Take A Break is the ultimate resource for planning the perfect rejuvenating trip that allows you to reconnect with yourself, your loved ones, and the world. Our comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know before booking, from where to shop and enjoy a drink, to the best restaurants, photo spots, scenic drives, and other important details.
When it comes to international destinations for American travelers, Italy consistently ranks high. Tourists from all over the United States flock to popular spots like Rome, Florence, and the Amalfi Coast, but one hidden gem that often goes overlooked is Turin. As the capital of the Piedmont region, Turin offers a stunning landscape, opulent palaces, world-class museums, and more. Despite its cultural significance, Turin is overshadowed by its more famous counterparts among American travelers.
During my visit to Turin last summer, I was immediately captivated by the city’s understated elegance, warm locals, and peaceful atmosphere, devoid of the overwhelming crowds found in other Italian destinations during peak season. To inspire more travelers to include Turin in their Italian itineraries, I have compiled a list of my favorite dishes, attractions, and highlights from this magical city.
Where to Stay
During my visit, I had the pleasure of staying at an Airbnb that felt like our own mini palace. Spanning three floors, the apartment was beautifully decorated with ornate wallpaper, upholstered furniture, framed art, and other exquisite details. If you prefer a hotel experience, Turin offers a variety of options. The Turin Palace Hotel is located in the heart of the city, while the nearby Grand Hotel Sitea is a historic property with spacious rooms and a Michelin-starred restaurant. For a more contemporary feel, the NH Collection Torino Piazza Carlina is a popular choice.
What to Eat
Italian cuisine is renowned for its delicious flavors, but it varies from region to region. In Turin, I highly recommend trying tajarin, a rich pasta dish typically served with truffles and butter or a local meat sauce called sugo d’arrosto. The meat-filled agnolotti pasta is another must-try specialty. Other classic dishes include bagna cauda, a warm sauce made with garlic and anchovies, and grissini, crunchy breadsticks. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample vitello tonnato, thinly sliced veal topped with a creamy tuna sauce. During my visit, I had memorable meals at Tre Galli, Osteria al Tagliere, and L’Osto del Borgh Vej, and enjoyed the diverse offerings at the Mercato Centrale Torino food hall. Make sure to indulge in gelato from Gelateria Pepino for a sweet treat.
What to Drink
The Piedmont region is famous for its Barolo and Barbaresco wines, which pair perfectly with many dishes. Another must-try drink in Turin is the bicerin, a decadent combination of coffee, chocolate, and milk layered to perfection. I had the pleasure of trying bicerin at establishments like Farmacia del Cambio, Caffe al Bicerin dal 1763, and Caffé Baratti & Milano. For a unique twist, visit Piano35, a lounge located at the top of the Intesa Sanpaolo Skyscraper, where you can enjoy creative cocktails alongside breathtaking views. Casa Proseccheria is also a great spot for aperitivi with its wide selection of prosecco, cocktails, and snacks.
What to Do
Start your day in Turin with a hike up to Chiesa di Santa Maria del Monte dei Cappuccini, a hilltop church offering stunning views of the city. Explore other churches like Chiesa di San Lorenzo and make sure to visit the famous Basilica di Superga and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, La Venaria Reale. Turin’s city center is filled with grand architecture, including the stately Piazza San Carlo and the majestic Palazzo Madama Torino. The Mole Antonelliana, home to the Museo Nazionale del Cinema, is an iconic part of the city’s skyline. Don’t miss the Museo Egizio for an extensive collection of Egyptian artifacts or the contemporary exhibitions at Castello di Rivoli. The Pinacoteca Giovanni e Marella Agnelli art gallery and the Museum of the Risorgimento are also worth exploring for their historical significance. Take a stroll along the River Po and spend time in the expansive Parco del Valentino, which features attractions like the Castello del Valentino and Borgo Medievale. Car enthusiasts should visit the Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile, and sports fans can check the schedule for matches featuring Juventus or Torino football clubs.
Turin offers something for every age group and interest, making it a truly magical destination. While many Americans venture elsewhere in Italy, Turin remains a cultural tapestry waiting to be explored without the need for excessive booking in advance.
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