Teatro di San Carlo

Naples' opera house, the Teatro di San Carlo, is not only Italy's oldest opera house—it's also the longest-running opera house in Europe, open since 1737.
The site was built under King Charles VII, a member of the Bourbon monarchy, so the theater was originally called the “Royal” opera house. In November 1737, the opera house opened its doors for the first time, but an 1816 fire consumed the entire interior of the building—only the outer structure was left standing. The theater was rebuilt, and it reopened the next year.
Today, the opera season begins in late January and continues through May. You can also see ballet performances at the theater—that season runs from April through the beginning of June. 

Practical Info

The Teatro di San Carlo is located near the Piazza del Plebiscito and is attached to the Royal Palace. Opera ticket prices range from €32 to €400, depending on seat location. Tickets for the symphony and ballet cost less. The opera house also offers 45-minute guided tours in Italian and English every day from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and additionally from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Tours of the theater are €6 for adults and €5 for seniors and children.