Visiting Turin: Piedmontese elegance and quiet charm
Turin, the capital of Piedmont, greets visitors with a refined sense of style and a deep well of cultural history. Often overlooked in favor of Italy's more famous tourist hubs, the city offers an authentic experience that balances history, high-end gastronomy, and a relaxed pace of life. Its baroque palaces, major museums, and historic cafes invite careful exploration, while the nearby Alps provide a dramatic backdrop to the urban landscape, much like the way the mountains frame the skyline in Denver.
A historic city center
Turin features a highly organized city center, a legacy of its time under the House of Savoy. Piazza Castello serves as the perfect jumping-off point to see major landmarks like the Palazzo Reale, the former royal residence, or the Palazzo Madama, which displays a striking clash of medieval and baroque architecture. A short walk away, Via Roma offers a classic Italian stroll through high-end boutiques and traditional cafes housed under elegant arcades.
World-class museums
Turin holds one of Italy’s most significant collections: the Egyptian Museum, which ranks second in the world only to Cairo. It is worth a visit even if you aren't an archaeology buff. The Cinema Museum, housed inside the iconic Mole Antonelliana, offers an interactive dive into the history of film. Don't overlook the GAM, the city's modern and contemporary art gallery, which is perfect for a quiet afternoon.
Walks and cafes under the porticoes
With over 18 km (11 miles) of covered arcades, Turin is a city built for walking, even when it rains. The Quadrilatero Romano neighborhood is a draw for its lively narrow streets, antique shops, and trendy bars. From there, you can cross the river to reach the Gran Madre di Dio, a church perched on the right bank of the Po, or head up to the Monte dei Cappuccini for a sweeping view of the city.
A city of green spaces
Contrary to its reputation as an industrial powerhouse, Turin is surprisingly green. Parco del Valentino, located along the Po, is a local favorite for jogging or just relaxing. It features a botanical garden and a curious reconstructed medieval village, built for an exhibition in the 19th century. For a wider perspective, the Parco della Rimembranza on the surrounding hills provides an expansive panoramic view of both the city and the Alps.
The taste of Piedmont: refinement and character
Turin’s culinary scene reflects the rich, earthy flavors of the Piedmont region. Must-try specialties include vitello tonnato (chilled veal with a tuna-based sauce) and agnolotti (small, stuffed pasta). For dessert, Turin is the home of gianduja, a rich blend of chocolate and hazelnut, and the bicerin, a warm layered drink of chocolate, coffee, and cream that is best enjoyed in one of the city's historic cafes.
Where to eat?
- Tre Galline (Quadrilatero Romano): A local institution serving traditional Piedmontese dishes in a cozy, authentic setting.
- Porto di Savona (Piazza Vittorio Veneto): A historic spot known for classic antipasti and house-made agnolotti.
- Scannabue (San Salvario): A contemporary bistro that fuses local recipes with modern culinary techniques.
- Caffè Al Bicerin (Centro): An elegant, intimate cafe that is the gold standard for trying a traditional bicerin with a side of sweets.
Where to sleep?
- Hotel Victoria & Iside Spa (Centro): A sophisticated property with a garden and full spa, located just steps from Via Roma.
- NH Collection Torino Piazza Carlina (Centro): A polished, modern hotel set inside a renovated historic building with great city views.
- Hotel Diplomatic (Porta Susa): A practical choice, well-positioned near the main train station and public transit lines.
- Le Petit Hotel (Centro): A budget-friendly option that is simple, clean, and known for a friendly welcome.
When to go?
Spring and early autumn are the most pleasant times to visit, offering mild temperatures and soft, clear light. Winter can be foggy, but it carries its own atmosphere, especially during the holidays. In November, the city hosts the Cioccolatò festival, which celebrates chocolate in every imaginable form.
How to get there?
If you are traveling from within Europe, Turin is easily accessible by train from Lyon (about 4 hours) or by air via the Turin-Caselle airport, which links to Paris and other major hubs. Bus travel is also a budget-conscious option, with several carriers running regular routes.
How to get around?
Turin is very walkable, particularly in the city center. For longer distances, an efficient network of trams and buses covers the city well. Bike-sharing services are also available, making it easy to explore the parks and the paths along the Po.
I found the city of Turin very pleasant to visit. It is a city on a human scale where you feel right at home. It is very lively and has a very rich culture. There are many museums and monuments to visit. You never get bored there. You also eat very well in Turin. I had a blast the whole stay.