Welcome to the court of the first kings of Italy!
Welcome to the Royal Museums of Turin!
You are in Piazza Castello, the square that was the historic heart of the ancient city of ‘Augusta Taurinorum’.
In this central location, the rulers of the Savoy family lived, and they built an immense residence, full of wealth and splendor. The estate expands over an area of 30,000 square meters (now used as exhibition spaces and warehouses), surrounded by 7 hectares of gardens.
The origin of this immense structure dates back to 1563 when Emanuele Filiberto di Savoia moved the capital of the duchy from Chambéry to Turin.
The complex is built around what was the first Royal Palace in all of Italy, inhabited by the reigning family until 1865. In this immense building, in addition to the royal residence, you can find the royal armory, the chapel of the Holy Shroud, the Sabauda Gallery, the Museum of Antiquities, the royal gardens, and the royal library!
You won’t be bored amidst all this vastness of things to see! Only in person can you truly appreciate the beauty of this complex; you’ll feel like you’re truly stepping back in time, immersing yourself in the Renaissance atmosphere!
“The first time I entered the Royal Museums, I was blown away by their majesty, beauty, and the incredible wealth of artworks of all kinds! You have the chance to visit seven museums under the same roof! Of course, seeing everything in one go is a long challenge, but if you dedicate half a day just to this, you’ll manage and I guarantee you’ll be as satisfied as I was!
On a nice sunny day, I recommend visiting the Royal Gardens halfway through your visit. It’s a great way to step outside for a moment, get some fresh air, and relax a bit before continuing with the final part of the museums!”
The great convenience of this beautiful palace is also its location; having been the hub of the Savoy kingdom, it is located in the heart of the capital city of Piedmont and is therefore one of the best place to stay.
The palace overlooks Piazza Castello, the crossroads of the city’s most important and beautiful streets! From here, the three pedestrian shopping streets start (Via Roma, Via Garibaldi, and Via Lagrange), and then one of the longest streets, with arcades on both sides, leads to Piazza Vittorio; via Po.
As evening falls, the city takes on a more magical appearance, with lights adorning these beautiful palaces, making them even more unique! Sometimes you may come across musicians who will enchant you with their melodies, creating a special atmosphere under the starry sky!
Curious to learn fun facts and be led by a professional guide?
What makes the Royal Museums of Turin unique compared to other historical sites in Italy?
The Royal Museums combine art, history, and archaeology in one complex. Visitors can explore the Royal Palace, an extensive art gallery, and Roman-era artifacts, providing a comprehensive view of Italy’s royal and cultural heritage in a single destination. Royal Palace of Turin: Skip-the-Line Ticket and Guided Tour.
Can I explore the Royal Museums of Turin independently without a guide?
Yes, you can visit independently. The museums provide detailed information panels, digital guides, and apps to enhance your visit. These resources allow you to explore at your own pace while still getting historical and cultural context. Turin: Entrance ticket for Palazzo Reale & Audioguide
Royal Museums of Turin are accessible to people with disabilities?
Yes, the Royal Museums of Turin are accessible to people with disabilities. Most areas, including the Royal Palace, Royal Library, and Sabauda Gallery, are wheelchair-friendly. Elevators and ramps are available to ensure access to various floors.
How can I reach the Royal Museums of Turin?
Walking: If you’re staying in the central area of Turin, the museums are a short and pleasant walk from major landmarks like Piazza San Carlo or Porta Nuova Station.
Metro: Take Line 1 (M1) to Porta Nuova or Porta Susa, then walk 10–15 minutes to Piazza Castello.
Buses and Trams: Several lines, such as 4, 13, 15, 55, and 56, stop near the museum. Check stops for Piazza Castello or Via Po.
See here GTT Public Transport site.
Is the Royal Museums of Turin complex suitable for a half-day visit?
Yes, a half-day visit is ideal for exploring the highlights, such as the Royal Palace, Armory, and Gardens. However, history enthusiasts may want to allocate more time to enjoy the extensive art and archaeology collections.
