The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele ii

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele ii in Milan should be on your to-do list if you are planning a trip to this amazing city!

Welcome to Milan's crown jewel and one of the world's oldest shopping malls. This architectural masterpiece isn't just a place to shop – it's a destination that captures the essence of Milan's elegance, history, and modern sophistication all under one magnificent roof.

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II stands proudly in the heart of Milan, connecting two of the city's most famous landmarks. You'll find this stunning gallery stretching between the iconic La Scala opera house and the breathtaking Duomo di Milano.

The main entrance faces the Duomo Square, making it impossible to miss when you're exploring Milan's historic center. The exact address is Piazza del Duomo, 20123 Milano, Italy, positioning it at the very pulse of the city's cultural and commercial life.

Entrance to the Galleria

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The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele ii

Getting to this galleria in Milan is straightforward, due to its central location and excellent public transportation connections. The closest metro station is Duomo, served by both the red M1 and yellow M3 lines.

When you exit the metro, you'll find yourself just steps away from the Duomo Cathedral, with the Galleria's entrance clearly visible across the square. This convenient location makes it accessible whether you're staying in the city center or coming from Milan's outskirts.

If you prefer traveling by bus or tram, numerous lines stop near the Duomo area, including buses 54, 60, and 65, as well as trams 2, 3, 12, 14, 16, and 27.

The beauty of visiting the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is that once you're in Milan's historic center, everything is within walking distance. You can easily combine your visit with other must-see attractions like the Duomo Cathedral, La Scala Theatre, and the Brera district.

For those arriving by car, several parking garages are available in the vicinity, though driving in Milan's city center can be challenging due to traffic restrictions.

The closest parking facilities include Garage Diurno Venezia and Autorimessa Duomo. However, we strongly recommend using public transportation, as it's not only more convenient but also allows you to fully immerse yourself in the Milan experience without worrying about traffic or parking fees.

Inside the Galleria

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is always open to the public, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can stroll through this architectural wonder at any time, whether you want to admire the stunning mosaics in the early morning light or experience the romantic ambiance of the illuminated glass dome in the evening. However, keep in mind that individual shops, restaurants, and cafes have their own operating hours.

Most shops within the Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele II typically open around 10:00 AM and close between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM, Monday through Saturday. Sunday hours may vary, with some stores opening later and closing earlier.

Restaurants and cafes generally have extended hours, often staying open until 10:00 PM or later, especially during the summer months. It's always wise to check specific establishment hours before planning your visit, particularly during holidays or special events.

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele ii

The history of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is as fascinating as its architecture. Construction began in 1865 under the direction of architect Giuseppe Mengoni, who envisioned creating a covered street that would connect Milan's most important cultural sites. Named after Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of unified Italy, the gallery was completed in 1877 and represented the pinnacle of 19th-century engineering and design innovation.

Tragically, architect Giuseppe Mengoni never saw his masterpiece fully appreciated by the public. He fell from the roof of the gallery just days before its official inauguration, leading to various theories about whether it was an accident or suicide. Despite this somber beginning, the Galleria quickly became a symbol of Milan's prosperity and sophistication, earning the nickname "Il Salotto di Milano" (Milan's Living Room).

The architectural brilliance of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II lies in its innovative design and exquisite details. The structure features a cruciform layout with a central octagonal space topped by a magnificent glass and iron dome that rises 47 meters high.

This engineering marvel was revolutionary for its time, combining functionality with breathtaking beauty. The natural light filtering through the glass ceiling creates an ever-changing atmosphere throughout the day.

As you walk through the gallery, look up to admire the intricate mosaic decorations adorning the floors and walls. The floor mosaics represent the coats of arms of the three capitals of the Kingdom of Italy – Turin, Florence, and Rome – along with Milan's own emblem.

The famous bull mosaic from Turin has become a beloved tradition: visitors spin three times on the bull's testicles with their right heel for good luck, a ritual that has worn a noticeable hole in the mosaic over the decades.

Interior of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele ii in Milan

The shopping experience at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is unparalleled, featuring some of the world's most prestigious luxury brands.

Prada, the famous Milanese fashion house, has maintained its flagship store here since 1913, occupying a prime corner location with its distinctive dark wood interiors and elegant displays. This historic boutique offers the complete Prada experience, from leather goods and ready-to-wear fashion to accessories and footwear.

Louis Vuitton operates another stunning flagship store within the gallery, showcasing the French luxury brand's latest collections in an opulent setting that perfectly complements the gallery's grandeur.

The store spans multiple levels and features the brand's complete range of leather goods, fashion, jewelry, and accessories. The combination of Louis Vuitton's craftsmanship and the gallery's historic ambiance creates an unforgettable shopping experience.

