What to visit in Turin. Church of San Lorenzo. Church of Saint Julia

Speaking of Italy, Turin is rarely mentioned as a place to visit. Moreover, Turin is one of Italian cities, which does not look at all like the rest of Italy, which is so popular with tourists. Lazy sunny days, wine and a plate of pasta in the middle of a typical Mediterranean landscape, narrow streets - no, let's not confuse Turin with. Even though Turin is the fourth largest city in Italy, it has not yet been overtaken by tourists.

The proximity of the metropolis to the Alps completely eliminates the Mediterranean atmosphere so loved by fans of Italy. From here, close to the border with France and Switzerland, close to ski resorts. And the inhabitants themselves speak Piedmontese, a dialect of Italian that sounds closer to French.

Turin is located in a valley surrounded by hills and mountains, on the Padana Plain, the largest and most fertile in Italy. The climate can be compared with Sochi Krasnodar Territory, - quite humid: in winter it is rarely below -50C, in summer, in August, the temperature can reach +35, +400C.

It's hard to get lost in the city itself. The heir to the ancient Roman settlement, Turin has retained straight lined, fairly wide streets. There are a huge number of parks, an unthinkable number of palaces, thanks to the Italian kings of the Savoy dynasty, who chose Turin for their residences.

The uniqueness of the city is given by arched galleries along the streets with a total length of 18 km!

So, despite the rains (especially in spring), tourists can go around shops, cafes, museums for hours without going out into the open. It was here that Fiat, Martini, Lavazza, Nutella were invented.

What to see in Turin?

There is so much to see and do here that it is easy to get lost. Our article will help you navigate. We have selected the most interesting places with their photos and descriptions. And at the end of the article you will find an interactive map with sights in Russian.

Mole Antonelliana

The high spire of Mole Antonelliana is the highest point of Turin and an iconic symbol of the city (Mole in Italian is a building of monumental proportions). No wonder it is depicted on the reverse of EUR cents.

Built as a synagogue in 1848, when freedom of worship was officially granted to non-Catholic religions. Today it is the National Museum of Cinema, where you can see film equipment and memorabilia from the earliest days of filmmaking to the present day. But in reality, tourists are attracted by the observation deck at the top of the building, which offers stunning views of the city and mountains.

Address: Via Montebello, 20
Opening hours: from Wednesday to Mon; on Saturday from 9 am to 11 pm, on other days - from 9 am to 8 pm.
A ticket to the observation deck costs 7 EUR; people with disabilities and children under 5 years old are free of charge; persons from 6 to 18 years old and over 65 years old can pay 5 EUR for an entrance ticket. A ticket to the cinema museum + to the observation deck will cost 14 EUR (with a discount - from 8 to 11 EUR).

Piazza Castello

In the heart of the historic center of Turin is Piazza Castello, where two main Baroque buildings designed by the architect Filippo Juvarra are located - Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace) and Palazzo Madama (Palace of the Lady).

The latter was so admired by Napoleon that he made it his residence in Turin.

Filippo Juvarra's architecture is renowned for its weightless detail and majestic simplicity, and these two buildings testify to his undeniable talent. The Palazzo Reale was originally built in the 16th century but was modified by an architect at the request of Princess Christine Marie of France in the late 17th century. Palazzo Madama dates from 1003 and the façade was added by Juvarra in 1718. The back of the castle remains in its medieval form, so this is an incredibly unusual building.

The façade of Juvarra is a real Baroque masterpiece, but the interior is perhaps even more impressive - the monumental and tall double staircase has been reproduced in buildings around the world. The City Museum of Ancient Art (Museo Civico d'Arte Antica) occupies 35 rooms on four floors of the Palazzo Madama. Here is a wonderful collection of paintings from the Middle Ages, Renaissance and Baroque.

Address: Piazza Castello
Opening hours: Tuesday - Sunday from 8:30 to 19:30
For all expositions, the ticket price is 12 EUR

Behind the Royal Palace are royal gardens Turin, broken by the famous French landscape architect Andre Le Nôtre at the end of the 17th century. The park is made in a regular style and is decorated with fountains, sculptures and other architectural elements.

Address: Piazza Castello
Open daily except Tuesday from 10:00 to 18:00

City Museum of Ancient Art.

Turin is synonymous with chocolate and this is reflected in its historic cafés where chocolate delicacies and specialty coffees are served in original settings.

Three of the best are the majestic 19th century Caffe San Carlo (Piazza San Carlo, 156), the traditional pastry bar Baratti & Milano (Piazza Castello, 27) and the Art Nouveau Caffè Torino (Piazza San Carlo, 204). And, of course, everywhere you can drink the excellent symbol of Turin, Bicherin coffee.

Valentino Park (Parco del Valentino)

Parco del Valentino is located on west bank the river Po that crosses the city. It got its name from the nearby church of St. Valentine.

Along the river, you can admire the architecture of the grandiose villas and residences that line the shore. The park also houses the Valentino Castle (Castello del Valentino) - one of the residences royal house Savoy with UNESCO World Heritage status.
The complex is located a little away from the center, so it is better to plan most of the day for the tour.

Address: Corso Massimo d'Azglio
Open to everyone at any time of the day

Castle del Valentino:

Address: Viale Mattioli, 39
Opening hours: daily, usually from 8:00 to 19:00 - 21:00

Egyptian Museum (Museo Egizio)

Turin's Museo Egizio is revered throughout the world for its extensive collection Egyptian antiquities and academic evidence rivaling the British Museum in London, the Louvre in Paris and the papyri collection in Berlin.

Exhibited 1824 artifacts from the collection that the French Consul General Bernardino Drovetti collected during his stay in Egypt.

