The Geographic Location of Milan – A Strategic Spot in the Heart of Europe
Milan’s coat of arms
History of Milan
Saint Ambrose
History of Panettone
Madonnina
City Hall
Milanese cuisine
When I first set foot in Milan many years ago, I realized that to get to know it, you need to look at the city from different perspectives. Milan, on the one hand a modern and fashionable metropolis, and on the other a city hiding history and tradition at its heart. Looking at it from above allows you to see its multidimensional character and, take some cool photos for Instagram. I have prepared a guide to the best vantage points in Milan, giving you an almost Madonnina-like view of the city from the top of the Duomo. I write almost because traditionally, Madonnina always has to be the highest…
We will start our journey with the symbol of Milan – the Duomo Cathedral. As you ascend to its roof, you’ll see the city in all its glory, from the crowded square at its feet to the distant Alps. We will then move to the modern Porta Nuova district, where skyscrapers draw a very different picture of the city in the sky. I won’t leave out the terraces of bars and hotels, either. This is just a foretaste of what awaits you, so buckle up – our tour of Milan’s best viewing spots is just beginning!
The best viewing points and terraces around the Duomo
Terraces of the Duomo Cathedral: the most popular viewpoint in Milan!
Anyone who has visited Milan at least once knows that walking on the roof of the Cathedral of the Birth of St. Mary, proudly towering over Piazza Duomo, is not only an opportunity to admire the architectural details of one of the world’s most significant temples but and the incredible views of the city stretching to the horizon. This unique perspective allows you to lose yourself in the beauty of Milan, and if you’re lucky and the weather is favorable, it will take your breath away with sweeping views of the Alps. Therefore, this is where most tourists begin their visit to Milan.
Although climbing to the roof on your own requires spending 13 euros, the investment is more than worth it — both for the opportunity to see the city’s skyline and for the close contact with the amazing architecture. When else will we have the opportunity to walk on the roof of such a monumental building? What’s more, in summer the cathedral becomes a concert arena, further enhancing the visit. For those who prefer to save themselves the effort, there is also an option to take the elevator for 15 euros, a convenient alternative to experience this unique place effortlessly.
The seventh floor of La Rinascente: a drink and the Duomo at your fingertips.
Right next to the majestic Duomo Cathedral stands the huge department store “La Rinascente“. After a day filled with shopping, you should head to its seventh floor. There, on the terrace, awaits you not only the opportunity to have a meal or a drink but also a unique opportunity to look up close at the cathedral, which seems to be at your fingertips.
Highline Galleria: a walk through the dome of the Galleria
A few steps from Rinascente, in via Silvio Pelico, you will find the entrance to Highline Galleria. On the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II rooftop, you can get closer to its famous dome than anywhere else.
This unique path, 250 meters in length, weaves around the Gallery’s glass roof, providing not only access to views of Milan’s rooftops but also the opportunity to follow a path that was once used exclusively for maintenance purposes.
Galleria Vik Milano: a luxury window into Milan’s “living room”
While talking about the Galleria, it is impossible not to mention the Galleria Vik Hotel. Located in the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the hotel is where chic and elegance come together in each of the 89 uniquely designed suites.
From the hotel’s windows, and there is no shortage of those with balconies, there are stunning views – whether of the always vibrant Piazza della Scala or the interior of the Gallery itself. It is this last perspective that will allow you to feel the true spirit of Milan!
Terrazza Aperol: an aperitif in front of the Duomo
If you are a connoisseur of the bright red drink, meaning Aperol, then Terrazza Aperol in Milan’s main piazza is the place for you. Located right next to the famous Cathedral, the restaurant offers not only delicious drinks but also an unforgettable view of the city’s most important site. Here, surrounded by modern design, sipping an Aperol Spritz, you will contemplate life in the Piazza del Duomo. Be sure to make a reservation!
Terrazza Duomo 21
If you’re still craving more views of the Duomo after an aperitif, Terrazza Duomo 21 is just waiting for you. You can come by for coffee in the morning. The elegant bar and restaurant, located directly across from the Gothic spires of Milan Cathedral, invites you to a terrace with one of the city’s most beautiful panoramas. From here you can admire not only the famous golden Madonnina, but also the historic center of Milan stretching around it.
Hotel The Glamore Milano Duomo: a Michelin-starred panorama
Also in Piazza Duomo, The Glamore Milano Duomo awaits you, with elegant rooms that either look directly at the cathedral or offer panoramic views of the city. At the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, “Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia,” you’ll enjoy modern Italian cuisine, and the terrace overlooking the Duomo will make every meal an unforgettable experience. From the hotel, you can admire Milan in all its splendor while enjoying comfort and a unique atmosphere.
The Glamore Milano Duomo on booking.com
Vista Duomo Restaurant: a feast for the stomach and for the eyes
If you’re looking for a sophisticated place with an unforgettable view, the Vista Duomo restaurant in Milan is a hit. Admittedly, there is no terrace, but its windows offer a view of the Cathedral standing opposite in all its majesty.
The Dome Milano: another look at the main square
The Dome Milano to restauracja i Rooftop Bar, położony na 7. piętrze Palazzo delle Poste. Zajrzyj tutaj jeśli jeszcze Ci mało widoków na piazza Duomo.
From here, you can also view the rooftops and monuments of Milan’s historic center. On clear days, you can even see the Alps on the horizon. The rooftop tempts not only with its views but also with its atmosphere — elegant yet casual. It’s the perfect place to relax with a drink and a meal.
Museo del Novecento i restauracja Giacomo Arengario
On the opposite side of the square to the Gallery is the Museo del Novecento, which offers a great view of the cathedral’s facade and the entire square. From the grand staircase, terrace, and covered balcony, the view is indeed enviable.
The Palazzo dell’Arengario, the building that hosts the museum mentioned here, also houses the Giacomo Arengario restaurant on the seventh floor, from which, as well as from the museum, you can admire the Duomo, the Piazza Cadedral and other surrounding buildings. So what? First a feast for the soul and then for the body? And all in a beautiful setting…
Buy a ticket to the Museum:
Piazza Missori neighborhood
Terrazza Martini
A few steps from the Piazza Duomo we have the Piazza Diaz, with its impressive skyscraper with a Martini terrace on the 15th floor. However, the entrance is closed to the general public, but you can get there by attending organized events or parties. Certainly, holding an event with such a view would be long remembered by its participants.
Hotel dei Cavalieri and The Roof
The Roof is an elegant rooftop restaurant and bar with panoramic views of Milan. The place, formerly known as La Terrazza dei Cavalieri, has been operating under a new name since 2020, but still offers the same stunning views of the city. The restaurant is located on the tenth floor and is the ‘restaurant and house bar’ for two hotels in the same building, belonging to the same hotel chain(Hotel Dei Cavalieri and The Square Milano Duomo).
Uptown Palace Hotel
If your priority on your trip to Milan is not only luxury but also a view that will take your breath away, Uptown Palace has something that will meet your expectations. Their Executive Suite and Presidential Suite offer direct views of Milan’s cathedral.
Photo: Uptown Palace na Facebooku
Towards San Babila
SunEleven Rooftop Bar
Moving away from the Duomo toward San Babila, you’ll hit the SunEleven Rooftop Bar located at 11th floor of iH Hotels Milano Ambasciatori. From here, there is a panoramic view not only of the famous Madonnina but also of the most famous points of the city, such as Torre Velasca and Porta Nuova, Here on the colorful terrace, among lush vegetation, you will spend pleasant moments with an aperitif while enjoying the sunset.
A’Riccione Terrazza12
In the center of the city, at Piazza San Babila, on the ninth and tenth floors of The Brian&Barry Building, you will find A’Riccione Terrazza12 – an exclusive rooftop restaurant and lounge bar that invites you to a culinary journey through the flavors of Mediterranean cuisine.
Here you can drop in for an aperitif or want to spend a relaxing moment after dinner, in the glow of the setting sun or the night lights of the city, lazily sipping a drink….
And the views from there are fantastic….
The surroundings of the Sforza Castle and the Sempione Park
Castello Guest House
If you want to wake up in the morning and see the Castello Sforzesco from your window, stay overnight at Castello Guest House in Milan. Located on Piazza Castello, it not only provides picturesque views right from your room but is also a prime location to easily explore the city.
Castello Guest House on booking.com
Torre Branca
Just behind the castle stretches the huge Parco Sempione, and within it you’ll find the Branca Tower, which rises to a height of 108.6 meters. It is from here that you can enjoy a spectacular 360-degree view of Milan and the Lombardy plain. You get to the top of the tower by elevator – the cost is 6 euros per person, but the visit is not long, up to 10 minutes or less depending on how many people are waiting in line. On top of that, the viewing platform is glazed, so the view is definitely not of the same quality as on the Duomo. But I think it’s worth the trip nonetheless.
