Duomo di Milano Rooftop – Tips for Visiting, Facts, FAQs and More!

Duomo di Milano, or Milan Cathedral has many things that people love to witness, but the most popular highlight of this place is its rooftop. 

Walking on the rooftop of this famous church will allow you to observe and admire the details of the cathedral’s iconic Gothic spires and intricate marble details. Visitors love to see the amazing panoramic view of the city of Milan, Piazza del Duomo, and on clear days, you can also see the Alps as well. 

In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know for a memorable visit to the Duomo di Milano Rooftop, from ticketing details to historical significance, making it your go-to resource for planning your visit.

Duomo di Milano Rooftop Tickets

There are three main types of tickets available for Duomo di Milano Terrace access. Each ticket allows you to choose between elevator access or staircase access, with prices varying based on your choice.

Check out our article on Duomo di Milano Rooftop Tickets for a detailed guide on ticket types, prices, inclusions, and booking information.

Essential Information for Duomo di Milano Rooftop Visit:

To have an enriching visiting experience of Milan Cathderal’s Terrance, one must equipped with some essential information about the place, such as its opening hours, the best time to visit, and the accessibility information. 

Opening Hours of Duomo di Milano Rooftop

The Duomo di Milano rooftop opens at the same time as the Cathedral, which is 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. with the last entry at 6:10 p.m. all seven days of the week. 

The Milan Cathedral and Terrace remain open throughout the year without any closures. 

Read Duomo di Milano Hours for more information.

The Best time to Visit the Rooftop of Milan Cathedral

The best time to visit the Milan Cathedral Rooftop is early in the morning, right when it opens at 8 a.m. until around 11 a.m., as this is when the crowds are minimal, allowing you to peacefully enjoy the stunning views of the city. After 11 a.m., large tour groups begin to arrive, making it more challenging to take in the scenery without interruption.

If you’re not an early bird, the next best time is after 3 p.m., when most of the big crowds have completed their visits. For late afternoon visits, consider exploring the cathedral first and then heading up to the rooftop to catch a breathtaking sunset if timed perfectly.

Dress Code To Visit Duomo di Milano Rooftop

The Duomo di Milano Rooftop follows the same dress code as the cathedral itself since it is a religious site. Visitors are expected to dress modestly and respectfully, meaning:

• No shorts or mini skirts (knees should be covered)
• No sleeveless tops or tank tops (shoulders should be covered)
• No see-through or overly revealing clothing

However, the dressing guidelines are generally stricter inside the cathedral than on the rooftop. If you’re just visiting the rooftop, you can dress more comfortably according to the weather conditions, as it can get windy up at the rooftop, but it’s still advisable to dress appropriately so that you won’t hurt any religious sentiment and to avoid any issues. If needed, you can bring a scarf or shawl to cover up when required.

Check the Duomo di Milano dress code for more detailed information.

How to access the Milan Cathedral Terrace?

Visitors can access the Milan Cathedral Terrace in two ways:

1. Via Elevator: Taking the elevator to reach the rooftop is the fastest and most convenient option, especially for elderly visitors, children, or those with mobility issues. However, even with the elevator, you will need to climb 50 steps to reach the central terrace.
2. Via Stairs: For those who prefer a more active approach, you can take the 250-step staircase from the south side of the cathedral. This option is ideal for fitness enthusiasts but it isn’t suitable for elderly visitors, children, or those with mobility challenges.

Please note: The main elevator is located on the northern side of the cathedral, while the staircase entrance is near the south side. Check our article on Duomo di Milano Map and Entrances for in-depth accessibility information.

What Makes Duomo Di Milano Rooftop So Special And Why Visit Them? 

The rooftops of the Duomo di Milano are known for their endless beauty, and architectural brilliance, and for providing a breathtaking view of Milan City, beauty, architectural brilliance, and unique experience. Here’s what makes them so special and why you must visit them:

• Stunning Gothic Architecture: WIth a visit to the rooftop, visitors can witness the intricate Gothic designs up close, with over 135 spires and 3,400 statues that adorn the cathedral. The detailed craftsmanship is a testament to centuries of artistry and dedication.
• Panoramic City Views: From the Central Terrace or the Belvedere, you can enjoy panoramic views of Milan’s stunning skyline, including famous landmarks such as Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Sforza Castle, and even the distant Alps on clear days.
• Close-Up Details: Unlike any other cathedral, Duomo di Milano allows visitors to walk on its roof and admire the elaborate carvings, flying buttresses, and statues from a close vantage point, making it a rare architectural experience.
• Sunset Experience: If you are someone who loves the sunset, then the Milan Cathedral rooftop is a perfect spot for you to witness a stunning moment of sun setting over the vibrant city of Milan, offering unforgettable moments and picturesque scenes.
• Historical Significance: As one of the largest cathedrals in the world, the rooftop offers a glimpse into the rich history of Milan and the architectural evolution that took over 600 years to complete.
• Unique Experience: Walking on the marble terraces of a centuries-old cathedral, surrounded by spires that reach towards the sky, provides a serene and enriching experience that is rare to find elsewhere.

The Duomo di Milano Rooftop is not just a viewpoint; it’s an immersive journey into art, history, and the heart of Milan.

Facts about Duomo di Milano Rooftop

The Duomo di Milano Rooftop is a remarkable space that offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and panoramic views. Here are some fascinating facts that make it special:

• As you explore the rooftop, you’ll encounter countless statues, intricate carvings, and hidden passageways, each adding to the cathedral’s charm and complexity.
• The Duomo is the only Gothic cathedral in the world with accessible terraces, giving visitors a rare chance to walk along its rooftop.
• The rooftop is adorned with 135 spires, 150 gargoyles, 96 large statues known as giants, numerous flying buttresses, and intricate decorative elements carved from pink-gray Candoglia marble.
• The terraces can be reached by climbing 256 steps or by taking one of the two elevators that quickly transport visitors to the first-level walkways.
• On the north side of the rooftop stands the Carelli Spire, the oldest spire of the Duomo, named after Giovanni Carelli, one of the cathedral’s most significant benefactors.
• Two parallel walkways run along the northern and southern edges of the terrace at about 45 meters (147 feet) above ground, offering scenic views of the city and the cathedral’s detailed architecture.
• Near the façade, both walkways converge at the counter-façade staircase, leading visitors up steep steps to the central terrace where the views are even more breathtaking.
• The counter-façade staircase is adorned with unexpected carvings in Candoglia marble, including the face of Dante Alighieri, an icepick, a rope, a racket, and even a ball.
• The main terrace, covered in slabs of Candoglia marble, spans approximately 1,530 square meters (16,468 square feet) and rises to a height of 65 meters (213 feet), providing ample space to explore and admire the Duomo’s architecture.

The Duomo di Milano Rooftop is not just an architectural feat; it is a journey through history, art, and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit attraction in Milan.

Tips for Visiting Duomo di Milano Rooftop

• Always buy your tickets to Milan Cathedral’s rooftop online and much ahead of your pre-planned visit date. 
• Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the rooftop involves extensive walking, which can be quite tiring. 
• For a more enjoyable experience, visit in the morning or late afternoon, when crowds are smaller. 
• Consider booking a guided tour for an in-depth exploration of both the terraces and the cathedral.
• The rooftop is an open-air space, so avoid visiting during heavy rain or extreme heat. Some areas might be slippery in wet conditions.
• Do not forget your camera when visiting the rooftop, the intricate spires create unique photo compositions, so experiment with angles. For fewer crowds in your shots, visit early in the day.

FAQs about Duomo di Milano Rooftop