The Most Historic Cafes of Turin

As the birthplace of espresso, Turin has a rich history of coffee and café culture dating all the way back to the 19th century. In the early 20th century, cafés were popular meeting places for artists, and writers and have continued to be social hubs. Due to this rich history, Turin’s oldest cafés are still standing and have become icons of the city. If you are a lover of coffee and beautiful cafés, keep reading to discover the most historic cafes in Turin.

Disclaimer: This post has affiliate links that can help me earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. If you click through and purchase with these links, thank you in advance for the extra support.💖😊

The Oldest Cafés of Turin, Italy

1. Caffé Al Bicerin (1763)

📍 Piazza della Consolata, 5, 10122 Torino TO, Italy

Home to Turin’s signature drink, Bicerin, this is the oldest café in Turin! The creation of the Bicerin is responsible for the success and fame Caffé Al Bicerin gained. This was the spot where various important and famous people, such as King Umberto II and Queen Maria Josè, would come to spend time and/or indulge in the delicious drink.

This beautiful spot is a 12-minute walk away from Piazza Castello, in the historic Piazza della Consolata.

2. Caffé Fiorio (1780)

📍 Via Po, 8/C, 10124 Torino TO, Italy

This café was originally frequented by aristocrats and high officials, including members of the Royal House of Savoy. Due to the wealthy clientele, this café has always been adorned in rich, red velvet textures, gold, and beautiful chandeliers.

Throughout time, due to the rise in popularity, it became less frequented by aristocrats. Towards the end of the 19th century, Caffé Fiorio became a famous spot for intellectuals and political figures. King Carlo Alberto, knowing of this, grew the habit of light-heartedly asking “what was said at Caffé Fiorio” before all his hearings.

3. Caffé San Carlo (1822)

📍 Piazza San Carlo, 156, 10121 Torino, Italia

This grand and ornate café was a popular meeting spot for intellectuals and patriots during the Risorgimento movement. Caffé San Carlo later became one of the most popular cafés for university professors, politicians, writers, and artists.

As a fun fact: this was the first spot in Europe to be lit by gas lamps!

4. Caffé Gelateria Pepino (1884)

5. Caffé Mulassano (1872 & 1907)

📍 Piazza Castello, 15, 10123 Torino TO, Italy

The birthplace of the Tramezzino! Tramezzino is an Italian sandwich (snack) made with soft, white bread, and no crust – in other words, it’s a mini-sandwich. This café, throughout the 20th century, was also a famous meeting spot for artists, politicians, and even FIAT executives. Caffé Mulassano has a unique Art Nouveau style.

6. Caffé Baratti & Milano (1873)

📍 Galleria Subalpina – Piazza Castello, 27, 10123 Torino

This is of the most renowned brands in the Piedmontese & Italian confectionery industry, that created some of Italy’s most famous chocolate, like the Gianduiotto. This café’s architecture is Art Nouveau and is found in the mesmerizing Galleria Subalpina. As a fun fact: Caffé Baratti & Milano was awarded “Official supplier of the Royal House (of Savoy)”, as the royal family often indulged in their delicacies.

Go on a Guided Tour and Focus on Indulging!😋

Here are the best food and drink guided tours in Italy! These experiences will allow you to dive deeper into Turin’s culture and phenomenal culinary scene, and indulge in delicious, authentic foods and drinks.

The best perk of going with a guide is that you don’t need to worry about researching where to go, what to try – you simply follow a local expert and focus on enjoying your time and learning!

Make sure to book soon, as these tours tend to sell out!👇

Book your Stay for Turin

The best area to stay in Turin is the beautiful city center, especially near it’s famous squares such as Piazza San Carlo and Piazza Castello. By staying in the city center, you will surround yourself with the most breathtaking architecture, endless landmarks and Royal Residences, things to do, and the best restaurants.

If you are looking for a luxurious stay in the city center, here is the best and most beautiful hotel in Torino!😍✨

I have to ask…

Are you a coffee lover? And if so, which of these cafés will you add to your Turin itinerary?😍

Share this with friends and family who might find this helpful! Follow me on Instagram and subscribe to my newsletter to stay up-to-date.

With all these historic facts and mentions of the Royal House of Savoy, here are the Royal Residences to visit when in Turin!