Terrazza Triennale
Near the Branca Tower, the Terrazza Triennale stands out for its incredible view of Milan. From its rooftop terrace, you can admire the city from the green treetops of Sempione Park to the majestic towers of Sforza Castle to the modern skyscrapers of CityLife.
The restaurant offers high-quality Italian cuisine, while the bar offers a selection of select wines, original cocktails, and beers. It is the perfect place for a romantic dinner or a relaxing evening drink.
Brera
Sky Terrace
Moving a bit away from the castle towards the Brera district, you’ll find another place to go if you want to admire Milan from above. Plus, if you like organic food, this place will not disappoint you.
Located on the eighth floor of the Hotel Milano Scala, in the heart of the Brera district, Sky Terrace Ristorante & Bar offers a unique culinary experience. Products straight from the hotel’s garden, where herbs, vegetables, and edible flowers are grown, find their way into their cuisine… This is the place to enjoy your favorite aperitif or gourmet dinner in an intimate setting, with the stunning sunset over Milan’s new skyline in the background.
Clotilde Brera
From the terrace of this bistro, you can enjoy a view of St. Marc’s Basilica. Here you can spend a perfect quiet evening and, with a glass of wine, admire the monuments and feel the atmosphere of the Brera district, which was once bustling with artists and galleries.
Montenapoleone: not just fashion
Armani/Bamboo Bar
Armani/Bamboo Bar, located inside the Armani Hotel Milano at Via Alessandro Manzoni, 31, is known as one of the most exclusive and trendy terrace bars in Milan. The location offers breathtaking panoramic views, including a direct view of Milan Cathedral, making it the perfect place to enjoy a Milanese aperitif in style.
The bar serves a variety of dishes, including Japanese and Italian cuisine, in a sophisticated setting that reflects the elegant simplicity characteristic of the Armani brand.
Okolice Corso and Porta Venezia
Terrazza Palestro
Terrazza Palestro oferuje wyjątkowy panoramiczny widok na jeden z najważniejszych terenów zielonych w Mediolanie, ogrody Indro Montanelli. Położony na czwartym piętrze Centro Svizzero w Mediolanie, taras ten jest idealnym miejscem dla osób poszukujących doznań kulinarnych z widokiem.
Thanks to its elevated location and the perspective offered by Terrazza Palestro, one can enjoy an impressive view of the gardens, an added advantage when dining or hosting events at this location.
Piazza della Repubblica / Porta Garibaldi
PanEVO Restaurant
PanEVO Restaurant, located on the mezzanine floor of The Westin Palace Milan Hotel, serves meals in a rooftop garden-like setting overlooking the city. Access is provided by an outdoor elevator, while in the warmer months, the restaurant moves to the terrace, creating an atmosphere rich in aromatic seasonal dishes, panoramic views, and abundant greenery.
Radio Rooftop Bar
If you’re looking for a place with an amazing view of Milan, the Radio Rooftop Bar on the tenth floor of the ME Milan Il Duca Hotel is the perfect choice. The terrace offers panoramic views of Piazza della Repubblica and Porta Nuova. The interior of the terrace combines modernity with elegance, and in the evening you can enjoy the illuminated city with music from jazz to house. It’s the perfect place for an aperitif and a relaxing evening not far from the city center.
Torre Diamante
Drop by Torre Diamante, also known as Diamond Tower, which offers unparalleled views of Milan’s Porta Nuova district and Indro Montanelli Gardens. This 140-meter-high tower, part of the “Progetto Porta Nuova” revitalization project, is distinguished by its unique diamond-shaped structure. A spectacular panorama of the city can be seen from its top, especially from the café on the 15th floor. Torre Diamante, the tallest building in Italy with a metal superstructure, is designed to maximize natural light and views of Milan. With LEED GOLD certification emphasizing sustainability, the tower is a modern symbol of the city and an ideal place to admire its skyline.
Milano Verticale | UNA Esperienze
Or maybe you’ll be tempted to stay at Milano Verticale | UNA Esperienze, a hotel with a unique view of the modern Porta Nuova – Garibaldi district, the heart of Milan’s architectural and economic development. Located between via De Cristoforis and Via Rosales, close to Corso Como and Piazza Gae Aulenti, the hotel blends harmoniously with its surroundings, attracting business travelers, creative travelers, and locals.
The rooms, starting from the sixth floor, offer stunning views of the city, while elegant interiors and modern amenities, such as the Dr. Harushka spa and exquisite restaurants, including ANIMA, ensure an unforgettable experience. The Junior Suite offers separate living and sleeping areas and a balcony overlooking the Milan skyline.
