Italy’s Elegant Northern Gem
Turin, the capital of Piedmont in northern Italy, is a city of rich history, stunning architecture, and culinary delights. Known for its baroque buildings, grand boulevards, and scenic Alpine backdrop, Turin offers a perfect blend of culture, art, and gastronomy. Home to the famous Shroud of Turin and the birthplace of Italian cinema, this elegant city provides a unique Italian experience away from the usual tourist crowds.
Turin’s charm lies in its stately piazzas, world-class museums, and vibrant cafe culture. Whether you’re exploring the grand Royal Palace, savoring local specialties like gianduja chocolate, or enjoying an aperitivo in a historic cafe, Turin promises an unforgettable journey through Italian sophistication and innovation.
Essential Turin Information
- Language: Italian (English less widely spoken than in larger tourist cities)
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Timezone: UTC+1 (UTC+2 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October)
- Travel: Part of the Schengen Area (allowing border-free travel in 26 European countries)
- Tipping: Not expected, but rounding up the bill is appreciated for good service
Where to Stay in Turin: Top Neighborhoods for Tourists
Turin offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Here are some recommended areas:
Centro Storico (Historic Center)
The heart of Turin, Centro Storico is home to most of the city’s major attractions, including Piazza Castello and the Royal Palace. This area offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and bustling city life, with numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops lining its elegant streets.
Quadrilatero Romano
Just west of the historic center, Quadrilatero Romano is Turin’s hip and happening neighborhood. It’s known for its vibrant nightlife, trendy bars, and eclectic restaurants. By day, explore its narrow medieval streets and artisan shops; by night, enjoy the area’s lively aperitivo scene.
San Salvario
San Salvario is a diverse and multicultural neighborhood known for its youthful energy. It’s home to the beautiful Parco del Valentino and offers a mix of ethnic eateries, cool bars, and independent boutiques. This area is perfect for those looking to experience Turin’s more contemporary side.
Crocetta
Crocetta is an upscale residential area known for its elegant Art Nouveau buildings and tree-lined streets. It’s a quieter part of the city, ideal for families or those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere. The neighborhood is home to the iconic Polytechnic University of Turin and offers easy access to the city center.
Vanchiglia
Once a working-class district, Vanchiglia has transformed into a trendy neighborhood popular with students and young professionals. It offers a mix of traditional Turin charm and modern urban living, with plenty of affordable dining options, cool bars, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Must-See Sights in Turin
- Mole Antonelliana: Turin’s iconic landmark, housing the National Museum of Cinema.
- Royal Palace of Turin: The former residence of the House of Savoy, now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Egyptian Museum: The world’s oldest museum dedicated to ancient Egyptian culture and artifacts.
- Piazza Castello: The main square of Turin, surrounded by royal palaces and historic cafes.
- Palazzo Madama: A baroque palace housing the Civic Museum of Ancient Art.
- Turin Cathedral: Home to the famous Shroud of Turin.
- Parco del Valentino: A beautiful riverside park featuring the medieval Borgo and Castello del Valentino.
Discover Turin’s Hidden Gems
- Quadrilatero Romano’s Secret Gardens: Explore the hidden courtyards and gardens tucked away behind the historic buildings in this ancient Roman district.
- Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile: A world-class car museum showcasing Italy’s rich automotive history, including rare and vintage cars.
- Mercato di Porta Palazzo: Europe’s largest open-air market, offering a vibrant mix of local produce, international goods, and street food.
- Monte dei Cappuccini: A hilltop church offering panoramic views of Turin and the Alps, often overlooked by tourists.
- Caffè Al Bicerin: A historic cafe where you can taste the original Bicerin, Turin’s famous layered coffee drink.
Food Highlights: Must-Try Turinese Dishes
Turin is a gastronomic paradise, known for its rich Piedmontese cuisine. Don’t miss these local specialties:
- Agnolotti: Small, meat-filled pasta parcels, often served with a rich sauce.
- Vitello Tonnato: Thinly sliced veal served cold with a creamy tuna-flavored sauce.
- Bagna Càuda: A warm dip made from anchovies, olive oil, and garlic, served with raw vegetables.
- Gianduja: A chocolate-hazelnut spread that originated in Turin.
- Bicerin: A layered drink made with espresso, hot chocolate, and whole milk.
Don’t forget to partake in the Turinese tradition of aperitivo, where bars offer a buffet of snacks with the purchase of a drink in the early evening. Salute!
8 Essential Tips for Visiting Turin
- Torino+Piemonte Card: Consider purchasing this card for free entry to many museums and attractions.
- Public Transport: Use the efficient metro and bus system. The GTT tourist ticket offers unlimited travel for 1, 2, or 3 days.
- Mole Antonelliana Visits: Book tickets in advance for the panoramic lift, especially during peak season.
- Explore on Foot: Turin’s city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly. Walking is often the best way to discover hidden gems.
- Sunday Openings: Unlike many Italian cities, many shops and attractions in Turin remain open on Sundays.
- Try Local Wines: Piedmont is famous for its wines. Don’t miss trying Barolo, Barbaresco, or Asti Spumante.
- Weather: Turin can be foggy and cold in winter, and hot in summer. Pack accordingly and always carry an umbrella.
- Siesta Times: Many shops close for a few hours in the afternoon, typically from 1-3:30 PM. Plan your shopping accordingly.
How to Get to Turin
By Air: Turin is served by one main airport, with a major international airport nearby:
- Turin Airport (TRN): Also known as Turin-Caselle Airport, it’s located about 16 km north of the city center. It handles both domestic and international flights, with a focus on European destinations. The airport is connected to the city center by a railway service (Turin-Ceres line) and bus services.
- Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP): Located about 140 km east of Turin, it’s Italy’s second-busiest international airport, offering a wider range of international flights. It’s connected to Turin by direct bus services and train connections via central Milan.
By Rail: Turin is well-connected to the Italian and European rail network:
- Torino Porta Nuova: The main railway station, located in the city center. It serves high-speed trains to major Italian cities like Milan, Rome, Venice, and Florence.
- Torino Porta Susa: A modern station handling both domestic and international routes, including TGV services to Paris.
Both stations are integrated into Turin’s public transport system, making it easy to reach your final destination in the city.
