Royal Palace of Turin
Useful tips and everything you need to know before you visit
The Royal Palace of Turin (it. Palazzo Reale di Torino) is one of the city’s most notable landmarks.
Originally built for the House of Savoy, it became the heart of royal life in Turin, with stunning and opulent interiors, elegant gardens, and an extensive collection of art and historical artifacts.
For at least two centuries, the Royal Palace in Turin was the Savoy’s seat of power. Today, it’s a series of museums and one of the best-preserved historical royal residences in Europe.
I’d had it on my must-see list for ages, and when I finally visited, it was absolutely worth it! Even if history or art isn’t your thing, the Royal Palace will impress you.
Read on for a detailed look at its highlights, tips for visiting, and everything you need to know before you go.
Main Attractions Inside the Royal Palace of Turin
The Royal Palace combines several highlights and museums within its walls. You could visit each of the Musei Reali di Torino areas separately, but I recommend exploring them all as they are all included in the ticket price.
The Royal Armoury / Armeria Reale
The Royal Armoury holds one of Europe’s finest collections of arms and armour, with over 5000 items.
Dating back to the 16th century, it houses intricate swords, firearms, and suits of armour, giving you a glimpse into the military grandeur of the Savoy dynasty.
Exhibits and Collections: The collection includes historical armour from across Europe, ornate weapons, and unique artifacts from as far as Japan. The display is extensive and even includes items used in ceremonial events.
Historical Insights: Many of these items highlight the prestige and influence of the House of Savoy and showcase the evolution of military art and craftsmanship.
The Royal Apartments
The Royal Apartments are the epitome of luxury. I hadn’t seen so much pomp, splendor, and glamour anywhere for a long time!
These rooms once hosted the Savoy royal family and are filled with extravagant décor, grand chandeliers, and priceless furnishings.
Decorative Details: Each room is lavishly adorned, featuring gilded walls, fine tapestries, and ornate furnishings. The Throne Room and the Ballroom are particularly impressive, both showcasing the grand lifestyle of Turin’s royal residents.
Art and Architecture: The Royal Apartments also house an extensive art collection, with paintings, sculptures, and rare artifacts spanning several centuries.
Chapel of the Holy Shroud
Attached to the Royal Palace is the Chapel of the Holy Shroud, designed to house the famous Shroud of Turin.
Although the Shroud itself is no longer here, the chapel’s architecture is beautiful and impressive and well worth a look.
Why It’s Special: The black marble and the impressive dome make it one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Turin.
The Savoy Gallery
Also known as the Galleria Sabauda, this part of the royal palace must be heaven for art lovers. On several floors you will find a rich collection of European paintings from the 14th to the 18th century.
The Gallery holds masterpieces by renowned artists, including works by Van Dyck, Rubens, and Brueghel, making it one of Italy’s most impressive art collections.
Must-See Pieces: Some highlights include Flemish and Dutch paintings, as well as Italian Renaissance works that were part of the Savoy family’s private collection.
The Archaeological Museum
The Archaeological Museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from prehistoric to Roman times, all found within the Piedmont region.
It offers insight into the area’s ancient civilizations, including the Romans, and features objects such as pottery, sculptures, and tools from daily life in ancient Italy.
Highlights: Some standout pieces include Roman statues, intricate mosaics, and artifacts from ancient burial sites. The museum also holds a collection of Greek ceramics and Etruscan artifacts.
Gardens of the Royal Palace
The palace gardens are a peaceful spot in the heart of the city and free to enter. They were designed in the late 17th century by André Le Notre, the landscape designer of Versailles.
Relaxation and Views: The gardens, with its neat paths, fountains, and statues, offer a perfect break after exploring indoors. They are ideal for a leisurely stroll, and the views of the palace from the garden add to the experience.
Tips for Visiting the Royal Palace of Turin
Pre-booking your Ticket
I recommend purchasing your ticket online in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Pre-booking allows you to skip the line at the entrance and start exploring without delay.
⇨ Online Ticket for a self-guided Tour on the official Website
⇨ Online Ticket for a guided small group Tour
Punctuality
When you book tickets, you’ll be asked to select a specific entry time. Make sure to arrive on time, as your entry may not be guaranteed if you’re late.
Best Times to Visit
- Weekdays Over Weekends: If possible, visit during the weekdays, when it is generally less crowded compared to weekends.
- Early Morning or Late Afternoon: To avoid the busiest times, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon. This can help you enjoy the royal palace and different museums with fewer crowds.
