Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Milan's magnificent 19th-century glass-covered arcade, connecting Duomo to La Scala, famed for its architecture and luxury shops.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Milan's magnificent 19th-century glass-covered arcade, connecting Duomo to La Scala, famed for its architecture and luxury shops.
"A stunning architectural marvel and a must-see in Milan, though dining prices are steep."
Spin for Good Luck! 🐂
Stand on the bull's mosaic and spin 3 times on your heel for good luck, a popular tradition!
Avoid Eating Here 🍴
Prices are very high. Enjoy the sights, but dine elsewhere for better value.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Bull Mosaic
Center of the main octagon
Spin on the bull's mosaic for good luck! It's a quirky tradition that brings a smile to many faces.

Architectural Grandeur
Throughout the Galleria
Marvel at the stunning glass-covered roof, intricate mosaics, and elegant 19th-century architecture. It's a feast for the eyes.

Luxury Shopping Avenue
Along the arcades
Window shop at high-end designer boutiques like Prada and Gucci. Even if you're not buying, it's part of the Milanese fashion experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Best Views
Beware of Tourist Traps
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Spin for Good Luck! 🐂
Stand on the bull's mosaic and spin 3 times on your heel for good luck, a popular tradition!
Avoid Eating Here 🍴
Prices are very high. Enjoy the sights, but dine elsewhere for better value.
Dress to Impress? 👗
Some visitors feel underdressed compared to the chic locals.
Photo Ops Galore 📷
Capture stunning shots of the architecture, especially early morning.
Tips
from all over the internet
Spin for Good Luck! 🐂
Stand on the bull's mosaic and spin 3 times on your heel for good luck, a popular tradition!
Avoid Eating Here 🍴
Prices are very high. Enjoy the sights, but dine elsewhere for better value.
Dress to Impress? 👗
Some visitors feel underdressed compared to the chic locals.
Photo Ops Galore 📷
Capture stunning shots of the architecture, especially early morning.
Watch for Pickpockets 💀
Be aware of your surroundings and valuables in crowded areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awed by the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II's breathtaking architecture and its status as a historic landmark. The free entry and the fun bull mosaic tradition are highlights for many. However, the high prices for dining and shopping within the arcade are a common point of dissatisfaction, with many recommending visitors to dine elsewhere.
"There are some delicious restaurants inside, but from what I've observed, they can be a bit pricey; there are certainly more affordable options. It's a great place for taking photos. The architecture is stunning. It's incredibly impressive. You can also find most of the luxury brands inside.It's a must-see after the Duomo Cathedral. The women and men here are always so stylish and well-groomed, I was impressed. :)"
İclal Demiröz
"Historic building that is a delight to see and walk through. The ornate details lend to why it’s a really upscale shopping center. It’s really neat to walk through but it’s not worth trying to shop there unless you really think you need a 9000€ bag. If you do, more power to you I guess."
Guineviere Caerlaverock
"One of Milan’s most iconic landmarks- elegant, historic, and perfect for photos! The architecture is stunning, and the luxury shops add a special charm. Highly recommend visiting early in the morning, as it gets very crowded later in the day. For a more peaceful experience and better photos, go as soon as it opens!"
Xhulia Plaku
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is located right next to the Duomo di Milano, making it incredibly easy to access. You can simply walk from the Duomo's main square directly into the Galleria. Many visitors combine a visit to both landmarks in one go.
Yes, the Galleria is very well-connected by public transport. The nearest metro station is 'Duomo' (Lines M1 and M3), which is just a short walk away. Trams and buses also stop frequently in the vicinity.
Absolutely! If you're staying in the city center, it's highly walkable. It's a central landmark and easily accessible on foot from many hotels and other attractions.
For most visitors, walking from the Duomo or taking the metro to the 'Duomo' station is the most convenient. Taxis are also available, but can be more expensive and subject to traffic.
While there are parking garages nearby (like the one under Piazza Duomo), they can be expensive and fill up quickly. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk if possible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II itself is free. You can walk through, admire the architecture, and browse the shops without purchasing a ticket.
The Galleria is generally open 24/7, as it's a public arcade. However, individual shops and restaurants have their own operating hours, typically from around 9 AM to 7 PM or later.
There is no entrance fee to walk through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. It's a public space connecting Piazza Duomo and Piazza della Scala.
Yes, the Galleria is accessible at night, and it offers a beautiful, illuminated ambiance. However, shops and restaurants will be closed.
