Last Updated on December 1, 2024 by Jade and Deeshen

Duomo Milan Stairs or Lift – Which is Better?

The absolute highlight for many visitors to the city of Milan is a visit to the roof of the Milan Cathedral.

As a tourist, you can go up a staircase to the roof of the cathedral or take the lift up. Then you can walk around freely on the roof of the church and enjoy the view from above.

But should you take the duomo stairs or lift to the rooftop terraces? We’ve got you covered.

As Italy travel writers and frequent Milan visitors, we’ll tell you exactly which is the best way, why, and the pros and cons of each choice, and the best ticket deals to reach to the top!

We’ll share our personal experience and help you decide whether the Duomo Milan stairs or lift way suits you best.

Readers also love our Milan itinerary for 2 days guide and romantic things to do in Milan guide

When visiting Milan, we recommend you stay at least 2-3 nights in Milan at our favorite hotel, The Corner Duomo Hotel Milan.

The Corner Duomo Hotel is located in the center of Milan, a few steps from the Teatro alla Scala and Via Monte Napoleone. It’s super luxurious, spacious, and some rooms even have a hot tub and sauna!

2 other hotels we love are Hotel Indigo Milan and the Hotel Gran Duca Di York, with the perfect vintage vibes and superb service.

First, here are the best ticket deals for the Milan Duomo: (yes, you should buy in advance to skip the lines! It’s better to buy here instead of the ticket office)

• ⭐Best Guided Tour Tickets of Milan Duomo with Fast Track – Expert guided tours + elevator ride to rooftop terraces (skip-the-line + 24 hours free cancellation). We recommend this one!
  
  
• ⭐From Milan: Best Boat Cruise to Lake Como, Lugano, and Bellagio – Cross the border from Italy to Switzerland in just a day! Explore Lake Como with a private boat tour, and discover villas and Bellagio.
  
• ⭐Milan: Best Tour by Train to Swiss Alps & St. Moritz Day Trip – Take a ride on the Bernina red train, one of the most scenic railway routes and experience Switzerland in a day trip from Milan!

Our Recommendation: Take the Duomo Stairs to the Rooftop

We recommend taking the lift at the Milan Duomo. If you’re like us and prefer a quick and easy way to the top, the lift is the way to go.

The ride is smooth, and before you know it, you’re stepping out to breathtaking views of Milan cathedral terraces. It’s perfect for saving energy, especially if you want to explore more of the rooftop terraces or Milan;s top sights afterwards.

Start planning your Milan trip with our 3 days in Milano (with a day trip to Cinque Terre!).

One of the best parts about taking the lift is that it saves your feet from those 250 steps up to the rooftoo terraces. Trust us, after a day of wandering through Milan’s beautiful streets and charming parks, your feet will thank you!

Plus, you’ll want to take lots of photos at the top of the duomo because the views are beyond incredible! Just look at these incredible sphires!

The lift ride itself feels is quick and relaxing, you’re up in less than 2 minutes.

And here’s a little secret: even if you take the lift up, you’ll still get a glimpse of the stairs on your way down. That’s right – the lift ticket only includes an elevator ride up, but you’ll still have to walk down on the other side of the duomo.

So, if you’re curious about what those 250 steps look like, you’ll have the opportunity to see them as you walk down. This way, you get the best of both worlds without the extra effort!

If you’re still debating is duomo rooftop worth it, read our guide.

The Alternative: Taking the Stairs

Let’s say you reaaaaaaaally want to take the stairs to the MilanDuomo rooftop, you won’t regret it either. (fyi, there’s no view or windows in the stairs)

If you’re in the mood for a bit of a workout and have some spare time, taking the stairs can be quite rewarding. It’ll just take an extra 10-15 minutes so it’s not a big deal.

The climb may be challenging, but it’s a unique experience that lets you appreciate the grandeur of the Duomo from a different perspective.

You may feel a sense of accomplishment and it can be a memorable part of your visit. (you can’t race up there though! The stairs walk way is quite small so there’s only enough room for 1-2 people to walk down)

Plus, it’s a great way to work off some of that delicious Italian food! So either way, you can’t go wrong.

Btw, here is the city skyline view you’ll get from the top! I just love Milan!