Chinatown
VIU Hotel Milan: synonymous with luxury and exceptional views
If you want to admire Milan from above, Hotel VIU Milan in the Porta Volta district, close to Corso Como and Piazza Gae Aulenti, welcomes you to its rooftop with a pool, offering 360-degree views of the city. It’s the perfect place for a morning coffee or an evening aperitif. The hotel’s rooms and suites, including the spacious VIU Suite with balconies, guarantee a luxurious stay with unforgettable panoramas.
VIU Hotel Milan on booking.com
The restaurants, under the direction of chef Giancarlo Morelli, offer a refined dining experience in an elegant setting.
Ceresio 7 Pools & Restaurant: a restaurant with a swimming pool
When visiting Milan, be sure to stop by Ceresio 7 Pools & Restaurant to enjoy not only exceptional food but also breathtaking views of the city’s rooftops. Perched high above the streets, this upscale venue offers a 360-degree panorama of Milan, perfect for admiring both during the day and at night. The restaurant is renowned for Chef Elio Sironi’s refined cuisine, which combines simplicity with sophisticated flavor, using the freshest ingredients.
After dinner, you can also relax in the elegant Cigar room, enjoying a selection of fine distillates and continuing to admire the city. Ceresio 7 is the perfect place for a special evening in Milan.
Terraces and viewpoints in the Isola district and around Stazione Centrale
Belvedere w Palazzo Lombardia
When visiting Milan, don’t miss the opportunity to see the city from one of the highest points open to the public – the Belvedere at Palazzo Lombardia. Located on the 39th floor, at a height of 161 meters, Belvedere offers a spectacular 360-degree view of the city skyline, including the modern skyscrapers of Porta Nuova, the historic Duomo, and on clear days even the Grigna mountains. What’s more, admission to the Belvedere is free and requires no reservations, making it easily accessible.
It is open on certain days, usually the first Sunday of the month from March to November, so it is worth checking the current opening dates and times on the official website of the Lombardy Region. Palazzo Lombardia is not only an excellent vantage point, but also an interesting architectural structure and headquarters of the regional government, designed with ecology in mind, with solar panels and efficient heating and cooling systems.
Terrazza Gallia at Excelsior Hotel Gallia
While you’re in the area of the Central Station (Stazione Centrale), don’t miss the opportunity to visit Terrazza Gallia, located on the seventh floor of the Excelsior Hotel Gallia. This unique venue offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, overlooking the majestic Stazione Centrale. Terrazza Gallia is not only a bar and restaurant but, above all, a trendy meeting place that attracts both tourists and locals thanks to its location and elegant design.
In addition, you can also enjoy panoramic views of Milan from your hotel rooms at Excelsior Hotel Gallia, especially some rooms and suites offer beautiful perspectives on Piazza Duca d’Aosta.
Torre Pirelli
While in the same area, check out the Pirelli Tower, also known as the Pirellone, one of the city’s most iconic buildings. The building located in Piazza Duca d’Aosta, designed by Gio Ponti, Piero Luigi Nervi and others, was built between 1956 and 1960. Today, the headquarters of the Lombardy regional council offers unparalleled views of Milan.
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From the viewing platform, you can admire modern skyscrapers like the Unicredit Tower and Solaria Tower, as well as historic parts of the city, and on clear days even the Alps and the Apennines. Admission to the observation deck is free on weekdays, making it an easily accessible way to enjoy spectacular views of the city.
LiQuido Rooftop Bar
You can also relax at LiQuido Rooftop Bar near the Central Station. This elegant rooftop bar offers a wide selection of dishes, from traditional to trendy snacks and unique cocktails, and, above all, breathtaking views of the city. Located at the iQ Hotel Milano, the bar provides the perfect setting to enjoy Milan’s skyline in a comfortable and modern setting.
Organics SkyGarden @Cielo at Hyatt Centric Milan Centrale
For beautiful views, climb to the 13th floor of the Hyatt Centric Milan Centrale and visit the Organics SkyGarden @Cielo. This place offers some of the most spectacular views of the city, some say the best in Milan. On the terrace you can daydream under the stars, admiring the skyline of the city and the surrounding mountains in good weather.
Located almost exactly between the city’s two main stations, Centrale and Porta Garibaldi, Organics SkyGarden @Cielo also offers a bar and light dining options. It’s a true urban jungle, offering unforgettable views, including of the famous Bosco Verticale skyscrapers.
