Most cities give you a viewpoint. Milan lets you walk across the roof of its cathedral.
The Duomo Cathdral’s rooftops are a network of marble terraces set among 135 carved spires, and from up here you look out over the city, with the Alps on the horizon on a clear day (you can see also nearby cities if you are lucky with the weather). It is one of the most surprising and fullfilling things to do in Milan.
What the rooftops are actually like
From the square below, the spires look like a distant cluster of white needles. Statues stand at eye level, gargoyles double as rain spouts, and the pale Candoglia marble glows gold in the late afternoon sun. The walkways are wide and open, so you feel inside the architecture rather than looking at it from far away. Few cathedrals let you experience this.
The Madonnina, Milan’s golden guardian
At the very top stands the Madonnina, a gilded statue of the Virgin Mary placed on the main spire in 1774. She sits 108.5 metres above the ground, and for centuries a Milanese tradition held that no building should rise above her. When the taller Pirelli skyscraper was built, a small copy of the statue was placed on its roof to keep the custom alive. From the terraces you get one of the closest views of her you will ever have.
Stairs or elevator?
There are two ways up. You can climb the stairs, around 250 steps in total, or take the elevator, which carries you past the steepest stretch to the first terrace. Even with the elevator, there are still some steps to reach the highest level, so wear comfortable shoes with good grip. The marble can be smooth and slippery, especially after rain. If you would like to skip the stairs, our guided tour includes elevator access. Perfect solution.
Best time to go up
If you choose only a rooftops tour, then the late afternoon is a must, when the light turns the marble warm and the heat of the day eases. Especially during summer with the heat, do not forget to carry your water, as you may need when you are top.
From Rooftops: A view worth the climb
Standing among the spires, with the city spread out below and the Madonnina shining above, it is easy to see why the rooftops are many people’s favourite memory of Milan.
A guided visit makes the climb more rewarding, because your guide points out the buildings on the skyline and the stories behind the statues around you. Our Skip the Line Duomo and Rooftop guided tour includes priority access and the elevator up to the terraces, so you skip both the queue and the hardest stairs. If you would rather not sort out tickets and timing yourself, it is a relaxed way to enjoy the view.
Can you walk on the roof of Milan Cathedral?
Yes. The Duomo rooftops are a series of open marble terraces where you can walk among the spires and statues, with panoramic views over Milan.
Is there an elevator to the Duomo rooftops?
Yes. An elevator takes you up to the first terrace and past the steepest stairs. A few steps still remain to reach the highest level.
How many steps are there to the Duomo rooftops?
Around 250 steps in total if you climb the whole way. The elevator removes most of them. However please note that in general going down is from stairs.
Are the Duomo rooftops worth it?
ABSOLUTELY yes. Being among the spires with the city and, on clear days, the Alps in view is a rare experience that few cathedrals offer.
What should I wear on the Duomo rooftops?
Comfortable shoes with good grip, since the marble can be slippery. Bring water and a hat in summer, and remember shoulders and knees must be covered to enter the cathedral itself.
Check out our Duomo rules reel to be sure that you are ready for this visit!
Is the tour wheelchair / stroller friendly?
Please note the terraces are not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