IN last years it has undergone a significant renovation and now includes interactive displays including 3D movies that bring the brilliance of an ancient civilization to life. The centerpiece of the museum is Ha's Tomb, a builder's tomb for the pharaohs, which dates back to 3500 BC. The level of preservation is outstanding, including sarcophagi, furniture and statues,

Address: Via Accademia delle Scienze, 6
Opening hours: Mon from 9 to 14, Tue-Sun from 9 to 18:30
Tickets will cost: 15 EUR for adults, 11 EUR for teenagers (15-18 years old), 1 EUR for children (6-14 years old), children under 6 years old are free.

Palazzo Carignano

A large baroque building with a curved façade and the Museum of the Risorgimento (National Liberation Movement). Here, in 27 rooms, the history of the unification of Italy is presented in numerous texts, documents, films and magnificent paintings.

Don't miss the hall where the first Italian Parliament met.

Right behind the Carignano Palace, at the entrance to the Risorgimento Museum, you can also see the Charles Albert Square, with an equestrian statue of Charles Albert, King of the Kingdom of Sardinia in 1831-1849.

Address: Via Accademia delle Scienze, 5
Opening hours: Mon closed, other days from 10.00 to 18.00 (last entry 17.00)
Tickets: full ticket 5.00 EUR, teenagers from 18 to 25 years old 2.50 EUR, free for children under 18 years old

Castle di Rivoli

In July 2017, it was announced that the Castello di Rivoli, Italy's first museum dedicated to contemporary art, would be bought for £450m from the heirs of the late Turin resident Federico Ceruti.

The museum's contemporary art collection is complemented by great medieval, old masters. The building is former royal residence Houses of Savoy but has holdings that date back to 1159, making the museum a must for art lovers and history buffs.

Address: Piazzale Mafalda di Savoia, 2
Opening hours: Tuesday-Friday from 10:00 to 17:00, Sat, Sun from 10:00 to 19:00
Entrance: 6.50 EUR, children under 11 free.

Quadrilatero Romano (Quadrilatero Romano)

Quadrilatero Romano - "Roman rectangle". This central District, located between the Port Palatine, via Garibaldi and Corso Siccardi, where an ancient Roman settlement once stood. The network of small streets consists of beautiful historical buildings, in which are interesting shops, bars and restaurants, as well as the remains of former Roman structures.

The area always has a noisy atmosphere, especially in the evening. Quadrilatero Romano is mostly pedestrian so it is the best place in the city for walks until you are ready for an aperitif.

Every Saturday morning and every second Sunday of the month (more on offer on Sundays), this famous flea market draws visitors from all over Italy. A labyrinth of over 250 stalls is located along with antique shops and attractive cafés.

You can find everything in Balon - antique and retro furniture, collectible toys, local lace and vintage clothing, modern handicrafts. It is located just behind Porta Palazzo in the newly built fashionable area of Aurora.

The market opens at 8am and if you don't want crowds, it's advisable to arrive early.
Address: near Porta Palazzo, Turin

Cortile del Maglio is a large covered plaza in a former military complex in the Aurora area. The industrial architecture makes it ideal for performances, events and exhibitions, which is why it has now become a bustling center of creativity and culture.

Every day it becomes part of the Balonne Flea Market and regularly hosts live music, theater and artisanal food and drink concerts. During your trip, there will definitely be something worthwhile.

Address: Cortile del M, Via Vittorio Andreis, 18

Automobile Museum (Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile)

Turin has a long and prestigious history of car manufacturing and if you're a car fanatic this museum is a must see. More than two hundred original cars from 80 different car brands tell the story of the car. He also explores the future of the automotive industry and new engineering technologies.

Visitors can see iconic models, never-before-seen prototypes, and historically important game changes. This is one of the most famous science and technology museums in the world, the display is very informative. The buildings are huge and architecturally very impressive.

Address: Corso Unità d'Italia, 40
Nearest metro station: Lingotto.
Opening hours: Mon - 10:00-14:00; Tue - 14:00-19:00; Wed, Thu, Sun - 10:00-19:00, Fri and Sat: 10:00-21:00.
Entrance: 12 EUR; persons over 65 years old, children 6-14 years old, disabled people, students - 8 EUR; schoolchildren - 2.5 EUR. Children under six years of age have free admission.

Basilica of Superga

You can see it from afar while walking around Turin: the height of the hill (which is called Superga) is 670 m with a basilica built on top. From here, the view of the metropolis and the Alps is breathtaking! That is why the people of Turin are so proud of this wonderful place.

You can get here by bus or funicular, which is more practical. If you want to walk here, no problem, but the climb will not be easy! The funicular itself (aka the tram) is original and dates back to 1934.

A steep path of 3km+ goes up the hill every day (except Wednesdays). Tram rides run approximately twenty minutes in each direction, and tickets can be purchased from a kiosk at the foot of the mountain, right at the transport point.

The basilica features a huge circular façade with a dome. Inside there is a crypt of the family of the Savoy dynasty, in the center of which is the tomb of the King of Sicily. You can also climb the narrow spiral staircase to be on the balcony at the top of the dome and admire the view of the city.

The Basilica of Superga is located in the vicinity of the metropolis at the address: Strada Basilica di Superga, 73, Torino.
A ride on the funicular in both directions will cost you 6 EUR per weekdays and 9 EUR on weekends.

Royal tombs and apartments

Opening hours: in summer (from March 1 to October 31) - from Monday to Sunday from 10:00 to 19:00 (closed until 18:15), closed on Wednesday. Winter (November 1 to February 28): Saturday, Sunday and public holidays - 10:00 - 18:00 (last admission 17:15 pm).
During the Christmas holidays there is a special visiting regime.
You will have to pay separately for viewing the tombs and entering the apartments 5 (4) EUR.

