Teatro dell'Opera / ROMA Dress Code

If you could pack a light weight sport jacket, you wouldn't feel completely out of place, and a tie weighs nothing. Dress as good as you can, but you won't be fooling anybody that you are not a tourist. But I just feel more comfortable if I am at least making an effort.

I agree with Sam's advice. And for women, black is always fine--either a dress if there's room, or nice black pants and top. I usually bring a light jacket or scarf to dress it up, and that works perfectly without taking up lots of room.

Thanks you both for your suggestions. Lois, I haven't yet told my wife about the tickets. Do you think I should tell her prior to our trip?

I think that would be a good idea, unless you enjoy the look of panic that comes over your wife's face when she learns you are going to a semi-formal event at the last minute.

Actually I was joking, but thanks for your quick response. We are also considering musical events held at some of the churches in Rome. Have you done any of those?

I think you should definitely let her know--it's something lovely to look forward to! And having appropriate clothes shouldn't be a big deal--black is such a useful part of any travel wardrobe that including something for that evening can easily be things she'd likely have anyway. I always find pretty scarves useful--and you can almost always find them at markets inexpensively, if she'd like a wearable souvenir. I found one I really liked at the market at Campo de' Fiori a few years ago.

I haven't been to other concerts in Rome but I have in other cities, and depending on time of day, similar clothes would work there, too, although daytime events might be more casual. And black and a scarf, and your jacket (perhaps without the tie!), work for nice dinners, too, in case those are planned.