Built at the behest of Empress Maria Teresa of Austria and designed by Piermarini, Teatro alla Scala was inaugurated in 1778 with an opera by Antonio Salieri. The “temple of Milanese opera”, the La Scala Opera House is one of the most famous theatres in the world. Lose yourselves in the magic of the theatre while admiring its magnificent auditorium, it priceless crystal chandelier and its orchestra pit from a box. With a bit of luck, you might also have a chance to watch a rehearsal in progress. Inside you can also visit the Museo Teatrale hosting a rich collection of operatic and theatrical memorabilia as well as a gallery of portraits and busts dedicated to several of history’s most famous musicians, from Giuseppe Verdi to Arturo Toscanini.
Open daily 9am-12.30am/1.30pm-5.30pm.  Closed on 7th, 24th, 25th, 26th, 31st December (24th and 31st only afternoons) 1st January. Easter. 1st May. 15th August.
Piazza della Scala
M1-M3 Duomo, M3 Montenapoleone
Guided visits, T: +39 02 88797473www.teatroallascala.org