Climb 130 steps to the top of the dome:

Summer 10.00 – 19.00 (last entry at 18:40), closed on Wednesdays and in bad weather.
Ticket price 3 EUR
In winter, open from 25 December to 6 January. Monday to Friday: 10.00 – 17.00 (closed until 16:40). Sat: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm (last admission 4:40 pm) Sunday: 12.45 – 17.00 (entry until 16.40). Access is closed during opening hours and in case of bad weather.
Ticket price 3 EUR.

Duomo di Torino, Cattedrale di San Giovanni Battista with the chapel of the Holy Shroud (Cappella della S. Sindone) is the only Renaissance church in Turin, the cathedral is dedicated to John the Baptist. A combination of Baroque and Renaissance styles, the Cathedral of Turin today retains the Holy Shroud.

The Shroud of Turin is considered to be part of the fabric in which Christ was wrapped when he was taken from the cross, and on which his image miraculously remained.

Regardless of scientific skepticism, the shroud continues to draw hordes of worshipers to worship in the cathedral's Cappella della S. Sindone.

The linen fabric is preserved in an aluminum box specially made by an Italian aerospace company. Crown-of-thorns, temperature-controlled, air-conditioned box. It is protected from vandals by bulletproof glass.

For more than four hundred years, the real shroud has been kept here in Piazza San Giovanni, but it can be seen about once every 25 years. And in the cathedral there is a copy of the canvas, which you can look at at any time.

Address: Via 20 Settembre, 79.
Visiting hours: Mon – Fri 7:00–12:30, 15:00–19:00; Sat-Sun 8:00-12:30, 15:00-19:00.
Free admission

Church of Our Lady (Chiesa della Gran Madre di Dio)

The Church of Gran Madre di Dio (Great Mother of God) is one of the most important Catholic churches in Turin. It is located on the banks of the Po River and is connected to the city center by the Victor Emmanuel I Bridge. The church gives the impression of a Roman pantheon due to its architecture. Some urban legends link the church to the Holy Grail.

The Gran Madre is a neoclassical building that was erected to celebrate the return of King Victor Emmanuel I of Savoy in 1814 after the defeat of Napoleon. That is why there is an inscription in the tympanum of the church: ORDO POPVLVSQVU TAVRINVS OB ADVENTVM REGIS (Nobility and people of Turin in honor of the return of the king).

Gran Madre di Dio was officially opened in 1831 with the participation of the king of Sardinia, Charles Albert.
The church can be reached by stairs, which on both sides contain statues representing Faith and Religion. The statue of Faith holds a glass in its hand, and the legend says that this is the symbol of the Holy Grail, which arrived in Turin along with the Holy Shroud and is hidden somewhere between the two statues.

The sculptural works of both the external and internal parts of the church are noteworthy, especially the four bas-reliefs representing the Life of the Virgin.

Address: Piazza Gran Madre di Dio, 3.
Visiting times: from 7:30 to 12:00 and from 15:00 to 21:00.
Free admission

Tourist route

One day

If you only have one day in Turin, you can either explore maximum amount attractions from outside, or give a lot of time to the most worthwhile, in your opinion.

Walk around the city and admire the monuments from the outside:

Discover the historic centre, from Piazza San Carlo to Piazza Castello, around the Royal Palace and Madame's Palace.
Then head to Piazza Vittorio Veneto to cross the bridge, passing in front of the Gran Madre di Dio Church and climbing Monte dei Cappuccini for a panoramic view of Turin.
Walk in the Valentino park, in the medieval village and along the river Po.

You can focus on 2 or 3 main attractions of Turin:

Royal Palace.
Cinema Museum and Mole Antonelliana, Museo dell'Automobile if you are a car lover.
Basilica Superga and Monte dei Cappuccini to enjoy the view of the city.

Two days

If you are in Turin for 2 days, it is worth taking the Turin Card.

First day:

Start in Piazza San Carlo and its two twin churches. Climb up to Piazza Castello, stopping at the San Federico Gallery to the left of Via Roma.
Visit the Palazzo Reale with its armory and royal library.
Visit the Film Museum located in Mole Antonelliana. You will have the opportunity to take the panoramic lift.
Go to Piazza Vittorio Veneto, cross the Emanuele I bridge and admire the Gran Madre di Dio church, go up the hill to Monte dei Cappuccini.

Second day:

Start the day by heading to the Catedrale di San Giovanni Battista, home to the Shroud of Turin.
Pass through Porta Palatina to reach piazza della repubblica and market. It is open every morning.
Visit the Sanctuaries of Consolata.
Visit Palazzo Carignano and its Risorgimento Museum.
Enter the Egyptian Museum of Turin and immerse yourself in the Egyptian civilization.

Turin, thanks to its attractions, is one of the most visited in Italy. "The capital of European Baroque", "the cradle of Italian freedom", part of the "Magic Triangle", the city of "white" and "dark" hearts, the birthplace of risotto, Ferrero chocolate, martini. Here are just a few designations that characterize the city.

The fourth largest in Italy, Turin stands out in a bright and distinctive way in the elite list. Comparison with Rome, Milan, Naples does not make sense, its sights are so unique. What is one Egyptian Museum worth, which has no equal in Europe. Even Cairo, he is a healthy competition.

The veil of mystical mystery attracts lovers of the mysterious, esoteric to Turin. It is believed that together with Prague and Lyon it forms a "devilish", or, to put it mildly, "magic triangle". Evidence for this is at every turn. There is something to see in Turin for curious and fastidious tourists.

The roads of history

Now Turin and Italy are inseparable. But it was not always so. Like many settlements that arose on the blessed land peninsula, the city often changed hands. But there was one of the few that the new owners tried not to destroy, but to strengthen.

