A couple sitting close together in Piazza del Duomo at sunrise, with Milan Cathedral rising behind them

The Best Locations For Photos In Milan, Italy

Key takeaways

  • The Duomo and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, right next to each other, are the best places for photos in Milan.
  • The Duomo rooftop terraces give a view among the spires; they need a ticket.
  • Early morning is the time to photograph the Duomo without crowds.

Instagrammable Spots In Milan

Milan is a mix of historical charm and modern flair which is what I’ve tried to capture at the best locations for photos in Milan. You’ve got stunning architecture like the Duomo and a buzzing fashion scene that just makes it an all-around exciting place to explore. I spent a few days in Milan, flying both in and out of the airport there. Even in a hot, balmy summer where we experienced the hottest day on record, we still found a reason to get to these sights. I do think most of these sights are best visited early in the morning, when the light is soft and the lines are short.

WHAT YOU WILL FIND HERE

Here is a list of places that I visited and took photos in Milan. I’ve only included the places that I did enjoy and think are worth going to (not just to take a photo, but to experience Milan!). If you’re interested in more of Milan, I have a very aesthetic photo diary of my trip. I also have some great tips for taking photos to help you prepare for your trip!

Few images feel as romantic as a couple strolling hand in hand toward the great marble facade of the Duomo, the square quiet and glowing just for them. I photograph couples across Milan and on Lake Como, and travel throughout Italy for private sessions. Looking to hire a couple photographer in Milan? This is the dreamy, cinematic mood I love to create.
Outside the Milano duomo in the morning.

Photo Location #1: Duomo Di Milano

WHY THIS SPOT IS AMAZING FOR PHOTOS

This spot screams Milan, and you probably have the Duomo on your list of places to visit while you’re here in Milan anyway. Because this location is very busy, the easiest way to get a photo with no people in the background is to point the camera upwards from the torso. Make sure you don’t crop out the top of the beautiful Duomo in the photo!

WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR

There are two places to take photos at the Duomo, Milan. The first is in front of the Duomo. Be warned, there are a lot of people here who are feeding the pigeons in order to get them to stay. They’ll take your photo for you and I assume you will have to pay/they’ll get their money somehow. This picture is done a thousand times imho and I recommend going to the top of the Duomo. 

WHERE TO FIND THE PERFECT VIEW FOR A PHOTO OF DUOMO DI MILANO

Photo Location #2: Duomo Di Milano Rooftop Terrace

WHY THIS SPOT IS AMAZING FOR PHOTOS

The views are spectacular here and in the morning the light is perfect, and it is not too busy as they limit the amount of people so it is quite easy to get a photo without people in the background.

WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR

Find yourself on a balcony by the arches to take photos. Morning and evening light is the best and will spare you from the heat of summer

WHERE TO FIND THE PERFECT VIEW FOR A PHOTO OF DUOMO DI MILANO ROOFTOP TERRACE

Photo Location #3: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

WHY THIS SPOT IS AMAZING FOR PHOTOS

This spot screams Milan, and you probably have the Duomo on your list of places to visit while you’re here in Milan anyway. Because this location is very busy, the easiest way to get a photo with no people in the background is to point the camera upwards from the torso. Make sure you don’t crop out the top of the beautiful Duomo in the photo!

WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR

There are two places to take photos at the Duomo, Milan. The first is in front of the Duomo. Be warned, there are a lot of people here who are feeding the pigeons in order to get them to stay. They’ll take your photo for you and I assume you will have to pay/they’ll get their money somehow. This picture is done a thousand times imho and I recommend going to the top of the Duomo. 

A couple holding hands and crossing a Milan street on a crosswalk, smiling at each other with a bell tower behind them
Even in the morning this mall is busy.

Verdict: The Best Locations For Photos In Milan Are The Most Popular

Overall I wouldn’t say Milan is a photographer’s paradise, but there are some really beautiful places to see and capture. The grand architecture is a great backdrop to any photograph and if you’re looking for instagrammable spots in Milan I would focus on those. I hope you enjoy photographing them as much as I did!

Frequently asked questions

What is the best place for photos in Milan?

The Duomo and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, right next to each other. The cathedral facade and the glass dome of the Galleria work for every kind of photo, from portraits to couple shots.

When is the best time to photograph the Duomo?

Early morning, when the light is soft and the square is at its quietest. By late morning the Piazza del Duomo is full of visitors.

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