Italy's oldest shopping arcade (1867), named after the first king of unified Italy. Cross-shaped gallery under glass dome connects Piazza del Duomo and La Scala. Home to first Prada boutique (1913), historic Biffi and Camparino cafes. Architectural prototype for arcades worldwide. You can walk on the rooftop (Highline Galleria).
Free entry to gallery — public shopping arcade open 24/7. Highline Galleria (rooftop walk): €12 (€9.60 reduced), free under 14. Shops typically 10:00-20:00.
Metro M1 (red) or M3 (yellow) to Duomo station. Gallery entrance directly from Piazza del Duomo, opposite the cathedral.
Gallery open 24/7. Shops typically 10:00-20:00. Highline Galleria (rooftop) 10:00-20:00 daily.
faq.subtitle Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
In the gallery center, there's a mosaic of Turin's coat of arms with a bull. Tradition says to stand on its genitals and spin 3 times on your heel for good luck. The mosaic is worn through by thousands of tourists!
Yes! Highline Galleria offers unique views of the glass dome from above, the Duomo, and Milan's rooftops. Especially beautiful at sunset. €12 ticket, but worth the experience.
Useful tips for visiting Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Gallery is the perfect point between Duomo and La Scala. Walk through in 5 minutes or stay for coffee at historic Camparino (since 1915).
Prices in gallery shops and cafes are premium. Espresso €5-8, in regular bar €1-2. But atmosphere is unique — it's an open-air museum.
Best photos in evening when lights come on, or early morning without crowds. Very crowded on weekend afternoons.
Building has no doors, open 24/7. You can walk through even at night — beautiful lighting and almost no people.
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