Do you like watching things from another perspective? This guide may be what you need to discover all the best spots to enjoy astonishing views of the skyline in Milan.
Whether you haven’t much time or you want to look at the city one last time, enjoying Milan from above is always an unmissable show. Climbing up roofs, towers or terraces, from dawn until dusk, becomes a must-do for both visitors who want to see the city from a height and residents that are never tired of the Milanese panorama, exactly like the sight of the Cathedral on a sunny day.
We have collected in this article the best panoramic viewpoints that Milan boasts: some of them are well-known, while others are less, which are therefore more special.
TERRAZZA DUOMO
Piazza del Duomo (entrance opposite to La Rinascente)
Until the 60s this was one of the highest viewpoints in the city, from which Milanese people could enjoy the view on the roofs and the cathedral square. At a height of 60 meters visitors can walk along the pathway that unfolds through spires, pinnacles and gothic style arches, up to the highest point from where you can spot the Madonnina, symbol of the city. To reach the terraces you can climb up 251 steps by foot or use the lift.
Visits can take place from 9 AM to 7 PM (last admission at 6 PM). In summer also guided tours are organized, allowing visitors to enjoy the view from the cathedral’s roof even after the sunset.
You can purchase the tickets at a price of 10€ (reduced 5€) for the stairs pass or 14€ (reduced 7€) for the lift pass, directly on the official website.
TERRAZZA RINASCENTE
Via Santa Radegonda, 8
Few meters away from the cathedral’s terrace, finds room the department store’s. On the top floor of La Rinascente you can have a snack or lunch with a view on the Duomo; here you can find the Food Hall where you can taste Italian or international dishes, maybe after a tiring shopping session at the store. The Terrazza Rinascente is very popular, hence reservation is highly recommended in case you want to experience dining with a spectacular view on the gothic decorations of the Milanese cathedral.
The terrace is open every day from 9 AM to 12 PM from Monday to Saturday and from 10 AM to 12 PM on Sunday. The entrance is free, but consumption is necessary to use the dining area. On the website you can find more details and the contacts for the reservation.
MONTE STELLA PARK
Via Cimabue / Via Isernia
If you want to climb up a hill instead of a building you should check out this peculiar spot. This hillock was built with debris remaining after the bombing during World War II, according to the design of the architect Bottoni for the construction of a cutting-edge neighbourhood. Climbing the 45 meters in height, you get to the top where you can enjoy an astonishing view of the city. Surrounded by the greenery you will soak up a calming atmosphere, far away from the city noise, but still admiring the Milanese skyline. For the most sporty people, inside the park branch off numerous paths which can be explored through a relaxing walk, run or cycle; once at the top, the view will be even more rewarding. The park is accessible to everyone and has no closing hours, meaning that even at sunset or under the stars you can enjoy a romantic atmosphere admiring the stadium lights and the skyscrapers from a distance. To know more about the park you can visit the following website.
TORRE BRANCA
Viale Luigi Camoens, 2
With a height of 108,6 meters, the Branca tower hosts an observation deck from which, on clear days, you can look as far as the Alps. This thin structure was built in record time in the 30s, with the aim of symbolizing the match between modern architecture and technical innovation; during the renovation in the 70s, a lift to reach the observatory was added. From the top you can enjoy a 360- degree panorama on the city, from the modern buildings to the historical landmarks of Milan. To visit the observatory, you need to purchase a ticket for 6€ per person (reduced 5€). The tower is open only on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday with variable opening hour depending on the season. Booking is recommended through this website.
TERRAZZA TRIENNALE
Viale Emilio Alemagna, 6
Surrounded by the greenery of Sempione Park, the view of the Milanese skyline from the Triennale Terrace resembles a work of art. On the top floor finds room the restaurant Osteria con Vista, which offers a distinct menu which ranges from refined dishes to cocktails, perfect for an after dinner from above the park. The view on 4 sides is an added value to the elegance of the venue, creating an enchanting atmosphere, suitable for any special occasion. The restaurant is open from Tuesday to Thursday from 6 PM to 1 AM and form Friday to Sunday form 12 PM to 1 AM. For more information and to book a table you can visit this website.
CERESIO 7
Via Ceresio 7
Located in the beating heart of the Milanese skyline, the roof on top of this historical building hosts a restaurant proposing sophisticated dishes, while by the outdoor pools you can enjoy a drink until late at night. After dark the suggestive skyscrapers lights will make you live unforgettable emotions, enhanced by the attention to details in bartenders’ creations. The bar, often frequented by VIPs, provides an aperitif at an average price of 20€ including finger food, while the restaurant serves a variety of tasting menus or à la carte dishes. The terrace is open everyday form 12.30 PM to 1 AM, with reduced opening hours for restaurant service. During summertime the pools are accessible to those who want to have a swim surrounded by the magnificent scenery of the skyline of Milan. For more information and booking you can go on the website.
RADIO ROOFTOP BAR
Via Marco Polo, 18
Boasting a breath-taking view on the skyscraper of Porta Nuova district, this rooftop bar can throw its guests into an authentic newyorkese atmosphere. Located on the 10th floor of a prestigious 5-star hotel, the bar preserves the modern style, consistent with the quality of cocktails and finger food served during happy hour. Here it is possible to observe the skyline composed of the most modern buildings in the city, while tasting international tapas accompanied by live deep-house music at sunset.
