1. Overview
Mercato di Piazza Benefica, officially known as Giardino Luigi Martini, is one of Turin’s most popular open-air markets, especially known for discounted designer clothing and fashion accessories. Located in the upscale Cit Turin district, the market blends modern shopping with the charm of early 20th-century Art Nouveau surroundings. Locals and savvy visitors alike come here to explore high-end fashion deals, home goods, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Location – Google Maps Link
2. History
- The market is located in Giardino Luigi Martini, but locals refer to it as Piazza Benefica.
- The nickname “Benefica” comes from the nearby Casa Benefica, a former charity for orphans.
- The area was developed in the early 1900s and is part of the elegant Cit Turin district.
- Luigi Martini, a judge and philanthropist, contributed significantly to local social initiatives.
- The neighborhood is rich in Art Nouveau and Neo-Gothic architecture.
- The market began as a local community space and evolved into a fashion hotspot.
- It gained fame as a destination for designer brand stock and samples at low prices.
- Locals often call it “the designer market” due to the presence of luxury fashion stalls.
- It’s one of Turin’s cleanest, most organized neighborhood markets.
- Located at Giardino Luigi Martini, Cit Turin, Turin, Italy.
3. What Makes Mercato di Piazza Benefica Popular?
Mercato di Piazza Benefica is known for offering luxury and designer fashion at discounted prices. Shoppers can find deals on Italian-made clothing, leather goods, shoes, and accessories. Beyond shopping, the peaceful, tree-lined setting and surrounding architectural elegance make it a pleasant and refined marketplace experience unlike any other in Turin.
4. Overall Ratings (1 to 5 Stars)
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Cultural Significance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
Authenticity: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Atmosphere & Environment: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Tourist Friendliness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
5. Weather
Best Time to Visit: April to October
Temperature Range: 13°C to 25°C
Ideal weather for outdoor browsing and walking through the tree-shaded paths. Avoid rainy days to fully enjoy the open-air setup.
6. Nearest Five Hotels
- Hotel Diplomatic – Modern and conveniently located near Porta Susa
- Hotel Dock Milano – Budget-friendly and central
- Hotel Orchidea – Affordable and near shopping districts
- Hotel Principi d’Acaja – Small charming hotel in a historic building
- NH Torino Centro – Upscale with easy metro and market access
7. Timings
Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Saturday: 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Sunday: Closed
8. Time Required to Visit
Visit Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Add more time if you’re bargain-hunting for clothing or want to explore surrounding cafés and boutiques.
9. Entry Fees & Ticket Booking Details
Entry: Free
Booking: Not required
No ticket or registration is needed—just walk in and enjoy the shopping.
10. Things to See & Do
- Browse designer clothing and accessories at reduced prices
- Shop for housewares, leather items, or seasonal items
- Talk to friendly vendors and look for Italian-made pieces
- Take a break in nearby cafés or bakeries
- Photograph nearby architectural highlights like Chiesa del Gesù Nazareno
11. Best Time to Visit
Season: Spring and early autumn for great weather and fresh stock
Time of Day: Early morning for the best picks and quiet shopping
Day of Week: Saturdays offer the most variety, but also draw larger crowds
12. Nearest Parking Spots
Parcheggio Porta Susa – Underground parking at the nearby train station
Street Parking – Available in surrounding residential blocks
Parcheggio Corso Francia – Just a short walk from the market
13. Tips for Visitors
- Arrive early for the best deals and freshest stock
- Bring cash, though some vendors accept cards
- Don’t be shy about asking for discounts or package deals
- Look closely—some stalls carry samples or last season’s high-end collections
- Enjoy a coffee at a nearby bar to experience the local ambiance
14. How to Reach the Place
By Metro: Principi d’Acaja or Porta Susa stations (Line 1)
By Tram: Lines 9 and 10 stop nearby
By Bus: Routes 36, 49, and 60 serve the area
By Taxi: Easily reachable from central Turin in under 10 minutes
By Foot: 10-minute walk from Porta Susa train station
15. Nearby Attractions to Combine for the Visit
- Porta Susa Station – A major hub of Turin’s transport and architecture
- Chiesa del Gesù Nazareno – Beautiful Neo-Gothic church around the corner
- Piazza Statuto – Historic square with interesting monuments and cafés
- Via Garibaldi – Popular pedestrian shopping street
- Museo Pietro Micca – Subterranean museum about Turin’s military history
