Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in !

Via Po

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of Turin"s Via Po

Embark on an enchanting journey along Turin"s historic Via Po, a prime example of baroque charm, all easily accessible for those in wheelchairs or on mobile scooters. Begin your adventure at Piazza Castello, the heart of Turin, where trams and buses equipped with ramps provide convenient access (check GTT"s website for accessible routes).

Morning Stroll and Mole Antonelliana

Start your morning with a leisurely roll down the majestic Via Po, famous for its covered arcades which offer protection from the elements and easy navigation. The flat surfaces here are perfect for wheelchairs. Make your way towards the iconic Mole Antonelliana. While the inside is accessible, with an elevator taking visitors to the panoramic lift, the real charm lies in admiring its imposing structure from below, set against the Alpine skyline.

Lunch at Caffè Fiorio

Around midday, treat yourself to a delightful lunch at the historic Caffè Fiorio, which dates back to 1780. Known for being a meeting spot of intellectuals, it is wheelchair accessible. Try their renowned Gianduiotto gelato, a nod to Turin"s chocolate heritage.

Afternoon Delights: Museo Nazionale del Cinema and Shopping

Post-lunch, consider a visit inside the Mole Antonelliana, now home to the Museo Nazionale del Cinema. The museum"s interior is fully accessible, providing an immersive experience into the world of film. Later, continue your journey down Via Po, browsing through shops and boutiques under the arches. Many have step-free access, ensuring you don"t miss out on any Italian fashion finds.

Evening by the River Po

Conclude your day at the eastern end of Via Po, rolling down to the banks of the River Po. The riverside is equipped with smooth pathways, offering serene views and a perfect spot to watch the sunset. Accessible public transport or taxis can be easily hailed for your return.

Enjoy Via Po through this tailored, barrier-free itinerary, ensuring a delightful and inclusive Turin experience.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

National Museum of the Automobile (Museo Nazionale dell"Automobile)

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Tour Itinerary: Museo Nazionale dell"Automobile, Turin

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Begin your day with a smooth ride to the Museo Nazionale dell"Automobile, located on Corso Unità d"Italia 40, easily accessible via the city’s adapted public transportation or by taxi. The museum offers designated parking spots close to the entrance for those arriving by car.

Start your visit right at the door, where you"ll find wheelchair ramps and automatic doors. Once inside, pick up a free wheelchair (subject to availability) at the cloakroom if you haven"t brought your own. The museum is fully accessible, with spacious elevators transporting you between floors.

Midday: Dive into Automotive History

Explore the impressive collection of over 200 cars that chronicle the evolution of the automobile, from 18th-century carriages to futuristic concept cars. The displays are thoughtfully laid out with unobstructed views and accessible information panels. Highlights include the first Italian car, the 1896 Bernardi, and the legendary 1960s Ferrari 250 GTO.

Take a break at the museum’s café, where you can enjoy a light lunch or a coffee. The café is equipped with accessible tables and a clear path for easy navigation.

Afternoon: Interactive Exhibits and Learning

Post-lunch, engage with the museum"s interactive exhibits. The Car Design Area, detailing the journey from sketches to cars, is particularly fascinating and features accessible multimedia displays.

Before leaving, stop by the museum shop. It’s a great spot to pick up a souvenir or a beautifully illustrated book about automobile history.

Departure

As your visit wraps up, exit through the spacious, accessible exits. If you need a taxi, ask the museum staff to help you arrange one that accommodates wheelchairs.

Tip: Advanced booking is recommended to ensure all your specific accessibility needs are met. Enjoy a journey through automotive history, tailored for comfort and curiosity!

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Valentine Park (Parco del Valentino)

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Day at Parco del Valentino, Turin

Morning: Arrival and Stroll through the Botanical Gardens

Start your day at Turin"s cherished urban oasis, Parco del Valentino. Accessible by public transport, the park is a quick tram ride away with tram lines 9 or 16 that conveniently stop near the park entrances. Ensure to alight at the "Valentino" stop for closest access. Upon arrival, the flat pathways make exploring the park’s sprawling botanical gardens a breeze for wheelchair users and those on mobile scooters. These gardens are not only a sensory delight with their myriad of plant species but also offer ample shaded areas perfect for a peaceful morning commune with nature.

Midday: Explore the Medieval Village

As lunchtime approaches, head towards the Borgo Medievale, an intriguing reconstruction of a medieval village complete with a castle. The main paths and lower levels of the buildings are wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to soak in the historical ambiance. The village often hosts artisans and there might be a chance to witness some traditional crafts in action.

