Castello di Moncalieri
1 / 10

Castello di Moncalieri

4.4
·4k reviews·Moncalieri, Italy

A historic hilltop palace, once a medieval castle, offering guided tours of ornate royal rooms and landscaped gardens.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Pleasant weather for gardens

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Castello di Moncalieri

Castello di Moncalieri

Best Time

Summer mornings

Pleasant weather for gardens

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic hilltop palace, once a medieval castle, offering guided tours of ornate royal rooms and landscaped gardens.

4.4
(4k reviews)

"Interesting tour with an awesome, friendly guide, even with a language barrier!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Tours in Advance

Secure your spot and ensure an English guide if needed by booking tickets online the day before.

🗣️ Confirm Tour Language

Many tours are in Italian; check with staff beforehand if English is essential for your visit.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ornate Royal Rooms

Ornate Royal Rooms

Interior of the castle

Explore lavishly decorated rooms that offer a glimpse into the lives of the Savoy royal family.

Landscaped Gardens

Landscaped Gardens

Castle grounds

Stroll through beautifully maintained gardens, offering picturesque views and a peaceful escape.

Panoramic Town Views

Panoramic Town Views

From the castle ramparts

Enjoy sweeping vistas of Moncalieri and the surrounding landscape from this elevated vantage point.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Tours

Guided tours are the primary way to see Castello di Moncalieri. Booking tickets the day before online is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment, especially if you require an English-speaking guide.

Check for Construction & Language

Parts of the castle may be under renovation, potentially limiting access. Always confirm the language of your tour beforehand, as many are conducted solely in Italian.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for gardens
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer tour groups
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎯 Book Tours in Advance

Secure your spot and ensure an English guide if needed by booking tickets online the day before. Reddit

🗣️ Confirm Tour Language

Many tours are in Italian; check with staff beforehand if English is essential for your visit. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a fair bit of walking around the castle and town. Reddit

⏳ Allow 2-3 Hours

Combine your castle visit with exploring the charming town of Moncalieri. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tours in Advance

Secure your spot and ensure an English guide if needed by booking tickets online the day before. Reddit

🗣️ Confirm Tour Language

Many tours are in Italian; check with staff beforehand if English is essential for your visit. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a fair bit of walking around the castle and town. Reddit

⏳ Allow 2-3 Hours

Combine your castle visit with exploring the charming town of Moncalieri. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Castello di Moncalieri to be an interesting historical site with impressive rooms and friendly guides, though some note ongoing construction and limited access. The tours, often conducted in Italian, are a highlight for many, offering good value for money. While not as grand as some other regional castles, it's considered a worthwhile addition to a trip exploring the Moncalieri area.

"Very nice. Visited in the winter. I have a feeling it's better during the summer. Lots of castles and things to see in the area. This is one of the most important attractions. Nice walk around the town as well."

pat barroero

"Parts of the house were very impressive. The tour guide was also awesome. She was friendly and joked with us throughout. We enjoyed her immensely (even with the language barrier). Nearly everything is under construction (but tickets are still full price) and the police presence means you can only see a small part of the house and none of the grounds."

Matthew Arrington

"Interesting tour. However, the castle is not in the best state and there are more impressive castles nearby.

Also, our guide did not speak English, so this is something to check with the staff beforehand if you don't speak Italian."

Joyce van Versendaal

What People Like

Friendly and engaging guides
Ornate interior rooms
Affordable tours

What People Dislike

Ongoing construction
Limited access areas
Tours primarily in Italian

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Castello di Moncalieri is easily accessible from Turin. You can take a regional train from Torino Porta Nuova or Torino Lingotto station to Moncalieri, which takes about 10-15 minutes. From the Moncalieri train station, it's a pleasant walk uphill to the castle, or you can take a local bus. Reddit

Parking is available in the town of Moncalieri, though it can be limited, especially during peak times. It's advisable to check local parking regulations and consider public transport for a more convenient experience. Reddit

Absolutely! Moncalieri is a beautiful little city worth exploring. Many visitors combine a visit to the castle with a stroll through the town's streets and piazzas. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices are generally quite affordable, especially considering the guided tour. It's best to check the official website for the most current pricing, as it can vary. Reddit

