Things to Do in Milano
Visiting the Duomo di Milano
The centerpiece landmark of Milano
The Duomo di Milano, or just Duomo, as most people refer to it, is the literal and symbolic center of the city. As a tourist, it would be nearly impossible to miss the Duomo during a visit to Milano. Built over the course of six centuries starting in 1386, it is the fourth largest cathedral in the world. The Italian gothic style church is made of brick and marble and can be seen for miles around. The distinctive spires and pinnacles atop the Duomo provide for an iconic silhouette for the city of Milano. Inside, a multitude of art is preserved and displayed to visitors, providing a rich cultural experience.
Given the proximity to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the Piazzo del Duomo is usually a crowded place — it attracts equal numbers of tourists and pigeons. However, this cathedral square provides a magnificent approach to the beautiful facade of the Duomo. As you dodge the selfie sticks and street vendors, pay close attention to your belongings, as the area also attracts its share of pickpockets. If you intend to go inside the Duomo — which we highly recommend — note that the ticket offices can be found in a separate building to the right of the Duomo.
When you plan your visit to the Duomo, consider the exhibits you want to see and give yourself at least an hour and a half. Timed entry tickets are available for sale on the Duomo website, and the peak times sell out quickly. Also included in ticketing are fast passes, that allow you to skip the long lines at designated times. You want to make sure you’re dressed appropriately, as the Duomo is a fully-functioning Catholic church. In the warmer months, the terrace of the Duomo is open, giving guests a closer look at the architecture as well as a 360 view of the city. Separate tickets allow you to either ascend the staircases or ride elevators to the top.
Good to Know
- Dress for the occasion, even when it’s extremely hot. The Duomo’s dress code requires you to have covered shoulders and knees. For a small fee, the ticket office sells disposable garments so you can comply with the rules.
- If you plan to visit the Duomo during peak times, buying a timed fast pass ticket can really enhance your experience. Lines can extend well outside the Duomo and take upwards of several hours to allow you inside.
- When in Milano during the warmer months, visiting the terrace is a highly recommended part of the Duomo experience. You can tour the roof of the cathedral and get amazing photo opportunities.
- Reaching the terrace can be done by stairs or by elevators. There are separate tickets required for each method, and the queues for the elevators — especially going up — take a lot of time to clear.
- If you don’t have a chance to buy your tickets online in advance, the ticket office is in a separate building from the Duomo. When facing the front of the cathedral, the office is to the right near the back.
- You will need to pass through security in order to enter the Duomo or the terrace. Bags and other items are strongly discouraged, but you will be able to enter with a bag after being searched by guards.
