Piazza San Carlo: le chiese S.Cristina e Carlo
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Piazza San Carlo Turin

4.6
·491k reviews·Torino, Italy

Turin's grand 'living room,' Piazza San Carlo enchants with Baroque symmetry, regal statues, and historic cafes under elegant porticoes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Piazza San Carlo: le chiese S.Cristina e Carlo

Piazza San Carlo Turin

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Turin's grand 'living room,' Piazza San Carlo enchants with Baroque symmetry, regal statues, and historic cafes under elegant porticoes.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A magnificent square, the heart of Turin, perfect for a stroll and a traditional Bicerin."

Vertical photo
TIP

☕ Try a Bicerin

Don't miss trying the traditional Bicerin drink at one of the historic cafes under the porticoes. :coffee:

🚶 Stroll the Porticoes

Explore the elegant arcades for shade and discover charming shops and cafes. :shopping_bags:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Royal Statues

The Royal Statues

Center of the piazza

Majestic bronze equestrian statues of Emanuele Filiberto and Vittorio Amedeo I stand proudly, symbolizing Turin's royal past.

Church of San Carlo Borromeo

Church of San Carlo Borromeo

South side of the piazza

An impressive Baroque church with a grand facade, offering a glimpse into Turin's rich religious and architectural heritage.

Church of Santa Cristina

Church of Santa Cristina

North side of the piazza

Twin churches flanking the piazza, Santa Cristina is known for its elegant dome and intricate interior details.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Piazza San Carlo

Piazza San Carlo, Turin's elegant living room, can get busy. For a more serene experience, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, especially during peak tourist seasons. Consider visiting during local events for a vibrant atmosphere, but be prepared for larger crowds.

Embrace the Portico Experience

Much of Piazza San Carlo's charm lies beneath its historic porticoes. These covered walkways offer shelter from sun and rain, making it a pleasant place to stroll any time of year. Many cafes and shops are located here, so take your time to explore and soak in the atmosphere.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light, lively cafes
Crowd
Medium
When
During local events
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, unique experiences
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Here for 5 days. What should I do?

☕ Try a Bicerin

Don't miss trying the traditional Bicerin drink at one of the historic cafes under the porticoes. :coffee:

🚶 Stroll the Porticoes

Explore the elegant arcades for shade and discover charming shops and cafes. :shopping_bags:

reddit.com

Due giorni a Torino: quali sono le cose da non perdere?

reddit.com

Those who has been to Torino, answer please!

📸 Capture the Symmetry

The piazza's symmetrical design is perfect for photography, especially during the golden hour. :camerawithflash:

🧀 Cheese Lover's Delight

Seek out cafes offering local cheese platters for a delicious taste of Piedmont. :cheese_wedge:

reddit.com

If you are planning to travel to Italy, I strongly recommend visiting Torino (Turin), imo one of the best and most underrated cities in the country!

Tips

from all over the internet

☕ Try a Bicerin

Don't miss trying the traditional Bicerin drink at one of the historic cafes under the porticoes. :coffee:

🚶 Stroll the Porticoes

Explore the elegant arcades for shade and discover charming shops and cafes. :shopping_bags:

📸 Capture the Symmetry

The piazza's symmetrical design is perfect for photography, especially during the golden hour. :camerawithflash:

🧀 Cheese Lover's Delight

Seek out cafes offering local cheese platters for a delicious taste of Piedmont. :cheese_wedge:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Piazza San Carlo is widely praised as Turin's elegant 'living room,' captivating visitors with its grand Baroque architecture, symmetrical design, and iconic equestrian statues. The historic cafes under the porticoes, especially for their traditional Bicerin, are a major draw. Some visitors note that prices at the cafes can be high, and the piazza can get crowded during peak times.

What People Like

Elegant Baroque architecture
Symmetrical design
Historic cafes & Bicerin

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Cafe prices can be high

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Piazza San Carlo is centrally located and easily accessible. From Turin's Porta Nuova train station, it's a pleasant 10-15 minute walk through the city center. You can also take various local buses or trams that stop nearby. Many visitors find it convenient to walk from other central attractions like Piazza Castello. Reddit

Parking in the immediate vicinity of Piazza San Carlo can be challenging and expensive due to its central location. It's recommended to use public transport or walk. If you must drive, look for underground parking garages like 'Garage San Carlo' or 'Autorimessa San Carlo'. TikTok

Yes, Piazza San Carlo is very well-served by public transport. Numerous bus and tram lines stop within a short walking distance. Check local transport apps or websites for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. Instagram

Absolutely! Piazza San Carlo is a key point in Turin's pedestrian-friendly center. It's a short and scenic walk from Piazza Castello, the Royal Palace, and the Mole Antonelliana. Reddit

If you're short on time, a brisk walk through the piazza, admiring the statues and architecture, and perhaps a quick coffee at a historic cafe under the porticoes, will give you a good feel for its grandeur. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Piazza San Carlo is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time. There are no admission fees. Reddit

Piazza San Carlo is always open, as it's an outdoor public space. However, the shops and cafes located under the porticoes have their own operating hours, typically from morning until evening. Instagram

While there isn't a specific 'ticket' for the piazza itself, many guided tours of Turin include Piazza San Carlo as a key stop. You can book these through local tour operators or online platforms. TikTok

The Church of San Carlo Borromeo and the Church of Santa Cristina are places of worship and generally free to enter. However, donations are appreciated, and there might be specific times for visiting or small fees for certain areas or events. Instagram

Yes, Piazza San Carlo is beautifully illuminated at night, offering a different, romantic ambiance. It's a popular spot for evening strolls. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The center of the piazza offers great views of the equestrian statues and the symmetrical facades of the twin churches. Walking along the porticoes provides unique perspectives and framing opportunities. The golden hour light is particularly stunning. Instagram

