Pirelli Tower, Milan - System and order
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Pirelli Tower Milan

4.4
·1k reviews·Milano, Italy

A 1960 reinforced concrete tower, the Pirelli Tower is a symbol of modern Milan's architectural ambition and skyline.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunset

Magical city transformation

CrowdHigh
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Pirelli Tower, Milan - System and order

Pirelli Tower Milan

Best Time

Sunset

Magical city transformation

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 1960 reinforced concrete tower, the Pirelli Tower is a symbol of modern Milan's architectural ambition and skyline.

4.4
(1k reviews)

"A significant symbol of modern Milan, the Pirelli Tower is an architectural icon worth admiring."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Duomo Rooftop Ahead

Sunset slots sell out fast! Book your Duomo rooftop tickets online in advance.

🎨 Art at Hangar Bicocca

Don't miss the contemporary art at Pirelli Hangar Bicocca for a different vibe.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Duomo Rooftop Views

Duomo Rooftop Views

Milan Cathedral Rooftop

Panoramic city vistas, especially magical during sunset. A must-see for any Milan visitor.

TikTok
Pirelli Hangar Bicocca

Pirelli Hangar Bicocca

Bicocca District

A renowned contemporary art space with thought-provoking exhibits. A local favorite for art lovers.

Reddit
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Between Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Scala

Stunning 19th-century glass-covered arcade, a masterpiece of architecture. Admire, but dine elsewhere.

TikTok

Planning Your Visit

Book Duomo Rooftop Tickets Early

The Duomo rooftop offers breathtaking city views, especially at sunset. Tickets, particularly for sunset slots, sell out fast. Book online well in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. TikTok

Explore Beyond the Duomo

While the Duomo is iconic, Milan offers more. Consider the Pirelli Hangar Bicocca for contemporary art or explore the Galleria for its architecture, but be wary of overpriced dining inside. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Sunset
Why
Magical city transformation
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Milano, I do be missin you ❣️ #milan #travelguide #italy #fyp
@ac_ventures_
92.3K likes • 2.3M views

🎟️ Book Duomo Rooftop Ahead

Sunset slots sell out fast! Book your Duomo rooftop tickets online in advance. TikTok

🎨 Art at Hangar Bicocca

Don't miss the contemporary art at Pirelli Hangar Bicocca for a different vibe. Reddit

Watching Milan transform at sunset 🥹 This is truly a must do in Milan. If you can, make sure to time your duomo terrace view for sunset. The sunset slots book out the fastest so make sure to book at l...
@joarahyun
30.9K likes • 349.8K views
reddit.com

5 days 4 nights in Milan. Any recommendations?

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond Tourist Traps

Admire the Galleria, but avoid eating there; it's pricey. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Milan is best explored on foot, so pack comfy shoes for city wandering. TikTok

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Duomo Rooftop Ahead

Sunset slots sell out fast! Book your Duomo rooftop tickets online in advance. TikTok

🎨 Art at Hangar Bicocca

Don't miss the contemporary art at Pirelli Hangar Bicocca for a different vibe. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond Tourist Traps

Admire the Galleria, but avoid eating there; it's pricey. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Milan is best explored on foot, so pack comfy shoes for city wandering. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.4
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Pirelli Tower is recognized as a significant architectural landmark symbolizing modern Milan. While not a tourist destination itself, its imposing presence is appreciated. Visitors often combine viewing it with nearby attractions like the Duomo and the Galleria, recommending exploration of contemporary art at the Pirelli Hangar Bicocca. TikTokReddit

"It was bliss at sunset, all Milan lit up around and below us. The paper crib was also something pleasantly unexpected."

Leonella Ferrarini (lefe)

"Lucky to be there one weekend was open to public to see the view from the panoramic terrace. Great example of work by Giovanni Ponti with his line like a missile starting towards the future"

Enri “erri” Mj

"Beautiful building even more after a restoration following a small plane hitting it in 2002. And incredibly similar to NY MetLife!"

Alberto Castagnetti

What People Like

Iconic modern architecture
Symbol of Milan's progress

What People Dislike

Limited public access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Pirelli Tower (now known as Palazzo Pirelli) is easily accessible via public transport. You can take the metro to the Gioia or Garibaldi FS stations. Many visitors also find it convenient to walk from the city center if they are exploring other Milan landmarks. TikTok

Parking in central Milan can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transportation. If you must drive, look for paid parking garages in the vicinity. TikTok

While the Pirelli Tower is a significant landmark, public access to the interior for general tourism is limited. It primarily houses regional government offices. However, its exterior is a symbol of modern Milan. TikTok

Milan has an excellent public transportation system, including metro, trams, and buses. Purchasing a day pass or a multi-day pass can be cost-effective for exploring various attractions like the Duomo and the Pirelli Hangar Bicocca. TikTok

Specific guided tours focusing solely on the Pirelli Tower are rare due to its limited public access. However, general Milan city tours might point it out as a significant architectural landmark. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, you do not need tickets to see the Pirelli Tower from the outside as it is a public building and a prominent part of the Milan skyline. TikTok

As the Pirelli Tower is a working office building, it does not have public visitor hours. Its exterior can be viewed at any time. TikTok

There is no entrance fee to view the Pirelli Tower from the outside. TikTok

Tickets for popular Milan attractions like the Duomo rooftop can be purchased online through their official websites or reputable ticketing platforms. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for sunset slots. TikTok

Yes, many of Milan's attractions can be enjoyed for free, including walking through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II (though dining is expensive), admiring the Duomo from the outside, and exploring various piazzas. The Pirelli Hangar Bicocca also offers free admission to its permanent installations. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 Photography

Iconic photo spots include the Duomo rooftop for panoramic city views, especially at sunset,TikTok the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for its stunning architecture,TikTok and the modern skyline featuring the Pirelli Tower. The Pirelli Hangar Bicocca also offers unique photographic opportunities with its art installations. Reddit

The Pirelli Tower looks impressive at any time of day, but golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can offer beautiful lighting. Its modern lines also stand out against a clear blue sky. TikTok

Yes, you can take photos inside the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. It's a popular spot for capturing the grandeur of its architecture and the bustling atmosphere. TikTok

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for cityscapes and architectural shots. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of the Duomo and the Galleria. Don't forget a tripod for low-light photography, especially if you plan to capture the Duomo at night. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed in most public areas. However, always be mindful of private property and any specific signage regarding photography, especially inside museums or certain government buildings. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The area around the Pirelli Tower has many dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. For authentic Milanese cuisine, venture slightly away from the immediate tourist hotspots. TikTok

Must-try dishes include Risotto alla Milanese (saffron risotto), Cotoletta alla Milanese (breaded veal cutlet), and Osso Buco. Don't forget to sample local pastries and coffee. TikTok

While the Galleria has restaurants, they are generally considered tourist traps with inflated prices. It's better to explore the side streets and surrounding areas for more authentic and reasonably priced dining experiences. TikTok

Ask locals for recommendations, check online reviews for trattorias and osterias away from major landmarks, or simply wander into neighborhoods like Brera or Navigli for a more authentic culinary adventure. Reddit

Milan can be expensive, especially in tourist-heavy areas. However, you can find delicious and affordable meals by seeking out local trattorias, enjoying aperitivo (pre-dinner drinks with snacks), or opting for panzerotti from popular spots. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Pirelli Tower itself isn't a family attraction, Milan offers plenty for families. The Duomo rooftop can be exciting for older children who enjoy panoramic views. For a more engaging experience, consider the Pirelli Hangar Bicocca, where large-scale art installations might capture younger imaginations, and admission is free. Reddit

When exploring, focus on open spaces like piazzas and parks. The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is visually impressive, but keep an eye on little ones in the crowds. Opt for casual eateries or bakeries for kid-friendly snacks rather than formal restaurants in tourist hotspots. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Milan can be budget-friendly if you know where to look. The Pirelli Hangar Bicocca is a fantastic free art destination. Admire the Pirelli Tower and the Duomo from the outside, and enjoy the architecture of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II without spending a fortune. TikTokReddit

Save money by utilizing Milan's efficient public transport system and packing snacks or enjoying aperitivo, which often includes substantial food with the purchase of a drink. Look for local trattorias away from major tourist sites for more affordable and authentic meals. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Pirelli Tower: A Symbol of Modern Milan

The Pirelli Tower, officially known as Palazzo Pirelli, stands as a significant monument to Milan's post-war architectural ambition. Completed in 1960, this reinforced concrete skyscraper was once the tallest building in Italy and remains an iconic symbol of the city's modern identity. Its distinctive tapered design, with broad main facades that narrow towards the top, makes it instantly recognizable on the Milanese skyline. While not a tourist attraction in itself, its presence signifies Milan's evolution into a global hub for business and design. TikTok

Designed by Gio Ponti, Pier Luigi Nervi, and Antonio Fornaroli, the tower was a groundbreaking project for its time, showcasing innovative engineering and a sleek, modernist aesthetic. It served as the headquarters for the Pirelli tire company and later became the seat of the Lombardy regional government. Visitors can admire its imposing structure from various vantage points around the city, particularly from the areas near the Gioia and Garibaldi stations. TikTok

For those interested in the architectural heritage of Milan, the Pirelli Tower is a key landmark. It represents a departure from historical styles and embraces the future, a theme that resonates throughout much of Milan's urban landscape. Its enduring presence is a testament to its design and its role in shaping the city's visual identity. TikTok

Experiencing Milan's Art Scene

Milan's art scene extends far beyond its historical masterpieces, with contemporary spaces like the Pirelli Hangar Bicocca offering a dynamic and engaging experience. This former industrial site has been transformed into a vast exhibition space dedicated to contemporary art, featuring both temporary exhibitions and impressive permanent installations. Reddit

The Hangar Bicocca is particularly renowned for Anselm Kiefer's monumental site-specific work, 'The Seven Heavenly Palaces.' This installation, composed of seven towering structures, dominates the industrial space and provides a powerful backdrop for contemplation. Visitors often describe the experience as awe-inspiring and thought-provoking, making it a highlight for art enthusiasts. Reddit

Beyond the Hangar Bicocca, Milan offers a rich tapestry of artistic experiences. From the classical collections in its museums to the vibrant street art scene, there's something to captivate every art lover. Exploring these diverse artistic offerings provides a deeper understanding of Milan's cultural landscape, from its historical roots to its contemporary expressions. TikTokReddit

Navigating Milan's Iconic Galleria

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is more than just a shopping arcade; it's a breathtaking architectural marvel and a central artery connecting Milan's most famous landmarks. Built in the 19th century, this magnificent glass-covered structure features stunning mosaics, intricate ironwork, and a grand central dome, making it a photographer's dream. TikTok

While the Galleria is home to high-end boutiques and cafes, travelers often advise against dining within its walls due to high prices and a tourist-centric atmosphere. Instead, it's best enjoyed as a place to stroll, admire the architecture, and soak in the vibrant ambiance. Many visitors also participate in the tradition of spinning on the bull mosaic at the center of the octagon for good luck. TikTok

Connecting the Piazza del Duomo with Piazza della Scala, the Galleria is a must-visit for its sheer beauty and its role as a gateway to other key Milanese attractions. It offers a glimpse into the city's elegant past and its continued status as a fashion and design capital. TikTok

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