Even during the period of Roman rule, a competent layout was laid. In the VIII century, Turin was the center of the Lombard duchy, in the XVI century - the capital of the Savoy dynasty, later - the Sardinian kingdom, then the Italian one. The vanity and political and economic possibilities of the rulers, apart from high status, brought little to the city. Only after joining the united Italy, Turin began to develop rapidly. It was the first capital of a united country. Then this relay title passed to Venice, after it - to Rome.

architectural styles

The attraction of Turin is the famous martini. Many bars and restaurants with a historic atmosphere, such as near Piazza Castello, offer excellent traditional dishes and wines of the Piedmont region, with their own unique taste. If you have the opportunity to visit here, you should get acquainted with such sights as:

The Duomo di Torino, located on the site of an ancient Roman theater, was built at the end of the 15th century, and its chapel of the Holy Shroud was added to its structure 200 years later. The architect of the construction was Meo del Caprino, who managed to build the cathedral in 7 years. In the chapel of the cathedral is one of the most significant shrines of Catholicism, the Shroud of Turin. A copy of it is on display.

Location: Piazza San Giovann.

The construction of the largest church in Turin (69 meters long and 37 meters wide) began in 1679 according to the project of Antonio Berino. Its baroque altarpiece was designed by Antonio Bertola in 1703. The sights of the church are its overall porticos in the classical style, paintings by such masters as Carlo Maratta, Bartolomeo Caravoglia, Francesco Solimena, as well as sculptures by Bernero and Clemente.

Location: Via Maria Vittoria - 5.

The oldest church in Turin, Santuario della Consolata is dedicated to Santa Maria and is a real masterpiece of the Piedmontese Baroque. Such great architects as Garino Garini, Filippo Juvarra, Carlo Sepi took part in its construction. Back in the 5th century, Bishop Massimo built a small church here, in which the image of the Madonna was placed. The basilica, which was erected in place of the ancient church, was built in the Romanesque style, with 3 naves, an arcade on the south side and a bell tower.

Location: Via Maria Adelaide - 2.

The Porta Principalis Dextera allowed access to Julia Augusta Taurinorum, the city that is known today as Turin. Together with the ancient theater within walking distance, the Palatine Gate, built at the dawn of our era, is part of archaeological park opened in 2006. They served as the gates of the city until the 9th century, after which they were transformed into a castrum.

Location: Piazza Cesare Augusto - 15.

Museo Egizio specializes in Egyptian archeology and anthropology. Here is the second largest (after the Cairo Museum) collection of Egyptian antiquities. The first object with an Egyptian connection that reached Turin in 1630 was a plaque made in the Egyptian style. This exotic item inspired King Carlo Emanuel to send the botanist Vitaliano Donati to the country of the pharaohs to collect Egyptian artifacts.

Location: Via Accademia delle Scienze - 6.

Located in the Madama Palace, the City Museum of Ancient Art includes more than 7,000 exhibits. These are paintings and manuscripts, sculptures and ceramics, porcelain and gold, furniture and fabrics - evidence of the rich 10-century heritage of Italian art. In the museum they are presented in chronological order, in accordance with the main stages of the historical development of the country and the area. It is very convenient for tourists.

The Museum of Antiquities of Turin is home to archaeological finds from prehistoric times to the late Roman era. It consists of stalls and 3 pavilions. In the stalls there is a sculpture room, where ancient Roman and Greek sculptures and reliefs are exhibited, on the first floor - Greek, Etruscan, protohistorical and Cypriot collections, on the second - excavations in Piedmont, and the third floor is dedicated to the archeology of Turin.

The Museo dell'Automobile was founded in 1932 by Italian automotive pioneers Cesare Goria Gatti and Roberto Biscaretti di Ruffia. It is the only national museum of its kind in Italy and is housed in rooms designed by Amadeo Albertini on the left bank of the Po. Almost 200 original cars of various brands have found shelter in the museum. The Auto Museum, in addition to exhibitions, will tell the story of the car, its transformation from a simple vehicle into an object of worship.

Location: Corso Unità d'Italia - 40.

A fascinating world in miniature, the Puppet Museum of Turin hosts a valuable collection of dolls, puppets, costumes and furniture, most of which belong to the Lupi family. This family, which has been involved in puppetry for over 200 years, has collected over 5000 items that have become museum exhibits today. Its visit can become an interesting family journey into the world of fairy tales, dramas and comedies, shows and magic.

Location: Via Santa Teresa - 5.

Turin was the first Italian city to organize a public exhibition of contemporary art. It is housed in a building designed by Carlo Bassi and Bocchetti Goffredo in 1959. The gallery, in addition to permanent exhibitions, organizes and provides conditions for temporary exhibitions, as well as educational events. Today here you can see more than 45,000 exhibits, paintings, sculptures, photographs, drawings and engravings, films.

Location: Via Magenta - 31.

The plan of the palace was designed for members of the Savoy family. It was built in the 17th century in the Italian Baroque style. After transferring it to the city, they settled here: Turin Art Gallery, city library, museum of antiquity. The palace is also equipped with a chapel, which is connected to the Turin Cathedral through a passage.

Location: Piazzetta Reale - 1.

The construction of the Valentino castle was completed in 1630 to the taste of the French princess Christina, who became the Duchess of Savoy. Its interior is made by Swiss artists. After the French Revolution, the castle was used for festivals and as an exhibition ground. Today it is home to the local Faculty of Architecture.

Location: Viale Mattioli - 39.

One of the symbols of Turin, the Mole Antonelliana building was built at the end of the 19th century according to the design of Alessandro Antonelli. At one time it was the tallest brick structure in the world and is still the tallest in Italy.

The observation terrace, from where the whole city is visible, is located in the upper part of the dome and can be reached by a panoramic elevator with a transparent cabin. Today, Mol Antonelliana is home to the National Film Museum, another fascinating attraction in Turin.

Location: Via Montebello - 20.

The fortress of Turin is a symbol of the resistance of the Duchy of Savoy in the War of the Spanish Succession. The laying of the first stone took place in 1564, and the work was completed in 1577.

Located in the southwest of Turin, on the site of the San Pietro bastion, the fortress has powerful bastions, is surrounded by a wide moat without water and is equipped with a number of defensive structures. Today it houses a museum national history dell'Artiglieria.

The origins of the Turin botanical garden can be traced back to 1560, when the first collection of plants was collected in the studio di Mondovi, attached to the University.

After some decline associated with the world wars, today the garden is undergoing a restoration program: in 1963, an alpine garden appeared here, in 1986 - a greenhouse for succulents, in 2006 - another, for tropical plants South Africa. Currently cultivated in the garden 2000 plant species, in the rock garden - 300, in the arboretum - 500, in the greenhouse - about 1000.

Location: Viale Mattioli - 25.

The Teatro Regio is a world famous opera house with its own opera company. The season of this cultural institution lasts from October to June. The theater was opened in 1740, but by the 20th century, the old building was closed for security reasons. It was restored by 1973, but with a more modern interior, hidden behind the original facade.

Location: Piazza Castello - 215.

Located very close to the city center, Torino's largest and oldest public park dates back to the 17th century.

The park got its current look in 1864 after a partial reconstruction: more comfortable paths were equipped, artificial meadows and valleys were added, as well as a lake, which is used as a skating rink in winter. Tourists who are already a little tired of cult, cultural and historical impressions should come here to relax, breathe fresh air and gain strength for new excursions to the sights of Turin.

When planning a trip to Italy, include Turin in your itinerary. Dozens of amazing city tours with large squares, green parks, luxurious shopping streets in the shadow of arcades and many attractions will not leave you indifferent.

brief information

Turin is one of the largest and most beautiful cities in Italy, located in the northwest of the country in the foothills of the Alps, on a hillside in the Po Valley. Turin is not spoiled by the attention of tourists, like Rome, Florence or Venice, but, definitely, it deserves your attention. No wonder it is called "Italian Paris".

The view of the evening Turin and the Mole Antonelliana tower is mesmerizing

Today, Turin is a large (130 km²) industrial center with almost a million inhabitants and is the capital of the Piedmont region. The history of the city begins from the 3rd century BC. e. from the settlements of the Celtic and Ligurian tribes. Then it was a Roman colony, then the commune of Mark Turin. And only in the XV century, after Turin passed into the possession of the Savoy family, the city began to grow rapidly, annexing neighboring lands. The dukes of Savoy were given the royal title, and Turin became the capital of the kingdom.

How to get there

The most convenient way to get to Turin is by plane. As for Russia, there are direct flights from Moscow, as well as charter flights from St. Petersburg. You can also get to Turin through Milan or Genoa, and from there by bus or train.

Turin has its own airport of international status, located 15 km from the center

According to my good friends who have already visited Turin twice, it is more practical to get from the airport to the city center by bus. Firstly, the stop is located right at the exit from the terminal, and secondly, you will reach the city center. The ticket must be validated at the entrance to the bus. Its purchase at the airport ticket office will cost less than the driver.
But you won’t be able to get to the center by train, since its final destination is the Torino Dora station, and not the central station. Therefore, you will have to change to a tram or bus going to your destination.

There is a well-developed railway connection between European countries, for example, from France, Germany, England, Spain to Turin can be comfortably and quickly reached by train. There are no direct tickets from Moscow, so you have to get to Milan or Genoa via Nice. There are also bus routes, but they are longer and more expensive. From the sea towns to Genoa can be reached by ferry, and from there to Turin.

Porta Nuova - modern railway station in the historic center of Turin

What to see in Turin

The rich history of Turin still gives a special flavor to the atmosphere of the whole city. Walking along its streets, you can see stunning palaces and residences, museums and galleries, squares and arches that cover the entire central part, giving it a magical aura.

Attractions in Turin are mostly historical and are concentrated in the city center. The architecture of the buildings is dominated by the Baroque style - it is he who gives the city a magnificent and festive look.

The porticos of Via Roma - one of the central streets - are made in the Baroque style

Based on the experience of my friends, it is better to book a hotel in the city center, not far from the railway station, then you can get around most of the sights on foot. And if you prefer more remote areas, then choose a hotel near the metro. Turin Metro is the best way to get around the city. There are signs and scoreboards everywhere, and if you use the metro scheme, the risk of getting lost is reduced to zero. Trains run every few minutes. It's much more convenient than the tram or bus, especially if you don't speak Italian and can't explain where you need to go. Italians are not very fond of English and prefer to communicate with tourists in their own language, so it would be useful to take a small phrasebook with you on your trip.

Turin squares

There are a lot of beautiful spacious squares with fountains and monuments in Turin. But the main and most visited of them are:

Piazza Castello is the heart of Turin and the venue for many of the city's events. Here are the Palace of the Queen (Palazzo Madama) and the Palace of Carignano (Palazzo Carignano), as well as the famous museum complex "Polo Reale" (Polo Reale di Torino) and the Reggio Theater. Enjoy a walk around the square, sit on a bench watching the kids skateboarding, have an espresso in one of the bars in the shade of the arcades;
Address: Piazza Castello, Torino.

The famous Royal Palace on the central square of Castello now houses an art gallery
The historic Piazza San Carlo is central to the city. This is where it most often starts. excursion route many tourists. Yes, and on the square itself there is something to see: the famous equestrian monument to Emmanuel Filiberto, which stands in the center of the square; the original double facades of the twin churches of San Carlo and Santa Cristina; a hotel housed in a building of the 17th century; the academy of the philharmonic and historical cafes, comfortably located in the porticos;
Address: Piazza San Carlo, Torino.

