A visit to Milan Cathedral is undoubtedly a cultural highlight – but the true experience begins when you ascend the steps or take the elevator to the rooftop terrace of the Duomo di Milano. High above the city’s rooftops, a breathtaking panorama unfolds: Milan at your feet, the Alps on the horizon, and the delicate spires of Gothic architecture that are otherwise admired only from afar.
The rooftop terrace not only offers an unparalleled perspective of the monumental structure itself, but also reveals the city’s history, told through marble towers and stone gargoyles.
In this article, you will find everything you need to know about visiting the rooftop terrace – from opening hours and ticket options to practical tips for a memorable experience.
Book Your Ticket
Due to high visitor demand, we recommend booking your ticket in advance. Tickets for the cathedral’s rooftop terrace are issued with a time slot and include free cancellation (until the day before your visit – see booking details).
Elevator or Stairs? How to Reach the Rooftop Terrace
Access to the rooftop terrace is via the south side of Milan Cathedral, directly on Piazza del Duomo. You can choose between two ways to ascend:
By Elevator (Lift)
By Stairs
Accessibility
Access to the rooftop terrace is partially accessible. The elevator provides a good option for visitors with reduced mobility, although not all areas of the rooftop are completely level or barrier-free. Staff on site are available to provide assistance if needed.
Entrance Information
Please note: Entry to the rooftop terrace is not through the main portal of the cathedral, but via a separate entrance. The signage (“Terrazze”) is clearly visible, and staff will be happy to assist you.
Opening Hours of the Rooftop Terrace
The rooftop terrace of Milan Cathedral is open all year round and offers a different experience depending on the season – from warm sunlight in summer to clear views on crisp winter days. Please note that opening hours may change at short notice due to weather conditions.
Below are the regular opening hours:
| Day | Opening Hours (Elevator) | Opening Hours (Stairs) |
|---|---|---|
| Monday - Sunday | 09:00 – 19:00 | 09:00 – 19:00 |
Last Admission
Last admission is at 18:10 – regardless of whether you choose to ascend by stairs or elevator.
Note:
The rooftop terrace will close in the event of heavy rain, thunderstorms, or strong winds for safety reasons. In such cases, ticket exchanges or rescheduling are possible. We therefore recommend checking the weather before your visit and booking tickets online whenever possible.
👉 For more details, see our page on Cathedral Opening Hours.
Tickets for the Rooftop Terrace
Access to the rooftop terrace requires a separate ticket, which can be booked either individually or in combination with the cathedral and other areas. The price depends on whether you choose to use the elevator or the stairs.
We recommend booking your tickets online in advance to avoid waiting times – especially during peak season.
Ticket Options at a Glance
| Ticket Type | Price (Adults) | Tickets |
|---|---|---|
| Terrace – Stairs | from €19 | Tickets |
| Terrace – Elevator | from €22 | Tickets |
| Cathedral + Terrace – Stairs | from €26 | Tickets |
| Cathedral + Terrace – Elevator | from €32 | Tickets |
| Fast-Track Tickets | from €34 | Tickets |
💡 Tip: Children under 6 years usually enjoy free admission. Discounts apply for young visitors, students, and seniors – please have valid ID ready.
Ticket Purchase
- Buy online: The most convenient option is via our page Tickets for Milan Cathedral
- On site: At the official ticket offices on Piazza del Duomo, subject to waiting times (ticket office opening hours: daily from 08:00 a.m.).
Rooftop Experience: What Can You See?
The rooftop terrace of Milan Cathedral is far more than just a viewpoint – it is an architectural experience. Nowhere else can Gothic craftsmanship be admired so directly and up close. Among pinnacles, spires, and intricately carved gargoyles, you stroll across the roof of one of Europe’s largest churches – an experience that remains unforgettable even for seasoned travelers.
Every step on the vast marble roof brings you a little closer to history – and to the heavens.
Gothic Masterpieces Up Close
On the terrace, you are right at the heart of Gothic architecture. The many pinnacles, pointed arches, gargoyles, and statues surround you at eye level – no longer distant or abstract, but alive. Every detail reflects the craftsmanship of the builders who worked on this monument over the course of centuries.
The bright Candoglia marble, used for the entire structure, reflects the light in warm or cool tones depending on the time of day. Especially at sunrise or sunset, atmospheric impressions are created that go far beyond a typical sightseeing experience.
The View Over Milan
The view from the terrace is simply overwhelming. In every direction, the city stretches out before you – from the red-tiled roofs of the old town to the modern skyscrapers of the financial district. On clear days, you can see the Alps to the north, while to the south the vast Po Valley begins.
The breadth of the view offers a new perspective on Milan: historical, geographical, and cultural. It is a panorama that opens the mind – and touches the heart.
The Madonnina – Closer Than Ever
One of the most significant experiences on the terrace is the view of the Madonnina, the gilded statue of the Virgin Mary on the cathedral’s tallest spire. Rising 108.5 meters above the cathedral, she is regarded as the spiritual symbol of Milan.
From the rooftop, she feels almost within reach. Her golden shine stands out brilliantly against the sky – especially in the low evening sun. Many visitors pause quietly beneath her gaze, as if she were the true center of this sacred place.
© Frank Bach / Shutterstock.com
An Oasis of Calm in the Heart of the City
Despite its central location and the many visitors, the rooftop terrace often feels surprisingly peaceful. The hustle and bustle of Piazza del Duomo seems far away up here. Instead, you are accompanied only by the wind, the quiet murmur of other visitors, and the occasional ringing of the cathedral’s bells.
For many, the time spent on the terrace becomes a personal moment – a place to breathe, pause, and let the gaze wander.
45-65
Meters
The height of the rooftop terrace ranges from 45 meters at its lowest point to 65 meters at the highest. The golden statue of the Madonnina rises above it all at 108.5 meters.
3900
Gold Leaves
The famous “Madonnina” is covered with 3,900 sheets of gold and is considered the city’s patroness. Historically, no building in Milan was allowed to be taller than her.
100
Kilometers
…of visibility. On some days of the year, especially in the summer and with clear skies, you can see up to 100 kilometers – across Milan’s rooftops and as far as the Alps.
250
Steps
If you choose the stairs, you will climb through narrow passageways and stairwells with a total of 250 steps – rewarded at the top with a fabulous view.
Tips for Your Visit
A visit to the rooftop terrace of Milan Cathedral is a truly special experience – and with a little preparation, it becomes even more enjoyable. Below you will find practical advice to help you make the most of your time on the terrace:
The Best Time of Day
Clothing and Equipment
Weather Considerations
Visiting with Children
Avoiding Waiting Times
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about the Rooftop Terrace
How long does a visit to the rooftop terrace take?
You should generally allow around 30 to 60 minutes – depending on how much time you spend taking photos, enjoying the view, and making your way back down. During busy periods, delays may occur at the elevator.
Is access possible with a stroller?
Partially. The elevator makes access easier, but on the terrace itself some areas can only be reached via stairs. We recommend carrying small children in a baby carrier and, if possible, leaving the stroller below.
Are there restrooms on the rooftop terrace?
No. Restrooms are located in the cathedral’s basement and near the ticket offices. We recommend using them before going up.
Can you visit the terrace in the rain?
The rooftop terrace is accessible in light rain, but not during heavy rainfall or thunderstorms. In such cases, access is closed for safety reasons. Tickets already purchased can usually be used for another time.
Is photography allowed on the terrace?
Yes, photography is permitted, including with smartphones and small cameras. However, tripods, drones, and professional equipment are prohibited. Please respect the privacy of other visitors.