How to visit the Milan Duomo terrace?
How to visit the Milan Duomo terrace? Milan is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, and one of its most classic symbols is its magnificent Duomo. Did you know that you can have a unique experience and climb up to the cathedral terrace? I don’t even need to say that the view from the top is breathtaking, do I? Well, then, today you will get to know everything about visiting the Milan Duomo terrace. Here at Your Travel to Italy with Ana Patricia you make the trip of your dreams!!! ALSO: see our “Accommodation in Italy – Tips for your holidays!”
Video showing the Terrace of the Duomo in Milan!
(Source: DroneScapes By Atellani (By Atellani))
Ah, Milan! How not to love the most cosmopolitan city in Italy?
Milan manages to maintain its old-city charm, presenting us with historic, classic, and elegant buildings and, at the same time, blending its older buildings with an impressive modernity. Milan is the capital of the Lombardy region and is one of the most visited cities every year. If you want to learn everything about Milan, I invite you to take a look at our dedicated posts, and for that, you can click here!
Today, however, I’m going to tell you all about how to visit the Milan Duomo terrace. If you want to learn more about the city’s cathedral, I invite you to read this post: “Shall we get to know Milan Cathedral?”
In short…
- Milan Duomo is one of the most famous cathedrals in the world and took over 400 years to complete. In Gothic style, it is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Italy, and its dimensions are indeed impressive! The cathedral is beautiful, inside and out, and presents us with several works of art, starting with its façade, which is a jewel.
Curiosity
- The Milan Duomo terrace is the largest of its kind in the world and has, amazingly, 8,000 square meters!
Good to know…
- The Duomo terrace is 70 meters high! Yea! It’s pretty high! So, if you’re afraid of heights or aren’t comfortable in very high places, I suggest you avoid climbing.
After all, what am I going to see over there? Shall we start our tour?
First, let’s know how we got to the top: you have two options and can go up on foot or by elevator. For those who want to go up on foot, get ready to face 251 steps to reach the first level; if you prefer something more comfortable, you can take the elevator! For stairs, you pay 15 euros; for elevators, you pay 20 euros. The ticket includes the entire monumental complex. If you only want to visit the terrace, you pay the entrance fee to the cathedral, which costs 5 euros, 14 euros to go up in the elevator, or 10 euros to go by stairs. Find out here what to do in Milan when it rains!
IMPORTANT:
- The Duomo Monumental Complex is open every day, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and the last entry is allowed until 6:00 p.m. However, on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, advance booking is MANDATORY, so get organized! Although I suggest that even if you visit the Duomo during the week, buy tickets in advance. To buy your tickets, you can click here!
ATTENTION:
- During some months of the year, the Duomo works with alternative hours, staying open until late. Check the official website for opening hours, alright?!
Once at the top, it’s impossible not to be surprised!
The route of the tour offers us a MAGNIFICENT view, unique in the world, and it is possible to see the details of this beautiful architecture up close! There you have the opportunity to get close to Milan’s main symbol, the famous Madonnina (Madunina for Milanese!). The image is at a height of 108.50 meters, and on the terrace, it is only 17 meters high from the visitor.
On the terrace, there are 134 towers (with heights of up to 17 meters) with statues that adorn the entire length of the site. If you want to see the statues, you can click here – there is the map, the history, and the name of the image. The terrace offers us a wonderful view of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, a panoramic view of Milan, and, of course, the Madonnina. If you want to see the image more closely, take one euro; it’s what you pay to use the binoculars available there. Find out here where the best bars with panoramic views in Milan are!
Important note:
- It may be that some areas are closed, as the Cathedral and its terraces are undergoing constant restoration, but nothing detracts from the charm of the tour.
Is it worth taking a guided tour?
- IT IS VERY WORTH IT! Always keep in mind that a guided tour is enriching and tells us, in detail, stories and incredible facts! Do you need a guide who speaks English? Talk to me!
Good to know…
- Before entering the Duomo, there is a security check. So avoid carrying large bags, backpacks, food, and drinks. In addition, wear comfortable shoes. Speaking of shoes, follow the ‘dress code’ of the place. No very-short skirts or shorts; bare shoulders; and deep necklines. Remember, you are in a church, and it is important to be aware that they keep out anyone they think is not properly dressed to visit a liturgical building.
What is the best time to visit the terraces?
Definitely, at the time around sunset! The view from above, while the city is ‘tinged’ with gold, is MAGIC! If you’re around in one of the months when the terraces stay open late, extend your visit a bit; the view from above at night is also splendid! Also read: where to shop in Milan?
Will I face lines?
Perhaps! It’s good to know that the elevator takes 8 people at a time, but many choose to go up on foot! During the high-season months, between June and August, the lines are a little longer, but nothing extreme. Avoid going up during the hottest times of the day, at lunchtime, for example, as the heat is very uncomfortable.