San Carlo - the main square of Turin - is especially beautiful in the evening
Piazza Vittorio Veneto is the largest not only in the city, but also in Europe (40,000 m2). It is located at the end of Via Po overlooking the river and the Church of Our Lady. From all sides, the square is surrounded by arcades with all kinds of restaurants, cafe-bars, and at night it turns into one of the centers of Turin nightlife. In the area of the square there is a central bus station, from where buses leave for Rome, Naples, Milan, Paris and other cities.
Address: Piazza Vittorio Veneto, Torino.

In Piazza Vittorio Veneto you can see a monument to the first king of Italy

Museums

In addition to city squares, which are attractions in themselves, museums are of particular interest to tourists:

The Cinema Museum is located inside the Mole Antonelliana, the tallest (167.5 m) handmade brick building in Turin with an observation deck at the top. This unusual museum with numerous interactive activities and a variety of exhibitions will surprise anyone. Lying in a comfortable, easy chair, reminiscent of a deck chair, you can watch films about the history of cinema, and then take the panoramic elevator to the very dome and enjoy the view of the city and the Alps to your heart's content;
Address: Via Montebello 20, Torino. Opening hours: from 9.00 to 20.00; Saturday - until 22.00, Tuesday - day off. Price: from 10 € to 16 €.

The National Film Museum of Turin has a hall with comfortable chairs to watch movies
Museum Egyptian art in terms of the number of exhibits, it is second only to the one located in Cairo. The extensive collection is the result of many years of expeditions, when artifacts were shared between the country where they were found and the researchers. The museum's collection includes about 6,500 archaeological exhibits: statues, sarcophagi, mummies, which will take at least an hour to examine;
Address: Via Accademia delle Scienze 6, Torino. Opening hours: from Tuesday to Sunday - from 9.00 to 16.30, Monday - from 9.00 to 14.00. Price - 15 €.

Unique Egyptian Museum in Turin attracts tourists from all over the world
The Biscaretti di Ruffia Museum is the largest automobile museum in Europe. On the floor is a huge satellite photo of Turin. With it, you can "walk" around the city. Touch screens, separate booths with a screen for viewing vehicle information different years, mini-cars moving in a circle and demonstrating all the stages of assembling a car, a collection of cars from different years and unusual installations will not leave anyone indifferent.
Address: Corso Unità d'Italia, 40, Torino. Opening hours: from 10.00 to 19.00, Friday, Saturday - until 21.00, Tuesday - from 14.00 to 19.00, Monday - day off. Price - 12 €.

The Museo Biscaretti di Ruffia is a popular car museum, the second largest in Europe with interactive activities

Palaces and residences

In Turin, it is worth visiting the famous royal castles and admiring their luxurious interior:

Palazzo Madama is one of the historical buildings of the Palace Square. Outwardly, it looks like a real palace, although in fact it is a skillfully decorated facade of a medieval castle that belonged to the king of France. It was intended to receive French pilgrims coming to Rome. After Maria Christina de Bourbon - the regent of Savoy - made it her residence, the castle turned into a chic mansion. Taking the elevator to the top of the tower at a height of 35 meters, you can admire the panoramic panorama of Turin and the Alps in all their glory;
Address: Piazza Castello, Torino. Opening hours: from Monday to Saturday - from 10.00 to 18.00, Tuesday is a day off. Price - 10 €.

The Palace of the Queen (Palazzo Madama) is distinguished by its facade: on the one hand - a chic mansion, on the other - a medieval castle
Palazzo Reale was the residence of the royal family until 1861, and today it houses various galleries and museums. In the main building of the palace, you can admire the unique objects of the Baroque and Rococo era, as well as the architectural structure of the estate itself. Luxuriously decorated apartments, an original scissor staircase and a fine collection of Chinese vases will impress art connoisseurs;
Address: Piazzetta Reale 1, Torino. Opening hours: from Tuesday to Saturday - from 9.00 to 19.00. Price - 12 €.

The majestic Royal Palace impresses with the luxurious decoration of the apartments
Palazzo Carignano is the official residence of the Carignano family, the younger branch of the Savoy dynasty. From an architectural point of view, the Carignano Palace is one of the best examples of Italian Baroque, distinguished by an unusual concave-convex façade. The interior of the palazzo is rich in frescoes, stucco and decorations. Since 2011, access to the apartments of the residence has been open. Today, the palace houses the Risorgimento Museum, dedicated to the period of the struggle for the unification of Italy. It contains many paintings, weapons, banners and uniforms of that time.
Address: Via Accademia delle Scienze, 5, Torino. Opening hours: from 10.00 to 18.00, Monday is a day off. Price - 5 €.

Carignano Palace of unusual architectural form - the best example of Italian Baroque

Cathedrals and churches

There are a lot of churches, cathedrals, basilicas of different architectural styles in Turin. Most of them are located within the city, but there are a lot of them in the vicinity, for example, the famous Basilica of Superga (Basilica di Superga) and the abbey of St. Michael (Abbazia or Sacra di San Michele). In the city itself, you should definitely visit the main temples:

The Cathedral of John the Baptist, named after the guardian of the city, is the religious pillar of Turin. The chapel houses one of the most important relics of Christianity - the Holy Shroud, which is a fabric cloth that wrapped the body of Jesus Christ after the crucifixion. Inside the cathedral there is a special atmosphere, and the masterpieces of artists and sculptors attract the eye;
Address: Via XX Settembre 87, Torino. Opening hours: from 8.30 to 12.00, from 15.00 to 19.30.