How to visit the Royal Palace? In which order and what to expect?
There isn’t much choice about where to start or end your visit at the Royal Palace, as there’s a set route that guides you through each area.
You’ll walk up the grand staircase to the first floor and begin with the Royal Apartments, then move into the impressive Armoury. On the way to the Savoy Gallery and the Archeological Museum, you’ll naturally pass by the Chapel of the Holy Shroud.
From the Archeological Museum, you can access the gardens, but I’d suggest saving them for last, since they’re open to the public. Once you exit into the gardens, I am not sure if you are allowed to re-enter into the palace.
The nice part is that you’re free to revisit any area you’ve already seen and head back to where you started.
Since the route doesn’t form a full loop, plan your time accordingly to make sure you see each area before moving to the gardens.
How Much Time to Plan
Set aside at least 2–3 hours to really enjoy the Royal Palace. If you are very interested in Art, allow rather 4-5 hours. This gives you time to see the armoury, wander through the royal rooms and the Gallery Sabauda, and have a stroll in the gardens without rushing.
Opening Hours & Ticket Prices
Opening Times: Daily, except Monday, from 9am – 7pm
Price: €15.00 per Person
⇨ Online Ticket for a self-guided Tour on the official Website
⇨ Online Ticket for a guided small group Tour
⇨ Turin+Piemonte Card owners get free admission
What’s included in the Ticket: Entrance to the Royal Museums of Turin with access to the following routes: Royal Palace, Royal Armoury, Chapel of the Holy Shroud, Sabauda Gallery, Museum of Antiquities Turin section with exit from the gallery atrium towards the Royal Gardens.
What’s excluded in the Ticket: Entrance to the Royal Library and to the Chiablese Halls
Good to know: Some rooms in the Royal Palace are only open for special guided tours, advertised on the official website and requiring a separate ticket.
These include the Apartments of King Victor Emmanuel III and Queen Elena, the 19th-century royal kitchens, the Apartment of the Foreign Princes, and the Wedding Apartments of the Princes of Piedmont and Dukes of Aosta.
The Royal Library
The Royal Library is located outside the palace gates on Piazza Castello, opposite the Palazzo Madame (⇨ Location) and therefore not part of any guided tour.
It is free to enter and you will only need a few minutes, but those are absolutely worth it.
The Biblioteca Reale holds a remarkable collection of over 200,000 volumes, rare manuscripts, and historic prints.
Established by King Charles Albert in the 1830s, the library is famous for the original works by Leonardo da Vinci, including his famous Self-Portrait.
Highlights: The library’s collection spans centuries, with texts ranging from medieval manuscripts to Renaissance and Enlightenment works.
Some Interesting Facts on the Palace History and Architecture
Originally built in the 16th century, the Royal Palace of Turin was commissioned by Duke Emmanuel Philibert as a new seat of power for the House of Savoy after moving the capital to Turin.
Interesting: The Royal Palace wasn’t just a residence; it symbolized the political influence and wealth of the Savoy dynasty.
The palace saw several expansions and updates over the centuries, reflecting the evolving tastes and ambitions of different rulers.
In the 17th century, Queen Christina commissioned Baroque elements, including the Chapel of the Holy Shroud, designed by the celebrated architect Guarino Guarini.
During the 18th century, the palace received a Neoclassical update by architect Filippo Juvarra, who added grand staircases and new wings, giving it much of the elegance seen today.
With the unification of Italy in 1861, the palace became a symbol of Italian unity. Although it was no longer a royal residence, the palace was preserved as a national monument.
The legacy of the Royal House of Savoy is deeply tied to figures like Victor Amadeus II, who laid the groundwork for Savoy’s rise, and Vittorio Emanuele II, who would later fulfill this legacy by becoming the first King of a united Italy.
Together with 21 other royal residences and palaces like the Reggia di Venaria Reale and Racconigi Castle, the Royal Palace was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, marking it as one of Italy’s most important cultural landmarks.
⇨ Address: Piazzetta Reale, 1, 10122 Torino TO, Italy
Conclusion
Like the Mole Antonelliana, the Royal Palace of Turin is a must-see for anyone exploring the city, not only on rainy days. It’s one of the top reasons why Turin is worth visiting!
With its mix of history, art, and incredible architecture, it offers a unique glimpse into the grandeur of Italy’s royal past.
Even if you’re not a huge history enthusiast or art fan, this place is absolutely fantastic and well worth the money. I’m so glad I finally visited, and I’m sure you’ll find it just as unforgettable!
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