Duomo di Milano opening hours

Daily 8.00 am – 7.00 pm
Last ticket: at 6.00 pm. Last admission: at 6.10 pm

What time does the Duomo open?

The Milan Cathedral, or Duomo di Milano, typically opens to visitors at 8:00 am daily. However, the opening hours can be subject to change due to liturgical services, events, or other exceptional circumstances. It is always advisable to check the official Duomo di Milano website or contact their visitor services for the most up-to-date information before planning your visit.

What is the best time of day to go to the Duomo Milan?

The best time of day to visit the Duomo di Milano often depends on what kind of experience you are looking for:

1. For Fewer Crowds: Early morning, right when the cathedral opens, is typically the best time to avoid crowds. This allows you to appreciate the grandeur and details of the architecture in a more serene atmosphere. Similarly, late afternoons, particularly after the rush of midday tourists, can also be quieter.
2. For Photography: If you’re looking to capture the interior in the best light, mid-morning or early afternoon when the sun is high might offer the best natural lighting conditions, especially to illuminate the stained glass windows.
3. For Cooler Temperatures: During summer, mornings can be cooler and more comfortable for your visit, especially if you plan to climb the stairs to the rooftop.
4. For Rooftop Views: For the rooftop visit, golden hour, which is the first hour after sunrise and the last hour before sunset, can provide a magical light for views of the city. However, the exact timing for this can vary throughout the year.

It’s also important to consider the opening hours for the different sections of the Duomo complex, as the rooftop or museum may have different opening times than the cathedral itself.

To avoid any disappointments, always check the Duomo’s official website for the latest updates on opening hours and any potential visitor restrictions or special events that might affect access.

How long should you spend at Duomo?

The time you should spend at the Duomo di Milano can vary depending on your interest level and which parts of the complex you plan to visit. Here’s a general guideline:

1. Cathedral Interior: To appreciate the cathedral’s interior, including its artworks, stained glass, and the main altar, you should allocate at least 1 hour.
2. Rooftop: For the rooftop visit, which offers panoramic views of Milan and a closer look at the cathedral’s architecture, plan for another 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on whether you take the stairs or the elevator.
3. Duomo Museum: If you’re also visiting the Duomo Museum, which houses a wealth of art and artifacts related to the cathedral, set aside an additional 1 hour.
4. Archaeological Area: Add about 30 minutes if you wish to explore the archaeological area beneath the cathedral, where you can see the ruins of the ancient baptistery.
5. Crypt of St. Charles: A visit to the crypt, where important figures are buried, can take an additional 15-20 minutes.

In total, a comprehensive visit to the entire Duomo complex could take anywhere from 2.5 to 4 hours. This does not account for any waiting times for entry or the potential for crowds during peak times, which could extend your visit.

Remember, these times are approximate and can vary greatly depending on personal pace, interest in religious and art history, and time spent in reflection or prayer. Some visitors may find they want to spend more time soaking in the atmosphere of this iconic landmark, while others may be satisfied with a quicker visit.