Via delle Orfane 19, Turin, Italy | (618) 248-8274
In a historic 18th century Torinese house
In the center of Turin, walkable to all the
major sights
Very close to a range of bars, cafes,
restaurants, and shops
Bright, spacious rooms with original
features
Homey touches like flowers and candy
provided by the owner
Free Wi-Fi, although it can be spotty
Breakfast included at a charming nearby
cafe
Few facilities -- there’s no restaurant, bar, or air-conditioning
Four flights of steps to reach the rooms; no elevator
Sloping ceilings in some rooms can feel cramped
No parking on-site
This charming B&B has just six rooms,
all up in the attic of a historic 18th century Torinese house. Over the years,
the property has been lovingly restored -- rather than modernized -- so
guests won’t find air-conditioning or an elevator here. Free breakfast is served at a cafe around the corner from the hotel, and there isn't any dining on-site. Rooms
are filled with history and original features, and the major sights of Turin
are all within a short walk. Aprile may not offer all the conveniences of a
modern hotel, but certainly delivers an authentic slice of Italian history in a
location that’s hard to beat.
Scene
A homey and cozy vibe, perfect for couples and families
The scene at Aprile is the antithesis of
staying in a chain hotel. There’s no shiny lobby or uniformed receptionist.
Guests will feel more like they’re staying in a friend’s home as they navigate
the cobbled street to find the iron gate next door to a traditional trattoria.
This leads to a quarry-tiled hall and there are four flights of steps to take
on before reaching the Aprile. A homey feel has been created at the top of the
stairs, with potted plants, bright artwork on the walls, and a couple of comfortable
armchairs. Each room’s front door has a brightly-colored, cheerful doormat
outside. This relaxed setting is well-suited to couples, and families are also
welcomed and well-catered for.
Location
Ideally placed for exploring on foot
Aprile is right in the heart of the
historic center of Turin -- the Roman Quarter. The surrounding streets are
packed with bars, cafes, restaurants, and shops; and the main historic sights
are within an easy walk. The property is right next to the stunning Santuario
Basilica La Consolata, and is less than a 10-minute walk to the Royal Palace,
the I Toretti fountain, Piazza Castello, and Real Chiesa di San Lorenzo -- the
first “home” of the Holy Shroud. The Porta Palazzo is less than a five-minute
walk too, which is where the largest market in Europe can be found. It’s also a
15-minute walk to two railway stations -- Porta Nuova
and Porta Susa.
Rooms
Homey, historic, and authentically Italian
The six guest rooms here are all unique, and
have charming names like Twinkling Star and Sleepy Sunday. Each one has
features that give away the 18th century heritage of the building. There are sloping ceilings with restored dark wooden beams, antique furniture, and the original wooden parquet flooring. Dormer
windows let in plenty of natural light, and look out onto the ancient streets.
Some even have views of the Consolata Basilica. Rooms
include wood burning stoves for keeping warm in winter, and the owner adds personal and homey touches, like fresh flowers, and
bowls of candy. There are tea- and coffee-making facilities, small flat-screen
TVs, and a hairdryer. All the bed linen is organic. The rooms are spacious, and
the larger ones have a lounge area and kitchenette. Bathrooms are clean
and modern. There are no bathtubs but each has a powerful shower with plenty of
hot water.
Features
Breakfast in a Baroque palace
Due to the size and nature of the property,
Aprile B&B doesn’t have many facilities to offer its guests. However, the
owner does go the extra mile to make up for that. Despite not having a
restaurant or breakfast room on-site, breakfast is included in the price of the
stay. Guests walk around the corner to a cafe that’s set in the private chapel
of a Baroque palace. It’s an interesting place to start the day with coffee, orange
juice, croissants, and toasted sandwiches. Free Wi-Fi is available at the
B&B but only in limited spots within the building. Those driving into Turin will not find a car park at the property, but there is
a public car park nearby which the owner can direct you to. There’s no air
conditioning here either, which is worth bearing in mind if visiting in the
height of summer. Fans can be provided on request. Extra facilities are thoughtfully
offered to guests traveling with babies, such as bottle warmers, sterilizing
equipment, and changing facilities.