Verdi Opera Festival

Milan & Parma
OCTOBER 21 - 27, 2027
Overview

Experience the magic of Italian opera on an extraordinary seven-day journey through Milan, Parma, and the heart of Giuseppe Verdi’s homeland. From the intimate historic theater of Busseto to the magnificent Teatro Regio in Parma and the world-renowned Teatro alla Scala in Milan, this special tour brings together three unforgettable operatic performances in some of Italy’s most celebrated musical venues.

Our journey begins in Milan before taking us to Busseto, the birthplace of Verdi’s musical legacy. Here, we’ll visit the charming Teatro Giuseppe Verdi, a jewel of 19th-century Italian theater, before discovering Parma, a city where music, art, and gastronomy are woven into everyday life. With its elegant streets, rich artistic heritage, and distinguished opera house, Parma offers the perfect setting for two memorable evenings of opera: Verdi’s Stiffelio at the Teatro Giuseppe Verdi in Busseto and Verdi’s beloved La Traviata at the Teatro Regio in Parma.

The experience culminates in Milan, where we’ll enjoy an evening at the legendary Teatro alla Scala, one of the world’s most prestigious opera houses, for Rossini’s delightful comic masterpiece, Il Barbiere di Siviglia. We’ll also have the opportunity to explore the history of La Scala on a guided theater tour, discovering the traditions and artistry behind this iconic institution.

Throughout the journey, opera talks with Michael Bolton will enrich our experience, offering deeper insights into the music, composers, and productions we’ll encounter. Guided city walks, a private excursion into the Parma countryside, memorable regional cuisine, and convivial group dinners will complete this immersive cultural adventure.

From the musical heritage of Verdi’s homeland to the grandeur of La Scala, this journey celebrates the very best of Italian opera, culture, and la dolce vita.

Join Discover my Italy for an exceptional operatic adventure where great music, beautiful destinations, and authentic Italian experiences come together in one unforgettable journey.

Michael Bolton Biography

Michael J. Bolton is a nationally respected arts administrator, lecturer, and broadcaster who has devoted his career to connecting audiences with music. Currently Director of Advancement at Philadelphia’s Academy of Vocal Arts, he previously held leadership positions at Opera Philadelphia, Singing City, and the International Friends of Festival Verdi. A sought-after speaker, he has presented lectures to more than 65,000 people through many of the nation’s leading musical institutions and spent six years as a classical music host on WRTI. He is also the founder of the High Note Society, bringing opera lovers together through performances, education, and travel, and regularly hosts opera-focused journeys throughout Italy for Discover my Italy.

Highlights
  • Enjoy three celebrated operas: Stiffelio at Teatro Giuseppe Verdi in Busseto, La Traviata at Teatro Regio in Parma, and Rossini’s Il Barbiere di Siviglia at La Scala in Milan.
  • Discover Giuseppe Verdi’s musical heritage with a visit to the historic Teatro Giuseppe Verdi in Busseto, in the heart of the region that shaped his legacy.
  • Enrich your opera experience with exclusive opera talks led by Michael Bolton, offering insights into the composers, music, and productions.
  • Savor authentic regional cuisine, including a group lunch at the historic Salsamenteria Baratta in Busseto, known for its traditional atmosphere and local specialties, and memorable group dinners.
  • Go behind the scenes at La Scala with a guided theater tour exploring the history and traditions of one of the world’s most renowned opera houses.
  • Experience Italy through music, culture, and la dolce vita, combining exceptional performances, beautiful destinations, and the personal touch of Discover my Italy.

Milan & Parma Opera Tour

Itinerary and pricing

DEPARTURE FROM THE UNITED STATES
Wednesday, October 20

DAY 1: Thursday, October 21, 2027
‍Welcome to Italy!

Morning: 

  • Arrive in Milan.
  • Check in for 1 night at our centrally located Milan hotel.

 

Afternoon:

  • At leisure. Explore Milan on your own.

 

Evening: 

  • Welcome Dinner.
DAY 2: Friday, October 22, 2027
Parma, Busseto

Morning:

  • After breakfast depart for Parma with en route stop in Busseto.
  • Guided tour of Busseto’s historic opera house, Teatro Verdi. The theater is named after the renowned Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi, boasting a delightful and intimate ambiance reminiscent of many 19th century Italian theaters. Over the years, the theater has been the stage for countless opera performances, concerts, and theatrical productions enriching the cultural tapestry of Busseto and drawing visitors from near and far.

 

Afternoon:

  • After group lunch at the famous Salsamenteria Baratta in Busseto, depart for Parma.
  • Check in for 3 nights at our centrally located 4-star hotel in Parma.

 

Evening:

  • Group Dinner in Parma at a local restaurant.
DAY 3: Saturday, October 23, 2027
Parma

Morning:

  • Guided Tour of Parma with local guide. Parma’s rich cultural heritage extends to its flourishing art and music scene. The city is a haven for art enthusiasts, boasting masterpieces by the likes of Correggio and Parmigianino, showcased in its numerous museums and galleries. The Teatro Regio, a renowned opera house, stands as a testament to Parma’s deep musical roots, hosting world-class performances and contributing to the city’s reputation as a vibrant hub for classical music. From classical art to contemporary exhibitions and orchestral performances, Parma offers a diverse and immersive cultural experience for both art and music lovers.

 

Afternoon:

  • Free time for lunch in central Parma.
  • Opera Talk with Michael Bolton.

 

Late afternoon:

  • Depart for Busseto.
  • Early dinner in Busseto before the opera.
  • Busseto, Teatro Giuseppe Verdi – Opera Stiffelio
  • Return to Parma after the opera.
DAY 4: Sunday, October 24, 2027
Parma

Morning:

  • Private excursion with local guide to explore Parma’s countryside.

 

Afternoon:

  • Group Lunch.
  • Opera Talk with Michael Bolton.

 

Evening:

  • Light dinner before the Opera.
  • Parma, Teatro Regio – Opera La Traviata
DAY 5: Monday, October 25, 2027
Parma, Milan

Morning:

  • After breakfast, check out from the hotel and depart from Parma to Milan.
  • Check in for 2 nights at our centrally located 5-star hotel in Milan. 

 

Afternoon:

  • At leisure. Explore Milan on your own.
  • Opera Talk with Michael Bolton.

 

Evening:

  • Group Aperitivo before the opera.
  • Milan, La Scala – Opera Il Barbiere di Siviglia.
DAY 6: Tuesday, October 26, 2027
Milan

Morning:

  • Guided tour of Teatro alla Scala, discovering its fascinating history, artistic heritage, and the behind-the-scenes world of one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world. Step into the heart of Milan’s cultural legacy as you explore the theatre’s elegant interiors, admire its magnificent auditorium with its iconic red velvet seats and golden decorations, and learn about the legendary composers, renowned conductors, and world-famous performers who have graced its stage. Uncover the stories, traditions, and artistic excellence that have shaped La Scala into an international symbol of opera and classical music. An exclusive journey into the world of music, theatre, and timeless elegance, offering a unique glimpse into the magic that takes place both on and off the stage.

 

Afternoon:

  • At leisure in Milan.

 

Evening:

  • Farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
DAY 7: Wednesday, October 27, 2027
End of Tour
  • Private transfers from your hotel to the Milan Malpensa airport.

 


Itinerary specifics subject to change.

Tour Price Includes:
  • Hotel accommodations for 1 night in centrally located 4-star hotel in Milan
  • Hotel accommodations for 3 nights at our 4-star hotel in Parma
  • Hotel accommodations for 2 nights in centrally located 4-star hotel in Milan
Opera Tickets, Special Activities and more
  • Stiffelio, Teatro Giuseppe Verdi, Busseto – 1st Category Tickets
  • La Traviata, Teatro Regio, Parma – 1st Category Tickets
  • Il Barbiere di Siviglia, La Scala, Milan – 1st Category Tickets
  • Support and services of your host, Giovanna Chiti, founder of Discover my Italy, for the entire duration of the trip
  • Three exclusive lectures and opera content provided by noted lecturer and WRTI-FM radio personality Mike Bolton as he looks inside each opera to give you the richest experience
  • Private walking tours with local guides including: Busseto, Parma and Milan.  
  • Transportation
  • Airport transfers
  • All museum and entrance tickets
  • All local taxes
  • Hotel baggage handling
Meals as Follows
  • Breakfast daily
  • Welcome dinner in Milan
  • 1 lunch in Busseto
  • 2 Dinners in Parma
  • 1 lunch in Parma’s countryside
  • 2 Dinners in Milan
  • Flights
  • Taxis
  • Meals and drinks unless listed
  • Personal expenses such as telephone, laundry, etc
  • Gratuities for guides and drivers
  • Travel Insurance (strongly recommended)

Tour Cost based on double occupancy
Payable with credit card (Mastercard or Visa)

7 Days/ 6 Nights Tour

Price per person: 
$ TBD

Single Supplement:
+$ TBD

This tour requires a minimum of 10 participants to proceed, ensuring the best group experience for all travelers.

All aspects of the tour will be coordinated by Giovanna Chiti of Discover my Italy.

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