A multi-layered diffraction optical element, comprises a transparent substrate, a first layer having a diffraction grating shape at least on one face and comprised of a relatively high refractive index and low dispersion material, and a second layer having a diffraction grating shape at least on one face and comprised of a relatively low refractive index and high dispersion material, wherein the first and second layers are laminated on the transparent substrate so that the respective diffraction grating shapes are mutually opposed to each other with no space therebetween, and, the first layer is comprised of a first organic resin including a first inorganic fine particle, and the second layer is comprised of a second organic resin including a second inorganic fine particle different from the first inorganic fine particle.