Turin: Stupinigi Palace UNESCO Site Guided Historical Tour

Nestled just outside the bustling city of Turin, the Stupinigi Palace stands as a stunning example of Baroque architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage Site invites visitors on a captivating historical tour, where they’ll uncover the palace’s fascinating past as a hunting lodge for the Savoy family. From the opulent Central Hall to the lavish Royal Apartments, the guided experience promises to transport guests back in time, immersing them in the grandeur and intrigues that once filled these hallowed halls. For those eager to delve deeper into this architectural gem and uncover its hidden stories, the tour promises an enlightening journey.

Key Points

• Guided historical tour of Stupinigi Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a glimpse into the Savoy family’s hunting lodge and its opulent Baroque-Rococo architecture.
• Tour available in multiple languages and in small group or private formats, with wheelchair accessibility for visitors with mobility needs.
• Explore the grandeur of the Central Hall, the lavish Royal Apartments, and learn about the palace’s evolution from a hunting lodge to a significant Savoy residence.
• Discover the palace’s remarkable collection of luxurious furnishings, unique masterpieces, and historical artifacts, including hunting trophies and ceremonial weaponry.
• Flexible booking process with online reservation and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The guided historical tour of Stupinigi Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lasts approximately 1.5 hours and is available in Italian, English, French, German, and Spanish.

The tours are offered in small groups of up to 10 participants or as private tours. The palace is wheelchair accessible, making it a suitable destination for visitors with mobility needs.

Prices for the tour start from $98.30 per person. Visitors can reserve their spot and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Booking Information

To reserve a spot on the guided tour of Stupinigi Palace, visitors can book their tour online without making any upfront payment.

The booking process is straightforward:

1. Select the desired tour date and time.

2. Provide the required personal information.

3. Enjoy a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

4. Meet the guide at the main entrance of the palace, identifiable by the "Italy Hidden Experiences" signboard.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all guests.

Explore the Central Hall and Royal Apartments

Entering the Central Hall, visitors are immediately struck by the grandeur and opulence that defined the Savoy family’s hunting lodge.

Ornate ceilings, gilded furnishings, and majestic chandeliers create an awe-inspiring atmosphere.

The tour then leads guests through the lavish Royal Apartments, showcasing the Savoy family’s extravagant tastes.

Highlights include the palatial Throne Room and the King’s Bedroom, adorned with detailed frescoes and lavish decor.

Throughout the tour, the guide provides insightful commentary on the palace’s history and significance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering visitors a glimpse into the privileged lives of the Savoy dynasty.

The Palace’s History as a Hunting Lodge

In 1729, renowned architect Filippo Juvarra designed Stupinigi Palace as a hunting lodge for the Savoy royal family.

Renowned architect Filippo Juvarra designed Stupinigi Palace in 1729 as a hunting lodge for the Savoy royal family.

The palace served as:

1. A place for the Savoy rulers to host lavish hunting parties and entertain guests.

2. A retreat from the formality of Turin, with its picturesque setting and spacious grounds.

3. A showcase of Juvarra’s exceptional skill, blending Baroque and Rococo styles.

4. A symbol of the Savoy dynasty‘s power and influence, as they expanded their territory.

Over the centuries, Stupinigi Palace has evolved from a hunting lodge to a significant residence for the Savoy family and Napoleon.

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The Savoy Family and Napoleon’s Connections

After serving as a hunting lodge for the Savoy royal family, Stupinigi Palace later became a significant residence for them and even Napoleon.

The Savoy family, who ruled the Kingdom of Sardinia, frequently used the palace as a summer retreat. Napoleon also stayed at the palace during his Italian campaigns in the early 19th century.

Today, visitors can explore the palace’s luxurious Royal Apartments and admire the preserved furnishings and masterpieces that reflect the palace’s royal heritage.

The guided tour provides insight into this important period of the palace’s history under the Savoy family and Napoleon.

Luxurious Furnishings and Museum Masterpieces

Stupinigi Palace boasts a remarkable collection of luxurious furnishings and unique masterpieces that visitors can admire during the guided tour.

The tour highlights include:

Elaborately decorated royal apartments, impressive porcelain collections, stunning frescoes, and a museum of historical artifacts.

1. Elaborately decorated royal apartments with ornate tapestries, chandeliers, and gilded furniture that reflect the opulent lifestyle of the Savoy dynasty.

2. Impressive porcelain and ceramic collections, including rare Chinese and European pieces that were prized by the aristocracy.

3. Stunning frescoes and paintings by renowned Italian artists that adorn the walls and ceilings of the palace’s grand halls.

4. A museum showcasing a diverse array of historical artifacts, from hunting trophies to ceremonial weaponry.

Tour Inclusions

The guided tour of Stupinigi Palace includes the entry tickets, a licensed guide, and optional tips.

The tour doesn’t cover food, drinks, or hotel pick-up/drop-off. Visitors can explore the Central Hall and Royal Apartments, learning about the palace’s history as a hunting lodge built in 1729 by Filippo Juvarra.

They’ll discover its significance as a Savoy family residence and Napoleon’s time there. The tour provides an opportunity to admire the preserved luxurious furnishings and unique masterpieces in the museum.

With a small group size or private options, the guided experience promises an informative and immersive visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Customer Feedback

What do reviewers say about the guided tour of Stupinigi Palace? Guests have awarded the tour an impressive 4.7/5 rating based on 6 reviews.

The positive feedback highlights several key strengths:

1. Knowledgeable guides who provide insightful information about the palace’s history and significance.

2. Well-structured tours that cover the highlights, including the Central Hall and Royal Apartments.

3. A pleasant overall experience exploring the UNESCO-listed Stupinigi Palace.

4. The small group size creates an intimate and personalized atmosphere.

Consistently, reviewers emphasize the tour’s ability to bring the palace’s rich history to life in an engaging and informative manner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, food and drinks are not included in the tour. The tour only covers entry tickets, a licensed guided tour, and tips (optional). Participants would need to bring their own food and drinks if they wish to consume them during the tour.

Is There a Dress Code for the Palace Tour?

There’s no formal dress code for the Stupinigi Palace tour, but visitors should dress respectfully. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The palace is climate-controlled, so light, weather-appropriate attire is generally suitable.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Price?

There are no additional fees or taxes not included in the price of the tour. The price of $98.30 per person covers the entry tickets and guided tour. Other optional expenses like food, drinks, and transportation are not included.

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Yes, visitors can take photographs during the tour. The tour allows participants to freely photograph the palace’s interiors and exteriors, except in any areas where photography is prohibited for preservation reasons as indicated by the guide.

How Far in Advance Should I Book the Tour?

You can reserve the tour in advance without any upfront payment. However, it’s recommended to book at least 24 hours ahead to ensure availability, as the tour group size is limited to a maximum of 10 participants.

The Sum Up

This guided tour of Stupinigi Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a captivating glimpse into the opulent history of the Savoy family’s hunting lodge. Visitors can explore the grand Central Hall, lavish Royal Apartments, and learn about the palace’s rich past, all while surrounded by stunning frescoes and luxurious furnishings. An intimate small group or private setting ensures an immersive and informative experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: