The Duomo of Milan allows for visits to what are loftily called Terrazze, the roof. It’s a great opportunity for an unusual view over the city centre.

As a sunny Friday was nearing its finale, I decided to quickly head over to the ticket offices and buy a ticket to get up to the Terrazze. You can line up to buy your ticket at one of the counters, or you can buy them from an automatic vending machine, which was much quicker and very easy. Five minutes after securing my ticket I was in an elevator heading upstairs. You can walk the stairs as well, which is about 3 euro cheaper.

The main photograph of this post was taken shortly after starting the itinerary over the roofs. From there you walk towards the front of the Duomo, where you cross to the other side and follow that side back to the descending elevator. Gargoyles and statues are everywhere and the whole Duomo feels like an over the top multi-layered wedding cake with sugary spires and decorations everywhere. It’s a very enjoyable experience and you can take it as fast or slow as you like, which will also depend on how many fellow tourists you are faced with.

The ticket for the Terrazze also gives access to the cathedral itself, the archaeological area, the Duomo museum and the San Gottardo church. If you consider how much restoration work is going on, 17 euro is a pretty good deal, even if it isn’t cheap. And frankly, it’s a must do when in Milan.