1. Overview
The Giardini Reali di Torino (Royal Gardens of Turin) are beautifully landscaped historical gardens located behind the Royal Palace in the heart of Turin. Spanning over 7 hectares, the gardens offer a peaceful and elegant escape within the city, blending Renaissance, Baroque, and 19th-century styles. Part of the Musei Reali di Torino complex, these gardens are ideal for relaxing walks, admiring sculptures and fountains, and exploring Turin’s royal heritage in a serene green setting.
Location – Google Maps Link
2. History
- Commissioned in 1563 by Duke Emmanuel Philibert of Savoy.
- Initially designed by court architect Ascanio Vitozzi.
- Enhanced in the 17th century under the direction of French landscape designer André Le Nôtre.
- Divided into several sections: Giardino Ducale, Giardino delle Arti, Boschetto, and Bastioni.
- Includes the Fontana dei Tritoni, a Baroque-style fountain completed in the 18th century.
- Damaged during the Napoleonic era and restored in the 19th century.
- The gardens connect the Royal Palace, the Royal Armoury, and the Archaeological Museum.
- The Bastione Verde and Bastione di San Maurizio preserve parts of Turin’s ancient fortifications.
- Underwent major restoration after the 1997 fire at the Chapel of the Holy Shroud.
- Reopened to the public in 2021 after a long period of renovation.
3. What Makes Giardini Reali Popular?
The Royal Gardens are popular for their tranquil setting, proximity to major historical landmarks, and rich design heritage. Visitors love strolling among ornate fountains, manicured paths, and ancient trees while enjoying unobstructed views of the Royal Palace and Mole Antonelliana. The gardens are ideal for photography, relaxation, and cultural exploration.
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: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
5. Weather
Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to October
Temperature Range: 13°C to 25°C
The gardens are perfect for spring and autumn walks when the trees are in bloom or golden, but they can be enjoyed in any season.
6. Nearest Five Hotels
- NH Collection Torino Piazza Carlina – Elegant, 10-minute walk
- Principi di Piemonte – Luxury hotel near Via Roma
- Hotel Victoria – Boutique hotel with spa and garden views
- Hotel Roma e Rocca Cavour – Traditional charm near Porta Nuova station
- Hotel Dock Milano – Budget-friendly, 20 minutes away by foot
7. Timings
April 15 to October 15: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
October 16 to April 14: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed on Mondays
8. Time Required to Visit
Visit Duration: 1 to 2 hours
More time may be needed if combined with visits to the Royal Palace, Armoury, or other museum wings nearby.
9. Entry Fees & Ticket Booking Details
Entry: Free
No booking required to visit the gardens
Note: Entry to museum complexes connected to the gardens may have separate fees
10. Things to See & Do
- Explore the Giardino Ducale, the oldest section of the gardens
- Admire the Fontana dei Tritoni, a baroque-style fountain with mythological figures
- Visit the Giardino delle Arti, surrounded by artistic and historical structures
- Walk along the ancient Bastioni for city views and a sense of history
- Relax under shaded pathways or near decorative flower beds
11. Best Time to Visit
Season: Spring and autumn for blooming flowers or golden foliage
Time of Day: Late morning or early evening for calm lighting and quiet ambiance
Day of Week: Weekdays for fewer visitors and a tranquil atmosphere
12. Nearest Parking Spots
Parcheggio Piazza Castello – Closest and most convenient
Parcheggio Roma–San Carlo–Castello – A bit farther but ideal for downtown exploration
Street Parking – Available around Via XX Settembre and Via Pietro Micca (ZTL hours apply)
13. Tips for Visitors
- Bring a book or snack to enjoy in the shaded seating areas
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking through all garden sections
- Visit early to take unobstructed photos of the palace and fountains
- Combine with nearby attractions like Palazzo Reale, Palazzo Madama, and Mole Antonelliana
- Wheelchair access is available in most areas, but some paths may be uneven
14. How to Reach the Place
By Foot: Easily accessible from Piazza Castello
By Metro: Porta Nuova or Porta Susa stations, 15–20 minutes on foot
By Bus: Lines 11, 27, and Star2 stop near Via XX Settembre
By Tram: Line 4 stops nearby
By Taxi: 5–10 minutes from central stations or hotels
15. Nearby Attractions to Combine for the Visit
- Palazzo Reale – The majestic former royal residence
- Museo Egizio – One of the world’s leading museums of Egyptian artifacts
- Mole Antonelliana – Iconic tower and National Cinema Museum
- Palazzo Madama – A baroque palace and art museum at Piazza Castello
- Duomo di Torino – Cathedral housing the Shroud of Turin
