Visit Turin
Turin rises at the foot of the Alps. Wide streets stretch ahead, lined with elegant porticoes. Baroque palaces, cafés and chocolate shops fill the city with style.
Step into Piazza Castello and the city opens up. Palaces and museums tower around you. Narrow lanes lead to artisan shops, wine bars and small squares where locals linger over espresso. Markets provide truffles, cheeses, and fresh Piedmont meats.
Walk along the Po River. Bridges connect historic neighbourhoods. Cyclists and pedestrians pass as the water mirrors spires and domes. The Alps glow in the distance at sunset.
Turin blends history, art, and modern life at every turn. Grand theatres, royal palaces, and Baroque churches sit beside contemporary galleries, design studios, and street art. Cafés and pasticcerias fill the air with chocolate, espresso and baked treats.
Venture into neighbourhoods like Quadrilatero Romano or San Salvario. You’ll find hidden squares, lively markets and quiet courtyards. Step onto a hilltop for beautiful views of the city and the mountains beyond.
You can walk, sip, shop and discover without ever leaving the city centre. Turin draws you into its layers of history, creativity and flavour. All at the same time.
Top sights to visit
- Mole Antonelliana and National Museum of Cinema This striking, spire-topped building is the symbol of Turin and was once the world's tallest brick building. Inside, it houses the exceptional National Museum of Cinema, one of the world's most unique museums. Pro tip: Take the panoramic glass lift straight up the center of the dome for a thrilling ride and an amazing view from the viewing platform.
- Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace of Turin) The most important of the Savoy residences in the city. This grand palace was the official residence of the Dukes of Savoy. Its luxurious rooms and adjacent Armeria Reale (Royal Armory) showcase the family's immense power.
- Piazza San Carlo Often called Turin's "living room," this elegant Baroque square is one of Italy’s finest public spaces. It is flanked by beautiful arcades, historic cafés (like Caffè Torino) and the iconic twin churches of San Carlo Borromeo and Santa Cristina.
- Museo Egizio (Egyptian Museum) Outside of Cairo, Turin owns the second-largest collection of Egyptian artifacts in the world. The museum underwent a major renovation and is celebrated for its immersive displays of sarcophagi, statues and papyri.
- Via Roma and the Arcades Turin is famous for its nearly 18 kilometers of elegant covered arcades (portici). Walking along the main shopping street (Via Roma) allows you to shop and sip coffee while enjoying the city's sophisticated architecture.
- Basilica di Superga A hilltop basilica overlooking Turin and the Alps, famous for its beautiful baroque architecture. The viewpoint provides a panoramic spectacle of the city and surrounding mountains. It’s also the resting place of the Savoy royal family.
- Porta Palazzo Market One of Europe’s largest open-air markets with fresh produce, cheeses, meats and antiques. Walking through its lively alleys gives a real taste of local Turin life. It’s a great spot for foodies and those seeking authentic experiences.
- Lingotto & Pinacoteca Giovanni e Marella Agnelli Former Fiat factory turned modern cultural space with shopping, restaurants, and a rooftop test track. Inside, the art gallery showcases works by Matisse, Picasso, and other renowned artists. The industrial heritage combined with art makes it a unique Turin highlight.
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History of Turin
Turin began as a Roman military camp called Julia Augusta Taurinorum around 28 BC. In the Middle Ages, Turin grew under bishops and local rulers. Fortifications and churches rose along the Po River. Markets and workshops flourished. By the 13th century, the city became part of the House of Savoy.
The Savoy transformed Turin into a capital. Baroque architecture shaped the city’s look. Canals connected neighbourhoods and supported trade. Silk production became a major industry, bringing wealth and prestige.
During the 19th century, Turin was central to Italian unification. Streets were widened. Railways arrived. Factories and businesses grew. The city became Italy’s first capital in 1861. In the 20th century, Turin became an industrial and cultural hub. Fiat and other companies transformed the economy. The city balanced industry with art, cafés and theatres.
Roman ruins peek from under Baroque palaces. Canals trace old trade routes. Royal residences sit near modern galleries. The city’s streets, squares, and landmarks tell stories of conquest and creativity spanning two millennia.