhood. However, once you step inside the central hall, you are greeted by an organic, glowing 'cloud' of translucent glass. This curved, light-filled heart of the museum serves as a bridge between the different cultural exhibitions housed here. It is a fitting finale to your walk, representing the successful marriage of Milan’s hard-working industrial history with its sophisticated, global future.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk is the best way to experience Tortona, as it allows you to explore the hidden courtyards and showrooms at your own pace. This route covers key landmarks like the Armani/Silos and Mudec, focusing on the area's industrial transformation.