HOME
THE REGIONS OF ITALY
PLACES IN ITALY
Italy in Photos
Piazza San Carlo, 10123 Torino TO, Italy (April 2022)
Turin
Turin, or Torino in Italian, is a vibrant and sophisticated city in the northern region of Italy, nestled in the foothills of the Alps and along the banks of the Po River. As the capital of the Piedmont region, Turin boasts a rich history, a thriving cultural scene, and a reputation as a centre of innovation and industry. Often overshadowed by cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, Turin is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of grand architecture, world-class museums, elegant squares, and a thriving culinary tradition that makes it one of Italy’s most captivating cities. One of Turin’s most distinctive features is its elegant architecture, which reflects the city’s royal heritage. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Turin was the seat of the House of Savoy, one of Europe’s most powerful dynasties, and later became the first capital of a unified Italy in 1861. This royal past is evident in the city’s opulent palaces, grand boulevards, and refined urban planning. The Royal Palace of Turin (Palazzo Reale), located in the heart of the city, is a testament to this legacy. With its Baroque splendour and lavish interiors, it offers a glimpse into the life of the Savoy monarchy. Nearby, the Palazzo Madama, a stunning fusion of medieval and Baroque architecture, once served as a royal residence and is now home to the Museum of Ancient Art. Turin’s piazzas are another reflection of its aristocratic past. Piazza Castello, the city’s main square, is surrounded by grand buildings, including the Royal Palace, Palazzo Madama, and the Teatro Regio, one of Italy’s most renowned opera houses. Just a short walk away is Piazza San Carlo, often referred to as the “salotto” (living room) of Turin, a beautiful square lined with historic cafes where intellectuals, artists, and politicians once gathered. These cafes, such as Caffè Torino and Caffè San Carlo, are a window into Turin’s past and are still popular spots to enjoy an espresso or bicerin, a local drink made of espresso, chocolate, and cream. Perhaps Turin’s most iconic landmark is the Mole Antonelliana, a towering structure that dominates the city’s skyline. Originally designed as a synagogue in the 19th century, the Mole is now home to the National Museum of Cinema, one of the most important film museums in the world. The museum offers a fascinating journey through the history of cinema, with interactive exhibits, film memorabilia, and screenings of classic films. Visitors can also take an elevator to the top of the Mole for breath-taking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Alps.
Turin is also a city of culture and innovation, known for its world-class museums and galleries. The Egyptian Museum (Museo Egizio) is the second-largest museum dedicated to ancient Egypt in the world, housing an extraordinary collection of artifacts, including mummies, statues, and sarcophagi. Art lovers will find a treasure trove of masterpieces at the Galleria Sabauda, which features works by Italian and European artists such as Botticelli, Rembrandt, and Van Dyck. The city’s contemporary art scene is also thriving, with institutions like the Castello di Rivoli Museum of Contemporary Art showcasing cutting-edge works from around the world. Turin’s industrial and automotive heritage is another defining aspect of the city. Known as the birthplace of FIAT, Italy’s iconic car manufacturer, Turin has a long history as a centre of innovation and engineering. The Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile traces the history of the automobile from its earliest days to the modern era, with a special focus on Italian car design. This museum is a must-visit for car enthusiasts and offers insight into Turin’s role as a driving force behind Italy’s industrial development. The city is also renowned for its culinary scene, which reflects the richness of the Piedmont region. Turin is the birthplace of the Slow Food movement, which emphasizes sustainable, traditional, and high-quality food production. The region’s fertile plains and vineyards produce some of Italy’s finest wines, including Barolo, Barbaresco, and Moscato d’Asti, while the cuisine is known for its use of rich flavours, truffles, and cheeses. The local markets, such as Porta Palazzo, the largest open-air market in Europe, offer a taste of Piedmont’s fresh produce, meats, and cheeses. Turin’s chocolates are also world-famous, particularly the gianduiotto, a creamy hazelnut chocolate that originated in the city. Turin’s mix of historical grandeur, cultural richness, and industrial heritage makes it one of Italy’s most intriguing cities. Whether you are drawn to its royal palaces, its museums, or its world-renowned food and wine, Turin offers a unique and sophisticated Italian experience. With the Alps as a backdrop and its streets lined with elegant arcades, Turin is a city that balances tradition with modernity, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the lesser-known treasures of Italy. Turin’s mix of historical grandeur, cultural richness, and industrial heritage makes it one of Italy’s most intriguing cities. Whether you are drawn to its royal palaces, its museums, or its world-renowned food and wine, Turin offers a unique and sophisticated Italian experience. With the Alps as a backdrop and its streets lined with elegant arcades, Turin is a city that balances tradition with modernity, making it a must-visit destination for those
Worth a Visit
Piazza San Carlo, often called the “living room” of Torino, is one of the city’s most elegant and iconic squares. Designed in the 17th century by architect Carlo di Castellamonte, it reflects the grandeur of Baroque urban planning with its harmonious proportions and refined symmetry. The square is framed by graceful arcades lined with cafés, shops, and historic buildings, making it a vibrant hub for both locals and visitors. At its southern end stand the twin churches of Santa Cristina and San Carlo Borromeo, whose matching façades provide a striking architectural focal point. At the centre of the square rises the equestrian statue of Emanuele Filiberto, Duke of Savoy, created in the 19th century and affectionately known as “Cavallo di Brons” by Torinesi. More than just a monumental space, Piazza San Carlo serves as a gathering place for events, concerts, and celebrations, embodying the cultural and social heart of Torino.
