Bosco Verticale

The Bosco Verticale, or “Vertical Forest,” is a pair of pioneering residential towers located in the Porta Nuova district of Milan, Italy. Designed by Stefano Boeri Architetti, the towers were completed in 2014 as part of a larger urban redevelopment project. The towers are celebrated for their innovative integration of over 20,000 trees, shrubs, and plants on their facades, which are not just for aesthetics but are a core part of the building’s environmental design.

The Bosco Verticale exemplifies sustainable urban living and urban reforestation. The vegetation on the buildings provides significant ecological benefits, including air purification, temperature regulation, and a habitat for urban wildlife. The project has received global recognition for its unique approach to architecture and its contribution to enhancing urban biodiversity.

Interesting Facts

• Completed: 2014.
• Architect: Stefano Boeri Architetti (Boeri Studio).
• Height: The two towers are 116 meters (381 ft) and 84 meters (276 ft) tall.
• Vegetation: Features a total of 800 trees, 5,000 shrubs, and 11,000 ground plants.
• Structural Innovation: The building’s design allows for the safe and secure growth of a wide variety of plant species, creating a self-sufficient ecosystem.
• Awards: Awarded the International Highrise Award in 2014 and the “Best Tall Building Worldwide” by the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat in 2015.

Best Time of Year to Visit

The best time to visit Milan and see the Bosco Verticale is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October). During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for walking around the city and enjoying the vibrant colors of the vertical garden.

• Spring (April–May): The weather is comfortable, and the vegetation on the towers is in full bloom, offering a spectacular sight.
• Autumn (September–October): The foliage changes color, creating a beautiful autumnal display, and the crowds are more manageable than in the summer.
• Summer (June–August): Milan can be hot and humid, but this is a great time for outdoor events and festivals. The Bosco Verticale’s plants help to mitigate some of the urban heat.
• Winter (December–March): The weather is cold, but the city has a festive atmosphere around the holidays. The trees on the towers will be bare, but the evergreen plants still provide a green canopy.

Other Attractions in the Area

• Piazza Gae Aulenti: A modern public square surrounded by skyscrapers, located in the heart of the Porta Nuova district, offering a striking contrast to historic Milan.
• Biblioteca degli Alberi (Library of Trees): A large public park next to Bosco Verticale that serves as a green hub for the neighborhood, with walking paths and various tree species.
• Isola District: The bohemian neighborhood surrounding the towers, known for its artisan workshops, cozy restaurants, and lively nightlife.
• Corso Como: A fashionable street with high-end boutiques, restaurants, and clubs, leading to Piazza Gae Aulenti.

Considerations for Travel

• Public Access: The Bosco Verticale is a private residential and office complex, so visitors cannot enter the buildings. However, the towers are easily viewed and photographed from the surrounding Piazza Gae Aulenti and Biblioteca degli Alberi park.
• Transportation: The towers are well-connected by Milan’s public transport system. The closest metro stops are Garibaldi FS (M2, M5 lines) and Gioia (M2 line). The area is also served by several tram and bus routes. Milan Porta Garibaldi train station is a major transport hub nearby.
• Photography: The best views for photography are from the ground level in Piazza Gae Aulenti or from within the Biblioteca degli Alberi park. The buildings’ unique design and seasonal changes make for excellent photo opportunities.

Top Accommodations Nearby

• Milano Verticale | UNA Esperienze: A stylish hotel located in the Porta Garibaldi area, offering a modern and comfortable stay with views of the city. Prices from ~$200–$350 per night.
• NH Collection Milano Porta Nuova: A highly-rated hotel known for its excellent service and prime location near the towers and the main train station. Prices from ~$180–$300 per night.
• Hotel Viu Milan: A luxury 5-star hotel featuring a rooftop terrace with a pool, providing a unique vantage point of the city skyline. Prices from ~$250–$450 per night.
• Hotel Tocq: A well-located hotel in the Porta Garibaldi district, offering comfortable rooms and easy access to local shops and restaurants. Prices from ~$150–$280 per night.