Startyour visit to Milan in the city’s heart. The busy Piazza del Duomo lies at thecentre of the city and is the main square. Many major streets branch out fromhere to the rest of Milan while some of the best attractions line itsperimeter. See the Cathedral of Milan, shop for signature Italian brands andsip espresso from cafés surrounding the square. The Piazza del Duomo is themost popular attraction in the city.
Standin the centre of the square and your eyes will be instantly drawn to theCathedral of Milan, or Duomo. The looming cathedral is one of the biggest inthe world and is topped by 135 spires and a dazzling gold statue. It took morethan six centuries to build. Climb to the top of the Duomo to look out over thesquare.
Cafés,restaurants, bars and galleries line the square and many locals come here tostart their morning with a strong cup of Italian coffee. Take a seat at anoutdoor dining table in the warmer months to watch residents go about theirdaily business. Sample local dishes such as pizza and panettone later in theday. Locals like to eat in restaurants at the top of the department storeadjacent to the Duomo for an impressive view of the cathedral.
Manyvisitors come to the Piazza del Duomo to shop. As well as the department storeyou’ll find a variety of clothing brands and souvenir stores. Shop forsomething special in the King Vittorio Emanuele II, a four-storey glass arcadethat’s filled with luxury designer boutiques.
Seea statue of Emanuele II, Italy’s first king, in the centre of the square. Thisis a good starting point to admire the architecture in the Piazza del Duomo. Aswell as the cathedral, there are many significant buildings, including thePalazzo dei Portici Settentrionale and the Royal Palace of Milan.
ThePiazza del Duomo has its own metro stop and is easily reached on foot from manymajor hotels. There’s limited street parking nearby.
