Invited by Visit Brescia, I covered Festa dell’Opera… and it turned out to be one of the most mind-blowing experiences I’ve ever had 🥹
Who knew I’d wake up at 4am and go to sleep after 2am, chasing FREE opera performances all over the city, and feel so excited I couldn’t even sleep?!
The day started with a sunrise concert in a dreamy garden, followed by a performance of Don Giovanni inside the historic Hotel Vittoria’s suite (just 15 guests at the time!). We sipped aperitivo in Teatro Grande’s foyer, caught surprise arias from balconies and rooftops in the piazzas, then ended the day with a midnight concert at the Roman Capitolium. This year’s theme, “Freedom and Justice”, honors Italy’s liberation 80 years ago, a powerful reminder of what matters today.
There are over 40 free performances packed into one single day.
Also, before the official opening, we attended a beautiful preview performance called “Suggestioni dai Cortili” – a poetic teaser held in one of Brescia’s historic courtyards. It captured the spirit of the festival: intimate, emotional, and full of surprise. Just a taste of what was to come the next morning…
It feels like a citywide love letter to music, beauty, and life.
Still can’t believe this exists… and that so few people know about it. But now you do. And trust me, you’re going to want to save the date.
📍What Is Festa dell’Opera, and Why It’s So Special
Imagine an entire Italian city brought to life by music for one unforgettable day, every single year since 2012.
Festa dell’Opera is a totally free, one-day festival in Brescia featuring more than 40 live performances across gardens, rooftops, piazzas, museums, balconies, and even hotel suites.
You’ll hear arias at sunrise, sip an aperitivo under frescoed ceilings, catch surprise opera from balconies, and end the night under the stars with a concert in a Roman temple. It’s emotional and surreal; everything you’ll love about Italy.
In 2025, more than 3,000 artists took over 80+ stages across the city, and some of the most emotional moments happen in unexpected places: prisons, healthcare homes, community centers… bringing music to those who need it most. It’s about inclusion, connection, and sharing beauty with everyone. That’s the soul of this festival ❤️
The 2026 dates haven’t been announced yet, though the festival typically happens in early June.
Festa dell’Opera is free for everyone. Just show up — no ticket needed. If you want to attend the sunrise concert or exclusives like an opera in a hotel room, make sure to reserve early; those spots go fast!
✈️ How to Plan Your Visit to Festa dell’Opera
The festival happens once a year in June, and it’s 100% FREE. No tickets required, however, I’d highly recommend RSVPing in advance for some intimate events (like the sunrise concert). Keep an eye on festadellopera.it
🚆 How to Get There
📍 Brescia is perfectly located between Milan and Venice, easily reachable by train (just 1 hour from Milano Centrale!) or car.
🏠Where to Stay
I stayed at Corte Novella and and I genuinely loved it. Just steps from the historic center and managed by a young couple, this place felt more like a cute little apartment than a hotel.
My “room” had a living room with a sofa and kitchenette, a separate bedroom, and a bathroom. It was super cozy, clean, and comfy.
There’s even a small courtyard in the back with tables: perfect if you’re traveling with friends and want to relax or wait for each other. The welcoming lounge area with sofas is spacious and inviting, and breakfast is delicious (think local pastries and baked goods!!).
☕ Heads up: breakfast starts at 7:30am, so if you’re an early bird like me, you’ll have to wait till then for your espresso. That’s Italy… I actually had to wander all over the city to find a coffee shop open that early… so just be patient 😅
Here’s the link to book your stay at Corte Novella Hotel & Residence. You can also explore other great options in Brescia through it. If you book through my link, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you… thank you so much for supporting my work 💛
