La Scala is one of the most prestigious theaters in the world and certainly the most prestigious temple of opera. It was built in 1778 based on a design by Piermarini by decree of Maria Teresa of Austria, following the fire that destroyed the Regio Ducale theatre. The construction costs were supported by wealthy Milanese families, in exchange for the right of ownership of the boxes. It was built in place of the Church of Santa Maria alla Scala from which it took its name. In those days the theater was used as a meeting place: people danced, played roulette, ate, and managed social life. During the Second World War it was heavily bombed. The renovation required three years of work until the inauguration in 1946 with a concert broadcast on the radio by Toscanini. By visiting the Scala Museum it is possible to access the boxes and see the theatre.

My wife and I have visited Milan twice and have not seen a performance in La Scala yet. The first time, we went to the box office the evening we arrived after an overnight flight to Milan. We dressed up in preparation to attend, but upon arriving at the box office and finding out the price for the tickets, my wife said she would rather buy several pairs of shoes for that price. Anyway, jet lag would have probably hit us shortly after the performance began, so we decided not to attend. On our most recent trip to Milan this past August on a wedding anniversary trip, I tried to get tickets in advance. Unfortunately, the theater did not have anything scheduled in August because they were closed for holiday. Hopefully, on a future trip we will be able to book a performance.

What a stunning theatre! The first look inside is breathtaking with its red burgundy tones, its 6 layers of balconies, its high white ceiling and massive chandelier. We were lucky to be able to watch a Mozart pice played by the royal orchestra and lead by the famous South Korean director Myung-Whun Chung. Enchanting.

The place is amazing and different from other attractions in Milan. We were there during a rehearsal; you can sit down and listen in; see the ambience. Then there was the museum part, really interactive and well designed. We went around without a tour guide and it was great. Highly recommended and must see place

Your experience here will vary depending on what you wanted to get out of it, and, to a very large extent, how much you are prepared to pay. If you are an opera buff, and want to hear some of the world's greatest singers, you can do so at a very low cost- You won't see much (if at all), but you will get what you came for. Similarly, if you are a tourist who wants bragging rights, but is not prepared to pay for a view in this stunning setting, you are going to be bored and will complain about the lack of view and having to sit on a stool. If, however, you can afford the stalls, or a centre (ish) box, and have any interest in opera, you will have a stunning time. This is pure bucket list material, well worth saving for. Many of my friends would pay heavily to see Barca at the Camp Nou. I wouldn't. I paid €300 for a seat to see Cav/Pag. At the Euros 2024, official prices ran from €30 to €2,000. You choose what is on your list, and go for it. I made my choice, and will remember it forever.

Absolutely beautiful. A must do in Milan. But make sure if you’re in a box (highly recommend) that you are in the front two seats especially if you’re in a box on the side of the theater. You won’t see anything if you’re not.

My visit to Teatro Alla Scala in Milan was nothing short of magical. As I walked into the historic opera house, the sheer grandeur of the interiors took my breath away. The rich red and gold decor, coupled with the intricate chandeliers, set a regal tone for the evening. I attended a performance of Verdi’s "La Traviata," and the acoustics were flawless, enhancing every note and nuance. The talent of the performers, combined with the historic ambience, made for an unforgettable experience. The staff were courteous and the entire evening was a seamless blend of culture and elegance. Teatro Alla Scala is truly a must-visit for anyone passionate about the performing arts.