Located in the heart of Milan between Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Scala, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II was designed by Giuseppe Mengoni and constructed between 1865 and 1877, in honor of King Victor Emmanuel II, the first monarch of a unified Italy.

The structure forms a Latin cross with two intersecting glass-vaulted arcades, topped by an octagonal dome soaring 47 meters high. Its innovative use of iron and glass was groundbreaking for the era and set the standard for modern shopping malls.

Inside, visitors are immersed in a refined blend of history, art, and fashion. Luxury brands such as Prada, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton line the marble floors, alongside historic cafés like Caffè Biffi (est. 1867) and Camparino, offering classic Italian drinks and a taste of Milanese tradition.

At the center of the Galleria lies the famous bull mosaic representing the coat of arms of Turin. According to tradition, spinning three times with your heel on the bull’s groin brings good luck, making it a favorite ritual for visitors.

Sunlight streaming through the glass dome illuminates the marble floors and frescoed walls, creating a magical atmosphere that blends grandeur with intimacy. Whether strolling, shopping, or enjoying a coffee, the Galleria captures the essence of Milanese life.

• Metro: Duomo station, lines M1 or M3

• Bus/tram: routes passing Piazza del Duomo

• Walking: About a 3-minute walk from Duomo Cathedral or Teatro alla Scala 

• Visit early morning to enjoy architecture and photography before the crowds arrive.
• Try the classic Italian aperitivo at Camparino.
• Don’t miss spinning three times on the bull mosaic for good luck.
• For panoramic views of Milan and the Duomo, explore the Highline Galleria rooftop walkway.

 Admission Fee:

• Free entry to the main passage

• Highline Galleria rooftop: approx. €12–15 per person

Opening Time:

• Open 24 hours for public passage

• Shops and restaurants generally open 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM