Things To Do
in Opera

Opera is a charming town located in the province of Milan, Italy. Known for its rich cultural heritage and proximity to the bustling metropolis of Milan, it offers a blend of urban convenience and suburban tranquility. The town features beautiful parks, historical architecture, and a vibrant local community.

Opera is an ideal destination for those looking to explore Northern Italy while enjoying a quieter atmosphere.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Opera
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market at Piazza della Libertà for fresh produce and local delicacies. Grab a coffee at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Church of San Giovanni Battista, a beautiful example of local architecture. Afterwards, stroll through Parco della Resistenza for a relaxing afternoon in nature.

evening
:

Dine at Trattoria da Nino, known for its traditional Italian dishes, followed by a leisurely walk through the town center.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to Milan
morning
:

Take a short train ride to Milan and visit the iconic Duomo di Milano, exploring its stunning architecture and rooftop views.

afternoon
:

Explore the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for shopping and lunch at a local pizzeria. Don't forget to visit the nearby Sforza Castle.

evening
:

Return to Opera for dinner at Ristorante Pizzeria Da Mario, and enjoy a nightcap at a local bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$8
Coffee$2
🍝Pasta Dish$12
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2
🍷Glass of Wine$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close proximity to Milan's attractions.
  • Charming small-town atmosphere.
  • Rich culinary experiences.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be less frequent.
  • Less English spoken than in larger tourist areas.
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Opera

Visit one of these nice places.

Duomo di Milano

The stunning cathedral in Milan is a must-see, offering breathtaking views and intricate architecture.

Parco della Resistenza

A picturesque park in Opera, perfect for capturing the beauty of nature and local life.

Sforza Castle

An iconic landmark in Milan featuring historical architecture and beautiful gardens ideal for stunning photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Opera

Opera offers a delightful culinary experience that is deeply rooted in Italian traditions, featuring local flavors and fresh ingredients.

Opera Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Risotto alla Milanese

A creamy risotto flavored with saffron, a classic dish originating from the Milan area.

Must-Try!

Ossobuco

Slow-cooked veal shanks served with gremolata, typically accompanied by risotto.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Piazza della Libertà Market

A vibrant local market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and artisanal breads.

Climate Guide

Weather

Opera experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold with average temperatures around 0°C (32°F), while summers can be hot, averaging 30°C (86°F). Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is relatively consistent throughout the year, so packing an umbrella is advisable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

It is polite to greet people with a friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening) when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, wait for the host to begin eating before you start. It is also common to keep your hands on the table but not your elbows.

Dress Code

Italians take pride in their appearance, so dressing well is appreciated, especially in restaurants and when attending events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Opera is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, like any travel destination, it is wise to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious of pickpockets in tourist hotspots.

Tipping in Opera

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a small tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included. In cafes, rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's wise to carry some cash for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring a lovely time to explore parks and outdoor attractions.

Summer

Hot and humid, summer is ideal for enjoying local festivals and outdoor dining, but be prepared for crowds.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage create a picturesque backdrop for sightseeing and photography.

Winter

Cold and occasionally snowy, winter is perfect for cozy indoor activities and enjoying festive holiday markets.

Nightlife Guide

Opera at Night

Opera has a relaxed yet vibrant nightlife scene, with local bars and pubs offering a cozy atmosphere for socializing. While it may not have the extensive club scene of larger cities, residents enjoy evenings out at wine bars and casual eateries. During weekends, you can find live music events and themed nights at various venues, making it a great place for a laid-back night out.

Hiking in Opera

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentiero del Viandante

A scenic trail along Lake Como, offering stunning views and a chance to experience the natural beauty of the region.

Parco Regionale della Grigna

A beautiful park with various trails suitable for hiking enthusiasts, featuring breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Opera by plane.

Milano Linate Airport (LIN)

Located about 15 km from Opera, Linate Airport is the closest airport, offering domestic and international flights with convenient access to Milan.

Getting Around

Walkability

Opera is quite walkable, with most amenities and attractions located within a short distance of each other. The town features pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and local parks provide pleasant walking paths.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The demographic is primarily Italian, with a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees living in the area.

Commuters from Milan

Many people commute from Opera to Milan for work, contributing to a diverse population of professionals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is immensely popular in the region, with many local teams and a strong following for AC Milan and Inter Milan.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored pastime, with numerous trails and cycling events taking place throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Opera is generally manageable, with the town being less congested than Milan. Public transportation, including buses and trains, connects Opera to Milan and surrounding areas, making it easy to navigate without a car. However, during peak hours, delays can occur, so planning accordingly is advisable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Opera.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Opera offer vegetarian dishes, and it's generally easy to find options that cater to dietary needs.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free pasta and pizza are becoming increasingly popular, with some restaurants specifically catering to gluten-free diets.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Opera is accessible, with local clinics and hospitals providing quality medical services. The region has a robust healthcare system, and emergency services are available. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that includes healthcare coverage.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide