On the roof of Milan Cathedral

What you walk on

The first level runs along the whole perimeter of the roof, about 31 m above the ground. From there two steep stairways climb to the second level at 45 m and the Central Terrace, around 1,530 square metres and the highest point visitors can stand on.

You walk among 135 spires, most of them about 17 m tall. The Fabbrica calls this "the only cathedral in the world with a fully walkable rooftop", which is its own promotional wording.

Rooftop only, or with the cathedral?

Take both unless you are short of time or have already seen the inside: at official prices the cathedral adds €6 to a stairs ticket and €8 to a lift ticket. Either way, read the dress code first, because ticket pages tell all visitors to cover shoulders and legs.

Before you go up

• Shoes. Comfortable shoes are required. Heels are not advised and metal soles are forbidden.
• Slot. The time on a terrace ticket is your time at the terrace entrance, not at the cathedral door.
• Route. It is one-way, so plan any photo stops as you go.
• Calendar. On some days celebrations stop the stairs earlier: see hours and notices.
• Evenings. Later openings exist only in set periods. See the rooftop at sunset.

Access

Wheelchair users can reach only the first terrace, in the back-choir area, daily 10:00–17:00. Details are on the stairs or lift page.