Piazza del Duomo

The square is in the heart of Milan and is vibrant and busy. It does get overcrowded but if you get there early, there’s plenty of good photo opportunities. It feels safe and has lots of shopping in the surrounding area. We loved it.

The moment you step into Piazza del Duomo, you are greeted by the magnificent sight of Milan Cathedral. The cathedral dominates the square with its grand Gothic architecture, intricate stonework, and soaring spires. It's a breathtaking view that captures the attention of everyone in the square.

The square is a lively hub, buzzing with activity throughout the day. You'll find people taking photos, relaxing on benches, and admiring the architecture. Street performers and artists often entertain visitors, adding to the square's vibrant atmosphere.

In addition to the cathedral, the square is home to several other notable landmarks. The stunning Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world's oldest shopping malls, is located on the north side of the square. Its grand entrance and elegant architecture make it an iconic feature of the area.

The equestrian statue of King Vittorio Emanuele II stands proudly in the center of the square. It's a striking monument that pays homage to the first king of unified Italy. The statue serves as a popular meeting point for visitors.

The square is also surrounded by historic buildings, including the Palazzo Carminati and the Palazzo dell'Arengario, which now houses the Museo del Novecento, a museum dedicated to 20th-century Italian art.

One of the best times to visit is during sunset, when the cathedral and surrounding buildings are bathed in a warm, golden light. The square takes on a different atmosphere in the evening, with the illumination of the Duomo adding a touch of magic.

The cathedral square is naturally a must-visit in Milan. It is a beautiful square dotted with the facades of the cathedral and the Vittorio Emanuele II galleries. There is also a statue of Vittorio Emanuele II, considered the father of unified Italy. Despite the many warnings about the safety of personal belongings in this area, we did not have any problems, but we also chose to leave our backpacks at the hotel, which is something I recommend for visiting this area, especially because in the cathedral museum, they do not allow entrance with backpacks. From 10 am onwards, the square is effectively full of people. I arrived at 9am and had the opportunity to see the square without being surrounded by a sea of ​​people.

To visit the cathedral it was very busy the queue was about 200 meters long. I do recommend you buy the visits in advance and get there very early to avoid the queues

Title: Piazza del Duomo: A Daytime Delight in Milan

Review:
My visit to Piazza del Duomo during the day was a delightful experience filled with the essence of Milanese charm. Encircled by the magnificent Duomo di Milano, the square exudes a vibrant energy that is simply infectious. From indulging in gelato to watching captivating street performers, every moment was a celebration of Milanese culture.

The square buzzes with activity, offering a perfect blend of historic charm and modern allure. Exploring the surroundings and taking in the architectural marvels provided a glimpse into the city's rich history and vibrant present. Piazza del Duomo is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the heart of Milan during the daytime.

This is not free, the basic value is €8 which also includes a museum. If you want to explore the above or below, that's extra. Also, they charge €8 for a portable audio guide, or you can stand for €2. No bathrooms inside. You might have to pay extra for that.

I spent 2 days New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day in the area of the Duomo in Milan it was very nice very beautiful architecture, delicious coffee and food. 2 days is enough to walk around and see all the shops, cafés, walk around and enjoy the art and architecture.