Yes, booking tickets the day before online is highly recommended to guarantee your entry and to ensure you get a spot on a tour, especially if you need an English-speaking guide. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally and may be affected by ongoing renovations or events. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and tour schedules. Reddit

Information on discounts for students, seniors, or groups is usually available on the official website. It's worth checking if you qualify for any reduced admission rates. Reddit

Access to the interior of Castello di Moncalieri is primarily through guided tours. Some exterior areas or views of the grounds might be accessible, but the main historical rooms require a tour. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The guided tours typically last about one hour, providing a comprehensive overview of the castle's history and key areas. Reddit

Many tours are conducted in Italian. If you don't speak Italian, it's crucial to confirm the availability of English-speaking tours when booking, as not all tours may be bilingual. Reddit

The gardens are generally accessible, but their opening hours might differ from the castle's interior tours and can be subject to seasonal changes or maintenance. Reddit

Due to its historic nature and hilltop location, some areas of the castle and its grounds may present challenges for visitors with mobility issues. It's advisable to contact the castle directly to inquire about accessibility. Reddit

A portion of the castle is used by the Carabinieri (Italian military police), which means access to certain areas might be restricted. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. Generally, personal photography is allowed in most areas, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the interiors. Always check for signage or ask your guide. TikTok

The panoramic views of Moncalieri from the castle ramparts are excellent for photos. The ornate interiors also offer great opportunities, as do the landscaped gardens. Instagram

Yes, the castle offers a mix of architectural beauty, historical interiors, and scenic views, making it a good subject for photography, especially if you appreciate historical sites. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Castello di Moncalieri can be an interesting stop for families, offering a glimpse into royal history. The guided tour, while informative, might be a bit long for very young children, so consider their attention spans. The gardens offer a nice space for kids to stretch their legs, weather permitting. Reddit It's advisable to check if any parts of the tour are particularly engaging for younger visitors or if there are any specific family-friendly activities available. Remember to confirm the tour language to ensure everyone can follow along. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those passionate about history and architecture, Castello di Moncalieri offers a compelling experience. You'll explore ornate rooms that showcase the grandeur of the Savoy dynasty and learn about the castle's evolution from a medieval fortress to a royal palace. Reddit The dual nature of the site, with its royal history and current use by the Carabinieri, adds a unique layer of interest. Pay attention to the details in the decor and the historical narratives provided by the guides. Reddit

🚶 Day-Trippers from Turin

Castello di Moncalieri makes for an excellent half-day trip from Turin. Its proximity and easy accessibility by train mean you can easily fit it into a busy itinerary. Reddit Combine your visit with a walk through the historic center of Moncalieri to get a fuller experience of the area. Remember to book your tour tickets in advance to maximize your time. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Royal Residence with a Dual Purpose

Castello di Moncalieri, perched on a hill overlooking the town, boasts a rich history as a royal residence of the House of Savoy. Originally a medieval castle, it was transformed into a magnificent palace. However, its grandeur is shared; a significant portion of the castle is currently occupied by the Carabinieri, the Italian military police. This means that while you can tour certain opulent rooms, access to the entire complex is restricted, a point noted by many visitors. Reddit

Despite the partial occupation, the guided tours offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. Visitors often praise the friendly and engaging tour guides who, even with a language barrier, can convey the history through gestures and enthusiasm. Reddit The experience is often described as a worthwhile stop for those interested in royal history and architecture, though some visitors suggest that other castles in the region might be more extensive or better preserved. Reddit

Navigating Your Visit: Tours and Language

The primary way to experience Castello di Moncalieri is through its guided tours, which typically last about an hour. These tours are crucial for understanding the castle's significance and appreciating its interiors. However, a key piece of advice from travelers is to confirm the language of the tour in advance. While some guides are excellent at communicating non-verbally, many tours are conducted exclusively in Italian. Booking your tickets the day before online is also strongly recommended to secure your spot and ensure you get a tour that suits your language needs. Reddit

Be aware that parts of the castle may be undergoing renovation, which can sometimes limit the areas accessible during a tour. Despite this, the tours are generally considered affordable and offer good value, especially when combined with exploring the charming town of Moncalieri itself. Reddit Plan for about 2-3 hours to comfortably enjoy both the castle and the surrounding town. Reddit

You may also like