The bar is open every day from 7 AM to 1 AM, allowing guests to start the day with a breakfast overlooking the skyline. On Sundays a rich brunch is served from 12.30 PM.
The reservations can be made through the website.
HIGHLINE VITTORIO EMANUELE
Via Silvio Pellico, 2
Who ever imagined you could climb up the roof of the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II? Built between 1865 and 1877, the gallery represents one of the most ancient shopping centres in the whole world. Today it is one of the symbols of Milan and it is daily walked through by thousands of people. With a guided tour you can experience a walk on the 250 meters long walkway admiring the gallery from a height of 47 meters. From here, indeed, you can enjoy a breath-taking view over Piazza Duomo and the skyline of Milan. Occasionally, on the roof of the gallery, take place special events as cinema projections or happy hours, giving guests the possibility to live a unique experience under the stars.
Visits can be made from Tuesday to Sunday, purchasing a ticket for 12€ (reduced 10€) per person, at the following website.
SKYTERRACE HOTEL MILANO SCALA
Via dell’Orso, 7
Located in the heart of Brera district, the terrace in the top floor of the Hotel Milano Scala houses a bar perfect for a happy hour at sunset. On the 8 th floor there is an urban garden in which are cultivated many ingredients used during the preparation of food and drinks. Surrounded by vegetation but with a view over the Milanese skyline, you will benefit from the tranquillity of this venue to recharge your batteries after a long day.
The Sky Terrace Bar is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 6 PM to 11 PM; furthermore, it gives the chance to organize private events for special occasions in which guests will be enchanted by the astonishing view over Brera.
Reservations can be made at the following website.
THE ROOF
Piazza Giuseppe Missori, 3
In a more than central position, on the 10 th floor of the Hotel dei Cavalieri, finds room The Roof, an ideal venue for an elegant lunch or a refined aperitif. From the amazing terrace you can admire the whole historical centre, which leaves space in the background to the modern buildings of the Milan that never sleeps. Led by the Chef Paolo Scaccabarozzi, the restaurant service always satisfies any palate, from lunch to dinner. The welcoming and modern space is perfect also for hosting private events, donating unforgettable moments to its guests. The terrace is open everyday from 12 PM to 3 PM for lunch, whereas the happy hour is served from 6.30 PM till late at night.
For more information and booking you can visit the website.
THE DOME
Piazza Duomo, angolo Via Mazzini
On the 7 th floor of the new ODSweet Hotel, is located the rooftop bar, embellished with plants and Flowers, open from breakfast to happy hour. In this colourful setting you can start the day with sweets and coffee matching the café’s style and elegance, while at sunset the happy hour evokes memorable emotions thanks to the view over the cathedral. On this terrace you can also have a quick but fancy lunch or enjoy a romantic dinner tasting fine food, always with an eye to the quality of the ingredients.
Open from 8.30 AM to welcome guests for breakfast, the venue becomes one of the best places to start the day. Instead, for those who want to remain after the happy hour, on the second floor is located the restaurants, which serves refined dishes, always consistent with the location’s personality. For more details visit the website.
TERRAZZA GALLIA
Piazza Duca d'Aosta, 9
Split between Lounge & Bar and Restaurant, the Terrazza Gallia located on the 7 th floor of the homonymous Hotel, is the perfect spot for admiring the façade of the monumental Central Station. The cocktail menu presents innovative and creative drinks, whereas the All Day Dining menu lists refined and unique dishes. The kitchen’s team is led by the Lebano Brothers, with the consulting of the 3 Michelin-starred Cerea Brothers; due to their professionality and experience, they always succeed in bringing to the table seasonal produce through creative presentations. The charm of the panorama and the elegance of the venue combined, make special every night here. The Lounge & Bar is open from 11 AM to 12 AM, from lunch to the after dinner, while the restaurant has reduced opening hours. For more information and reservations, you can follow the
link to the website.
TERRAZZA MARTINI
Piazza Armando Diaz, 7
With a privileged position and an astonishing view over the landmarks of Milan, this is one of the most impressive roofs of the city. Thanks to a Martini-branded experience, you can relax looking at the skyline of Milan from the 16th floor while sipping a cocktail, mixed with professionality and passion. The bar gives also the chance to live a real Martini Cocktail Experience, in which the guests are led by the barmen through the preparation of 3 Signature Cocktails. The Martini Terrace is the perfect place to find peace and relax, admiring the beauty and the vitality of the Lombard capital from a height.
The bar is open from Monday to Friday form 9 AM to 6 PM, but currently visits are suspended. You can check the latest news on reopening on the official website.
BELVEDERE PALAZZO REGIONE
Piazza Città di Lombardia
In conclusion, the highest panoramic viewpoint in Milan: the 39th floor of the Palazzo Lombardia houses an observatory that offers a 360-degree view on the city and the Alps. Those who visit this place cannot describe the astonishment before the panorama beneath their feet. Thanks to the indications printed on the windows it has been made easier to identify the landmarks, so to better organize the next tour stop. The access to the observatory is free and occasionally organizes; therefore, in order to announce
the opening dates, a website has been created.
Walking the streets of Milan gives amazing perspectives but climbing to the top of these
skyscrapers is unforgettable. Whether it be for a photo, for a drink or for simply enjoying
the view, any spot is perfect. This collection of places includes only a part of the numerous panoramic viewpoints in Milan, in fact we could go on endlessly. If you would like to suggest some, we invite you to leave a comment below and to come back for other tips on Milan.
Itinerary Map
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