Guided Tour of the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge

If you are visiting Turin, the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge is an absolute must-see. Just a few kilometres from the city centre, this magnificent residence will transport you back to the golden age of the House of Savoy, offering a unique experience filled with elegance, opulence and intriguing tales. Perfect for art lovers, history enthusiasts or anyone eager to discover an extraordinary place, Stupinigi delights and amazes at every step. Designed in 1729 by architect Filippo Juvarra and requested by Vittorio Amedeo II of Savoy, the Palazzina was conceived as a hunting retreat and leisure residence for the royal family, a refined escape from Turin’s city life.

Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, it is now considered one of the most representative masterpieces and one of the most prestigious Savoy residences in Piedmont. With its vast gardens, the Palazzina was not only the Savoy family’s hunting estate, but also a favourite venue for lavish parties and entertainment. Distinguished guests such as Napoleon Bonaparte and the Tsar of Russia once walked these halls.

The tour begins at the gates of the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge, where you will meet our licensed professional guides, ready to lead you on an enthralling exploration of the estate. From the very first step, you will embark on a true journey through time, discovering the magnificence of the Savoy court.

During the visit, you will explore sumptuously decorated rooms adorned with frescoes, gilded stuccoes and original furnishings, vivid testimonies of royal hunts and courtly life. You will walk through the Central Hall, the beating heart of the residence, and visit the Royal Apartments, private spaces of kings and queens enriched with refined details. Finally, you will stroll through the gardens surrounding the Palazzina—an oasis of beauty and tranquillity that perfectly completes the experience. At the height of its splendour, the Savoy court in Stupinigi was a world filled with traditions, curiosities and fascinating anecdotes. Your guide will reveal hidden stories and little-known secrets, turning the visit into an immersive and unforgettable experience. This is not just a guided tour—it is an emotion that allows you to relive the grandeur of a bygone era.

What to Expect

The Juvarrian Stables

The tour begins at the historic stables, once used to house royal horses and carriages. Despite their practical purpose, Juvarra’s unmistakable style transforms them into a true work of art, enriched with elegant Baroque decorations. Here you will also find the statue of the great deer, the symbol of the Palazzina and a tribute to its original hunting function. Did you know that for a time the stables housed not only horses, but even an elephant?

The Central Hall or Ballroom

Be enchanted by the grandeur of the Central Hall, the focal point of the entire building. Its original oval shape, concave–convex balcony and large windows fill the space with extraordinary light. At its centre hangs an impressive bronze chandelier. During ceremonies, the hall was illuminated by majestic crystal chandeliers and countless candles, creating a truly magical atmosphere. Weddings, grand court ballets and visits by foreign dignitaries all took place here. Every detail—from the decorated ceilings to the exquisite furniture—was designed to celebrate the power and wealth of the Savoy dynasty.

The Royal Apartments

Designed by Filippo Juvarra, the Royal Apartments are made of a series of elegant private rooms once used by members of the royal family and their distinguished guests. These refined interiors are richly decorated with frescoes, original furniture and sumptuous tapestries, many overlooking the gardens. The route leads from the Queen’s Bedroom to the King’s Apartment and the State Rooms, allowing you to breathe in the authentic atmosphere of court life.
Fun fact: one of the rooms is known as the “Napoleon Room”, as Napoleon Bonaparte stayed there during his time in Italy.

Napoleon’s Carriage

During the guided tour, you will admire the magnificent Napoleon’s Carriage, which returned to Stupinigi in 2024 after an extensive restoration. Adorned with the Napoleonic coat of arms on its doors, it symbolises Napoleon’s presence in Italy. This is the carriage that, in 1805, carried Napoleon to Milan for his coronation as King of Italy, with Stupinigi serving as an important stop along the journey. It was here that he stayed with his wife, Josephine.

The Park

To conclude the visit, enjoy a relaxing walk through the splendid French-style gardens surrounding the Palazzina. Along the tree-lined avenues, you can almost hear the echoes of royal carriages and noble promenades. Every corner is designed to impress—from the Italian-style parterre with its perfect symmetry to the wooded areas that recall the close bond with nature and the theme of hunting. A true hidden gem, ready to tell its story and captivate you with its magic.