Overview

Turin, situated in northern Italy, is a captivating city known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and delectable cuisine. As the capital of the Piedmont region, Turin offers a perfect blend of traditional Italian charm and modern attractions. With its grand boulevards, stunning museums, and delicious local dishes, Turin is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Top attractions

• Mole Antonelliana: Iconic tower with a cinema museum and breathtaking views of the city.
• The Royal Palace of Turin: Former residence of the Italian Royal Family, showcasing opulent interiors and vast gardens.
• Piazza Castello: Central square surrounded by historic buildings and home to the Royal Palace and the Royal Theatre.
• Egyptian Museum: The world’s second-largest museum dedicated to Egyptian artifacts and one of Turin’s premier cultural institutions.
• Turin Cathedral: Houses the famed Shroud of Turin, believed by some to be the burial cloth of Jesus Christ.
• Valentino Park: A vast green oasis with a medieval castle, botanical gardens, and charming walking paths.
• National Automobile Museum: Showcasing the evolution of the automobile industry through an extensive collection of cars.
• The Venaria Reale: Magnificent royal residence located just outside Turin, known for its impressive gardens and architecture.
• Juventus Stadium: Home to the world-famous Juventus Football Club, offering guided tours and a museum.

Local cuisine

• Agnolotti: Traditional Piedmontese pasta filled with meat or vegetables and served with rich sauce.
• Truffles: Renowned black or white truffles used to enhance the flavor of various dishes, including risottos and cheese.
• Bicerin: A delightful local drink made with espresso, chocolate, and creamy milk.
• Grissini: Famous thin, crispy breadsticks originating from Turin.
• Gianduja: Smooth, creamy chocolate made with hazelnuts, a specialty from the region.

Festivals and events

• Chocolate Festival (CioccolaTò): Held annually in November, celebrating the city’s love for chocolate with workshops, tastings, and artistic displays.
• Turin International Book Fair (Salone del Libro): A prominent literary event showcasing new publications, author presentations, and book signings.
• Turin Film Festival: One of Italy’s oldest film festivals, known for its focus on independent cinema and emerging directors.
• Artissima: An international contemporary art fair held in November, showcasing works from both established and up-and-coming artists.

Practical information

• Currency: Euro (€)
• Language: Italian
• Time zone: Central European Time (CET)
• Getting around: Turin has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams, making it easy to explore the city. Taxis and rental cars are also available.
• Climate: Turin has a continental climate, with cold winters and hot summers. The best time to visit is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October).
• Important phone numbers: Emergency services - 112 (Police), 113 (Carabinieri), 118 (Medical emergencies)