Official Information
Official website: https://www.museoscala.org/
Official tickets: https://www.museoscala.org/en/visit/museum-and-theater/tickets-and-opening-times.html
Address: Largo Antonio Ghiringhelli 1, 20121 Milano (MI), Italy
View on Google Maps: Museo Teatrale alla Scala on Google Maps
Opening Hours
The La Scala Theatre Museum is generally open daily from Monday to Sunday, 09:30 to 17:30 (last admission at 17:00). The museum is closed on select holidays including 7 December, 25 December, 26 December, 1 January, Easter, 1 May and 15 August. Access to the theatre boxes from the museum is possible when no rehearsals or performances are in progress. Always check the official website for up-to-date opening times and special closures.
The Museo Teatrale alla Scala offers visitors the chance to experience the rich atmosphere and heritage of Milan’s legendary opera house without needing to attend a performance. Entering from Largo Ghiringhelli, guests move through historic rooms overlooking Piazza della Scala, where exhibits trace the story of La Scala from its inauguration in 1778 to present day. The collection includes original scores, set designs, letters, costumes, musical instruments, and portraits of celebrated figures like Verdi and Toscanini. Fine art and documents illustrate the evolution of the auditorium and stage effects, while temporary exhibitions highlight notable anniversaries and artists. A highlight of the visit is stepping into one of the third-tier theatre boxes to view the iconic horseshoe-shaped auditorium, crystal chandelier, and rich red velvet seats, available whenever rehearsals or performances are not underway. Bilingual information panels provide background on key works and personalities, and audio guides offer additional detail about the world of opera in Milan. Tours of the theatre areas, such as the royal box, foyer, and backstage, are offered at specific times and in multiple languages and should be booked in advance as access depends on the theatre’s schedule. The museum is compact but detailed, making it easy to visit in about an hour, and pairs well with nearby sights like Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Piazza Duomo, and the Brera district. The La Scala Theatre Museum offers valuable context for those attending a performance and a deep dive into the history of Italian opera and stage architecture.