4 Best Performing Arts Venues in Milan, Italy

You need know nothing of opera to sense that La Scala is closer to a cathedral than a concert hall. Hearing opera sung in this magical setting is an unparalleled experience: it is, after all, where Verdi established his reputation and where Maria Callas sang her way into opera lore. It stands as a symbol—both for the performer who dreams of singing here and for the opera buff—and its notoriously demanding audiences are apt to jeer performers who do not measure up. At the Museo Teatrale alla Scala you can admire an extensive collection of librettos, paintings of the famous names of Italian opera, posters, costumes, antique instruments, and design sketches for the theater.

This modern hall, known for its excellent acoustics, is home to the Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano (Symphonic Orchestra) and Coro Sinfonico di Milano Giuseppe Verdi (Symphonic Choir). The season, which runs from September to June, includes many top international performers and rotating guest conductors.

The two halls belonging to the Conservatorio host some of the leading names in classical music. Series are organized by several organizations, including the venerable chamber music society the Società del Quartetto.

Frequent classical, rock, and jazz concerts by international artists are staged here from October to May.