Early morning offers soft light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the piazza's grandeur. Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' provides warm, dramatic lighting that enhances the architecture. TikTok

Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, professional photography or videography might require permits, especially if it involves extensive equipment or blocking public access. Always be mindful of others. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the piazza. A standard zoom lens is versatile for details. A tripod can be useful for low-light shots, but be mindful of crowds. Instagram

Drone usage in urban centers like Turin is heavily regulated. It's highly unlikely you'll be able to fly a drone over Piazza San Carlo due to airspace restrictions and privacy concerns. Check local drone laws before attempting. Reddit

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Historic cafes like Caffè Torino and Caffè Mulassano, located under the porticoes of Piazza San Carlo, are renowned for serving authentic Bicerin. Reddit

Piazza San Carlo itself is more known for its historic cafes and bars. For full-service restaurants, you'll find many excellent options just off the piazza or within a short walk in the surrounding streets, offering Piedmontese cuisine. TikTok

Bicerin is a traditional Turin drink made with layers of espresso, chocolate, and cream. It's a rich, decadent beverage served in a glass, perfect for a treat. Reddit

Yes, Turin is famous for its cheeses. Look for 'enoteche' (wine bars) or traditional trattorias around Piazza San Carlo that offer cheese platters, often paired with local wines. Reddit

Prices at historic cafes in Piazza San Carlo can be on the higher side due to their location and heritage. Expect to pay a premium for a coffee or Bicerin, typically ranging from €4-€7. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Piazza San Carlo is a great open space for families to explore. The wide, flat piazza is perfect for kids to run around a bit (under supervision, of course!), and the statues can spark their imagination about knights and royalty. The covered porticoes offer shade on sunny days and shelter from rain, making it comfortable for everyone. TikTok

While the piazza itself doesn't have specific play areas, its central location means it's a good starting point for a family-friendly walk. Consider a stop at one of the cafes for a hot chocolate or a pastry. For a more engaging experience, look for family-oriented city tours that might include the piazza and its historical context in a child-friendly way. Instagram

🚶 Solo Travelers

Piazza San Carlo is an ideal spot for solo travelers to soak in the atmosphere of Turin. Its central location makes it easy to navigate to and from, and the arcades provide a pleasant environment for a leisurely stroll or a coffee break. Reddit

Enjoy people-watching from a cafe terrace, admire the architecture, or simply find a bench to relax. The historic cafes offer a chance to experience Turin's famous coffee culture, like trying a Bicerin, without the pressure of group dining. It's a safe and beautiful place to explore at your own pace. TikTok

couples

Piazza San Carlo offers a romantic setting, especially in the late afternoon or evening when the piazza is beautifully lit. Strolling hand-in-hand under the elegant porticoes or sharing a Bicerin at a historic cafe creates a memorable experience. TikTokInstagram

The symmetrical beauty of the piazza, with its grand churches and statues, provides a picturesque backdrop for photos. Consider a leisurely walk from Piazza San Carlo towards other romantic spots in Turin, making it a perfect starting or ending point for a date. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Grandeur of Piazza San Carlo

Piazza San Carlo is often referred to as Turin's 'living room,' and its design certainly reflects this. The piazza is a masterpiece of Baroque urban planning, characterized by its perfect symmetry and the elegant arcades that line its sides. These porticoes are not just decorative; they provide shelter from the elements and house many of the city's historic cafes and shops, creating a continuous, sheltered promenade. The two Baroque churches, the Church of San Carlo Borromeo and the Church of Santa Cristina, stand as magnificent bookends to the piazza, their facades mirroring each other across the vast expanse. The overall effect is one of grandeur, order, and refined elegance, making it a truly iconic Turin landmark. TikTokInstagram

Dominating the center of the piazza are the two imposing equestrian statues. The statue of Emanuele Filiberto, Duke of Savoy, on his horse, is a symbol of the city's military prowess and historical significance. The other statue honors Vittorio Amedeo I. These bronze giants add a sense of regal authority and historical depth to the already impressive square. When visiting, take a moment to appreciate the intricate details of the statues and the way they are positioned to enhance the piazza's visual balance. TikTok

The piazza's design is a testament to Turin's history as the capital of the Duchy of Savoy and later the Kingdom of Sardinia. It was conceived as a grand entrance and a central gathering space, designed to impress visitors and showcase the power and sophistication of the ruling dynasty. Today, it continues to serve as a vital hub for both locals and tourists, hosting events, markets, and simply providing a beautiful space to relax and people-watch. Reddit

Experiencing Turin's Coffee Culture in Piazza San Carlo

Piazza San Carlo is synonymous with Turin's rich coffee culture, particularly for its association with the Bicerin. This traditional drink, a layered concoction of espresso, hot chocolate, and cream, is a must-try for any visitor. It's not just a beverage; it's an experience, often served in a small glass to appreciate its distinct layers. InstagramReddit

Several historic cafes under the porticoes are famous for their Bicerin and other coffee specialties. Caffè Torino and Caffè Mulassano are two of the most iconic establishments, boasting elegant interiors and a long history of serving Turin's elite. While these cafes can be pricier due to their prime location and heritage, many visitors find the experience and the quality of the drinks well worth the cost. It's a chance to step back in time and savor a piece of Turin's culinary heritage. TikTokInstagram

Beyond the Bicerin, these cafes offer a range of other coffee drinks, pastries, and light snacks. They are perfect spots to rest your feet, enjoy a moment of quiet reflection, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere of the piazza. Whether you're seeking a quick espresso or a leisurely afternoon treat, the cafes in Piazza San Carlo offer a quintessential Turin experience. TikTok

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