Turin, Italy: A Travel Guide

Overview

• Turin (Torino in Italian) was the first capital of unified Italy in 1861.
• Located in Piedmont, it blends Italian and French influences.
• Known for its royal palaces, historic cafes, and museums.
• Birthplace of vermouth, an integral part of cocktails like Negronis.

Top 5 Can't Miss Experiences

• Royal Palace: Explore the opulent apartments and gardens by Versailles' landscape architect.
• Galleria Gilibert: Buy vintage posters at this antiquarian bookstore.
• Historic Cafés: Try a bicerin at Baratti & Milano or Mulassano.
• Bar Cavour: Enjoy vermouth-based cocktails.
• Relais San Maurizio: Extend your stay in the luxurious Piedmont hills.

Best Hotels and Resorts

• NH Collection Torino Piazza Carlina: A four-star hotel with local specialties and a modern bar.
• Villa La Madonna: Boutique hotel in a vineyard with a UNESCO-listed wine cellar.
• Relais San Maurizio: 17th-century monastery with a Michelin-starred restaurant.
• Sina Villa Matilde: 18th-century residence with pools, tennis courts, and Piedmontese cuisine.

Best Things to Do

• Royal Palace: 17th-century Savoy royal residence, featuring an impressive armory.
• Egyptian Museum: Second largest collection after Cairo, showcasing ancient Nile civilization.
• Teatro Regio: Mid-century modern design theater with shows and tours.
• Mole Antonelliana & Museo del Cinema: Panoramic views and a cinema museum.
• Castello di Rivoli: Modern art museum in a historical castle.

Best Shopping

• Antica Farmacia Bosio: Stock up on Italian cosmetics and curatives.
• Latteria Bera: Famous for whipped cream and gourmet items like cheese and truffles.
• Galleria Gilibert: Rare books and vintage posters.

Best Nightlife

• Vermuttino: Specializes in vermouth in the Quadrilatero Romano.
• Bar Cavour: Offers a sumptuous design with a menu of cocktails.

Best Restaurants

• Caffè Baratti & Milano: Historic café with a rich cultural history.
• Caffè Mulassano: Known for its tramezzini and beautiful interiors.
• Del Cambio: Classic dishes in a storied setting with innovative touches.
• Pastificio Defilippis: Specializes in agnolotti and fresh pasta.
• Lao: Renowned for Asian cuisine and handmade noodles.

Neighborhoods to Visit

• Centro Storico: Home to main attractions like the Royal Palace and Egyptian Museum.
• Vanchiglia: Hip district with local spots, near Centro Storico.
• San Salvario: Known for nightlife and the Polytechnic University's Faculty of Architecture.

Best Time to Visit

• Winter: Fewer tourists, ideal for enjoying bicerin and café culture.
• Spring/Fall: Great for foodies, with events like the White Truffle Fair.

Transportation

• Airports: Torino-Caselle Airport for European flights, Milan Malpensa for international.
• Public Transit: GTT operates metro, trams, and buses.
• Taxis: Taxi Torino with a flat rate from the airport.

Tips

• Turin is less crowded than other major Italian cities, offering a unique blend of culture and history with less tourist congestion.