If you want a luxurious stay, check out my guide to the best 5 star hotels in Milan city center, I adore the vintage luxury hotels in this city. (one even provides a free limousine service!

Where to Buy Your Tickets for Milan Duomo Stairs or Lift

The Duomo can get crazy busy, especially during peak tourist seasons, so purchase tickets in advance is the smart thing to do!

We recommend reading our guide on the best time to visit the Milan Duomo to avoid crowds and have a more serene experience! (You could even meditate or pray up there, we did!)

Here are the best ticket deals for the Milan Duomo: (yes, you should buy in advance to skip the line!)

• ⭐Best Guided Tour Tickets of Milan Duomo with Fast Track – Expert guided tour + elevator ride to rooftop terraces (skip-the-line + 24 hours free cancellation). We recommend this one!
  
  
• ⭐Best deal for Milan Duomo Pass Tickets (Tip: Choose the elevator pass option fyi, there’s nothing to see in the stairs itself)

It’s 100% worth the price to visit Milan just to see the Duomo!

Pro Tip: Remember to read our guide on the Milan Duomo dress code, as the security guards are strict!

And definitely wear comfortable shoes, especially if you’re considering the stairs! (no heels are allowed as the Duomo is always under construction and for obvious safety reasons)

Does the Duomo Have an Elevator?

Yes, the Milan Duomo does have an elevator. The lift provides a convenient and accessible way to reach the rooftop, making it an excellent option for visitors who prefer not to take the stairs. It’s especially helpful for families with young children or those with mobility issues.

How Long Does It Take to Climb the Duomo Stairs?

Climbing the Duomo stairs can take anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on your pace and fitness level. It’s not a race, so we recommend taking your time to enjoy the journey and rest if needed. The stairs are narrow and can get crowded, so be prepared for a bit of a squeeze in some sections.

7 Interesting Facts About the Milan Duomo Rooftop

1. The rooftop offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Milan (and even the Swiss Alps!), allowing you to spot landmarks like the Sforza Castle and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
   
   
2. At the highest point of the cathedral stands the Madonnina, a golden statue of the Virgin Mary, which has become a symbol of Milan.
   
   
3. The Duomo boasts 135 spires, each topped with a statue, making it the building with the most statues in the world. It’s a forest of spires!  The rooftops are made from candoglia marble, and a perfect spot to appreciate the cultural and spiritual heritage of Milan in the Archaeological Area.
   
   
4. The rooftop’s intricate carvings and statues are a testament to the Gothic architectural style, offering a close-up view of its stunning details. This historical complex, cathedral and duomo museum is an Italian treasure!
   
   
5. The construction of the Duomo began in 1386 and took nearly six centuries to complete, finally finishing in 1965. Now it’s one of the most beloved landmarks in Italy!
   
   
6. In recent years, the Duomo has been equipped with solar panels, making it a blend of historical architecture and modern technology.
   
   
7. The rooftop has been featured in various international films, including the 2006 movie “The International,” adding a cinematic touch and culture!

The Bottom Line: Milan Duomo Stairs or Lift

For a hassle-free experience, we suggest taking the lift. It’s quick and easy, giving you more time and energy to explore the rooftop and the rest of Milan.

No matter which option you choose, visiting the Milan Duomo’s rooftop is a must. The views, the architecture, and the sense of history make it an unforgettable experience!

Looking for other Italian cities to visit after Milan?

Plan a trip to Venice with our Venice 24 hours itinerary or visit Cinque Terre 2 days itinerary and capture memories at the Cinque Terre best photo spots and viewpoints!

Another great option is to spend one day in Florence itinerary and visit another famous duomo, the Florence Duomo! (pssst, here’s the duomo di firenze dress code)

More about Milan:

2 Days in Milan: How to See the Best of Milan Complete Itinerary
Three Days in Milan Itinerary
Best 5 Star Hotels in Milan City Center
Is Uber in Milan: Complete Guide
Best Things to do in Milan for Couples (and 17 fun date ideas!)
Duomo di Milano Dress Code
Teatro alla Scala Dress Code
Duomo Milan Stairs or Lift
Is Duomo Rooftop Worth It
Best time to Visit Duomo Milan
All Italy Itineraries and Tips