Piazza Carlo Alberto
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Piazza Carlo Alberto

4.6
·491k reviews·Torino, Italy

A grand Baroque piazza in Turin, home to Palazzo Carignano and historic cafes, best experienced during its lively evenings.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour light on buildings

CrowdMedium
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Piazza Carlo Alberto

Piazza Carlo Alberto

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour light on buildings

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A grand Baroque piazza in Turin, home to Palazzo Carignano and historic cafes, best experienced during its lively evenings.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Piazza Carlo Alberto is a must-visit for its stunning architecture and vibrant evening atmosphere, especially for the iconic Bicerin!"

Vertical photo
TIP

☕ Try the Bicerin

Don't leave without tasting the iconic 'bicerin' at Café Mulassano! It's a unique Turin specialty.

🚶‍♀️ Evening Stroll

The piazza is magical at night. Enjoy a leisurely 'passeggiata' and soak in the ambiance.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Palazzo Carignano

Palazzo Carignano

North side of the piazza

A stunning Baroque masterpiece, once a royal residence and now a museum. Its ornate facade is a sight to behold.

Royal Library of Turin

Royal Library of Turin

Adjacent to Palazzo Carignano

Home to Leonardo da Vinci's self-portrait and a treasure trove of art and manuscripts.

Café Mulassano

Café Mulassano

South side of the piazza

A historic café, famous for inventing the 'bicerin,' a layered coffee and chocolate drink.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Piazza Carlo Alberto is a vibrant hub, especially lively in the evenings. Aim for a late afternoon or early evening visit to soak in the atmosphere as locals gather. Consider a passeggiata (stroll) to truly appreciate its charm.

Evening Enchantment

This piazza truly comes alive after sunset. The illuminated buildings and bustling cafes create a magical ambiance. It's the perfect spot for an aperitivo or a leisurely dinner, offering a quintessential Turin experience.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light on buildings
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, aperitivo
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Any tips for first trip to Turin?

☕ Try the Bicerin

Don't leave without tasting the iconic 'bicerin' at Café Mulassano! It's a unique Turin specialty. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Evening Stroll

The piazza is magical at night. Enjoy a leisurely 'passeggiata' and soak in the ambiance. Reddit

reddit.com

Those who has been to Torino, answer please!

reddit.com

Here for 5 days. What should I do?

🏛️ Admire Palazzo Carignano

The architecture of Palazzo Carignano is breathtaking, especially when lit up at night. Reddit

reddit.com

Where to buy proper Italian coffee

Tips

from all over the internet

☕ Try the Bicerin

Don't leave without tasting the iconic 'bicerin' at Café Mulassano! It's a unique Turin specialty. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Evening Stroll

The piazza is magical at night. Enjoy a leisurely 'passeggiata' and soak in the ambiance. Reddit

🏛️ Admire Palazzo Carignano

The architecture of Palazzo Carignano is breathtaking, especially when lit up at night. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Piazza Carlo Alberto is celebrated for its stunning architecture, particularly Palazzo Carignano, and its vibrant evening atmosphere. Visitors rave about the historic cafes, especially Café Mulassano and its iconic 'bicerin' drink. It's a central, beautiful square perfect for soaking in Turin's elegant charm.

What People Like

Beautiful architecture
Lively evening ambiance
Historic cafes

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Piazza Carlo Alberto is centrally located in Turin and easily accessible. You can reach it by walking from many popular areas like Piazza San Carlo or the Mole Antonelliana. Several bus and tram lines also stop nearby, making it convenient for visitors using public transport. Reddit

Street parking can be challenging in this central area. It's recommended to use one of the nearby underground parking garages, such as the one under Piazza Castello or Piazza San Carlo, and then walk to the piazza. Reddit

Yes, from Torino Porta Nuova station, it's a pleasant walk of about 15-20 minutes to Piazza Carlo Alberto. The route is straightforward and allows you to see more of the city. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Piazza Carlo Alberto itself is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time. Access to attractions within the piazza, like Palazzo Carignano, may require tickets. Reddit

As a public square, Piazza Carlo Alberto is always open. However, the shops, cafes, and museums surrounding it have their own operating hours, which typically extend into the evening. Reddit

