Piazza Emile Chanoux

The basics

This piazza is the city’s social and commercial hub, and a staple of walking and cycling tours of the old town. Stroll across its busy length to take in the historic architecture, browse the local shops, or relax over coffee or a meal in one of the square’s many restaurants. It’s a popular site for festivals and events, with an ice-skating rink and Christmas tree during the holidays.

Things to know before you go

• The square marks the heart of the pedestrian-only shopping district, with a mix of local boutiques, larger chains, and high-end shops.

• There is no shade in this outdoor space, or public benches or other seating. Plan to grab a café table and order a drink if you want to linger.

• Flat and paved, the square is easy to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller.

How to get there

Piazza Emile Chanoux is the heart of Aosta’s old town, and you can walk there from any central attraction or from the city’s train station. Direct trains connect Aosta and Turin, and Milan is less than 2 hours away by car.

When to get there

Visit this bustling main square during the day to browse its shops or grab a café table for prime people-watching. In the evening, the shops are closed but the illuminated town hall makes for a dramatic backdrop for outdoor dining. The square is particularly festive during the holiday season, when a Christmas tree and skating rink are set up center stage.

Aosta’s Roman heart

Piazza Emile Chanoux marks the center of Aosta’s old town, which is known for its Roman ruins dating back to the 1st century BC, when the city of Augusta Praetoria was founded here. The Romans built countless major urban works over the following five centuries of rule, and many of them remain standing—at least in part. The most remarkable Roman landmarks include the southern facade of the Roman Theater, the monumental Arch of Augustus and Porta Praetoria city gate, and the Roman city walls.