Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II travel guide

Designed by Giuseppe Mengoni, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a historic shopping arcade in Milan. The construction began in 1865 and was completed in 1877, symbolizing the unity and prosperity of Italy during the post-unification period.

Its name honors the first king of Italy, Vittorio Emanuele II. The Galleria is an architectural masterpiece, featuring an iron and glass structure that was a novelty during the 19th century. It is crowned by a central dome, under which, according to tradition, spinning on the bull's testicles depicted on the floor brings good luck.

The Galleria hosts some of the most luxurious boutiques in Milan, such as Prada and Louis Vuitton, as well as historic cafes and restaurants. In 2012, the Galleria underwent major restoration works to preserve its unique beauty and historical significance. Today, it stands as a testament to Italian design and craftsmanship, attracting millions of visitors each year.

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is not just an ordinary shopping center, but an architectural masterpiece that brings together art, history and high-end fashion. Its grandeur is manifested in the four-story arcade, which is adorned with mosaics and sculptures. The glass-vaulted arcades intersect at an octagonal central dome that stands at an impressive height of 47 meters. The floor of the Galleria is covered with beautifully crafted mosaics representing the coat of arms of the four cities that were once capitals of the Kingdom of Italy - Turin, Florence, Rome, and Milan.

One distinctive and somewhat superstitious feature is the bull mosaic, located on the floor under the central dome. Legend has it that spinning on the bull's testicles three times will bring good luck. The Galleria also houses some of the world's leading luxury brands, making it a shopper's paradise. Despite its age, the Galleria has been expertly maintained and was even the first Italian structure to be protected by copyright for its unique architectural design.

Discover Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a prime feature of Milan, in the vibrant Milan. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is situated at P. Za del Duomo, 20123 Milano MI, Italy, just a short distance from Palazzo Marino and Teatro alla Scala, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Milan, a city in Italy rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Milan to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Milan travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Milan, Italy. If you're flying in, Milan–Malpensa Airport is approximately 25.3 miles (40.7 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Milan, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, which is located 0.1 miles (0.2 km) from the city center. Its exact address is P. Za del Duomo, 20123 Milano MI, Italy.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II!

The best time to explore Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is during the spring months of April to June and the fall months of September to November. These periods offer mild weather, making it comfortable to stroll through the arcade and enjoy the architectural grandeur. The crowd levels are moderate, allowing you to shop and dine at leisure. December is also a great time to visit, when the Galleria is beautifully decorated for the Christmas season, adding a festive charm to your experience. However, it can be quite crowded during this time. Early morning or late evening visits are recommended to avoid the peak crowd hours. The Galleria is open 24 hours, so night visits offer a unique perspective with the structure beautifully lit up. Planning your visit to coincide with Milano Fashion Week, usually held in February/March and September/October, can be exciting as the city buzzes with fashion energy.

To truly enjoy your visit to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, joining a guided tour of this renowned shopping mall in Milan is highly recommended. As one of Italy's most iconic attractions, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Milan, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II starting at just 15 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

If you're looking for an effortless way to explore Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, perfectly planned travel packages to Milan make it easy and enjoyable, all while keeping costs manageable. With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Milan, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic shopping mall in Italy.

Upon arriving at Milan–Malpensa Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Milan.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Milan.

Choosing the right accommodation near Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Milan can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Milan boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From church to establishment, the top attractions in Milan offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Milan is Duomo di Milano, located at P. Za del Duomo, 20122 Milano MI, Italy. This well-known church enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Parco Sempione is worth seeing when you're in Milan. It's a popular park that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Piazza Sempione, 20154 Milano MI, Italy.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Sforzesco Castle completes any trip to Milan. This establishment draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Piazza Castello, 20121 Milano MI, Italy, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Milan below to discover even more incredible places to explore.