How to climb to the top of the Milan Cathedral (Duomo)

If you're planning to visit Milan, one of the places you should definitely add to your itinerary is the Milan Cathedral, or Duomo di Milano. It's a gothic masterpiece that took almost six centuries to complete and is the largest church in Italy. The cathedral is distinguished by stunning architecture and its location in the heart of Milan's historic district. But the real reward lies in the breathtaking views of the city from the top of the cathedral. Here's how you can climb to the top of the Milan Cathedral. Choose your time of day The Milan Cathedral is open every day of the week, but the timing of your visit can make all the difference. The best time to watch the sun rise or set over Milan is early in the morning or around sunset. The crowds are usually thinner around these times, so you might be able to avoid the queues. Additionally, early morning light can illuminate the cathedral's details in a truly magical way. Buy your ticket Tickets for the Milan Cathedral can be purchased at the ticket counter or online. Prices vary depending on whether you want to have access to the cathedral alone or also climb up to the rooftop terraces. It's advisable to buy your ticket in advance, especially if you're planning to visit during peak tourist season. With your ticket in hand, you'll gain entrance to the cathedral and a lift to the terrace level. Climbing stairs or using the lift There are two ways to reach the rooftop terraces of the Milan Cathedral: via a lift or by using the stairs. If you're not much of a stair climber, you can ride the lift. However, note that the lift ride goes only up to the terrace level. From there, you'll need to climb about 50 more stairs to reach the highest terrace. The staircase is a more challenging route, but it allows you to enjoy the cathedral's magnificent interiors at your own pace. The cathedral staircase is made up of 250 narrow steps, so it's not for everyone. If you're claustrophobic or have mobility issues, it is best to avoid the staircase. Rooftop terraces Once you reach the rooftop terraces, get ready to take in the extraordinary views of Milan. Depending on where you stand, you can see the city's skyline, the sprawling public square before the cathedral, or the snowy peaks of the Italian Alps in the distance. You'll notice that the rooftop terraces are full of pinnacles, spires, statues, and gargoyles. The details of the architecture are breathtaking, so remember to take some time to appreciate them. Take photos It's hard to resist taking photos of the sweeping views of the city covered with red roofs, towers, and landmarks. Be sure to bring a camera and capture the unique angles of Milan. Also, take a moment to snap some shots of the striking details of the Duomo's statues that line the rooftop terrace. Going down At the far end of the rooftop terrace, there is another staircase that leads down to the museum of the Duomo and the cathedral's interiors. If you're tired of stairs or in a hurry, you can use the lift to return back to the ground level. In conclusion, climbing to the top of the Milan Cathedral is an experience that is not to be missed. Regardless of the route you choose, the reward of taking in the panoramic views of the city is worth it. With good preparation and the right equipment in hand, you can make your way to the top with ease.