Visiting the Duomo of Milan with my family was an unforgettable experience, especially when we explored its lesser-known hidden treasures. This iconic cathedral, with its stunning Gothic architecture, offered much more than what meets the eye, and delving into its hidden aspects provided us with a deeper appreciation of its history and grandeur. Arrival and Initial Impressions As we approached the Duomo, the sheer scale and intricate details of the façade were breathtaking. The exterior, adorned with countless statues and spires, set the stage for the wonders that lay within. After a brief wait in line, we entered the cathedral and were immediately enveloped by its vast, serene interior. Exploring the Hidden Treasures The Archaeological Area Our first stop was the archaeological area beneath the Duomo. This section, often overlooked by casual visitors, revealed the ancient foundations of the church and remnants of earlier structures dating back to Roman times. Walking through this underground area, we could see the layers of history that the Duomo is built upon, including remnants of the early Christian baptistery of San Giovanni alle Fonti. The Rooftop Terraces One of the highlights of our visit was accessing the rooftop terraces. We opted for the elevator, although there are stairs for the more adventurous. The panoramic views of Milan from the top were simply spectacular. Up close, the intricate details of the spires and statues, especially the iconic golden Madonnina, were even more impressive. It was fascinating to see the craftsmanship that went into each sculpture, something not fully appreciated from the ground. The Hidden Statues and Gargoyles While exploring the terraces, our guide pointed out several hidden statues and gargoyles that aren't easily visible from below. Each had its own story, adding layers of myth and legend to the cathedral's rich history. The intricate carvings and the sheer number of these hidden gems were astonishing. The Interior Highlights The Stained Glass Windows Inside the Duomo, the stained glass windows were a kaleidoscope of colors, depicting biblical scenes and saints. These windows are a testament to the artistic talent of the craftsmen and have been meticulously maintained over the centuries. The Altar and the Great Organ The main altar, with its elaborate bronze details, and the Great Organ, one of the largest in Italy, were other highlights. During our visit, we were fortunate to hear the organ being played, which added a profound auditory dimension to the visual splendor. The Treasury We also visited the Duomo's treasury, which houses a collection of precious liturgical objects. The artifacts on display, including ancient reliquaries, chalices, and vestments, offered a glimpse into the religious and cultural history of Milan. Family-Friendly Aspects Visiting the Duomo with my family was a delightful experience. The cathedral provided an engaging and educational outing for everyone. The children were particularly fascinated by the rooftop walk and the archaeological area. The availability of guided tours, including family-friendly options, helped us understand the significance of what we were seeing, making the visit both informative and enjoyable. Final Thoughts Our visit to the Duomo of Milan was enriched by exploring its hidden treasures. From the archaeological discoveries beneath the cathedral to the stunning views and hidden details on the rooftops, each aspect of the Duomo offered a unique experience. This visit was a perfect blend of history, art, and architecture, making it a memorable family outing. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or simply looking for a unique experience in Milan, the Duomo's hidden treasures are a must-see. We left the Duomo with a deep sense of awe and appreciation for this magnificent structure and its storied past. It was a truly enriching experience that we will cherish for years to come.

Our guide was super knowledgeable! If you visit Sforza Castle without a guide you will miss so much. Our guide made the castle come alive and gave great insight into the Michelangelo and Da Vinci ceiling that we would have otherwise missed.

We had a couple of hours spare so decided to visit and were very pleased we did. The Museum was intimate and much quieter than the Uffizi etc allowing us to wander at our own pace. This museum is a real gem with some absolute stand out pieces. We enjoyed out time here.

Perfect sunset time into the amazing navigli district! Our guide was funny and very informative..we ended have the best apertif in Milan (after many of them XD). Thank you!

The Duomo is an impressive and magnificent building. We bought a tour on the street. The price was affordable. It included skipping the line, a lift to the terraces, and an entrance to the Museum (building next to the Duomo). It was Monday and the museum was closed, we didn't know it was included in the package but we couldn't go in. Women need to have their shoulders covered and the length of skirts or shorts can be mid-thight. If it is to short won't let you in. There is two-point of security, they scan your body and then your bags to enter. Inside there is a lot of history and beauty in this building. It is worth visiting. We met with the tour guide and he took us to take the lift and others choose the stairs. The view and the scale of work that took to build this Duomo are impressive. The total tour could take around 3 hours approximately.

Perfect! Our guide was very informative, polite and funny! Great communication with the organization.

The guide did not show up and when we called the company the answer was “not their problem - it’s the guide’s responsibility to give the customer information about cancellations”. Don’t use this company!