Versace, another Italian luxury powerhouse, maintains a significant presence in the Galleria with a boutique that embodies the brand's bold aesthetic and Milanese heritage.

Here you'll find the latest collections from Versace's ready-to-wear lines, accessories, and home décor items. The store's interior design reflects the brand's signature opulence while respecting the gallery's historic character.

For those seeking high-end jewelry and watches, Bulgari offers an exquisite selection in their elegant boutique. The Italian jewelry house displays its finest pieces, including iconic collections like B.zero1 and Serpenti, in showcases that highlight the craftsmanship and precious materials. The store also features Bulgari's luxury watch collections and exclusive leather goods.

Gucci's presence in the Galleria adds another dimension to the luxury shopping experience. The boutique showcases the brand's contemporary Italian style through carefully curated collections of handbags, shoes, ready-to-wear fashion, and accessories.

The store's modern interior design creates an interesting contrast with the gallery's 19th-century architecture while maintaining perfect harmony.

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele ii

Beyond fashion, the Galleria houses several other notable shops, including Borsalino, the legendary Italian hat maker that has been crafting premium headwear since 1857. Their boutique offers classic fedoras, panama hats, and contemporary styles that represent the pinnacle of Italian hat-making tradition.

You'll also find Rizzoli, one of Italy's most prestigious bookstores, offering a carefully selected collection of art books, literature, and design publications.

The dining scene within the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is equally impressive, featuring establishments that range from historic cafes to contemporary restaurants.

Biffi Caffè, established in 1867, stands as one of Milan's oldest and most prestigious coffee houses. This historic establishment has served generations of Milanese locals and international visitors, offering traditional Italian coffee, pastries, and light meals in an atmosphere that perfectly captures the gallery's elegant spirit.
Savini Milano represents the pinnacle of fine dining within the gallery. This Michelin-starred restaurant has been serving exquisite Italian cuisine since 1867, making it a contemporary of the gallery itself. The restaurant's elegant interior, featuring crystal chandeliers and refined décor, provides the perfect setting for experiencing innovative Italian cuisine prepared with the finest ingredients. Reservations are highly recommended for this exclusive dining experience.

For a more casual but equally authentic experience, visit Zucca in Galleria, a historic bar and restaurant that has been a meeting place for Milan's intellectuals, artists, and business leaders since 1867. Famous for inventing the Campari cocktail, this establishment offers traditional Milanese cuisine, excellent wines, and classic Italian aperitivos in a setting that oozes old-world charm and sophistication.

Cracco, helmed by renowned chef Carlo Cracco, offers contemporary Italian fine dining in a sleek, modern setting within the gallery. This upscale restaurant combines innovative culinary techniques with traditional Italian flavors, creating dishes that are both visually stunning and deliciously memorable.

The restaurant also features an elegant cocktail bar where you can enjoy expertly crafted drinks before or after your meal.

Restaurante Cracco in the Galleria, Milan

The Galleria also houses several cafes and gelaterias perfect for a quick break during your shopping or sightseeing. These establishments offer everything from traditional Italian espresso and cappuccino to artisanal gelato and light snacks. Many feature outdoor seating areas where you can people-watch while enjoying your refreshments under the magnificent glass dome.

Photography enthusiasts will find the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II endlessly fascinating, with its interplay of natural and artificial light creating dramatic effects throughout the day. The best times for photography are during the golden hours of early morning and late afternoon when the sunlight filters through the glass dome, casting beautiful patterns on the mosaic floors and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.

The gallery serves as more than just a shopping and dining destination – it's a cultural hub that regularly hosts art exhibitions, fashion shows, and special events. During Milan Fashion Week, the space becomes even more vibrant with pop-up installations and exclusive presentations from luxury brands. The central octagonal area often features temporary art installations that complement the permanent architectural features.

Visiting the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II offers an excellent opportunity to combine multiple Milan experiences in one location. You can easily spend several hours here, shopping at luxury boutiques, enjoying a leisurely meal, admiring the architecture, and soaking in the atmosphere. The gallery's central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring other Milan attractions or a perfect place to conclude a day of sightseeing.

For the best experience, consider visiting during different times of day to appreciate how the gallery's character changes with the light and crowds. Early morning visits offer a more peaceful atmosphere perfect for photography and quiet contemplation, while evening visits provide a more vibrant, social experience with bustling restaurants and illuminated storefronts creating a magical ambiance.

Whether you're a luxury shopping enthusiast, architecture lover, history buff, or simply someone who appreciates beautiful spaces, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II offers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Milan's sophistication and style. This remarkable gallery stands as a testament to Italian craftsmanship, design excellence, and the enduring appeal of spaces that successfully blend commerce, culture, and community. Make sure to add this iconic destination to your Milan itinerary – it's not just a place to visit, but an experience to treasure.