Afternoon: Riverside Relaxation and Castello del Valentino

Post lunch, a gentle roll along the park’s riverside promenades offers stunning views of the Po River, ideal for digesting and relaxation. Continue your journey to the Castello del Valentino; an imposing 17th-century baroque castle. The castle grounds are a highlight, meticulously maintained and completely accessible, offering a glimpse into Turin’s regal past. The castle itself houses the Faculty of Architecture and is open for public tours on specific days, so checking accessibility and open hours in advance is recommended.

Late Afternoon: Coffee by the Fountain

Conclude your visit by enjoying an Italian espresso at one of the wheelchair-accessible cafes near the park’s iconic Fountain of the Twelve Months. Reflect on the day"s adventures accompanied by the soothing sounds of flowing water.

Tips: Most pathways are flat and surfaced, but it"s advisable to check the weather forecast as rainy conditions can make certain areas less navigable.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Carignano Palace (Palazzo Carignano)

Why Visit?

Welcome to the grandeur of Palazzo Carignano, a baroque masterpiece in the heart of Turin, offering a captivating experience that is accessible to all. Your journey through history begins with the striking facade of this magnificent palace, an exceptional example of Piedmontese Baroque architecture.

Getting There

Palazzo Carignano is centrally located and easily accessible. For those arriving by public transport, the closest tram stops are Bertola and Castello, both of which are less than a 10-minute roll/walk away and serviced by wheelchair-accessible trams. Visitors coming by car will find parking at the nearby Piazza Castello or Piazza Carlo Alberto, which offer accessible parking spaces.

Visiting the Palace

Begin your tour at the majestic main entrance on Via Accademia delle Scienze. The entrance is equipped with ramps and the palace itself is wheelchair-friendly, with elevators providing access to all the main exhibition areas. Once inside, you are free to explore the richly decorated rooms and halls at your leisure. Highlights include the stunning Hall of the Senate where the first Italian Parliament met, and the intricately frescoed Chapel of the Princes.

Interesting Fact: Palazzo Carignano was the birthplace of the first King of Italy, Vittorio Emanuele II, in 1820, thus holding a special place in the heart of the nation"s history.

Accessibility and Facilities

The palace is equipped with accessible restrooms and there is seating available in various parts of the museum for those who may need a short rest. Wheelchairs can be borrowed from the ticket office, subject to availability.

Complete your visit with a stop at the café in the courtyard, where you can enjoy a coffee or a light meal in a serene setting, making for a perfect end to your day at Palazzo Carignano.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Piazza Statuto

Why Visit?

Welcome to your accessible adventure through the historic Piazza Statuto in Turin, Italy! This square stands as one of the city"s most intriguing spots, rich with history and adorned with striking monuments.

Start at Porta Susa Station

Begin your tour at the recently renovated Porta Susa Station, which is fully accessible to wheelchair and scooter users. From here, Piazza Statuto is a short, smooth ride away. Head southwest on Corso Bolzano, and then turn right onto Via Cernaia. This route is paved and relatively flat, making for an easy and comfortable journey.

Explore Piazza Statuto

Upon arriving at Piazza Statuto, you"ll find yourself in one of Turin’s most enigmatic squares, which is believed by some to be one of the focal points of magical forces in the city. The square is flat and spacious, ideal for wheelchairs and scooters, allowing you to navigate easily around its perimeter.

Monumento al Traforo del Frejus

Take in the imposing Monumento al Traforo del Frejus, which commemorates the construction of the Frejus Rail Tunnel linking Italy to France. The monument is accessible, with a flat surrounding area that offers a close view of the impressive sculpture and inscriptions.

Relax at the Cafés

Around the square are several wheelchair-friendly cafés where you can sip on a traditional Italian espresso. Choose a spot with an outdoor terrace to enjoy the bustling square and its beautiful architecture.

Visit the Historic Shops

Adjacent to Piazza Statoto are several historic shops accessible to those on wheels. Explore these at leisure; they offer everything from artisan chocolates to bespoke Italian suits.

Getting Back

Return to Porta Susa via the same route, or continue your exploration by heading down Via Garibaldi, a pedestrian street that leads to other notable sites in Turin.

Each location on this tour has been chosen for its accessibility, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Enjoy uncovering the mysteries and delights of Piazza Statuto!

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.