In addition, on the fourth floor of the same building is the CuMi restaurant, whose terrace offers a quieter atmosphere and traditional dishes made from quality ingredients. Organics SkyGarden @Cielo is the ideal place to relax with an aperitif or a light meal while enjoying some of the most beautiful views Milan has to offer.
Best Western Hotel City
For its guests, the Best Western Hotel City has a terrace from which you can fully appreciate the charm of Milan in a relaxing atmosphere. This terrace on the 8th floor offers a spectacular view of the cityscape. After a day full of sightseeing or work, you can relax here, savoring a moment of relaxation. The terrace is equipped with comfortable chairs and tables, as well as exercise equipment for those who want to stay active.
Best Western Hotel City on booking.com
From the terrace, you can admire Milan’s modern skyscrapers, including Bosco Verticale, Palazzo della Regione, Pirellone, and Torre Diamante. It’s the perfect place to enjoy an evening drink and marvel at the sunset over the city.
Porta Vittoria
Department store Coin
Coin, located on Piazza Cinque Giornate in the Porta Vittoria district, has a terrace with panoramic views of the city on the 8th floor of the building. This terrace was part of the Globe restaurant, which is currently closed.
Piazza Lodi area
Torre restaurant in the Prada Foundation building
If you want to taste delicious seasonal dishes surrounded by art and design, then Torre Restaurant, located on the sixth floor of the Prada Foundation building at Via Giovanni Lorenzini 14, will be a good choice. Designed by architect Rem Koolhaas, it offers a unique view of the city’s skyline, the modern skyscrapers, and Milan’s historic monuments.
Navigli district
BASE Milano
BASE Milano, located in the former Ansaldo industrial area on Via Bergognone, in the Navigli district, is a multifunctional space that offers access to a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city. This terrace is ideal for an inexpensive aperitivo, where wine and beer are better choices than cocktails, and for a simple but tasty Sunday brunch, while allowing you to enjoy the city skyline. BASE only accepts cashless payments.
Lampugnano area
Clèr Rooftop Bar
A bit further from the city center, you’ll find Clèr Rooftop Bar, located on the roof of a former car dealership between Portello and CityLife. This space has been renovated by a group of young entrepreneurs and offers a relaxing atmosphere for aperitifs or meals, both during the day and in the evening. From the terrace of Clèr Rooftop Bar, you can enjoy views of the CityLife skyline, Milan’s modern district known for its dynamic architecture and contemporary skyscrapers.
Monte Stella: a hill in the city
Monte Stella, also known as Montagnetta di San Siro among Milan residents, is an artificial hill offering a magnificent view of the city and the surrounding Alps. It was created from rubble left by bombings during World War II. The project to transform these ruins into a park was proposed by architect Piero Bottoni, who dedicated it to his wife, Elsa Stella, after whom the hill is named.
Nowadays, Monte Stella is a resting place for locals, where one can ride a bicycle and enjoy the picturesque view of Milan from its top, especially charming in the evenings when the city lights up.
The park also includes the Giardino dei Giusti (Garden of the Righteous), dedicated to the memory of those who opposed genocides and crimes against humanity, with trees planted in honor of significant figures.
Bonus
Montevecchia
The best views of Milan, you know, can be enjoyed from above, but sometimes it’s worth moving away from the city to get a better perspective. That’s why I think it’s worth popping out to Montevecchia.
Montevecchia is a picturesque hilltop town in the Brianza region, between Lecco and Milan. It is known for its breathtaking panoramic views across Brianza to the Apennines. The highest point of the hill, at 503 meters, offers magnificent views of Milan, especially beautiful after sunset. Montevecchia is also home to the Santuario della Beata Vergine del Monte Carmelo, which offers impressive panoramic views of Milan. Another place is the Parcheggio Panoramico di Via Alta Collina (parking lot), from which you can enjoy the surrounding views.
Map of all viewpoints
Conclusion
All in all, Milan offers great terraces and vantage points from which to view the city. From the cathedral’s rooftop terraces to historic towers to modern sites, each allows you to see Milan from a completely different perspective. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these panoramic points are the perfect chance to experience the city’s unique character.
Personally, however, I recommend going to the roof of the cathedral the most!
I lived in Milan for 18 years, and it was there that I came to know the city’s daily life best - not just its landmarks, but also its rhythm, its habits, and its less obvious sides. Today I live in Wrocław, but I still return to Milan regularly.