Porticoes of Turin (Historic Arcades) - Image 1
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Porticoes of Turin

4.7
·1k reviews·Torino, Italy

Turin's magnificent porticoes offer miles of covered walkways, connecting grand piazzas and historic streets for an unforgettable, all-weather explora...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Magical ambiance

CrowdMedium
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Porticoes of Turin (Historic Arcades) - Image 1

Porticoes of Turin

Best Time

Evenings

Magical ambiance

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Turin's magnificent porticoes offer miles of covered walkways, connecting grand piazzas and historic streets for an unforgettable, all-weather exploration.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"The architecture of Piazza Vittorio Veneto is a captivating blend of historical and modern elements."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Porticoes

Explore for hours under the covered walkways, perfect for any weather!

✨ Piazza at Night

Piazza Vittorio Veneto is especially charming after dark.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Piazza Vittorio Veneto

Piazza Vittorio Veneto

City Center

Turin's largest arcaded square, a grand meeting point with stunning architecture and views of Gran Madre di Dio church.

Via Po Arcades

Via Po Arcades

Connecting Piazza Castello to Piazza Vittorio Veneto

Stroll for hours under these elegant 19th-century arcades, a perfect escape from the elements.

Gran Madre di Dio Church

Gran Madre di Dio Church

Piazza Vittorio Veneto

An iconic neoclassical masterpiece dominating the piazza, offering majestic columns and a symmetrical facade.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Arcades

Turin's porticoes are a marvel, offering miles of covered walkways. They're perfect for exploring on any day, rain or shine, connecting many key sights and providing a unique urban experience. Plan to walk extensively to truly appreciate their grandeur.

Piazza Vittorio Veneto's Charm

This grand piazza is a central hub, especially beautiful at night. It's a great spot to relax, people-watch, and access other attractions. Be aware it can get busy, particularly on weekend evenings.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Magical ambiance
Crowd
Medium
When
Daytime
Why
Explore architecture
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

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

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Porticoes

Explore for hours under the covered walkways, perfect for any weather! Reddit

✨ Piazza at Night

Piazza Vittorio Veneto is especially charming after dark. Reddit

reddit.com

Proposing in Turin

reddit.com

Here for 5 days. What should I do?

☕ Cafe Stops

Plenty of cafes and restaurants line the arcades for a coffee or bite. Reddit

🏛️ Architectural Marvels

Admire the blend of 19th-century palaces and the Gran Madre di Dio church. Reddit

reddit.com

Those who has been to Torino, answer please!

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Porticoes

Explore for hours under the covered walkways, perfect for any weather! Reddit

✨ Piazza at Night

Piazza Vittorio Veneto is especially charming after dark. Reddit

☕ Cafe Stops

Plenty of cafes and restaurants line the arcades for a coffee or bite. Reddit

🏛️ Architectural Marvels

Admire the blend of 19th-century palaces and the Gran Madre di Dio church. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the architectural beauty and the unique experience of exploring Turin's extensive porticoes, especially Piazza Vittorio Veneto, which is described as grand and charming, particularly at night. The convenience of covered walkways for all weather conditions is a major plus. Some find the piazza can get crowded on weekend evenings.

"Definitely this is one of the most beautiful squares you can find in Turin. It is not the most famous one, but it is the biggest one though! During night it is more charming, but it is still worth a visit during the day as well!"

Andrea Nori

"The architecture of Piazza Vittorio Veneto in Turin, Italy, is a captivating blend of historical and modern elements. The square is one of the largest in Europe and is surrounded by impressive buildings that showcase various architectural styles.

At its center stands the magnificent Gran Madre di Dio church, an iconic neoclassical masterpiece designed by Ferdinando Bonsignore. The church's majestic columns and symmetrical facade give it a sense of grandeur and elegance, making it a prominent landmark in the square.

As you walk around the piazza, you'll encounter a mix of elegant palaces and buildings, each reflecting the architectural trends of their respective eras. From the 19th-century Palazzo del Senato to the eclectic Palazzo Barolo, the diversity of styles adds to the square's allure.

One of the most notable features of the Piazza Vittorio Veneto is the splendid arcades that line its perimeter. These arcades, a product of the 19th-century urban development plans, provide shelter from the elements and create a charming pedestrian-friendly space.

