A Travel Guide to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Welcome to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Italy’s oldest active shopping arcade and one of Milan’s most iconic landmarks. Often called il salotto di Milano, Milan’s drawing room, this elegant passageway links the city’s religious and cultural centers and remains a living meeting place where history, architecture, and fashion come together beneath a soaring glass roof.
A Legacy of Ambition and Tragedy
The Galleria was designed in 1861 by architect Giuseppe Mengoni and built between 1865 and 1877, shortly after the unification of Italy. Conceived as a patriotic project, it was meant to connect Piazza del Duomo with Piazza della Scala, uniting faith, culture, and civic life.
The arcade is named after Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of a unified Italy, who laid the first stone in 1865. Mengoni, however, never saw the official opening. He tragically died after falling from scaffolding just one day before the inauguration, a story that still adds a poignant note to the building’s history.
Architectural Grandeur Under Glass
The Galleria is a four story, Neo Renaissance double arcade formed by two glass vaulted arms that intersect beneath a dramatic central octagon.
The Iron and Glass Roof
At the time of construction, the roof was a technical marvel. It uses around 350 tons of iron and rises to a height of 47 meters at the central dome. Four wide barrel vaults flood the interior with natural light, creating an atmosphere that feels both monumental and welcoming.
The Mosaic Floors
The marble mosaic floors are among the most photographed details. Beneath the dome, four large mosaics depict the coats of arms of the historic capitals of the Kingdom of Italy, Rome’s she wolf, Florence’s lily, Milan’s red cross, and Turin’s bull.
The Famous Spinning Bull Tradition
One mosaic draws constant attention, the bull representing Turin. According to local tradition, visitors place their right heel in the worn indentation and spin three times counter clockwise for good luck. The ritual is so popular that the mosaic requires frequent restoration, making it one of the most interactive traditions in Milan.
Shopping and Luxury Icons
The Galleria remains one of the world’s most prestigious shopping addresses, home to flagship boutiques of Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Versace, and Giorgio Armani.
Prada Galleria 1913
The original Prada store opened here in 1913. Founded by Mario Prada, it still preserves its historic interiors, including mahogany shelves designed by a British architect. In 1919, Prada became official supplier to the Italian Royal Household, a distinction reflected in its logo.
Historic Boutiques
You will also find classic shops like Borsalino, established in 1883. To preserve visual harmony, all storefront signs follow the same style, gold lettering on black backgrounds.
Dining in Grand Surroundings
Dining inside the Galleria is as much about atmosphere as food.
- Camparino in Galleria opened in 1915 and is closely linked to the birth of the Campari aperitif, complete with Art Nouveau interiors.
- Savini Milano 1867 has welcomed figures such as Maria Callas, Giuseppe Verdi, and Charlie Chaplin.
- Biffi Caffè dates back to 1867 and was founded by the royal family’s pastry chef.
- Cracco offers fine dining with views into the central octagon.
Hidden Gems Above the Arcade
Highline Milano
Highline Milano is a 250 meter rooftop walkway that offers sweeping views over the city, including the Duomo’s golden Madonnina. Access is via Via Silvio Pellico 2 or an elevator inside the Galleria.
Seven Stars Galleria
For an exceptional stay, Seven Stars Galleria offers seven suites overlooking the arcade. Opened in 2007, it blends modern technology with original frescoes and historic details.
Practical Information for Visitors
The Galleria functions as a public passageway and is open 24 hours a day, making it ideal for evening strolls. Most shops operate from around 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM.
The arcade sits on the north side of Piazza del Duomo and is easily reached via the Milan Metro. Take the M1 Red Line or M3 Yellow Line to the Duomo station.
Dining and shopping prices are higher than elsewhere in the city, reflecting the historic setting and prime location. Even a simple espresso costs more here than on nearby streets.
Experiencing Milan Beyond the Galleria
A visit to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II fits naturally into a broader exploration of the city. For ideas on what to see nearby, including landmarks, neighborhoods, and cultural highlights, see this guide to Things to do in Milan.
Walking through the Galleria is like stepping into a cathedral of commerce, where light filters through glass, footsteps echo on marble, and Milan’s past and present meet in one elegant space.
