Experience
Italy

BUCKET LIST TRAVEL : MILAN

Opera, fashion and famous Italian artists

The world’s fashion capital, Milan, is not just popular with stylish spenders. From its historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II luxury shopping centre to its majestic serrated stone cathedral, this Lombardy destination is Italy’s second city, an ideal location for history lovers.

FIND YOUR VOICE AT THE LA SCALA

Opened in 1778, the La Scala theatre is among the world’s most famous theatres, a dream for fans of opera and musical performances. Iconic artists have had residencies, including Rossini, Verdi, Puccini and even Wagner.

More recently, Maria Callas left her mark on the location. It was within these walls that she became famous after the war. Between 1950 and 1961, Callas brought dozens of roles to life on the La Scala stage. Some of her performances have gone down in history, like La Traviata in 1955, directed by Luchino Visconti. La Scala transformed the Greek opera singer into a classical singing icon, and it was there that she earned her diva status.

The location is stunning. With a capacity of 3,000, the auditorium is simply breathtaking, with tiers of boxes spread over six floors and an interior adorned in red velvet, silk and gilded stucco. Watching a performance there is a must in Milan, and not it’s not just opera on offer. Ballets and concerts take place there too! Look at the schedule before you go to pick the event that tempts you most. Guided tours of the theatre are also available.

Must-sees in Milan

THE DUOMO

Construction of this iconic religious building in Milan began in 1386 and lasted more than five centuries. At 158 metres long and 93 metres wide, it’s the world’s third biggest cathedral. On the way from the Duomo to the La Scala, don’t miss the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a historical, neoclassical shopping centre built in the 19th century.

THE ROYAL PALACE

Once the seat of government, the Royal Palace is now one of the city’s most important museums. It hosts various temporary exhibitions of modern and contemporary art and fashion opposite the Duomo. It’s also home to a museum about the history of the location.

THE VERTICAL FOREST

Designed by Stefano Boeri, the Vertical Forest aims to make the city’s air cleaner by putting nature at the heart of residential properties. This unique landmark comprises two towers of 18 and 26 floors, featuring more than 20,000 plants and trees on the balconies.

THE PINACOTECA DI BRERA

Located in a Baroque palace, the Pinacoteca Di Brera is a crucial gallery of Italian art. It houses more than 400 pieces from the country’s artists, from the end of the Middle Ages to the 20th century. It features work from artists such as Caravaggio, Raphael, Botticelli and Titian.

SFORZA CASTLE

This 14th-century castle sits right in the middle of Milan. Originally built to defend against Venetian invasion, it is one of Italy’s most beautiful forts. Michelangelo’s last work, the Rondanini Pietà, can be seen here. Very nearby is Sempione Park, which was created in the 19th century and is perfect for a walk amongst nature.