Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Shopping arcade Milan, Lombardy, Italy

What to expect

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is Italy's oldest active shopping gallery and a major landmark of Milan. It is a four-story double arcade in the centre of town, named after Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of the Kingdom of Italy. The structure consists of two glass-vaulted arcades intersecting in an octagon covering the street connecting Piazza del Duomo to Piazza della Scala. The central octagonal space is topped with a glass dome. The Galleria is a popular place for socializing, shopping, and dining, with luxury brand shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can also spin their heel three times on the bull's testicles in mosaic on the floor of the gallery's central octagon for good luck

Plan your family visit to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II with these blog insights 👇

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This family's experience:

Activities: We wandered and marveled at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the oldest shopping arcade in the world

Highlights: We enjoyed the gelato at nearby Cioccolati Italiani ✨

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This family's experience:

Activities: We visited the Galleria and twirled on the bull's testicles for good luck

Highlights: The kids giggled at the tradition of spinning on the bull's testicles ✨

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This family's experience:

Activities: We visited the gallery and admired the decorations

Highlights: The kids loved the Christmas tree and the shops ✨

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This family's experience:

Activities: We visited the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the most beautiful galleries in Europe, and admired its stunning architecture and ornate decorations

Highlights: The kids loved the beautiful architecture and the lively atmosphere of the gallery ✨

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This family's experience:

Activities: We walked through the beautiful shopping mall and admired its high ceiling and world-famous fashion stores

Highlights: The whole family was impressed by the beautiful architecture and the luxurious atmosphere ✨