Turin

Ultimate Travel Guide to Turin, Italy

Introduction

Welcome to the enchanting city of Turin, also known as Torino in Italian, nestled in the Po Valley at the foot of the western Alps. This historical and cultural gem is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves art, architecture, food, and a touch of royal elegance.

Places to Visit

  1. Museo Egizio: Dive into the mysteries of Ancient Egypt at one of the world’s oldest and most important museums dedicated to Egyptian archaeology.

  2. Mole Antonelliana: This iconic landmark houses the National Cinema Museum, offering a fascinating journey through the history of cinema.

  3. Piazza San Carlo: Stroll along this beautiful square, one of the main gathering points in Turin and home to several notable buildings and cafes.

  4. Palazzo Reale: Explore the royal residence, now a museum, showcasing an extensive collection of artworks and historical artifacts.

  5. Parco del Valentino: Enjoy a peaceful walk or picnic in this beautiful public park along the Po River, featuring the famous Baroque bridge, Ponte Vittorio Emanuele I.

  6. Reggia di Venaria Reale: Venture outside the city to visit this magnificent royal palace and its gardens.

Activities

  1. Auto & Fiat Museum: For car enthusiasts, this museum offers an in-depth look at the history of automobiles, with a special focus on FIAT.

  2. Turin’s Chocolate Workshops: Indulge your sweet tooth by learning how to make traditional Turinese chocolate at one of the many workshops around the city.

  3. Cooking Classes: Learn the secrets behind authentic Italian cuisine in a hands-on cooking class led by local chefs.

Where to Eat

  1. Antica Osteria del Ristorante Beccherie: Taste some of the best Piedmontese dishes in this historic restaurant located in the heart of Turin.

  2. Enoteca Slow Food: Experience a gastronomic journey through Piedmont’s regional cuisine, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.

  3. Bicerin: Don’t miss out on trying this traditional hot drink made from coffee, chocolate, and cream.

Where to Stay

  1. Hotel NH Torino Vittorio Veneto: Centrally located and offering comfortable rooms, a rooftop bar, and a modern restaurant.

  2. Grand Hotel Sitea: A luxurious 5-star hotel with an elegant design, excellent service, and a fantastic location near the city center.

  3. B&B Hotel Torino Porta Susa: Budget-friendly accommodation in a convenient location, close to the train station and various transportation options.

Things to Know

  • Turin is famous for its foggy weather, so be sure to pack layers and an umbrella.
  • The city uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency.
  • Italian is the primary language spoken in Turin, but many locals also speak English.

Transportation

  1. GTT Buses: Navigate the city using Turin’s extensive public bus network.

  2. Metropolitana di Torino (Metro): Travel faster with Turin’s underground metro system, which connects key areas of the city.

  3. TRAMVAI: Experience a unique form of transportation by riding one of the colorful trams that traverse Turin’s streets.

Tips

  1. Try the local wines, such as Barolo and Barbaresco, and sample the various cheeses from Piedmont.
  2. Take a day trip to the nearby cities of Asti, Alba, or Bra to explore more of the region’s vineyards, castles, and truffle sanctuaries.
  3. Visit during the Fiera del Levante (Easter Markets) or Autunno in Piazza (Autumn in the Square) for an unforgettable cultural experience.

Enjoy your trip to Turin! Embrace its rich history, delectable cuisine, and warm hospitality as you discover this beautiful city.