Turin

🏛️ Why Visit Turin, Italy?

Tucked away in northwestern Italy at the foot of the Alps, Turin (or Torino as the locals call it) is hands down one of Europe's most underrated destinations. This place was Italy's first capital, the birthplace of Italian cinema, and home to the House of Savoy royalty!

Turin blends royal grandeur with cutting-edge innovation. You've got UNESCO World Heritage palaces sitting pretty next to contemporary art galleries, the world's second-largest Egyptian collection outside Cairo, and that iconic Mole Antonelliana tower that'll have you reaching for your phone to take a snap every five minutes. Plus, you're surrounded by the stunning Alps and just a hop away from the gorgeous Piedmont wine region. It's like getting the best of Italian culture, history, and natural beauty all wrapped up in one brilliant package!

Top reasons to visit Turin:

🏖️ Royal heritage that's absolutely mind-blowing - The Residences of the Royal House of Savoy are UNESCO World Heritage sites with opulent palaces, stunning gardens, and enough gold and crystal to make your eyes water (in the best way!)

🎉 Museums that are world-class legends - From the incredible Egyptian Museum (seriously rivalling Cairo's collection) to the unique Cinema Museum inside the iconic Mole Antonelliana, you'll be proper spoiled for choice

🏰 The Mole Antonelliana – Turin's show-stopping icon - This 167-metre tower houses the Cinema Museum and offers panoramic views that'll leave you absolutely speechless. It's like nothing you've ever seen!

🌊 Chocolate and aperitivo culture that's pure heaven - Turin invented the bicerin coffee, perfected gianduiotto chocolate, and serves up aperitivo like nowhere else. Your taste buds are in for a proper treat!

☀️ Perfect location for Alpine adventures and wine tours - You're practically on the doorstep of the Alps for skiing or hiking, plus the renowned Barolo and Barbaresco wine regions are just a scenic drive away

🎭 Top Things to Do in Turin

Turin's absolutely packed with brilliant things to see and do! Whether you're into royal splendour, fascinating museums, or just soaking up that gorgeous Italian atmosphere, this city's got something special waiting around every corner.

Royal Splendour & Historic Sites

🎠 Royal Palace of Turin (Palazzo Reale) – This UNESCO World Heritage palace is absolutely stunning! The royal apartments are dripping with frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and golden details that'll make you feel like you've stepped into a fairy tale. Don't miss the Royal Armoury – it's breathtaking!

🏛️ Palazzo Madama – This architectural marvel started as a Roman gate, became a medieval castle, and ended up as a baroque palace. Today it houses the Civic Museum of Ancient Art with over 70,000 works spanning centuries.

🏰 Venaria Reale – Just outside Turin, this massive royal complex is like Italy's answer to Versailles. The restored palace and gardens are absolutely magnificent, and it regularly hosts world-class exhibitions and events.

World-Class Museums

🏖️ Egyptian Museum (Museo Egizio) – This place is mental in the best way! It's the world's oldest Egyptian museum and houses the second-largest collection of Egyptian artifacts outside Cairo. You'll see mummies, sarcophagi, and treasures that are over 4,000 years old!

🎭 National Cinema Museum & Mole Antonelliana – Housed in Turin's most iconic building, this museum celebrates the city's role as the birthplace of Italian cinema. The panoramic lift to the top offers 360-degree views that are absolutely spectacular – definitely worth the queue!

🐬 National Automobile Museum – Even if you're not a car enthusiast, this place is fascinating! With nearly 200 vintage cars including the original Fiat from "The Italian Job," it tells the story of Turin's automotive heritage in brilliant style.

Atmospheric Experiences

🎠 Turin's Historic Cafés – These elegant 18th and 19th-century cafés are where Turin's intellectual and cultural life flourished. Perfect for trying the famous bicerin (hot chocolate, coffee, and cream) or sampling divine gianduiotto chocolates.

🏛️ Via Po and the Arcades – Stroll through Turin's famous covered walkways and elegant streets. The city has over 18 kilometres of porticoes – perfect for people-watching and window shopping whatever the weather!

🏨 Where to Stay on your Turin Holidays

We've sorted out some cracking accommodation options that'll suit every budget and travel style. From brilliant value finds to proper luxury treats, these hotels will make your Turin break absolutely unforgettable!

Great Value

🏨 Hotel Diplomatic - This 4-star gem is just 250 metres from Porta Susa Train Station, making city exploration an absolute breeze! The location is spot-on for walking to all the major museums and squares, plus there's a lovely Diplomatic Café for that essential Italian aperitivo experience.

🏨 Best Western Hotel Genio - Housed in a gorgeous 19th-century palazzo, this 3-star charmer combines period elegance with modern comfort. The on site Queen Spa offers a sauna and Jacuzzi for a proper unwind. You're just steps from Porta Nuova Station and a short stroll to all the main attractions.

🏨 NH Torino Lingotto - What a unique stay this is! Set in the historic Fiat factory redesigned by Renzo Piano, this 4-star hotel offers modern rooms with high ceilings and some with stunning Alpine views. You get free parking, a fitness centre, and you're connected to a shopping complex. Plus, free access to the rooftop test track where Fiats were once tested – proper cool!

Mid-Range

🏨 AC Hotel Torino - This sleek Marriott property combines contemporary Spanish design with AC's signature minimalist Italian aesthetic. The fitness centre, business facilities, and central location make it perfect for both leisure and business travellers wanting something a bit special.

🏨 NH Torino Santo Stefano - Located in the heart of the historic centre, this sophisticated hotel puts you within walking distance of all major attractions. The modern rooms, excellent breakfast, and professional service make it a convenient, and good value, choice for exploring Turin's cultural treasures.

🏨 Grand Hotel Sitea - This elegant, five star, historic hotel blends classic Italian style with contemporary comfort. Located on prestigious Via Carlo Alberto, you're perfectly positioned for shopping, dining, and sightseeing, with spacious rooms and that refined atmosphere Turin's known for. To be honest it should probably be in the luxury section but it’s surprisingly reasonable for what you get.

Luxury

🏨 Turin Palace Hotel - This is proper luxury in the heart of Turin! A beautifully restored historic palace offering opulent suites, impeccable service, and an absolutely prime location. The elegant interiors, gourmet dining, and attention to detail make this a truly special place to stay.

🏨 Grand Hotel Principe di Piemonte - The epitome of Turinese elegance! This 5-star landmark hotel has been welcoming distinguished guests since 1897. With its stunning Belle Époque architecture, luxury spa, michelin-starred restaurant, and rooms that are pure sophistication, it's the ultimate splurge for a romantic getaway or special celebration.

🏨 Best Western Plus Hotel Piemontese - Don't let the Best Western name fool you – this is a seriously upscale property! Set in a beautiful historic building with luxurious rooms, top-notch amenities, and exceptional service. The prime location and elegant atmosphere make it perfect for travellers wanting luxury with heritage character.

Whether you're after brilliant value, comfortable mid-range comfort, or absolute luxury, these hotels will give you the perfect base for exploring everything Turin has to offer. Each one captures that special Turinese blend of history, elegance, and warm Italian hospitality that makes this city so special!