Via Abramo Lincoln

Between Piazza Cinque Giornate and Piazza Tricolore there is an area—called by some Rainbow District, by others Garden District—that not many people know. It may seem strange, but Via Lincoln, one of the most characteristic streets of Milan, is not very popular. It may be that it doesn’t appear often in the official guides or that it is a bit out of the way, even if almost in the center.

It’s better this way: it’s easier to enjoy it in peace. Part Burano, part Portobello Road, part Ligurian village, this narrow street is made up of multicolored villas that will delight your eyes (and, probably, your Instagram).

The history of this road goes back a long way: at the end of the 19th century, a workers’ cooperative here designed a Garden District made up of small affordable houses (which I believe have unfortunately risen now), intended for workers in the Porta Vittoria area. Over the years, the inhabitants have begun to beautify the area, giving rise to a kind of challenge to those who find the brightest and most cheerful color for their facade. The result is a rainbow effect, made even more special by the flowering trees during spring.

The villas all have private courtyards, some more well-kept, some less so, and the general impression is that of not being in Milan. Silence, peace, and above all many colors: from pink to green, from lilac to blue, you will find all the shades.

If you are in the area, after a stroll here, make a gourmet stop at Sissi’s or Pasticceria Giacomo or one of our other favorite restaurants in the neighborhood. Do not miss for any reason in the world even a short visit to Ikebana Fleurs, one of my favorite ‘artificial’ florists and the Penelope Market!