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Plus: read our tips and advices about the Milan neighborhoods and where to stay! Here you will find the perfect hotel for you and for your needs, respecting you budget! Also: booking at booking.com, you will help us to keep our blog and for free! No fees, no click baits, no fake news!
Hotels I advise in the Malpensa and Linate areas
Let’s start with the Malpensa and Linate areas, the city’s airport regions. Linate and Malpensa are close to the two main airports in Milan. Ideal for short stays and business trips, or if you have a car.
If you want to save a great option, the B&B, click on the links below and get to know each one. If you like the suggestion, make your reservation and guarantee good prices.
If you prefer a good hotel, I have three options that I really like. Click on the links below and get to know each one. If you like the suggestion, make your reservation and guarantee good prices.
Accommodations that I advise in the Duomo Region
One of the most charming regions is the Duomo area, with its cathedral and symbol of the city; this region is also perfect for those who love traditional cafes and trendy bars, or for those who are always looking for the latest and follow the trends. The Duomo Square region is equipped with two metro lines, which make this region even more practical for those staying in the city.
If you want some indications of hostels and apartments, I have some options that I advise saving; click on the links below and get to know each one. If you like the suggestion already, make your reservation and guarantee good prices.
I have four options for hotels that I recommend; click on the links below and get to know each one. If you like the suggestion, make your reservation and guarantee good prices.
- Hotel Canada (3 stars)
- Lancaster Hotel (3 stars)
- Uptown Palace (4 stars)
- Maison Milano (4 stars)
Hotels I suggest in the Historic Center Area
Another region to consider is the Historic Center of Milan, a tangle of charming streets. The so-called “fashion quadrilaterale”, the ideal place to shop in Milan, has its famous streets: Montenapoleone, Manzoni, Via della Spiga, and Corso Venezia (and lo Spirito Santo, Gesù, and Borgospesso). Within this zone, we can also consider the Zona Brera, which is another wonderful area to stay.
I have two options for B&B that I recommend; click on the links below and get to know each one. If you like the suggestion, make your reservation and guarantee good prices.
If you prefer a hotel, I have 2 options that I recommend. Click on the links below and get to know each one. If you like the suggestion, make your reservation and guarantee good prices;)
Hotels that I suggest in the Region of Brera
The Brera neighborhood is famous for its high-fashion boutiques, exclusive art galleries, and trendy bars; it is north of Piazza Duomo. The characteristic streets are inviting for a stroll without a destination. The main attraction is the Pinacoteca di Brera, where priceless works of art are exhibited, among them the masterpieces of Raffaello and Mantegna. It is in the southeastern region of Brera that the “fashion quadrilaterale” is located. The region is frequented by VIPs and socialites who spend horrors in the boutiques of brands like Armani, Valentino, and Versace on the outskirts of the elegant “Montenapo” (as the Milanese affectionately call Montenapoleone Street).
I have good hotel suggestions in Termini; click on the links below and get to know each one. If you like the suggestion, make your reservation and guarantee good prices.
If you prefer B&B, I have two good suggestions. Click on the links below and get to know each one. If you like the suggestion, make your reservation and guarantee good prices.
Hotels that I suggest in the Navigli area
Also, the charming Navigli district is a very energetic region, which in recent years has developed a lot. The “bomb” region of bars, breweries, restaurants, bakeries, and pizzerias is home to one of the most acclaimed antique fairs in Northern Italy. The bustling nightlife, typical art galleries, and characteristic streets make this region a great choice for those who want to stay in Milan and for those who love to enjoy the nightlife.
If you want to save a great option, the B&B, click on the links below and get to know each one. If you like the suggestion, make your reservation and guarantee good prices.
If you prefer a good hotel, I have two options that I really like. Click on the links below and get to know each one. If you like the suggestion, make your reservation and guarantee good prices.
Hotels I advise in the Central Station Region
Another region with a high concentration of hotels is the Central Station, especially if you come by train. In this region, there are several receptive structures, and the best is for all budgets. The best region for those who want to do round-trip trips from Milan.
If you want to save a great option, the B&B, click on the links below and get to know each one. If you like the suggestion, make your reservation and guarantee good prices.
If you prefer a good hotel, I have two options that I really like. Click on the links below and get to know each one. If you like the suggestion, make your reservation and guarantee good prices.
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Conclusion
How to visit the Milan Duomo terrace? Milan Duomo, itself, is already an unmissable attraction for anyone in the city, but climbing its terraces and seeing Milan in all its immensity, beauty, and magic, will transform and change the whole concept of beauty that you have of one of the most beautiful cities in the world: our beloved, unique, and splendid Milan.
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