Moreover, the square's well-maintained gardens and green spaces offer a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city life, making it an inviting spot for both locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Overall, Piazza Vittorio Veneto's architecture is a harmonious tapestry of historical and contemporary design that captures the essence of Turin's rich heritage and modern vitality, making it a must-visit destination for architecture enthusiasts and travelers alike."

Pezhman Rajabimehr

"Piazza Vittorio Square is the city square in Torino. Large place surrounded by shops, cafe and restaurant!"

Frédéric Borgognon

What People Like

Extensive porticoes
Grand Piazza Vittorio Veneto
Beautiful architecture

What People Dislike

Crowded weekend evenings

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Turin's porticoes and major piazzas like Piazza Vittorio Veneto are easily accessible. Many bus and tram lines stop directly at the square. There's also a paid underground car park, though it fills up quickly on weekend evenings. Walking is also a great way to explore the interconnected arcaded streets. Reddit

Yes, Turin's city center is very walkable, especially with the extensive network of porticoes. You can easily connect major attractions like Piazza Castello and Piazza Vittorio Veneto without needing public transport. Reddit

Several bus and tram lines serve Piazza Vittorio Veneto, making it a convenient hub. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date routes and times. Reddit

Turin's main train station, Torino Porta Nuova, is within walking distance of the city center's arcaded areas. From there, you can easily stroll or take a short tram ride to reach the porticoes. Reddit

Street parking can be challenging and is often paid. The underground car park at Piazza Vittorio Veneto is an option, but it's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as it fills up quickly. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the porticoes themselves are public spaces and do not require tickets. You can freely walk and explore them at any time. Reddit

Piazza Vittorio Veneto is a public square and is free to enter. You can enjoy its architecture and atmosphere without any admission charge. Reddit

The porticoes are always accessible, as they are part of the city's infrastructure. You can explore them day or night. Reddit

While always accessible, visiting during weekday mornings or late evenings can offer a less crowded experience. Weekend evenings tend to be more popular. Reddit

While not always advertised, local tour operators may offer guided walking tours that include the porticoes and their history. It's worth checking local tourism websites. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The porticoes offer a unique way to explore Turin's historic center, connecting numerous shops, cafes, restaurants, and significant landmarks like Piazza Castello and Piazza Vittorio Veneto. They provide shelter and a charming atmosphere for leisurely strolls. Reddit

Key attractions include Piazza Vittorio Veneto with the Gran Madre di Dio church, Piazza Castello with the Royal Palace and Palazzo Madama, and the Mole Antonelliana (home to the National Cinema Museum). Reddit

Absolutely! During the day, you can appreciate the architecture and surrounding buildings. At night, the piazza is particularly charming with its lights and vibrant atmosphere. Reddit

Generally, the porticoes provide a smooth, level surface, making them quite accessible. However, some older buildings or specific sections might have minor steps or uneven paving. Reddit

You'll find a wide variety of shops, from high-end boutiques and bookstores to artisanal shops and cafes, offering a diverse shopping experience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The arcades of Piazza Vittorio Veneto and Via Po are lined with numerous cafes and restaurants offering local Piedmontese cuisine, aperitivo, and more. You can find options for every budget. Reddit

Yes, Piazza Vittorio Veneto is a popular spot for aperitivo, with many bars and cafes offering drinks and accompanying snacks. It's a classic Turin experience. Reddit

Don't miss trying 'Bagna Cauda' (a warm garlic and anchovy dip), 'Agnolotti del Plin' (small stuffed pasta), and of course, delicious Piedmontese wines. Turin is also famous for its chocolate. Reddit

While some restaurants can be upscale, you can find more affordable options like pizzerias, sandwich shops, and cafes offering lighter meals. Look for places slightly off the main squares for better prices. Reddit

Turin and the Piedmont region are known for their excellent cheeses. Look for restaurants that feature local cheese platters or dishes incorporating regional cheeses. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The arcades themselves offer beautiful leading lines. Capture the grandeur of Piazza Vittorio Veneto, especially the Gran Madre di Dio church, and the architectural details of the palaces lining Via Po. Reddit

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) provides beautiful light. However, the illuminated piazza at night is also a stunning photographic subject. Reddit

The symmetry of the piazza, the imposing church, and the reflections in puddles after rain can create dramatic shots. The view down Via Po towards Piazza Castello is also iconic. Reddit

You'll likely need to adjust for lower light conditions. Consider a wider aperture to capture architectural details and a tripod for sharper night shots. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas, especially around historical sites and public squares. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Turin's porticoes are a dream for families with children! The covered walkways mean you can explore without worrying about weather, keeping little ones happy and dry (or shaded). Piazza Vittorio Veneto is a vast, open space where kids can safely run around, and the impressive Gran Madre di Dio church offers a sense of wonder. Consider a visit to the Museo Egizio or the Museo Nazionale del Cinema (located within the Mole Antonelliana, accessible via the porticoes) for engaging indoor activities. Reddit

Many cafes along the porticoes offer kid-friendly snacks and gelato. The sheer scale of the piazzas can be exciting for children, and the lack of immediate car traffic within the arcaded streets provides an added layer of safety. Pack comfortable shoes, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking, and perhaps a small ball for some fun in the open spaces of the larger squares. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Turin's porticoes are a fantastic free attraction! You can spend hours exploring the city's architecture and atmosphere without spending a euro. Piazza Vittorio Veneto is a perfect spot for a picnic lunch, or you can grab affordable pastries and coffee from local bakeries tucked away in the arcades. Reddit

Look for 'aperitivo' deals in the early evening, where a drink often comes with a generous spread of snacks, making it a cost-effective light dinner. While some restaurants can be pricey, many smaller trattorias and pizzerias offer delicious and budget-friendly meals. Utilize public transport or simply enjoy walking to save on transportation costs. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Grandeur of Turin's Porticoes

Turin is renowned for its extensive network of porticoes, covering over 18 kilometers of its city center. These covered walkways, a defining feature of Turin's urban landscape, were largely constructed in the 19th century as part of ambitious urban development plans. They not only provide shelter from the elements, making it a joy to explore the city in any weather, but also create a unique and elegant pedestrian experience. Walking beneath these arcades feels like stepping back in time, with each archway revealing new perspectives of the city's architecture. Reddit

The porticoes connect many of Turin's most important squares and streets, including the grand Via Po, which links Piazza Castello to Piazza Vittorio Veneto. This seamless integration makes it easy to navigate the city and discover its hidden gems. Many shops, cafes, and restaurants are nestled within these arcades, inviting visitors to pause and soak in the atmosphere. The architectural styles vary, reflecting different periods of construction, but all contribute to the city's distinctive charm. Reddit

For visitors, the porticoes offer a practical and aesthetic advantage. They allow for extended periods of exploration without the worry of rain or harsh sun. The consistent visual rhythm of the arches creates a sense of order and beauty, making even a simple walk a memorable experience. It's a feature that truly sets Turin apart and is a must-experience for any traveler. Reddit

Piazza Vittorio Veneto: Turin's Majestic Heart

Piazza Vittorio Veneto stands as one of Turin's largest and most impressive squares, a true testament to the city's grandeur. Situated at the eastern end of Via Po, it opens up to offer breathtaking views, most notably of the magnificent Gran Madre di Dio church that anchors its far side. This neoclassical masterpiece, designed by Ferdinando Bonsignore, is an iconic landmark, its imposing facade and columns a striking sight against the sky. Reddit

The square itself is a vast expanse, surrounded by elegant 19th-century palaces that showcase a blend of architectural styles. These buildings, along with the arcades that line the perimeter, create a sense of enclosure and grandeur. During the day, it's a vibrant hub for locals and tourists alike, with numerous cafes and restaurants offering outdoor seating perfect for people-watching. However, many visitors note that the piazza truly comes alive at night, bathed in a warm, inviting light that enhances its charm and romantic appeal. Reddit

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Piazza Vittorio Veneto is a significant meeting point and a gateway to other attractions. Its size and central location make it a convenient starting point for exploring the city. The presence of an underground car park adds to its accessibility, though it's wise to be aware of its popularity, especially on weekend evenings. The combination of historical architecture, lively atmosphere, and stunning views makes it an unforgettable part of the Turin experience. Reddit

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