Duomo di Milano is one of the most visited and largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. While it welcomes millions of annual visitors, it is primarily a place of worship. Owing to its religious importance, there is a strict dress code for all guests visiting Duomo di Milano.
Visitors are expected to follow a modest dress code to enter the Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral). Both men and women must ensure their knees are covered, meaning shorts or skirts above the knee are not suitable. However, wearing longer shorts or clothing that covers the knees will generally meet the entry requirements.
Read along to learn more about the Duomo di Milano dress code, the general guidelines, what you can and can not wear, and what to do if you do not follow the code.
How strict is the Duomo dress code?
The dress code for the Duomo di Milano is enforced strictly. The code of conduct is very strict, especially inside the cathedral. The cathedral holds prayer meetings, mass, and other religious events throughout the day. Hence, visitors are expected to wear modest clothes to show respect to the religion and the site. While tourists are always welcome to visit the Duomo di Milano, they should follow the enforced dress code or will not be offered entry despite a valid entry ticket.
If you are visiting the museum, rooftop or the cathedral square, the dress code is a bit relaxed. However, for the best experience, we recommend you follow the general guidelines we have mentioned below.
Milan Duomo Dress Code General Guidelines
The dress code at Duomo di Milano expects all visitors to dress modestly while covering certain parts of the body, especially while entering the main cathedral. The general dressing guidelines of Milan Cathedral are:
- The knees and shoulders must be covered.
- Bare-backed or low-cut clothing is not permitted.
- Avoid shorts, miniskirts and hats inside the Milan Duomo Cathedral.
- Avoid wearing revealing or transparent clothes.
- Flip-flops are not permitted.
- Headgear, unless it is for religious or medical reasons, must be removed before entering the cathedral.
- Keep shawls and comfortable coverup options ready as a backup.
- Everyone visiting the rooftop is expected to wear comfortable footwear for easy navigation and avoid accidents due to the uneven floor.
Milan Duomo Dress Code for Men
Men should wear shirts with sleeves and full pants. Your shoulders and knees must be covered. Avoid wearing tank tops, sleeveless shirts or t-shirts and vests. If you are wearing a t-shirt, make sure that it does not have any offensive graphics or signs. Shorts are not acceptable inside the cathedral. So switch your tourist shorts for some casual trousers or jeans.
Hats or caps must be removed before entrance. You can not wear headgear unless it is for religious or medical purposes.
Avoid wearing flip-flops or open-toed footwear. We suggest you wear comfortable and fully covered shoes and there is a lot of walking involved. Keep a jacket or a comfortable cardigan handy, especially during the colder months.
Milan Duomo Dress Code for Women
Similar to men, women also have specific dress codes. While there is no requirement to dress formally, women are expected to dress modestly and not very casually.
Women need to cover their shoulders and knees while visiting Duomo di Milano. Opt for shirts with sleeves, blouses or t-shirts with no graphic print. Avoid bare-backed tops and deep necks. Full skirts, long dresses, trousers and jeans are permitted.
Do not wear clothes made of see-through material. Ripped, cropped, sleeveless clothes should be avoided. Avoid open-toed shoes, flip-flops and high heels. Wear closed-toed footwear are they are a safe and comfortable option for visiting the cathedral and rooftop.
Keep a shawl, a jacket or a cardigan handy as they can be used instantly to better the clothing in case of any accidental violations. They are also useful during the colder months.
Milan Duomo Dress Code for Kids
Children visiting Duomo di Milano do not have a strict dress code. However, parents must ensure that they are dressed appropriately and comfortably.
Kids’ knees and shoulders should be covered. Overly casual attires like swimsuits, tank tops, or revealing clothes are not welcome. They can wear T-shirts, full pants and three-fourths pants. We suggest that they wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes.
Remember to carry a jacket or sweater for the colder months
What you cannot wear at the Duomo di Milano?
Certain clothing items are explicitly prohibited inside the Duomo, mainly due to their lack of modesty or formality. These include:
- Flips-flops
- Sleeveless tops
- Crop tops
- Transparent or sheer material clothing
- Clothes with improper or flashy graphics
- Clothes with a deep neckline or a bareback
- Shorts, skirts, and dresses that are above the knees
- Sportswear like sweatpants
- Swim Suits
- Hats and caps
What if You Don’t Meet the Dress Code?
Visitors who do not follow the dress code will undoubtedly not be allowed inside the cathedral. The security is strict and hence, you must follow the guidelines.
However, if you get accidentally detained from entering the cathedral, then you can always purchase coverups from nearby stores. These sell affordable and quick cover-up options like ponchos, shawls and scarves which you can use. We recommend you carry a shawl, jacket, or cardigan to avoid such situations.
Things Not Allowed Inside the Duomo di Milano
Aside from inappropriate clothing, there are also restrictions on the items you can carry inside the cathedral. Make a note of the items and leave them behind in your hotel rooms to avoid being denied entry to the cathedral:
- Headgear (if they are for non-religious purposes)
- Large bags
- Weapons or sharp objects
- Tripods and selfie sticks
- Drones
- Food and drinks
- Pets (only service animals are allowed for individuals with disabilities)
- Cigarettes and e-cigarettes
- Umbrellas
Tips for Dressing Appropriately to the Milan Cathedral
Here are a few practical tips for dressing appropriately when visiting the Duomo di Milano:
- Learn about the dress code before your visit to avoid any surprises.
- Plan your attire according to the weather. If you are visiting in warmer months wear cotton clothes. If you are wearing a sleeveless top, make sure to carry a cover-up, like a shawl. During the winter months consider wearing a jacket.
- No matter, which area of Duomo you are exploring, it is essential to wear comfortable shoes. Opt for footwear that covers the toes and provides support for long walks.
- If you don’t know what to wear, pick the most basic and modest pieces from your wardrobe. Long pants, a top and shoes are generally a safe choice.
Milan Duomo Dress Code and What to Wear Additional FAQs:
1. Why does Duomo di Milano have a dress code?
The Duomo di Milano is majorly a place of worship. The dress code is enforced to ensure the sanctity and the cultural importance of the cathedral.
2. Does Milan Duomo (Duomo di Milano Cathedral) have a dress code?
Yes, Duomo di Milano has a strict dress code for visitors. Your clothes must properly cover your shoulders and knees.
3. Can you wear shorts in the Duomo Milan?
No, shorts are not allowed in the Duomo Milan as your knees must be covered to enter the cathedral.
4. Can men wear shorts in the Duomo Milan?
No, men are also not allowed to wear shirts. It is better to wear full pants.
5. Can you wear sandals in the Duomo Milan?
Open-toed footwear and flip-flops are strictly prohibited in the Duomo di Milano. Wear comfortable and closed footwear.
6. Does the dress code apply to the rooftop?
Yes, the same dress code applies to the rooftop of the Duomo as the cathedral. However, it is not enforced as strictly as the cathedral interior.
7. Is there a strict dress code for visiting the crypt and museum as well?
Yes, the dress code is strictly enforced in the crypt. Museum visitors have relaxed guidelines.
8. Is the dress code enforced strictly on kids?
Yes, children are also expected to follow the same dress code as adults. The knees and shoulders should be properly covered.