Inside Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Milan’s Most Iconic Historic Arcade

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan is not just a symbol of elegance and innovation, but also a 19th-century architectural masterpiece and one of Milan’s top tourist attractions. Whether you're passionate about history, art, or fashion, this historic shopping mall offers a unique experience that blends cultural heritage with modern style.

Located in the heart of Milan, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II connects Piazza del Duomo with Teatro alla Scala, making it a must-visit stop for anyone exploring Italy’s fashion capital. Built between 1865 and 1877, it is one of the oldest shopping malls in the world, designed by architect Giuseppe Mengoni. Named after the first king of Italy, it was conceived as a symbol of national unity and progress. Today, it is an icon of luxury shopping in Milan and of  Italian design.

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is much more than just a covered passageway: it is an architectural masterpiece that blends stylistic elegance with urban vibrancy. Among the first buildings in Italy to combine an iron frame with glass canopies, it draws inspiration from the grand Parisian passages, but with a distinctly Italian style.

Its layout is cross-shaped, with two perpendicular arms intersecting beneath a majestic octagonal dome approximately 47 meters high. The elegant interior facades, adorned with stuccoes, mosaics, and frescoes, reflect the Neo-Renaissance style and celebrate national unity.

The innovative use of iron and glass not only allows for a bright and spacious covered space, but also symbolizes the technical and cultural progress of Italy at the time.

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II was designed by the Bolognese architect Giuseppe Mengoni and built between 1865 and 1877, during the wave of renewal that followed the unification of Italy.

Among the first commercial arcades in Italy—such as the Galleria Umberto I in Naples or the many galleries in Turin—it became, from the moment of its grand opening, the city’s “elegant drawing room,” a place where citizens, intellectuals, entrepreneurs, and tourists could meet, stroll, converse, and gather.

Its strategic location, between Piazza Duomo and Piazza della Scala, makes it both a symbolic and vital link, capable of connecting culture, commerce, and conviviality. Its historic cafés and restaurants are not merely commercial spaces, but places of social interaction, where the rituals of an aperitivo or coffee become daily moments of sharing and urban identity, the unique identity that has made Milan renowned worldwide.

Inside Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, shopping is intertwined with history and art. But what are the main historical and artistic treasures you can admire? Let’s take a look.

First of all, the original Prada store – opened in 1913, it’s a must-see for fashion lovers and luxury shoppers in Milan.

At the center of the Galleria, you can also find the bull mosaic. A curious tradition says spinning around on your heel over the bull’s testicles brings good luck.

Furthermore, the glass dome will definetely catch your eye. A 19th-century engineering masterpiece that naturally lights up the entire structure.

Last but not least, the frescoes of the four continents stand out at the four corners of the dome, depicting Europe, Asia, Africa, and America, as a symbol of Milan’s international spirit.

The Galleria is open every day, usually from early morning until late evening, and entrance is free. You’re free to stroll around without making any purchases and enjoy the sparkling atmosphere as long as you like.

There’s no dress code, but it’s recommended to dress stylishly—you never know when you might fancy to visit one of the luxury boutiques or stop at one of the historic cafés and restaurants like Camparino or Savini for a refined meal, aperitif, or coffee break.

The Galleria is located between Piazza del Duomo and Teatro alla Scala, right in Milan’s city center. It’s easily accessible on foot, by metro, or by tram.

By metro: Take the M1 (red) or M3 (yellow) lines and get off at "Duomo". The entrance to the Galleria is immediately to the left of the Cathedral.

By tram or bus: Several trams and buses reach the Galleria. Tram lines 16, 12, 27, and 3 stop at the Duomo entrance; tram 1 takes you to the Teatro alla Scala entrance.

On foot: You can walk to the Galleria from various central areas like Castello Sforzesco, the vibrant Brera district, or Via Montenapoleone. It's an iconic stop on any pleasant walk through Milan's historic center, helping you appreciate even more of the city's wonders.

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is perfect for all visitors. Whether you're into fashion, history, or just curious, the experience is visually stunning and culturally enriching. Even without shopping, it’s worth strolling through and observing the lively crowd in this charming setting.

The Galleria is not just a shopping center—it’s a place where luxury shopping meets timeless Italian architecture. Here, past and present coexist with elegance, making it one of Milan’s most iconic tourist attractions.

After visiting the Galleria, your adventure in the fashion capital is far from over. You can explore must-see nearby attractions such as the Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano), one of the most extraordinary Gothic-style cathedrals in Europe and a true symbol of the city, the Teatro alla Scala, Milan’s world-renowned opera house, or the Museo del Novecento, a museum dedicated to 20th-century art that also offers stunning views of the Duomo.

Yes, entrance is free and open to the public

Absolutely. Many visitors walk through simply to admire the architecture or to get from Piazza del Duomo to Teatro alla Scala. There’s no obligation to buy anything.

In the center of the Galleria is a mosaic of a bull (Turin's coat of arms). Tradition says that spinning three times on your heel over the bull’s genitals brings good luck. You’ll often see tourists lining up to try it.

You’ll find high-end fashion brands like Prada, Louis Vuitton, Versace, and more. It’s a hotspot for luxury shopping in Milan.

Most shops are high-end, but there are cafés, bookstores, and more affordable options nearby. And window shopping is always free!

Early morning or weekdays are best to avoid crowds and catch the best lighting for photos.

Of course! You’re welcome to photograph the structure. Just be aware that inside individual stores, permission may be required.