Backstage Italy

Italy

Traveled June 2025 Plan a trip like this

Backstage Italy was an exclusive cultural journey with The Indianapolis Opera, curated for opera enthusiasts. From June 9 to June 18, 2025, the group explored the enchanting cities of Milan, Verona, Venice, and Florence, with world-class musical performances, luxurious accommodations, and unparalleled experiences.

Travelers immersed themselves in the rich heritage of Italian opera, with highlights including VIP seats at La Scala in Milan, a private tour of the Museo del Violino in Cremona, and an exclusive backstage tour of La Fenice Opera House in Venice. They enjoyed gourmet dining, private concerts, and the elegance of premier hotels such as the Star Hotel Rosa in Milan and the Hotel Accademia in Verona.

It was an extraordinary adventure for discerning travelers seeking an exquisite blend of culture, music, and luxury.

What's Included

  • Exquisite, Well-Located Hotels
    • Milan: Starhotels Ritz
    • Verona: Hotel Leon d’Oro
    • Florence: Hotel Roma
  • Experienced Travel Concierge
  • Motorcoach transportation
  • VIP Experience at La Scala Theatre
  • Private Recital at Museo del Violino
  • Private Tour of La Fenice Opera House
  • Opera Performance at the Verona Arena
  • Private Performance of Opera Arias at the Conservatorio di Musica Luigi Cherubini
  • Casa Puccini in Torre del Lago
  • Visit Puccini’s Birthplace in Lucca
  • Guided walking tour of Milan’s Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
  • Excursion to Lago Maggiore
  • Tours of Cremona and Verona
  • Piazza San Marco & Basilica di San Marco
  • Gondola ride through Venice’s canals
  • Sightseeing in Florence, including the Accademia Gallery and Uffizi Museum
  • Welcome dinner in Milan with authentic Italian cuisine
  • Gourmet late dinner after the La Scala performance
  • Dinners in Milan, Verona, and Florence
  • Lunch in Lucca
  • Farewell dinner in Florence
Arena di Verona Vr
Spotlight

Plan and Prepare

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Itinerary

10 Days

Day 1 OVERNIGHT FLIGHT

Depart from Indianapolis on your overnight flight to Milan. Travel with Alfred and Kitty Savia on this once-in-a-lifetime, special access tour of the wonders of Italy and the artform of opera.

Airplane Sunny Sky Backlight Blue

Day 2 MILAN

Arrive in Milan, where your Encore Tour Manager will greet you at the airport. Settle into your hotel and enjoy the afternoon at your own pace with time to relax, explore the area, or take a walk to the Duomo. This evening, come together for a welcome dinner at a local trattoria. (D)

Milan Cathedral Night

Day 3 MILAN

After breakfast, depart for a scenic day trip to Lago Maggiore. Board a boat to visit the beautiful Borromean Islands of Isola Bella and Isola Madre. After time for lunch and sightseeing, return to Milan for a relaxing afternoon and evening dinner with the group. (B,D)

Lago Maggiore

Day 4 MILAN

This morning, visit the La Scala Theatre Ansaldo Workshops for a private tour of the backstage areas where sets and costumes are created. Enjoy free time in the afternoon before preparing for a truly special evening. Your VIP experience at La Scala includes a guided tour, a celebratory champagne toast, and a performance of the ballet Paquita. After the show, enjoy a late dinner together. (B,D)

Teatro alla Scala

Day 5 VERONA

Leave Milan and head to Cremona, the home of the legendary Stradivarius. Visit the Violin Museum, hear a private recital on an original Stradivarius instrument, and explore a local luthier workshop. In the afternoon, continue to Verona and enjoy a short pre-dinner walk through the historic city before dinner together at a local restaurant. (B,D)

Ensemble da Camera Violinissimo,Museo del Violino

Day 6 VERONA

Travel to Venice for a full day of culture and exploration. Enjoy a guided tour of the renowned La Fenice Opera House and take time on your own in Piazza San Marco. Return to Verona in the evening for dinner and attend a spectacular performance of Verdi’s Nabucco at the open-air Verona Arena. (B,D)

Venice

Day 7 FLORENCE

Depart for Florence and arrive in the heart of Tuscany. A local guide will lead you on a walking tour through the Renaissance city, including entrance to the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s David. After some free time to explore, enjoy dinner together at a nearby restaurant. (B,D)

Michaelangelo David

Day 8 FLORENCE

After breakfast, head to Torre del Lago for a guided visit to Casa Puccini. Continue to Lucca, where you’ll enjoy a delicious group lunch followed by time to explore the charming walled city at your leisure. Return to Florence for a relaxed evening on your own. (B,L)

Bronze statue of a seated composer in an Italian piazza

Day 9 FLORENCE

Start the day with a timed entrance to the Uffizi Gallery, home to works by Botticelli, Caravaggio, and other Italian masters. In the afternoon, enjoy a private visit to the Conservatorio di Musica Luigi Cherubini (pending confirmation) or take free time to soak in the city. Tonight, gather for a special farewell dinner with your fellow travelers. (B,D)

Cherubini

Day 10 DEPARTURE/EXTENSION

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the United States, or continue on to Rome for an optional three-night extension to explore the Eternal City at your own pace. (B)

Plane

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Cremona Violin

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Protection Plans

We understand the importance of feeling secure while you travel. That’s why we include a basic protection plan in the cost of your program, ensuring you can focus on making the most of your journey. For those seeking even greater peace of mind, our upgraded coverage offers enhanced benefits, including the flexibility to cancel up to 4 days before departure and receive a full cash refund. Travel with confidence and enjoy every moment of your Encore Experience.

Protection Plans
Dramatic sunset sky over the hills