Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III
A breathtaking 19th-century glass-vaulted arcade connecting Milan's Duomo and La Scala, famed for its architecture and lucky bull mosaic.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking 19th-century glass-vaulted arcade connecting Milan's Duomo and La Scala, famed for its architecture and lucky bull mosaic.
"Incredibly beautiful. For the architecture, but it's become dirty and pigeon ridden."
Spin for Good Luck! 🍀
Step on the bull's mosaic and spin 3 times for luck!
Capture the Light 🌕
Visit at dawn or dusk for stunning golden hour photos.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mosaic Bull
Center of the main octagon
Spin three times on the bull's mosaic for good luck – a quirky, must-do tradition!
Architectural Grandeur
Entire Galleria
Marvel at the stunning glass-vaulted roof, intricate mosaics, and elegant ironwork.
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Luxury Boutiques & Cafes
Along the arcades
Window shop at high-end designer stores or enjoy a coffee at historic cafes like Marchesi 1824.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
The Lucky Bull Tradition
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Spin for Good Luck! 🍀
Step on the bull's mosaic and spin 3 times for luck! +1
Capture the Light 🌕
Visit at dawn or dusk for stunning golden hour photos.
Admire the Architecture 🏛️
Take time to appreciate the intricate mosaics and glass roof.
Coffee Break ☕
Enjoy a coffee or pastry at historic cafes like Marchesi 1824.
Tips
from all over the internet
Spin for Good Luck! 🍀
Step on the bull's mosaic and spin 3 times for luck! +1
Capture the Light 🌕
Visit at dawn or dusk for stunning golden hour photos.
Admire the Architecture 🏛️
Take time to appreciate the intricate mosaics and glass roof.
Coffee Break ☕
Enjoy a coffee or pastry at historic cafes like Marchesi 1824.
Check for Events 🎥
The Galleria sometimes hosts special exhibitions or events.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the Galleria's stunning architecture and historical significance, often describing it as incredibly beautiful. However, many note a decline in its upkeep, with some finding it a bit run-down, dirty, and lacking in unique shops, replaced by more common eateries. Despite these criticisms, it remains a worthwhile stop for its visual appeal and the iconic lucky bull tradition.
"Incredibly beautiful. For the architecture ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.
But instead of elegant champagne bars and antique stores, instead of fine restaurants and bookshops... only junk burger chain restaurants and almost all stores deserted. Not a single ⭐️ in return. Sad. Very sad."
Gal Grace
"As mentioned by others, this very beautiful Galleria has gone to the birds.
Most likely a once lively place, this historic location has become dirty, decayed and pigeon ridden.
It is still good to walk through if you are in the area to see the architecture and glass roof.
You don’t need to spend much time, but just pop in to see.
It looks like they might revamp it after they finish work on other buildings in the area."
David Maurice
"Beautiful gallery with amazing architecture and a few stores. Unfortunately, it's pretty empty"
Silvi N
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Galleria is centrally located in Milan, right next to the Duomo. You can easily reach it by metro (Duomo station, lines M1 and M3), tram, or bus. Many visitors walk here from other central Milan attractions. +1
Yes, it's very accessible. The Duomo metro station is directly connected to the Galleria, making it convenient for public transport users.
Driving directly into the Galleria is not permitted as it's a pedestrian area. However, there are several parking garages nearby, such as the Broletto parking garage.
Walking is the best way to explore the Galleria and its surroundings, including the Duomo and surrounding streets. Consider a guided walking tour for deeper insights.
The Galleria has multiple entrances, most notably the grand archways connecting it to Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Scala.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III is completely free. You can walk through and admire its architecture at any time.
The Galleria is open 24/7, as it's a public space. However, individual shops and restaurants have their own operating hours.
There is no admission fee to enter the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III. It's a public arcade for everyone to enjoy.
Yes, the Galleria is beautifully illuminated at night and is accessible 24/7. It offers a different, magical ambiance after dark.
While there isn't a specific official tour for the Galleria itself, many Milan city tours include a stop here, offering historical context and insights.
📸 📸 Photography
The central octagon with the mosaic bull, the grand entrances, and the glass-vaulted ceiling are prime photo spots. Try capturing the light from different angles.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Galleria. However, be mindful of shoppers and avoid using flash in a way that might disturb others.
Early mornings or late evenings offer fewer crowds and softer light, ideal for capturing the architecture without too many people. Golden hour is particularly stunning.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public indoor spaces like the Galleria due to safety and privacy regulations. Check local regulations if considering aerial shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the architecture. A tripod can be helpful for low-light shots, but be considerate of others.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Galleria hosts a range of dining options, from historic cafes like Marchesi 1824 and Camparino to restaurants and even fast-food chains like McDonald's and Burger King.
While some cafes and restaurants are high-end, there are also more accessible options like pizza joints and fast-food outlets.
Marchesi 1824 is a renowned historic cafe within the Galleria, famous for its pastries and elegant atmosphere.
Yes, some restaurants offer business lunch menus with stunning views of the Galleria, such as Vik Pellicootto.
Breakfast at Cracco can be pricey, with costs varying for counter service versus table service. It's considered a high-end dining experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the Galleria can get crowded, so holding hands is advisable. It's also a great place for a stroller, as the floors are smooth and accessible. The Galleria's central location makes it an easy addition to a day of exploring Milan with children, perhaps after visiting the nearby Duomo.
💰 Budget Travelers
You can window shop at the luxury boutiques, admire the mosaics, and participate in the lucky bull tradition without any cost. While dining options inside can be expensive, you can find more affordable food choices like pizza or fast food, or simply enjoy the ambiance and then head elsewhere for a meal. Visiting during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening) will also enhance the experience without any extra cost.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Aim for early mornings or late evenings to capture the space with fewer people and softer, more dramatic lighting. Don't forget the iconic mosaic bull – it's a popular subject, but try to find unique angles. Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the grandeur of the entire arcade, and consider capturing the reflections in the polished floors. The Galleria at night, when illuminated, offers a completely different, magical perspective.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Architecture
+1Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Galleria was envisioned as a symbol of Italy's industrial and economic progress following unification. It was named after King Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of a unified Italy. The building's four arms meet at a central octagon, crowned by a glass dome that floods the space with natural light. This blend of functionality and artistic expression makes it a landmark that continues to captivate visitors.
While it once housed elegant bookshops and antique stores, the Galleria has evolved. Today, it features a mix of high-end fashion boutiques, luxury brands like Dior and Prada, and several dining establishments, including historic cafes and more contemporary eateries. Despite some reviews noting a decline in its original charm, the sheer beauty of its architecture remains undeniable, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Milan.
The Legend of the Lucky Bull
+2This quirky ritual has become a popular activity for tourists and locals alike, often resulting in a small crowd gathered around the mosaic. While the effectiveness of the charm is debatable, it adds a fun and memorable element to the Galleria experience. Many visitors can be seen participating in the spin, capturing photos and videos of the tradition.
+1It's a lighthearted way to engage with the history and folklore of Milan. Even if you're skeptical, the act of participating in this well-known tradition can be a delightful part of your visit, offering a unique photo opportunity and a story to tell.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit