
8 best views in Milan: Rooftops, observation decks, and more
Soak in stunning views of the Milan skyline from iconic spots like the Duomo Terraces, Branca Tower, and more.
Milan, a city of style and sophistication, offers more than fashion and art. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the city is home to breathtaking viewpoints that showcase its skyline dotted with skyscrapers and historic architecture. From the lush Parco Sempione to the vibrant Navigli District, here are the eight best views in Milan to add to your itinerary. Even if you only have 48 hours in Milan, plenty of unique viewpoints exist to explore and elevate your experience of Italy’s cultural capital.
Where to get the best views in Milan
Best observation deck in Milan: Duomo Terraces
Best free views in Milan: The Belvedere in the Lombardy Building
Best park with a view in Milan: Parco Sempione
Best rooftop and observation deck views in Milan

photo: AleksandarGeorgiev
Gothic spires and statues of Milan Cathedral's rooftop terrace frame Milan's historic center and modern skyline.
1. The Duomo Terraces
Milan Cathedral (the Duomo), Europe’s largest cathedral, took over six centuries to complete. This 108-meter-tall Gothic masterpiece offers a unique rooftop walk, where you can admire the golden Madonnina, the city’s guardian since 1774, along with countless statues and ornate spires. On clear days, you can even glimpse the silhouette of the Alps, providing some of the best views in Milan.
Highlights
- The Central Terrace is the highest point, with impressive angles at every turn, making it one of the best Milan photography spots.
- Admire the gilded Madonnina statue perched atop the highest spire.
Address and opening hours
P.za del Duomo, 20122 Milano. Open daily, 9:00 AM-7:00 PM.

photo: ewg3D
You can see Milan Cathedral in all its glory from the Rinascente rooftop.
2. La Rinascente Rooftop
For a different perspective of the cathedral, head to La Rinascente Rooftop, a luxurious department store and a shopping haven in Milan. On the 7th floor, you can indulge in gourmet dishes while enjoying close-up views of the Duomo in all its glory. Shop the Food Hall or sip a Negroni or Spritz with the cathedral’s majestic spires as your backdrop.
Insider tip
For refined pizza with an elegant view (and fewer people), book a weekday lunch at the rooftop’s Obicà Mozzarella Bar.
Address and opening hours
P.za del Duomo, 20121 Milano. Open Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM-12:00 AM; Sunday and holidays, 10:00 AM-12:00 AM.

photo: Fred Romero
Rising 108 meters into Milan's skyline, the industrial Branca Tower offers panoramic views of the city and the distant Alps.
3. Branca Tower (Torre Branca)
Built-in 1933, the steel-framed Branca Tower may not be Milan’s prettiest building, but it has one of the best observation decks. A quick elevator ride to the top grants you unobstructed panoramic views of the Milan skyline and beyond, making it one of the city’s unmissable landmarks.
Insider tip
Don’t forget your camera for stunning shots of the city’s landmarks, visit at sunset for a breathtaking view of Milan bathed in golden light.
Address and opening hours
Viale Luigi Camoens, 2, 20121 Milano. Open Wednesday and Friday, 10:30 AM-12:30 PM, 3:00 PM-7:00 PM; Saturday, 10:30 AM-2:00 PM, 2:30 PM-7:00 PM, 8:30 PM-12:00 AM. Sunday, 10:30 AM-2:00 PM, 2:30 PM-7:00 PM. Hours may vary by season.

photo: Ricardo Gomez Angel
This modern wing of the Prado Museum brings natural light and space to one of Europe's finest art collections.
4. Prada Museum
Visit Fondazione Prada for its chic interiors, contemporary art, cinema, and library, but stay for the breathtaking views that captivate. Head to the Torre, where innovative cuisine meets panoramic views of Milan’s skyline, offering a perfect blend of art, culture, and romance.
Highlights
- Enjoy a ride in Torre’s pink-hued panoramic glass elevator for a unique city view.
Address and opening hours
Prada Museum: L.go Isarco, 2, 20139 Milano. Exhibitions are open Wednesday-Monday, 10:00 AM-7:00 PM; closed Tuesday.
Torre Restaurant: Via Giovanni Lorenzini, 14, 20139 Milano. Open Wednesday-Friday, 6:00 PM-12:00 AM; Saturday-Sunday, 12:00 PM-12:00 AM. Closed Monday and Tuesday.
Best free views in Milan

photo: Fcarbonara
The views walking through the Lombardy skyscraper make just as great a photography spot as the views from the observation tower.
5. The Belvedere in the Lombardy Building (Palazzo Lombardia)
Soar to Milan’s highest public viewpoint at the Belvedere, perched 161 meters above the city streets on the 39th floor of Palazzo Lombardia. This sleek skyscraper's observation deck delivers spectacular 360-degree views that stretch from the Alps to the Apennines on clear days. Best of all? It’s free to visit on select Sundays.
Insider tip
Since reservations are required and it can get busy, checking the Belvedere schedule online before visiting is crucial.
Address and opening hours
Piazza Città di Lombardia, 20124 Milano. Open select days, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM.

photo: Mike Peel
Dine with a view at the Palazzo dell'Arte's rooftop restaurant, situated in the contemporary modern glass rooftop of this historic 1930s building.
6. Terrazza Triennale
Situated atop Milan’s design museum in the lush Parco Sempione, La Triennale di Milano serves up postcard-perfect views of Sforza Castle and Branca Tower rising above the park’s green canopy. While the terrace is free to visit, the stylish rooftop bar makes a perfect spot for an aperitivo with a view.
Best time to go
Visit the terrace at noon to capture photos before the crowd arrives.
Address and opening hours
Viale Emilio Alemagna, 6, 20121 Milano. Open daily, 12:00 PM-3:00 PM, 5:00 PM-1:00 AM.

photo: Claudia Salini
Milan's Arco della Pace stands as the city's answer to Paris's Arc de Triomphe. This impresssive neoclassical historical monument has great views and is a site to see alone.
7. Arco della Pace
Napoleon’s commission stands at Parco Sempione's northern gateway, where the majestic Arco della Pace (Arch of Peace) frames picture-perfect views of Sforza Castle. This neoclassical masterpiece mirrors Paris' Arc de Triomphe but offers a uniquely Milanese perspective on history and architecture.
Insider tip
Position yourself along the tramway behind the arch for a symmetrical shot that captures both monuments in one frame - the arch’s elegant curves lead your eye directly to the castle’s medieval towers.
Address and opening hours
Piazza Sempione, 20154 Milano. Open 24 hours.

photo: Emmanuel Cassar
Enjoy the views of the buzzing Navigli district from a canal-side restaurant at sunset while sipping an Aperol Spritz.
8. Naviglio Grande
Milan’s vibrant Navigli District comprises a series of canals, the oldest and largest of which is the Naviglio Grande. Enjoy the area’s charm by strolling along the canal, stopping for an aperitivo at one of its many bars, or unwinding with a scenic boat cruise on the water.
Best time to go
Come at sunset for the best lighting, and plan to stay for the evening. Navigli is a favorite area to enjoy Milan at night.
FAQs
Where are the best views in Milan?
The best views in Milan can be found at the top of the grandiose Milan Cathedral (the Duomo Terraces), the Branca Tower in Parco Sempione, and in the heart of the Navigli District. All provide a unique perspective of the city.
Where is the best view of the Milan Cathedral?
Head to Piazza del Duomo for free views or get an even more stunning view atop the cathedral itself. You can also head next door to La Rinascente’s rooftop for more striking perspectives.
Where are the best free views of Milan?
Free options include Parco Sempione’s Arco della Pace and Terrazza Triennale. On select days, the Belvedere observation deck at Palazzo Lombardia also opens its doors for free.
Where’s the best place to see the sunset in Milan?
Enjoy sunset views from La Rinascente’s rooftop, the Belvedere at Palazzo Lombardia, or at Arco della Pace.
What’s the best place to get a view of Milan at night?
The Navigli District offers the perfect mix of scenic views and fun things to do in Milan. As a top nightlife hub, it offers vibrant energy alongside picturesque views of the historic canals.
Read more about Milan

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Milan may be best known as Italy’s fashion and art capital, but it also offers plenty of opportunities to bask in the Lombardy sun. From serene parks to canal-side aperitivo, many things to do outdoors in Milan are timeless classics.
Whether you’re a cyclist, an art enthusiast, or simply looking to unwind, the city’s mix of green spaces, al fresco dining, and cultural landmarks ensures that sunny day activities in Milan are for everyone. From sun-drenched piazzas to art walks and city tours, this guide will help you uncover the best things to do in Milan when it’s sunny.

New Year’s Eve in Milan
Whether it’s pulsing rooftop parties or breathtaking fireworks over the Duomo Square, Italy’s fashion capital knows how to celebrate New Year’s Eve in style. Attend an exclusive concert at Teatro alla Scala, join the revelry at an ice-skating rink, or spend New Year’s in Milan enjoying the festivities at Sforza Castle. From intimate gourmet dinners to midnight canal cruises under the stars, here are the top things to do in Milan on New Year’s Eve.
New Year’s Eve fireworks
Incredible fireworks displays at Piazza del Duomo which are free and open to the public.
Average temperature
From 35 F to 45 F (2 C to 7 C)
What to avoid on New Year’s Eve
Avoid driving in central Milan, as streets become packed with partiers, especially around popular celebration zones like Piazza del Duomo and the Navigli district.

Nithya Konduru
Top Things To Do In Milan At night

Best Indoor Activities in Milan
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