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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Porticoes of Turin
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Magical ambiance

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.
"The architecture of Piazza Vittorio Veneto is a captivating blend of historical and modern elements."
🚶♀️ 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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
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
Piazza Vittorio Veneto
An iconic neoclassical masterpiece dominating the piazza, offering majestic columns and a symmetrical facade.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Arcades
Piazza Vittorio Veneto's Charm
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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!
✨ Piazza at Night
Piazza Vittorio Veneto is especially charming after dark.
Proposing in Turin
Here for 5 days. What should I do?
☕ Cafe Stops
Plenty of cafes and restaurants line the arcades for a coffee or bite.
🏛️ Architectural Marvels
Admire the blend of 19th-century palaces and the Gran Madre di Dio church.
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!
✨ Piazza at Night
Piazza Vittorio Veneto is especially charming after dark.
☕ Cafe Stops
Plenty of cafes and restaurants line the arcades for a coffee or bite.
🏛️ Architectural Marvels
Admire the blend of 19th-century palaces and the Gran Madre di Dio church.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the porticoes themselves are public spaces and do not require tickets. You can freely walk and explore them at any time.
Piazza Vittorio Veneto is a public square and is free to enter. You can enjoy its architecture and atmosphere without any admission charge.
The porticoes are always accessible, as they are part of the city's infrastructure. You can explore them day or night.
While always accessible, visiting during weekday mornings or late evenings can offer a less crowded experience. Weekend evenings tend to be more popular.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
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).
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.
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.
You'll find a wide variety of shops, from high-end boutiques and bookstores to artisanal shops and cafes, offering a diverse shopping experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
Turin and the Piedmont region are known for their excellent cheeses. Look for restaurants that feature local cheese platters or dishes incorporating regional cheeses.
📸 📸 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.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) provides beautiful light. However, the illuminated piazza at night is also a stunning photographic subject.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grandeur of Turin's Porticoes
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.
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.
Piazza Vittorio Veneto: Turin's Majestic Heart
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.
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.
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