Piazza San Carlo in Turin, Italy is one of the most beautiful and vibrant public squares in the country. Located in the heart of the city, the piazza is a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re looking for a spot to relax and people watch, or a place to explore the city’s rich history, Piazza San Carlo has something for everyone. Here are 10 things to do in Piazza San Carlo.
1. Visit the Church of San Carlo: Located on the east side of the piazza, the Church of San Carlo is one of the most important landmarks in Turin. Built in the late 17th century, the baroque-style church is dedicated to the patron saint of Turin, San Carlo Borromeo. The interior of the church is filled with beautiful works of art, including a painting of the saint himself.
2. Shop at the Galleria Subalpina: Located on the north side of the piazza, the Galleria Subalpina is one of the oldest shopping arcades in Italy. Built in the late 19th century, the arcade is home to a variety of shops and restaurants. Here you can find everything from designer clothing to traditional Italian food.
3. Explore the Teatro Regio: Located on the west side of the piazza, the Teatro Regio is one of the most important opera houses in Italy. Built in the late 19th century, the theater is home to the Teatro Regio Orchestra and the Turin Ballet. The theater also hosts a variety of other performances, including plays, concerts, and opera.
4. Enjoy a Coffee at Caffè Torino: Located on the south side of the piazza, Caffè Torino is one of the oldest and most popular coffee shops in Turin. Founded in 1867, the café is known for its delicious cappuccinos and pastries.
5. Visit the Palazzo Reale: Located on the east side of the piazza, the Palazzo Reale is one of the most beautiful palaces in Turin. Built in the late 16th century, the palace is home to the Royal House of Savoy and is filled with works of art and antiques.
6. Take a Stroll Through the Giardino Reale: Located on the north side of the piazza, the Giardino Reale is one of the most beautiful parks in Turin. Built in the late 19th century, the park is filled with lush gardens, fountains, and statues.
7. Explore the Museo Egizio: Located on the west side of the piazza, the Museo Egizio is one of the most important museums in Italy. Founded in 1824, the museum is home to a variety of artifacts from ancient Egypt, including mummies, statues, and jewelry.
8. Visit the Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile: Located on the south side of the piazza, the Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile is one of the most popular museums in Turin. Founded in 1932, the museum is home to a variety of cars from different eras, as well as other automotive artifacts.
9. Take a Tour of the Mole Antonelliana: Located on the east side of the piazza, the Mole Antonelliana is one of the most iconic landmarks in Turin. Built in the late 19th century, the tower is home to the National Museum of Cinema and offers stunning views of the city.
10. Enjoy the Views of the Alps: Located on the north side of the piazza, the Alps provide a stunning backdrop to the piazza. From the piazza, you can enjoy views of the snow-capped peaks and lush valleys of the Italian Alps.
Whether you’re looking for a place to relax, explore, or shop, Piazza San Carlo in Turin, Italy has something for everyone. From the Church of San Carlo to the Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile, the piazza is filled with a variety of attractions that will keep you entertained for hours.