1. Overview
Palazzo Reale, the Royal Palace of Turin, is a majestic Baroque residence that once served as the official home of the House of Savoy. Located in the heart of the city at Piazza Castello, it is now part of the Royal Museums complex. Known for its grandeur, historic relevance, and artistic richness, the palace includes lavish royal apartments, a throne room, the Royal Armory, and access to the Chapel of the Holy Shroud. Visitors are transported into centuries of royal life and Italian heritage within this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. History of the Place with 10 Key Facts & Google Maps Link
- Built in the 16th century on the site of the former Bishop’s Palace.
- Became the official royal residence in 1645 under Christine Marie of France.
- Architect Carlo di Castellamonte and later Filippo Juvarra led major Baroque renovations.
- Was the political and administrative heart of the Savoy kingdom.
- The Chapel of the Holy Shroud was added between 1668–1694 to house the Shroud of Turin.
- The Royal Armory was established in 1832 by King Charles Albert.
- Served as a royal residence until the abolition of the monarchy in 1946.
- Became a public museum and cultural center after being transferred to state ownership.
- Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
- Now hosts a collection of palatial rooms, museums, and galleries including the Sabauda Gallery.
3. What Makes Palazzo Reale Popular?
Palazzo Reale is admired for its stunning Baroque architecture, its regal interiors, and the rich historical collections it houses. Visitors are captivated by the majestic Throne Room, the intricate ceiling frescoes, and the vast collection of weaponry and armor in the Royal Armory. The Chapel of the Holy Shroud and the exquisite Royal Gardens further add to the immersive experience of royalty. As one of the most important historical landmarks in Turin, it offers a deep dive into Italy’s royal past.
4. Overall Ratings (1 to 5 Stars)
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Cultural Significance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Authenticity: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Atmosphere & Environment: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
Tourist Friendliness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
5. Weather
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October)
Temperature Range: 13°C to 25°C
Summer months (July–August) can be warm but manageable indoors.
Winter (December–February) is cold, but ideal for quieter visits.
6. Nearest Five Hotels
- NH Collection Torino Piazza Carlina – Elegant rooms and a rooftop terrace, 10 minutes away.
- Grand Hotel Sitea – Historic luxury hotel, 5 minutes walk.
- Hotel Victoria – Boutique stay with a classic Italian touch, 8 minutes walk.
- Hotel Roma e Rocca Cavour – Opposite Porta Nuova station, 15 minutes away.
- Hotel des Artistes – Budget-friendly and centrally located, 10 minutes from the palace.
7. Timings
Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Closed: Mondays and select public holidays
Last entry: 1 hour before closing
8. Time Required to Visit
Visit Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Extended visits with audio guide or full museum access may require 3.5 to 4 hours
9. Entry Fees & Ticket Booking Details
General Admission: €15 (Royal Palace + museums)
Reduced: €2 for EU citizens aged 18–25
Free: Under 18, and on first Sundays of the month
Combo Tickets: Available with other Royal Museums
Advance Booking: Recommended, especially on weekends
10. Things to See & Do
- Explore the Royal Apartments with original furniture and decorations
- Visit the Royal Armory and admire centuries-old weaponry
- Discover masterpieces in the Sabauda Art Gallery
- Step inside the Chapel of the Holy Shroud
- Walk through the manicured Royal Gardens
11. Best Time to Visit
Best Season: April to June and September to October
Best Time of Day: Morning (for fewer crowds and cooler interiors)
Best Day: Midweek (Tuesday to Thursday) for a peaceful experience
12. Nearest Parking Spots
- Parcheggio Roma-San Carlo-Castello – 5 minutes walk
- Parcheggio Vittorio Veneto – 10 minutes walk
- Parcheggio Emanuele Filiberto – 10–12 minutes walk
Note: Located in a ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone), so driving access may be restricted during certain hours
13. Tips for Visitors
- Buy tickets online in advance to save time
- Consider a guided tour or audio guide for deeper insights
- Wear comfortable footwear—there’s a lot to explore
- Don’t skip the Royal Gardens—they’re free and scenic
- Photography is allowed in many areas, but flash is restricted
14. How to Reach the Place
By Foot: Located in Piazza Castello, walkable from anywhere in central Turin
By Metro: Nearest station is Porta Nuova, then a 15-minute walk
By Tram: Tram lines 4 and 15 stop near Piazza Castello
By Bus: Multiple lines stop at “Castello” or “Garibaldi”
By Taxi: Readily available throughout the city
15. Nearby Attractions to Combine for the Visit
- Palazzo Madama – Historic palace and art museum in the same square
- Mole Antonelliana – Iconic tower and cinema museum, 15 minutes walk
- Via Roma – Luxury shopping and elegant cafés nearby
- Museo Egizio – One of the world’s most significant Egyptian museums
- Cathedral of San Giovanni – Home of the Shroud of Turin replica
