I’ve passed through or near Milan more than once, but I’d never actually stopped to visit the city. And while the Milan Cathedral — the Duomo — is basically synonymous with visiting Milan, I’ll be honest: I’ve seen so many European cathedrals that they don’t always feel like a must-see anymore.
Is cathedral burnout a thing? Maybe.
Its relative proximity to Switzerland also made me think I’d get there eventually, and finally, I did. We visited Milan as a day trip… two days in a row, actually, because as it turns out, Milan is awesome.
And I have to say, this cathedral is impressive. I think my burnout has been reversed. I’m honestly kicking myself for not visiting sooner. Silly me. Next time I’m nearby, I won’t hesitate—I’ll stop.
Putting Milan on the Map (Courtesy of the Duomo)
Tip: I used Google Maps on my phone to find the best route to the cathedral. It told me the metro times and lines to take, including the best exit out of the Duomo station.
The Duke of Milan's Visionary Gothic Masterpiece
The Cathedral of Milan is both old and new. Construction of this Gothic cathedral began in the 14th century, but it wasn’t officially completed until the 1960s. So if you guessed its age anywhere in that range, you probably landed on some part of it.
It’s built from Candoglia marble, sourced from the Piedmont region. This particular marble has subtle pink hues that give the cathedral its distinct and stunning look. Can you imagine? It was originally envisioned in brick.
The construction was supported by the visionary Duke of Milan, Gian Galeazzo Visconti. He set out to make this cathedral a symbol of Milan, and perhaps that’s what makes it stand out. Many European cities have grand cathedrals—but this one was intended to put Milan on the map. That’s an important detail I had been missing. It explains why a search for Milan always brings up this cathedral. It’s not just another beautiful church headlining a city; it was designed to define it.
I left Milan with a new appreciation for the Duke. Nearly 700 years later, I visited from 7,000 miles away and was truly impressed. I’d say his vision and influence still give Milan prominence today.
Getting to the Cathedral of Milan
Oh boy, was it a bit crazy getting to the cathedral using the metro. And then we came up onto the square… into more chaos. But yes, you still need to see this place if you have the chance.
We visited on January 3 and 4. Each morning, we arrived from Lugano by train, then transferred to the metro. Milan’s central train station is huge, and reaching the metro requires a bit of a trek—though it’s well-marked. We followed the maze and made it without issue.
But once we got into the lower metro station, it was a mess. People everywhere. Long lines at the ticket machines and the ticket counter. Fortunately, I noticed the signs overhead explaining that you don’t need to wait in those lines if you use a contactless card. That saved us.
The key is having a separate card for each person in your group. Each card needs to be scanned again when you exit. Milan’s metro system charges you the lowest rate based on your journey and will cap the fee if you reach the cost of a daily card. We moved past the chaos and got on a train.
You can take either the Red Line (M1) or the Yellow Line (M3) to the Duomo stop—easy peasy. You’ll exit directly into Piazza del Duomo. When we came out, we saw the cathedral immediately. It was amazing.
And then we realized we weren’t alone.
The square was packed. Really packed—with tourists, people selling gadgets, and others offering to take photos for a fee. So watch your pockets and purses. There’s a lot going on, and you’ll likely be walking through all of it to get to the cathedral.
The Last Supper Painting is Not at the Cathedral of Milan
If you’re headed to Milan, you’re probably looking forward to seeing Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper. Just know that it isn’t located at the cathedral. The painting is housed at the former convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, which is elsewhere in the city.
I have a separate post on what to expect when visiting this masterpiece, so check that out if you’re planning to go. Just be aware that you’ll need a separate ticket and should account for travel time between the cathedral and Santa Maria delle Grazie, especially if you plan to see both in the same day.
Stepping into the World of Art and Glory at Milan's Cathedral
Stepping into the Duomo di Milano was like entering a world where art meets awe. I was impressed by the exterior, but the inside truly holds its own. The cathedral is massive, intricate, and honestly, fun to explore. It doesn’t reveal itself all at once. You have to walk it, wander it, look up, around, and behind things. It’s less of a one-glance “wow” and more of a slow, unfolding adventure. And that’s what made it unforgettable.
Instead of frescoes, artwork hangs from the cathedral walls like pieces in a gallery, suspended within this vast sacred space. And the stained glass? Easily the most incredible I’ve ever seen. Towering, vibrant, and richly detailed — I could have studied each panel for hours. I have a feeling I’ll compare every cathedral to these windows from now on.
The Duomo is busy, of course — this is Milan — but that didn’t diminish the experience. When I visited, the statue of St. Bartholomew was missing for restoration. In its place stood only a photo and a small sign. A little disappointing, but also a reminder that these places are still alive and being cared for.
Tip: Some parts of the Duomo, like the crypt and rooftop, require additional tickets. It’s worth checking what’s included in your pass, especially if you want to see it all.
Photo above: The altar area inside the Duomo di Milano, where soaring columns and sculpture frame the heart of the cathedral.
Photo above: The scale of the interior is hard to capture. Take your time — this space reveals itself slowly.
Video: A peak inside Milan's magnificent cathedral
The Details of the Cathedral are Spectacular
As you explore, you’ll start to notice the details. Every inch of the cathedral feels like a work of art and culture. Some features are worn and faded, others vibrant and new. Some seem like quiet whispers from the past, while others still carry the full weight of their craftsmanship.
The space is filled with contrast and depth. Lean in, because there’s so much to see.
Photo above: Look up, look down, look all around. It’s easy to get swept up by the stained glass, but the floor and columns are just as incredible. I tried to capture a bit of everything in this shot — there’s beauty in every direction.
Photo above: A glimpse of one of the cathedral’s towering stained glass windows. Photos don’t quite capture the scale or detail — check out my video to get a better feel for just how impressive they are.
Photo above: Sadly, the statue of St. Bartholomew was missing. All I got to see was this placard. Oh well, I guess this just means I will have to visit again.
Photo above: A scene carved with care. If you zoom in, you’ll see how the stone captures movement, emotion, and story.
The Cathedral of Milan is Always Beautiful - Day and Night
If you can, visit the Duomo at different times of day. It’s striking in every light, including at night when it’s fully illuminated. During the day, especially under blue skies, the marble glows — bright white against a vivid sky. At sunset, it shifts, taking on a warmer, almost golden tone. And at night, it becomes something else entirely — lit from below, with a dramatically Gothic feel.
Photo above: The Cathedral of Milan at night.
Choose Your Own Duomo Adventure
The Duomo di Milano is one of Italy’s most iconic sites — but the best way to experience it? That totally depends on you. Here’s are some ideas to tailor your visit based on your travel style.
For the Budget Traveler
Goal: See the best of the Duomo without spending more than €10–12.
Experience:
Enter the cathedral interior with the basic ticket (€5–7 depending on options).
Admire the stained glass windows, wander through the vast nave, and pause at the sundial near the entrance.
Peek down at the crypt (visible from the main altar) even if you don’t go inside.
Skip the rooftop, but walk around the outside to appreciate the façade. The doors and statues are a gallery of their own.
Pro Tip: Come early or late in the day to avoid crowds and soak in the grandeur without the rush.
For the General Visitor (Just Checking It Off the List)
Goal: Hit the highlights and get great photos.
Experience:
Combo ticket with rooftop + cathedral interior is the sweet spot (~€15–17 with stairs).
Walk slowly through the interior — stop at St. Bartholomew’s statue and the main altar.
Head up to the rooftop and snap skyline photos with the Madonnina in the background.
Optional: pop into the crypt if time allows (it’s quick and atmospheric).
Pro Tip: Use the stairs to save a few euros — and because the climb is part of the fun.
For the Cathedral Architecture Lover
Goal: Marvel at structure, design, and layout.
Experience:
Start outside: study the flying buttresses, spires, and carved details.
Inside, take your time with the columns, vaulting, and symmetry of the nave.
Visit the crypt to understand the vertical layering of sacred space.
Finish on the rooftop — where you can literally walk among the architectural elements.
Pro Tip: Bring a zoom lens or binoculars to get up-close with rooftop statues and carvings.
For the History Lover
Goal: Understand the timeline and evolution of the site.
Experience:
Begin with the archaeological area below the Duomo — remnants of early Christian churches.
Visit the Crypt of St. Charles Borromeo — key figure in Milan’s Counter-Reformation history.
Look for historical plaques and markers inside the nave.
End with the rooftop for a visual sense of Milan’s layered history and skyline.
Pro Tip: A guided tour (or at least an audio guide) makes the historical layers come alive.
For the Romantic / Photographer / “I Want The Vibe” Visitor
Goal: Experience beauty and capture a moment.
