Turin City Guide

Turin reveals its grandeur through its elegant Baroque architecture and broad, tree-lined boulevards. As the former capital of Italy, the city is steeped in royal history, most visible at the sprawling Royal Palace of Turin and the iconic Mole Antonelliana, which towers over the skyline and houses the National Cinema Museum. Art and history enthusiasts must prioritize the Egyptian Museum, which boasts one of the most significant collections of Egyptian antiquities in the world, rivaling even that of Cairo.

Beyond its regal facades, the city is a sanctuary for epicureans and coffee lovers. The historic cafes under the city's 18 kilometers of arcades offer a glimpse into the 19th-century intellectual life, where a bicerin - a layered drink of espresso, chocolate, and cream - is a mandatory ritual. For a change of pace, the narrow streets of the Quadrilatero Romano provide a vibrant mix of boutique shops and traditional trattorias, perfect for experiencing the local lifestyle.

Nature and panoramic views are never far away. Parco del Valentino, situated along the banks of the Po River, offers a peaceful escape with its botanical gardens and medieval village replica. For the ultimate perspective of the city against the backdrop of the Alps, a journey to the Basilica of Superga is essential. This hilltop masterpiece provides a breathtaking vista that captures the unique intersection of urban design and dramatic natural beauty.

Beyond the grand piazzas and world-renowned Egyptian artifacts lies a city of quiet sophistication and hidden layers. For a true taste of Torinese life, step inside the Circolo dei Lettori. Housed in the baroque Palazzo Graneri della Roccia, this literary hub offers a refined escape where residents gather for lectures, espresso, or a glass of vermouth in rooms lined with velvet and history.

A short distance from the center, the Borgo Campidoglio neighborhood reveals a different side of the city. This historic enclave has transformed into the Museo d’Arte Urbana (MAU), an open-air gallery where over 170 murals are painted directly onto the walls of its narrow, cobblestoned streets. It is a living canvas that remains largely untouched by the typical tourist trail.

Finally, wander through the San Salvario district, not just for its nightly buzz, but for its thriving community of independent artisans. Small ateliers tucked away in courtyards keep traditional crafts alive, from bespoke shoemaking to contemporary bookbinding, reflecting the industrious spirit that defines the soul of Turin.

Turin’s city center is a delight to explore on foot, thanks to its elegant grid layout and over 18 kilometers of historic arcades that offer shelter from sun and rain alike. For longer distances, the Gruppo Torinese Trasporti (GTT) manages an integrated network of buses, iconic trams, and a modern, driverless metro line. A standard single ticket costs approximately €2.00 and is valid for 100 minutes on all surface transport plus one metro ride. Tickets are conveniently available via the "To Move" app, at local tobacco shops, or within metro stations.

Taxis are a reliable option but should be hailed from designated ranks or booked through apps like FreeNow, as they rarely stop for street hails. While Uber exists, it is primarily limited to the more expensive Uber Black service. For those arriving at Torino Caselle Airport, the most common transit into the city is the Arriva bus service, which costs about €7.00 and takes roughly 45 minutes to reach the Porta Nuova or Porta Susa stations. A taxi ride from the airport to the city center typically costs between €35 and €45.

Turin offers a sophisticated shopping experience that caters to every budget, blending royal elegance with artisanal charm. For high-end fashion and luxury boutiques, stroll down the stately Via Roma, where international designers showcase their latest collections under majestic porticos. Those seeking popular high-street brands will find their stride on Via Garibaldi, one of the longest pedestrian shopping streets in Europe, perfect for a leisurely afternoon of browsing.

Food lovers and bargain hunters should not miss the sprawling Mercato di Porta Palazzo, the largest open-air market in Europe, where you can find everything from fresh local produce to vintage clothing. Turin is also the birthplace of Gianduiotto chocolate, so be sure to visit historic confectioners to pick up these famous hazelnut treats. For a more curated culinary experience, the original Eataly in the Lingotto district offers an incredible selection of Italian artisanal products.

For unique souvenirs and local craftsmanship, wander through the narrow streets of the Quadrilatero Romano. Here, small workshops and independent boutiques offer handmade leather goods and bespoke jewelry that reflect Turin's long history of design excellence. Whether you are looking for a designer suit or a simple bag of high-quality coffee beans, the city's diverse retail landscape ensures a rewarding trip for every visitor.

In Turin, tipping is a gracious gesture rather than a formal requirement. When dining out, you will frequently notice a "coperto" on your bill, a standard cover charge that typically covers bread and table service. While an additional tip is not expected, rounding up the total or leaving a few extra euros for exceptional service is a warm way to show appreciation. For a quick coffee at a stand-up bar, it is common to simply leave the small change from your transaction on the counter.

For other services, such as taxis or hotel assistance, small gratuities are always appreciated. Rounding up your fare to the nearest five euros or offering a euro or two to a porter reflects local etiquette. All transactions are conducted in Euros (€), which currently exchange at a rate of approximately 1.08 US Dollars to 1 Euro. Keeping some small coins on hand will ensure you can easily acknowledge the refined hospitality found throughout this historic city.

The ideal window to visit Turin is during late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September to October). These months provide mild temperatures and clear skies, perfect for exploring the city’s grand piazzas and elegant arcades. Autumn is particularly special for gastronomes, as the region celebrates its world-renowned white truffles and the annual chocolate festival, though travelers should expect higher prices and larger crowds during these peak culinary events.

Winter brings a crisp charm to the city, with the Luci d'Artista light installations illuminating the streets and the nearby Alps offering easy access to ski slopes. While temperatures drop significantly, this season offers the best value for budget-conscious visitors and much quieter museums. Conversely, mid-summer can be stiflingly humid; many residents depart in August, which results in a more tranquil atmosphere but may mean some local boutiques and restaurants are closed for the holidays.