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Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Milan's Elegant Heart

Experience Milan's 'living room': a historic landmark blending luxury shopping, stunning architecture, and Italian tradition.

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The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a 19th-century architectural marvel, stands as Italy's oldest active shopping arcade and a symbol of Milanese elegance. Named after the first king of Italy, it connects Piazza del Duomo to Piazza della Scala, offering a blend of luxury shopping, dining, and historical significance.

A brief summary to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Spin three times on the bull mosaic for good luck, a beloved tradition.
  • Visit the Highline Galleria for a rooftop view of Milan.
  • Explore the Galleria at different times of day to experience its changing atmosphere.
  • Admire the intricate mosaics and architectural details throughout the Galleria.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Duomo and Teatro alla Scala.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Galleria is easily accessible via Milan's efficient public transport network. Take the M1 (Red Line) or M3 (Yellow Line) to Duomo station, which is directly adjacent to the Galleria. Several trams and buses also stop nearby, including tram lines 1, 2, 12, 14, and 16, and bus lines 54, 60, 73, and NM1. A single metro/bus/tram ticket costs €2.20 and is valid for 90 minutes.

  • Walking

    Located between Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Scala, the Galleria is easily reachable on foot from many central Milan locations. From the Duomo, simply walk to the left of the cathedral's front entrance to find the Galleria's archway. From Teatro alla Scala, the Galleria is a short walk across Piazza della Scala. Walking allows you to fully appreciate the surrounding architecture and atmosphere of Milan's city center.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Milan. A short taxi ride from Milano Centrale train station to the Galleria typically costs between €7-€9 and takes approximately 4 minutes, depending on traffic. Be aware of potential traffic restrictions in the city center. FREE NOW is a popular taxi app in Milan.

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Discover more about Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is more than just a shopping mall; it's a vibrant hub and a testament to Milan's rich history and architectural prowess. Designed by Giuseppe Mengoni and built between 1865 and 1877, this iconic structure serves as a connecting passage between the Duomo and Teatro alla Scala, embodying the spirit of a unified Italy. The Galleria's architecture is a sight to behold, featuring a stunning glass-and-iron dome that soars over a central octagon. The intricate mosaic floors depict the coat of arms of major Italian cities, including Milan, Rome, Florence and Turin. Legend has it that spinning three times on the heel of your foot on the testicles of the bull from Turin's coat of arms brings good luck, a tradition that has worn away part of the mosaic over time. Statues on the facades honor Italian artists and scientists, while mosaics in the lunettes represent Europe, America, Africa, and Asia. Today, the Galleria is a bustling meeting place, filled with luxury boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and bookstores. It's a place where locals and tourists alike gather to shop, dine, admire the architecture, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Whether you're interested in high-end fashion, historical landmarks, or simply experiencing the heart of Milan, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

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