It's advisable to check the official website for Palazzo Carignano for current ticketing information. Booking in advance can save time, especially during peak tourist seasons. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can admire the stunning architecture of Palazzo Carignano, visit the Royal Library, enjoy a traditional 'bicerin' at Café Mulassano, or simply relax at one of the many outdoor cafes and people-watch. Reddit

Absolutely! The elegant architecture, especially Palazzo Carignano, and the lively atmosphere make it a fantastic spot for photography, particularly during the golden hour and at night when illuminated. Reddit

While there aren't specific tours for the piazza itself, you can find guided tours of Turin that often include stops at Piazza Carlo Alberto and its surrounding historical buildings like Palazzo Carignano. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The piazza is lined with cafes and restaurants. For a historic experience, try Café Mulassano for their 'bicerin.' You'll also find trattorias and pizzerias offering local Piedmontese cuisine. Reddit

Bicerin is a traditional Turin drink made with layers of espresso, chocolate, and cream, served in a small glass. It's a rich and decadent treat, a must-try when visiting the piazza. Reddit

Yes, the piazza and its surrounding streets are perfect for aperitivo. Many bars and cafes offer a drink with a selection of snacks and small bites, especially in the early evening. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Piazza Carlo Alberto offers a pleasant environment for families. While the historical sites like Palazzo Carignano might be more engaging for older children interested in history, the open space of the piazza itself is great for a stroll. Café Mulassano is a fun stop for kids to try a unique chocolatey drink, though it's quite rich. Consider a visit during the day when it's less crowded, allowing children more room to move. Reddit

For a more interactive experience, look into family-friendly tours of Turin that might incorporate the piazza. The key is to balance the historical appreciation with moments of relaxation, perhaps with gelato from a nearby shop. The overall atmosphere is generally safe and welcoming for families exploring the city.

couples

Piazza Carlo Alberto provides a romantic backdrop, especially in the evening. Enjoy a leisurely aperitivo at one of the many cafes lining the square, watching the world go by. The illuminated Palazzo Carignano creates a magical ambiance for a post-dinner stroll. Reddit

Consider a visit to the Royal Library for a touch of culture, or simply find a quiet bench to enjoy each other's company. The historic charm of the piazza makes it an ideal spot for a memorable evening in Turin.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Grandeur of Palazzo Carignano

Dominating the north side of Piazza Carlo Alberto is the magnificent Palazzo Carignano. This Baroque architectural gem, designed by Guarino Guarini, is not just a beautiful facade; it was the birthplace of the first King of Italy, Victor Emmanuel II, and later served as the seat of the Italian Parliament. Its undulating, convex-concave facade is a signature of Guarini's innovative style, making it a standout landmark in Turin. Visitors can explore its opulent interiors, which now house the National Museum of the Risorgimento, offering a deep dive into Italy's unification. The sheer scale and intricate detailing of the palace are truly awe-inspiring, a testament to the Savoyard dynasty's power and artistic patronage. Reddit

Experiencing the Palazzo Carignano is like stepping back in time. The grandeur of the state rooms, the historical significance of the parliamentary chambers, and the artistic treasures within provide a rich cultural experience. Many visitors are particularly struck by the sense of history that permeates the building, imagining the pivotal moments that unfolded within its walls. It’s a place where history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike can find plenty to marvel at, making it a key reason to visit Piazza Carlo Alberto. Reddit

A Taste of Turin: The Bicerin Tradition

No visit to Piazza Carlo Alberto is complete without experiencing the bicerin, a unique and beloved Turin specialty. This iconic drink, traditionally served at Café Mulassano on the south side of the piazza, is a delightful concoction of espresso, hot chocolate, and cream, layered elegantly in a small glass. The name 'bicerin' comes from the Piedmontese dialect word for 'small glass.' It’s more than just a beverage; it’s a ritual, a moment of indulgence that has been savored by Turinese for centuries. Reddit

Café Mulassano, established in 1875, is the historic home of the bicerin, and visiting it offers a glimpse into Turin's rich café culture. The experience of sipping the rich, layered drink, often accompanied by a small glass of water to cleanse the palate between sips, is a sensory delight. Many visitors find the combination of coffee, chocolate, and cream to be the perfect pick-me-up, especially on a cooler day. It’s a simple yet profound pleasure that connects you directly to the city’s culinary heritage. Reddit

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