No, the bull mosaic is located in the main octagon of the Galleria and is freely accessible to everyone. No tickets are required to perform the good luck spin.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
Early mornings, before 9 AM, are ideal for photography as the light is soft and crowds are minimal. This allows for unobstructed shots of the stunning architecture.
The tradition is to place your heel on the bull's testicles and spin three times for good luck. It's a quirky and popular photo opportunity.
The main octagon with the bull mosaic is a prime spot. Also, try capturing the symmetry of the arcades and the details of the glass ceiling.
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, professional photography or commercial shoots might require special permits.
It's a grand, elegant, and bustling atmosphere, especially during peak hours. It feels like stepping back in time with its historic architecture and luxury shops.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are several cafes and restaurants, they are known to be very expensive and geared towards tourists. Many locals and travelers recommend avoiding dining inside for better value.
Expect significantly higher prices than average for coffee, snacks, and meals. A simple coffee can cost several euros.
Venture a few streets away from the Galleria and Duomo to find more authentic and reasonably priced trattorias, pizzerias, and cafes.
Yes, there are several cafes, including historic ones like Camparino in Galleria. However, be prepared for premium pricing.
While there might be some dessert options, dedicated gelato shops are more commonly found just outside the Galleria.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping
The Galleria houses a collection of high-end luxury brands, including fashion houses like Prada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and more, alongside upscale boutiques and bookstores.
No, the shops are primarily luxury brands, and prices reflect that. It's more of a place for window shopping or for those looking for designer items.
You'll find flagship stores of major Italian and international fashion houses such as Prada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Versace, and Armani.
While there are some gift shops, they tend to be more upscale. For typical tourist souvenirs, you might find better options outside the immediate vicinity of the Galleria.
Most shops in the Galleria operate from approximately 9 AM to 7 PM, though some may have extended hours, especially during peak tourist seasons.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While dining inside the Galleria is expensive, consider grabbing a quick, kid-friendly snack or gelato from a shop just outside. The sheer scale and beauty of the arcade can be captivating for younger visitors, making it a memorable part of your Milanese adventure.
💰 Budget Travelers
Crucially, avoid eating or drinking within the Galleria itself, as prices are very high. Instead, explore the surrounding streets for affordable trattorias and cafes. This strategy allows you to experience the grandeur without breaking the bank.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles to showcase the scale and symmetry. The bull mosaic also provides a unique, albeit quirky, subject for photos. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and any potential shop displays.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Architecture
The architecture is a blend of Neoclassical and Art Nouveau styles, evident in the intricate mosaics adorning the floors, the ornate facades of the surrounding buildings, and the detailed ironwork. Each of the four arms is decorated with allegorical mosaics representing Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America, symbolizing Milan's connection to global trade. The Galleria was one of the first examples of a shopping arcade in Europe, setting a precedent for future urban development and commercial spaces.
Today, the Galleria remains a vibrant hub, connecting the Duomo to Piazza della Scala. While its original purpose was to provide a covered, elegant space for commerce and social interaction, it has evolved into a major tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors each year who come to admire its beauty and soak in its historic ambiance.
The Famous Bull Mosaic and Good Luck Ritual
According to local lore and popular belief, successfully completing this spin is said to bring good luck and ensure a return visit to Milan. This quirky tradition has become a must-do for many visitors, often captured in photos and videos shared across social media platforms. It adds a playful and memorable element to the otherwise grand and sophisticated atmosphere of the Galleria.
While the historical accuracy of the 'good luck' claim is debatable, the act itself is a fun way to engage with the local culture and create a personal connection with the landmark. It's a small, lighthearted ritual that brings a smile to many faces and contributes to the unique charm of the Galleria.
Navigating the Shops and Dining Scene
When it comes to dining, the Galleria offers several cafes and restaurants, most notably the historic Camparino in Galleria. While these establishments provide a beautiful setting, they are notoriously expensive. Redditors and TikTok creators frequently advise visitors to be wary of the inflated prices for coffee, snacks, and meals within the arcade, often referring to them as 'tourist traps.'
For a more authentic and budget-friendly culinary experience, it's highly recommended to explore the streets surrounding the Galleria and the Duomo. You'll find a plethora of trattorias, pizzerias, and cafes offering delicious Italian cuisine at more reasonable prices. This allows you to enjoy the splendor of the Galleria without overspending on food and drinks.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit