Aprile B&B

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. 

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. 

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. 

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.