An appreciation of the arts is often aided by opera houses. The beauty starts from the façade, and once you cross the threshold, you enter a completely different world. So what worlds are on offer at Europe’s top 10 opera houses?

1. La Scala, Milan, Italy

La Scala has been ranked as one of the top opera houses in Europe since 1778. The best works in the world are performed within its walls. The beauty of the facade is that while the inside is astonishingly large, the facade is not pretentious.

2. San Carlo, Naples, Italy

The theatre is considered to be the largest on European soil. It opened as early as 1737, but the original version burned down. Reconstruction was completed in 1817 and now every part of the theatre delights with luxury and original decorations.

3. Covent Garden, London, United Kingdom

The British Covent Garden began its existence in 1732. The history of the British Royal Theatre has some sad pages. The present day version of the theatre mostly involves construction in 1856. Not only opera and ballet are staged, but also dramatic productions and, once upon a time, clowning.

4. The Grand Opera, Paris, France

The Grand Opera is one of Europe’s oldest opera houses. Its life began in 1669. Since then it has not lost its status as “the most beautiful opera house in the world”. The many elements of decoration are impressive: arches, sculptures, marble staircases, frescoes, paintings. It is an honour for every artist to perform on its stage.

5. Royal Opera House, Versailles, France

The theatre was inaugurated in 1770 when the premises of the enormous palace were presented to the public. The theatre is made entirely of wood. Even the marble surfaces are only painted to look like marble. The Royal Opera is recognised as the largest palace theatre in the world.

6. Vienna State Opera House, Vienna, Austria

The theatre is as impressive on the outside as it is on the inside. The neo-Renaissance facade and colorful frescos are fascinating. Inside it is regal – bright lights, tasteful decor, lots of bright details. This is where the famous Viennese ball is held every year.

7. Teatro Carlo Felice, Genoa, Italy

The theatre, which has been in operation since 1828, is a symbol of Genoa. It is famous for being the long-term home of Giuseppe Verdi. The theatre is considerably more modest than many of its counterparts, but therein lies its appeal – expensive simplicity.

8. Gran Teatro Liceo, Barcelona, Spain

In operation since 1847, the Gran Teatre del Liceu acts as one of Barcelona’s main attractions. Despite the series of tragedies that have befallen the theatre over the years – bomb explosions, fires – the present day version has been restored from the original blueprints. The seating is in cast-iron with red velvet trim.

9. The Estates Theatre, Prague, Czech Republic

The main merit of the Czech theatre is that it has been preserved in its original form since 1783, with minor changes. Despite a certain modesty in its design, unlike its world counterparts, the theatre is renowned for hosting iconic virtuoso performances.

10. Bavarian State Opera, Munich, Germany

The “veteran theatre” began its run in 1653. Throughout its existence, every production known to the world has been staged here and numerous well-known personalities have attended the opera. The interior has a classical style with elements of acceptable luxury.