Are you going on vacation in Milan, Italy? Here is everything you need to know to visit the Milan Scala!
Located in northern Italy, Milan is a very famous city for fashion but also for the many architectural treasures it contains. An extremely cosmopolitan city, Milan has been able to keep its flavor of ancient times. Its city centre with paved streets, its high fashion shops, its unique atmosphere in northern Italy, Milan is a must-see city when visiting Italy.
Among the emblematic monuments, you can't go on holiday without visiting the Milan Scala! He Teatro alla Scala is one of the most famous theatres and operas in the world. It is definitely a mandatory passage in your Milan program and is part of the treasures of the city and the whole country.
Discover here all the practical information you will need to visit the Milan Scala and its museum.
History of the Milan Scala
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Scala is truly one of the most prestigious lyrical theatres in the world. His story is just as interesting, since it was after many fires that had previously ravaged the Ducal theatre, that the Scala was built.
He was erected instead of a church of the time, Santa Maria Della Scala , from which he holds his name. His main hall, the perfect example of Italian theatre decoration, was inaugurated 3 August 1778 . Visiting the Milan Scala is therefore a real journey in time, through the prestigious names of the time.
Indeed, he saw the greatest artists such as the opera of Rossini (1827) or Norma by Vincenzo Bellini in 1831.
But it was the talented Giuseppe Verdi who gave him all his fame. In addition to the musicians, very famous singers are also mounted on the boards: Renata Tebaldi and the great Maria Callas . The theatre also has a wonderful orchestra that you might have the chance to listen if you go to visit the Scala.
Bombarded in 1943 The Scala theatre was only able to reopen its doors after its renovation in 1946. Another theatre renovation took place in 2001. He was reopened 2006 and inaugurated with the wonderful opera Salieri .
What to see and do at the Scala in Milan
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To visit the Milan Scala, nothing like attending a opera ! To do this, you will have to book your ticket long in advance. However, if you are not a lyrical art fan, you can simply take part in a guided tour.
These visits are carried out in a very regular manner and last between 1h and 1h30 . You will discover the emblematic Italian opera, its rooms and, of course, its immense auditorium with a capacity of more than 3000 seats . The decors are truly breathtaking!
It is also possible to attending certain rehearsals . A really nice activity to immerse you — totally immersed — in the atmosphere of the theatre.
If you come to visit the Milan Scala, you must also visit Scala Museum ! It contains many treasures dating from the time and will also give you access to the lodges, which will make you discover the majestic auditorium from another angle.
Based on the lyrical art and the history of the Scala through the epochs, you will find in this museum a library of impressive literary works, but also many sculptures that perfectly illustrate this fabulous past.
There are also screenings of films where theatrical art, in general, is represented. So you will find the story of the Commedia dell’Arte , as well as period costumes.
How to visit the Milan Scala?
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To visit the Milan Scala, you can choose to do it according to your own wishes or benefit from the help of a professional guide.
If you choose this last option — special guided tours — you have the option to choose between 3 visits which will be offered to you:
The guided tour of the theatre
Discover the home of the entrance, the Royal Lodge, the historic lodges and you will even have the opportunity to enter the scenes, to discover the mechanism of the scene.
- Duration45 minutes
- Price: 25€ per person
- Number of participantsmaximum 20 persons
Exclusive guided tour
In this formula, experience the exclusive visit. Alone, with family or with your group of friends, come and visit the Milan Scala, its lodges, its mechanisms and other reserved parts.
- Duration90 minutes
- Price: 500€ (from 1 to 5 participants), 1000€ (from 5 to 10 participants)
Guided visit to Scala Ansaldo laboratories
Discover the backdrop of the Scala de Milan! Behind the scenes work, painting and decors.
- Duration60 minutes
- Price: 25€ per adult and 15€ for under 18 years
- Number of participantsmaximum 20 persons
Want to know more about guided tours? Do not hesitate to visit the official website Milan Scala.
Note : These three exceptional visits are only upon reservation. It is also possible to request a fully customizable visit, where you will choose your course yourself.
How to get to the Milan Scala?
Located in the heart of downtown Milan — in Piazza della Scala — Scala is easily accessible by public transport. Because the city centre is highly regulated for motorists, it is a means of transport to be preferred when you are on vacation in Milan.
- By tram
Take them line 1 or 2 and go down to the stop Manzoni Scala
- By metro
Take them lines 1 or 3 , then go down to the stop Duomo .
Starting from the Duomo, continue on foot and cross the gallery Vittorio Emanuele II (which is simply beautiful). As soon as you get out, you'll find yourself in Place de la Scala.
Schedules and prices of the Milan Scala
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The Milan Scala is open every day 9h to 5h30 . The last entries are made 5 p.m. .
Apart from the guided tours mentioned above, here are the rates for visiting the Scala in Milan and its museum:
La Scala de Milan
To visit the Scala of Milan you must count 29€ per person.
The Scala Museum of Milan
If you want to visit the Scala Museum, you will need to count:
- Adults: 7€
- Students and over 65: 5€
- Free for under 12 years
Note : there is also the Pass Milan from 69€ . It includes 8 tourist attractions (including Scala), Bus Hop-On /Hop-Off. It also offers discounts on other visits and activities. The Pass is valid 48 hours .
Good to know.
As with all famous monuments visits, some tips are good to know before you venture! Here are some little tricks:
- If you want to make a special guided tour, think about book in advance.
– Do not hesitate to learn about potential conferences or other rehearsals. Indeed, some events do not accept access to visitors. You may be disappointed that you do not have access to a room that is, normally, allowed.
- In case you decide to visit the museum, which is still highly recommended, know that one special application and free can be downloaded on your smartphone. It will allow you to access a guided tour!
You now have several information that will be useful to visit the Milan Scala. This sumptuous place is really worth the detour. Just like the majestic Dôme de Milan , located approximately 5 minutes On foot.
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