Experience:
Plan a sunset rooftop visit — light hits the marble like gold.
Stroll through the interior to photograph stained glass shadows on the stone.
Step back in the piazza to frame the cathedral façade with the afternoon glow.
Pro Tip: Buy tickets online in advance and aim for golden hour on the terrace. Magic.
For the Pilgrim or Spiritually-Inclined Visitor
Goal: Experience the sacred atmosphere, not just the sightseeing.
Experience:
Arrive early — the Duomo opens to worshippers before regular hours (and entry is free during this time).
Light a candle, sit in quiet reflection near the altar or side chapels.
Visit the Crypt of St. Charles Borromeo — a peaceful and reverent space.
Skip the rooftop unless the symbolism of “ascending” resonates with you.
Pro Tip: Even if you return later with a ticket, those early-morning minutes of stillness can be a highlight.
For the Family Visitor – With Small Kids
Goal: Keep it light, engaging, and stroller/doable friendly.
Experience:
Start inside — it’s big, echoey, and magical for little ones (even if they’re not into cathedrals).
Hunt for fun details: the sundial, animal statues, and the statue of St. Bartholomew (maybe skip it if your kids are squeamish!).
Skip the crypt unless your kids are adventurous.
Skip the rooftop if you’re wrangling toddlers — the stairs and railings aren’t always kid-friendly.
Kid-friendly extras:
Turn the stained glass into a scavenger hunt (“Find a horse! A fish! A baby!”).
Bring a snack for the piazza afterward — it’s great for a stroller break and people-watching.
Pro Tip: Travel sketch pads or coloring pages are magic if you need 10 peaceful minutes inside.
For the Family Visitor – With Older Kids (Much Harder to Please)
Goal: Hit the highlights fast, make it visual, and maybe add a tech twist.
Experience:
The rooftop is a win. It’s dramatic, high up, and totally selfie-worthy.
Inside, point out the wild stuff: a skinless saint, the massive pipe organ, or statues with swords.
Briefly check out the crypt if the idea of “a saint in a silver casket underground” sounds cool enough.
Let them drive the tour with the Duomo app or an audio guide — it gives them a bit of control.
Optional twist: “Complete the Duomo Quest” — see it from above, below, and within. Then gelato.
Pro Tip: Pair it with a reward (“best photo gets first pick of dessert”), and it becomes part of the adventure.
Rooftop Games for Teens (and the Adults Who Want to Win)
Speaking of visiting with teens — I know a little about that! Sometimes the best way to keep them present (and not buried in their phones) is to hand them a mission. Nothing complicated, no prep required. Just a few challenges or silly prompts to help them look up, take it in, and maybe even laugh a little. Here’s how to turn the Duomo’s rooftop into your very own real-life game zone (feel free to tweak this and make it your own):
1. Rooftop Scavenger Hunt (Sight-Based Challenge)
Challenge them to spot — or better yet, photograph — these details from the rooftop. You can read them aloud, screenshot the list, or let them turn it into a mini TikTok scavenger run.
Things to find:
A gargoyle with wings
A face that looks surprised
The golden Madonnina (extra points for a selfie with her in the background)
A spire taller than all the others
A statue holding something strange (a sword? a book? a sheep?)
Something that’s cracked, chipped, or weathered
A distant church dome (try to spot the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio or San Lorenzo)
A giant fashion billboard below — because, Milan.
2. Photo Bingo or Instagram Challenge
This one’s for the camera crew — let them turn the visit into a creative shot list.
Photo prompts:
Most dramatic selfie pose with the skyline
“Modeling for a Renaissance statue” pose (channel your inner marble mood)
Panorama of the rooftops
Close-up texture shot of the marble
A goofy family photo where everyone pretends to be statues
3. Duomo Detective (Mini Mystery Game)
For the curious ones who like clues and facts:
“How many spires do you think the Duomo has?” (Answer: 135 — but guessing is part of the fun!)
“Which direction do you think the city center is?”
“Can you spot another church from here?”
“Find the oldest-looking statue. What do you think its story is?”
“Where’s the most epic spot to shout a fake prophecy to the city below?” (Bonus points if they whisper it dramatically.)
Bonus: Sibling Showdown
Give each kid 3–5 items from the list. First one to complete theirs gets first pick of the gelato stop afterward. (Yes, shameless motivation works.)
Free printable: Duomo Rooftop Challenge.