Piazza Castello is the historic and political heart of Torino, a grand square where centuries of the city’s history converge. Laid out in the 16th century, it has long been the centre of civic life, surrounded by some of Torino’s most significant monuments. Dominating the square is Palazzo Reale, the former royal residence of the House of Savoy, while the medieval Palazzo Madama, with its striking Baroque façade by Filippo Juvarra, stands at its core. Elegant arcades line the piazza, sheltering cafés, shops, and cultural spaces that invite both locals and visitors to linger. Nearby, Teatro Regio adds a touch of artistic prestige as Torino’s celebrated opera house. The square often hosts festivals, gatherings, and open-air events, making it a lively meeting point that blends grandeur with everyday life. Piazza Castello remains an essential gateway to Torino’s history, art, and urban identity.
The Giardino Ducale, nestled behind Palazzo Reale in Piazza Castello, is a tranquil green retreat in the heart of Torino. Originally created as the private gardens of the Royal Palace, it reflects the refined taste and lifestyle of the Savoy dynasty. Designed in the 16th century and later enriched with Baroque influences, the gardens combine symmetry, elegance, and serenity. Tree-lined paths, manicured lawns, and carefully arranged flowerbeds offer a peaceful contrast to the grandeur of the surrounding piazza. Fountains and sculptures add to the atmosphere, inviting visitors to pause and enjoy the harmony between art and nature. Today, the Giardino Ducale is open to the public, allowing everyone to experience what was once a royal privilege. More than a historic garden, it is a living space where locals stroll, rest, or meet, making it a cherished corner of quiet beauty in Torino’s vibrant city centre.
Piazza Vittorio Veneto, often simply called “Piazza Vittorio,” is one of Torino’s most iconic and expansive squares, renowned for its elegance and lively atmosphere. Designed in the early 19th century by architect Giuseppe Frizzi, it stretches along the River Po and offers a direct view of the Church of Gran Madre di Dio, framed by the picturesque backdrop of the hills. The square is surrounded by graceful arcades that host historic cafés, bars, and restaurants, making it a favourite meeting place for both locals and visitors. Known for its vibrant nightlife, Piazza Vittorio becomes especially animated in the evenings, when terraces fill with people enjoying aperitivo or gathering with friends. By day, it is a spacious and harmonious setting for walks, markets, and cultural events. Blending grandeur with conviviality, Piazza Vittorio Veneto embodies the charm of Torino, balancing architectural beauty with the city’s lively social spirit.
Lungo Po Armando Diaz is one of Torino’s most scenic promenades, stretching gracefully along the banks of the River Po. This elegant riverside avenue offers stunning views of the water, the iconic Church of Gran Madre di Dio, and the verdant hills that frame the city. Popular with walkers, cyclists, and joggers, it provides a refreshing escape from the urban bustle while remaining just steps away from the historic center. The tree-lined paths create a peaceful atmosphere, particularly enchanting at sunrise and sunset, when the light reflects on the river. Along the way, visitors encounter historic bridges, charming viewpoints, and access points to the Murazzi, the old riverside arches once bustling with nightlife. Lungo Po Armando Diaz is not only a place for leisure and relaxation but also a cultural corridor, linking monuments, squares, and parks. It perfectly captures Torino’s balance between natural beauty and urban elegance.
Photo Gallery of Walk 1 – Stazione Porta Nuova, Corso Vittorio Emanuele II to Galleria San Federico
Approximately 0.85 km – 0.53 miles
The walk starts in – Stazione Porta Nuova, Corso Vittorio Emanuele II – Giardino Sambuy, Piazza Carlo Felice – Piazza Carlo Felice – Via Roma – Piazza C.L.N. – Piazza San Carlo – Chiesa di Santa Cristina, Piazza San Carlo – Piazza San Carlo – Via Roma – Galleria San Federico
Photo Gallery of Walk 2 – Via Antonio Bertola to Giardino Ducale
Approximately 1.11 km – 0.69 miles
The walk starts in – Via Antonio Bertola – Via Giovanni Battista Viotti – Via Monte di Pietà – Piazza Castello – Piazzetta Reale – Giardino Ducale
Photo Gallery of Walk 3 – Via IV Marzo to Corso S. Maurizio
Approximately 2.06 km – 1.28 miles
The walk starts in – Via IV Marzo – Piazza San Giovanni – Via XX Settembre – Piazza della Repubblica – Antica Tettoia dell’Orologio di Porta Palazzo, Piazza della Repubblica – Corso Regina Margherita – Rondò Rivella – Corso S. Maurizio – Via Denina – Corso S. Maurizio – Via Gioacchino Rossini – Corso S. Maurizio
Photo Gallery of Walk 4 – Lungo Po Cadorna Luigi to Lungo Po Armando Diaz
Approximately 2.00 km – 1.24 miles
The walk starts in – Lungo Po Cadorna Luigi – Ponte Vittorio Emanuele I – Piazza Vittorio Veneto – Lungo Po Armando Diaz
COPYRIGHT © 2018-2025 ITALY IN PHOTOS - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED