This luxury shopping mall is a destination for lovers offashion and fine food. The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II sits on the mainsquare, the Piazza del Duomo. The building is an important historic site, as itis said to be the oldest shopping mall in the world. At the same time, thearcade is a monument to contemporary style; many of the most famouscontemporary designers have flagship stores at the Galleria. Spend an afternoonshopping, drop by for a drink after a local concert or simply come to admirethe 19th-century architecture.

The two arcades feature glass ceilings that are over fourstories high and connect with an octagonal glass dome. While the design was apopular one for 19th-century arcades, the Galleria’s size made it stand apart.Walk through the arcade to admire the design and the light that floods throughit. Underneath the dome are four mosaics depicting the coats of arms of Milan,Turin, Florence and Rome. For good luck, spin on your heel on top of Turin’scoat of arms, a bull. This local tradition is so popular that a small hole hasdeveloped on the mosaic.

Stroll through the arcades to discover labels like Prada andGucci. Milan is considered the fashion capital of the world. Visit two of themost famous Italian labels in the historic context for a unique experience. Forthose on a smaller budget, a number of rising fashion designers sell theirwares in the arcade, and there are plenty of bargains to be found during end-of-seasonsales.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is open daily and many of thestores and restaurants remain open late. If you are staying at one of the manydowntown hotels you are just a short walk away from the Galleria. A metrostation is located in the Piazza del Duomo if you are coming from farther away.