Isola, Local identity nucleus in Milan, Italy
Isola is a neighborhood in Milan that blends traditional brick buildings with contemporary structures along narrow streets. Independent shops and restaurants line these streets, giving the area a distinctive local character.
The area was once separated from central Milan by railway lines and functioned as an industrial zone. During the 20th century it transformed into a residential neighborhood with renewed significance.
Street artists paint murals on building facades throughout the neighborhood, creating an evolving outdoor gallery that residents actively maintain. This artistic expression has become a defining feature of the district's visual identity.
The neighborhood connects to central Milan through two metro stations, offering direct access to major transportation hubs. The narrow streets are easy to explore on foot and generally flat throughout.
A converted train station building now houses a restaurant serving regional Milanese dishes in an industrial-style setting with exposed metal beams. This repurposing shows how local entrepreneurs have reimagined historical industrial structures for contemporary use.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.