Turin Cathedral of St. John the Baptist attracts pilgrims from all over the world
the church of St. Mary, whose history, like most places in Turin, is associated with the exploits of the Dukes of Savoy. Nearby is the Capuchin Monastery, which houses the National Museum of Mountaineering (Duca degli Abruzzi) - one of the largest mountaineering museums in the world;
Address: Piazzale Monte dei Cappuccini 3, Torino. Opening hours: from 8.30 to 12.00, from 15.00 to 19.30.

The Church of St. Mary is located on the picturesque Hill of the Capuchins
The Church of Our Lady, modeled on the Roman Pantheon, was founded to celebrate the return of Emmanuel of Savoy after the defeat of Napoleon in 1814. The church houses the statues of San Maurizio, Blessed Margaret of Savoy, Blessed Amadeo of Savoy, St. John the Baptist. Also interesting are the four bas-reliefs inside the building, made of various sculptures that depict the life of the Virgin (Nativity, Entry into the Temple, Betrothal, Coronation).
Address: Piazza Gran Madre, 4, Torino. Opening hours: from 7.30 to 19.00.

Church of the Great Mother of God - the only temple built on the model of the Roman Pantheon

Turin in different seasons

Museums, palaces, basilicas and other attractions of Turin are open to the public all year round. From July to August there is an influx of tourists - this is a vacation period for schoolchildren and students, in connection with which many families plan holidays for these months.

Turin is beautiful at any time of the year:

in winter it will subdue you relatively warm weather because the air temperature does not fall below 0 °C. If you arrive before the Christmas holidays, then the fairs and the magic outfit of the city from a thousand colored lights will captivate you forever. In winter, a stay in Turin can be combined with a visit to the ski slopes in Sestriere, Cesana and Claviera, which are only 100 km from the city;
The oldest resort in Italy, Sestriere, is located a hundred kilometers from Turin.
in spring, the city is transformed and literally immersed in the lush greenery of vineyards, and the air intoxicates with marvelous aromas of flowering fruit trees, shrubs and flowers. This is the ideal time to visit the parks, for example, you should definitely visit the Valentino Park and the Botanical Garden located on its territory. Turin Book Fair is also worth a visit, the largest book fair in Italy, which takes place annually in May (May 18–22);
Spring walks in Valentino Park are a wonderful form of recreation for tourists and citizens
summer is Piedmont's most favorite season for tourists, because there is no heat here, and the air temperature rarely rises above +30 ° C. Excursions in such weather are a real pleasure. In addition, you can have a picnic in the park, on the banks of the Po River, or just relax in the shade of one of the terraces of local cafes. In summer, the city lives a busy nightlife, clubs open around 23.00, but start to overflow at around 1 a.m.;
Murazzi - a lively area on the banks of the Po River, where nightlife is in full swing
autumn is the "golden" season for wine connoisseurs and chocolate lovers. In September, grapes are harvested in Turin and a wine festival is held, which can be tasted at fairs, in bars and restaurants. And in November, a chocolate festival is held in Piazza Veneto. This is an unforgettable holiday for children and adults, accompanied by bright and noisy processions along the central streets. Anyone can taste delicious chocolate prepared right in front of their eyes.
In the autumn in Turin you can taste real Italian young wine of local production

What to visit with children

If you are planning a vacation with children, then there are entertainments for them in Turin. The whole family can visit the water park, the zoo or take the child to the Children's City and Trampoline Park:

Aqua Joy. Located in Viale Colli, 107-10090 Rivoli Torino. This water park is ideal for the whole family, there are water slides for thrill-seekers, a beach with umbrellas, sun loungers, pools and jacuzzis, and for the little ones there is a baby lagoon. It opens in early June;
Acqua Joy Water Park with large outdoor pool is ideal for the whole family
Blue paradise. Address: Via Gozzano, 11-10043 Orbassano. The water park has a water castle and a lot of slides for both adults and children. There is also a large hot tub and a dining area. The water park opens from June 9;
Blu Paradise water park differs in mass water attractions
Atlantis. Address: Via Pinerolo, 60–10064 San Secondo di Pinerolo. It is located in the Pinerolo Park, where, in addition to water attractions, there is the Dinosaur Park, a visit to which will also be interesting for children. It opens from June 1;
The swimming pool of the Atlantis water park in the Pinerolo park is a popular place for recreation for residents and visitors of Turin in the summer
the Zoom Biopark is located twenty-five kilometers from Turin. There are no cells in it, the role of limiters is performed by reservoirs and stone barriers. Lemurs and peacocks roam freely here, and African penguins do not mind you swimming with them;
Zoom is a unique biopark where animals are kept in conditions close to natural
the outdoor amusement park "Three Oaks" (Parco Avventura Tre Querce) will be of interest to lovers of adventure, interactive games and rope trails. There are many adult and children's routes designed for any age: from 3 to 14 years. The park is open on weekends and holidays from 10.00 to 19.00, the last entrance is at 17.00;
Address: Via San Quintino 28 10121 Torino.

Amusement Park "Three Oaks" - perfect place for lovers of rope trails and interactive games
a city for children called GruCity in Grugliasco. This unique complex with an area of 1200 m 2, in which each child can try on one or another profession. For this purpose, 12 buildings were created in the town: a newspaper office, a television studio, a hospital, a fire station, a construction site, a supermarket, a beauty salon, workshops and a restaurant. Each child independently chooses an activity to their liking and puts on a themed costume in order to fully enter the role;
Address: Via Crea, 10–10095 Grugliasco Torino. Working hours: on weekends and holidays - from 10.00 to 20.00, on Friday - from 16.00 to 20.00.

In the unique GruCity children's city, a child tries on a profession they like, dressed in a themed costume
Bounce trampoline park, opened in March 2018. It is located in the I Viali shopping park in the town of Nikelino. On an area of more than 4 thousand meters, a variety of trampolines, obstacle courses, parkour and much more are installed in order to experience all the emotions and shades of free jumping. Here you can meet visitors of all ages: from toddlers to pensioners.
Address: I Viali Shopping Park, Nichelino, Torino.

