Opening Hours

What are the opening hours of Milan Cathedral? Milan Cathedral is one of the most impressive buildings in Europe and an absolute highlight of any trip to Milan. To help you plan your visit, here you will find all the up-to-date information on the opening hours of the cathedral, the rooftop terrace, the museum, and the treasury. You will also learn when the best times to visit are, how to obtain tickets, and what you should keep in mind – including practical tips and frequently asked questions.

Overview of Opening Hours (2025)

Milan Cathedral is open to visitors all year round. However, different areas have different opening times. Here is a compact overview for your visit:

Cathedral (Interior)

The central area of the Duomo is open daily from 8:00 to 19:00, with last admission at 18:45.

Please note that a ticket is required for tourist visits, although access for silent prayer is free of charge.

• Opening Hours: daily from 8:00 to 19:00
• Last Admission: 18:45

Rooftop Terrace

A highlight for many visitors: from the rooftop terrace you can enjoy breathtaking views over Milan – and on clear days, even as far as the Alps. At sunset, you can expect an unforgettable panorama over the city.

The famous rooftop terrace is open daily from 9:00 to 19:00, with last admission at 18:10. Access is via stairs or by elevator (extra fee).

• Opening Hours: daily from 9:00 to 19:00
• Last Admission: 18:10
• Access: stairs or elevator (surcharge)

Museum & Church of San Gottardo

The Cathedral Museum offers fascinating insights into the construction history, artworks, and religious treasures of the Duomo.

The museum and the adjoining Church of San Gottardo are open daily – except on Wednesdays – from 10:00 to 19:00.

Last admission is at 18:10.

• Opening Hours: daily from 10:00 to 19:00
• Last Admission: 18:10
• Closed: Wednesdays

Treasury (Tesoro del Duomo)

The treasury is open daily from 9:30 to 18:00, with last admission at 17:30.
Here you will find precious relics, liturgical objects, and medieval artworks – a true hidden gem.

• Opening Hours: daily from 9:30 to 18:00
• Last Admission: 17:30

Holy Masses & Services

Services are held on weekdays at 7:00, 8:00, 9:30, 11:00, and 17:30. On Sundays and public holidays, additional Masses are celebrated at 12:30 and 16:30.

Participation in Mass is free and does not require a ticket. Please enter the cathedral through the designated entrance for worship and behave respectfully.

• Weekdays: 7:00, 8:00, 9:30, 11:00, 17:30
• Sundays & Public Holidays: additional services at 12:30 and 16:30
• Access: free, no ticket required

Best Times to Visit

Milan Cathedral is one of the most visited landmarks in Italy – which means certain times and days can be very crowded. With the following tips, you can plan your visit stress-free and efficiently:

Morning or Evening? What You Should Know

• Early Morning (from 8:00): Ideal if you want to explore the cathedral in peace. The interior is especially quiet at this time.
• Late Afternoon (after 17:00): Also recommended, especially for visiting the rooftop terrace and enjoying the sunset view.
• Midday (12:00–14:00): Usually busier, as day-trippers and tour groups tend to arrive then.

👉 Tip: Avoid peak hours between 10:00 and 14:00, particularly during high season.

Seasonal Differences

Visitor numbers vary considerably depending on the time of year:

• Spring (March–May): Pleasant temperatures and moderate crowds – ideal for photography and longer visits.
• Summer (June–August): Peak season! Expect long queues and a crowded rooftop. Best to book tickets online in advance.
• Autumn (September–November): Calmer atmosphere, warm light – highly recommended for photography enthusiasts.
• Winter (December–February): Fewer tourists, but limited visibility from the terrace in poor weather.

👉 Note: The cathedral is also very busy on Italian holidays and Sundays. Allow extra time for your visit.

Pro Tip for Early Risers

The first hour after opening is usually the quietest – perfect for exclusive photos without crowds and for enjoying the cathedral’s meditative atmosphere.

Last Admission Times: When Does Milan Cathedral Close?

Although the cathedral officially remains open until 19:00, last admission is earlier depending on the area. Please take these times into account when planning your visit:

• Cathedral: last admission at 18:45
• Rooftop Terrace: last admission at 18:10
• Museum & Church of San Gottardo: last admission at 18:10
• Treasury: last admission at 17:30

👉 Tip: Allow at least 60–90 minutes before closing to enjoy your visit fully – especially if you wish to see multiple areas.

Tickets On-Site and Online

Tickets are available in two ways:

• Online (recommended): Purchase your official tickets through our ticket page. This saves waiting time and guarantees entry at your chosen time.
• On Site: At the ticket office on Piazza del Duomo. In high season, expect long queues here – especially in the mornings and on weekends.

👉 Note: Combination tickets for the Cathedral, Rooftop Terrace, Museum, and Treasury are available (available here) – with or without elevator access to the terrace. Make sure to choose the right package when booking.

Additional Notes

• Children under 6 years enjoy free admission
• Dress Code: shoulders and knees must be covered
• Last admission for groups is at least 30 minutes earlier

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Opening Hours of Milan Cathedral

Here you will find answers to the most common questions about opening hours, admission, and planning your visit to Milan Cathedral.

Is Milan Cathedral open on public holidays?

Yes, the cathedral is open on most holidays, including Easter, Christmas, and New Year’s.
However, please note that shortened hours or restrictions for tourist visits may apply, particularly when major services are held.

How much time should I allow for a visit?

That depends on which areas you wish to visit:

• Cathedral only: approx. 45–60 minutes
• Cathedral + Rooftop Terrace: approx. 1.5–2 hours
• Full Visit (incl. Museum & Treasury): 2.5–3 hours

👉 Allow extra time for waiting in line, especially in good weather or during high season.

Are there closing days or maintenance times?

• The Cathedral itself is open 365 days a year
• The Museum is closed on Wednesdays
• In rare cases, individual areas may be temporarily closed for maintenance, restoration, or events

👉 In bad weather, access to the rooftop terrace may be suspended at short notice for safety reasons.

Tips for Your Visit

With a few simple tricks, you can make the most of your visit to Milan Cathedral – without stress or long waiting times.

Avoiding Queues

• Visit the cathedral early in the morning (from 8:00) or late in the afternoon (after 17:00) to avoid the biggest crowds.
• Book your tickets online in advance. This saves time at the ticket office and secures guaranteed entry.
• Avoid weekends and public holidays if possible – especially in the high season from June to September.

Sunset on the Rooftop Terrace

A true highlight is the view from the rooftop terrace at sunset. The golden light on the marble spires of the cathedral is an unforgettable photo opportunity.
👉 Tip: Arrive by 17:30 at the latest to enjoy the last rays of sunlight in peace.

Respect the Dress Code

Milan Cathedral is an active place of worship. Please wear appropriate clothing:

• Shoulders and knees must be covered
• No sleeveless tops or short shorts
• If in doubt: carry a light scarf in your bag

Prepare Offline

Mobile coverage may be limited on the rooftop terrace or in the underground areas.
👉 Download tickets, audio guides, or maps in advance so you can access them offline.