Visit La Scala Opera House and Museum in Milan
A guided tour into musical history
Step inside one of the world’s most iconic opera houses. La Scala in Milan offers a unique guided tour through its historic theatre and museum. Discover legendary performances, original costumes, and the timeless charm of this cultural landmark.
A must-visit for music and history lovers!
Discover all
our English-language toursWhat will you see inside the Theatre?
From the theatre’s third-level boxes, you’ll have a unique view of the stage and the beautifully decorated balconies, offering a true sense of La Scala’s historic charm and atmosphere.
Is it worth to visit La Scala?
Absolutely! The guided tour takes you inside Milan’s iconic opera house and museum: you’ll see original costumes, historic instruments, and hear stories about legendary performances.
A must-see cultural experience for everyone!
How do I book a La Scala Milan tour?
Booking is simple – just use the interactive calendar below to choose your preferred date and time. Secure your spot in advance!
🗓 Free cancellation
Full refund for cancellation up to 72 hours before the tour begins.
Know before you go
Museum admission allows you to view the theater from the third-level boxes, except when rehearsals or events open to the public are in progress.
✕ What is not allowed
Pets
Smoking
Luggage or large bags
FAQ
A guided tour of Teatro alla Scala usually lasts about 1 hour.
Yes, you can visit La Scala without a tour. However, we strongly recommend experiencing the theatre with one of our guided tours. La Scala is not just a beautiful building; it’s a place filled with fascinating history and incredible details that are best appreciated with the help of our expert guides.
La Scala is located in the heart of Milan, right in Piazza della Scala, the square that shares its name with the theatre. You can easily reach the Opera house by taking the M1 (Red Line) of the metro and getting off at the Duomo station, which is only a few minutes’ walk away from the theatre!
La Scala is one of the most iconic opera houses in the world, and its fame comes from its rich history and unrivaled reputation in the world of opera and classical music. Opened in 1778, it has been the stage for some of the greatest operatic performances ever, featuring world-renowned composers like Verdi and Puccini. Its extraordinary acoustics make it a must-visit for music lovers, and it's known for hosting some of the most prestigious opera performances, ballet shows, and concerts. Besides its incredible performances, La Scala's stunning architecture and location in the heart of Milan add to its allure, making it a true symbol of Italian culture.
The name comes from the church of Santa Maria alla Scala, which once stood in the same location where the opera house was built in the late 18th century.
La Scala was opened on August 3, 1778, which makes it over 240 years old! Since its opening, it has become one of the most prestigious and historic opera houses in the world. Over the centuries, La Scala has hosted countless legendary performances, making it a true icon in the world of music and theatre.
La Scala has hosted some of the greatest names in opera and classical music. Over the years, it’s been the stage for legendary performers like Maria Callas, Luciano Pavarotti, Renée Fleming, and Plácido Domingo. Composers like Giuseppe Verdi and Giacomo Puccini had their works first performed here, and many of their operas have become staples of La Scala's repertoire. Ballet dancers such as Rudolf Nureyev and Mikhail Baryshnikov have also graced the stage, making it a true hub for world-class talent in both opera and ballet.
La Scala can hold around 2,000 people. The theatre’s impressive seating includes a combination of grand tiers, private boxes, and a large orchestra pit, all designed to create an intimate yet magnificent atmosphere for performances.
La Scala Opera House: Milan’s musical masterpiece
Located in the heart of Milan, the La Scala Opera House is a symbol of elegance, culture, and centuries of artistic excellence. Opened in 1778, this legendary venue has hosted some of the greatest names in opera and ballet. From iconic premieres to unforgettable performances, it remains a cornerstone of Italy’s musical legacy. A visit here is more than sightseeing — it's a deep dive into the spirit of Milan.
Discovering the La Scala Museum
No visit is complete without exploring the La Scala Museum, a fascinating space where history and music come together. Visitors can admire historical costumes, original scores, instruments, and portraits of renowned composers and performers. The museum offers a compelling journey through the history of Teatro alla Scala, showcasing its transformation from the 18th century to the present day. It also pays tribute to legends like Maria Callas, whose connection to the theatre remains unforgettable.
The legacy of great performances
La Scala performances have left an indelible mark on the world of opera and classical music. The stage has seen the premieres of works by Verdi and Puccini, as well as the unforgettable interpretations of stars like Pavarotti. Today, the tradition continues with internationally acclaimed artists such as Juan Diego Flórez, Anna Netrebko, and Asmik Grigorian, who bring new energy to timeless masterpieces. Whether you attend a full opera or one of the many La Scala concerts, the experience is always exceptional.
Ballet at La Scala
Dance is equally at home here. The ballet at La Scala is renowned for its refinement and precision, continuing a tradition shaped by figures like Rudolf Nureyev and Carla Fracci. With a diverse repertoire that spans classical and contemporary works, the Alla Scala ballet company attracts global audiences and top choreographers. Its productions blend beauty, storytelling, and technical mastery in a setting like no other.
A vibrant programme of events
Each season, the theatre hosts a rich calendar of La Scala events. From operas and symphonic concerts to solo recitals and innovative productions, the Teatro alla Scala events programme reflects the theatre’s dedication to artistic excellence. Highlights include appearances by the La Scala Philharmonic Orchestra, special tributes to iconic composers, and festive gala evenings.
Why book a La Scala tour?
Joining a La Scala tour is the best way to explore the theatre’s hidden corners and understand its legacy. With expert guides, you'll discover anecdotes from behind the curtain — from Verdi’s premieres to Callas at La Scala, and the memorable direction of maestros like Toscanini. The tour includes access to the auditorium (when not in rehearsal) and entrance to the La Scala Museum, making it perfect for both first-time visitors and seasoned music lovers.
Did you enjoy your visit to La Scala Opera House?
If so, you might also enjoy exploring other guided tours offered by Milanoguida, designed to help you discover the very best of Milan.
Join our Milan Cathedral and Rooftops Tour to admire the city from above and learn about the history of this iconic landmark.
Looking for a truly unique experience? Try the exclusive tour of the Last Supper and the best of Milan – a journey through art, architecture and culture.
Want to immerse yourself in the authentic Italian atmosphere? Discover our guided tour with aperitivo in Brera , one of the city’s most vibrant and charming neighbourhoods.