The Bounce Trampoline Park offers great fun by jumping and tumbling on elastic mattresses and air cushions

How much time to visit the city

In one day you will be able to see the historical part of the city: Castello Square with nearby objects - the Royal Palace and the Palazzo Madama, Cathedral and a chapel with an exhibited copy of the Shroud, the Palatine Gate. You can climb to the Mole Antonelliana observation deck, walk along the Po embankment to the Church of the Great Mother of God and, at the end, take a walk through the Valentino Park.

Video: inspection of the historical part of the city

In 2-3 days you can see popular museums, the Palazzo Reale complex, take a walk to Superga Hill, where the basilica is located. It will take about two hours to get there on foot, but you can use the funicular, which will take you to the hill much faster. The funicular (Sassi stop) is easily accessible by bus from Piazza Castello or Vittorio.

The funicular going up Superga Hill to the Basilica of the same name is waiting for its passengers

If you climb the tower of the Church of the Virgin, you will see an incomparable landscape: a view of the city, the Po River, the Alpine peaks.

The view of Turin and the Alps from Superga hill in the evening is truly amazing

For a more detailed acquaintance with the monuments of history, architecture and art of the city of Turin, it will take at least five days, plus two more should be devoted to exploring the surroundings, because there are no less interesting objects. What is Venaria Reale worth, which is called the "Italian Versailles". Also of interest are the royal hunting castle of Stupinigi, the summer residence with the Racconigi park, the abbey of St. Michael.

Video: Royal Palace of Venaria Reale

My friends, who visited the Venaria Palace last year, said that you can get there by a special Venaria Express bus, going from Via Fiochetto to the castle itself. The bus stops at Piazza Vittorio and Castello, so you can get on it wherever you like. From Tuesday to Friday, the bus fare is 1.70 €, which means you can use a regular public transport ticket. You can buy it at newspaper and tobacco kiosks. Drivers sell tickets on weekends and holidays. The fare is 7 €.

The choice of hotels to stay in Turin is quite large - from budget to luxury apartments. Room prices start from 50 euros.

Get a tourist plastic card Torino + Piemonte - it will allow you to significantly save money and not stand in queues for tickets. With it, you can visit about 60 different museums and exhibitions in Turin and Piedmont, use the right to free travel on city buses and take a boat ride on the Po River. Such a card is sold in almost all museums upon presentation of a passport.
Torino + Piemonte tourist plastic card will save on museum visits
Take advantage of the special day at the museums, when admission is free for all tourists. For example, on the first Sunday of any month, you can visit the Royal Palace, the Armory, the Palazzo Carignano, the Queen's Villa, the Sabauda Gallery, the Museum of Antiquities for free.
The Sabauda Gallery can be visited free of charge on the first Sunday of the month
Many museums offer free entry for children, seniors over 65, and the disabled, with discounts for students, so check to see if you qualify for discounts before buying a ticket.
In many museums in Turin for children under 15 years old, admission is free During brunch hours in the bars and cafes of Turin, you can have a delicious dinner for only 6 euros
Be sure to try what is made in Turin: grissini bread sticks, bagna cauda sauce, local drink Bicherin, Pepino ice cream and Gianduia chocolate.
Bicherin is a traditional drink of Turin made with coffee, cream and chocolate.
When traveling around the city and the region, use the subway. This is the fastest and convenient way movement.

Turin trains run without a driver, so the view through the front glass is very impressive.
Seeing the image of a bull on the pavement, trample on it and make a wish.

The bull is the symbol of Turin, so its images can be found everywhere
Buy a figurine of a bull as a souvenir, and please your friends and relatives with a bar of Turin chocolate or a package of handmade sweets, a bottle of wine produced in the suburbs, or a package of aromatic Lavazza coffee.

Photo gallery: tourist maps

To navigate the variety of Turin attractions, hotels and hostels, restaurants and cafes, bars and nightclubs will help tourist map A map of Turin's surroundings is sure to come in handy when planning trips outside the city. Metro is a popular mode of transportation in Turin, so a metro map for visitors to the city will come in handy. The main sights of the central part of Turin are easy to find using a tourist map

It is a city of majestic architecture, elegance and antiquity at the same time. From 1861 to 1865 it was the capital of all Italy, and now it is not only a beautiful city, but also a place of interesting cultural initiatives, such as the international Book Salon, or the Salon of Taste, which the organizers of the Slow Food Association are proud of.

Turin is a mysterious and two-faced city: together with Lyon and Prague, it forms the so-called "devil's triangle". And at the same time, it is here that one of the most famous relics in the world is kept - the sacred shroud. There are countless reasons to visit this wonderful city.

(Mole Antonelliana)

This building towering above the city - the symbol of Turin - was originally conceived as the main synagogue. In 1863, the construction of the tower began under the direction of the architect Alessandro Antonelli. When, by 1876, he decided, contrary to his original intention, to significantly increase the height of the tower, the Jewish community refused to continue to finance its construction. Only in 1889 the city authorities completed the construction. Now, on a modern panoramic elevator, you can go up to the very spire of the tower and see the whole of Turin under your feet. But 163 meters in height is not the only advantage of Mole Antonelliana. The building itself now houses the Museum of Cinematography, where you can get acquainted with the history of the big screen - from the birth of cinema to the present.

Mole Antonelliana. Photo paesionline.it

The museum is open all days of the week except Monday from 10.00 to 20.00, Saturday from 10.00 to 23.00. A full ticket to the museum costs 6.50 euros, a reduced ticket costs 2 euros. The rise on the panoramic elevator will cost 4.50 euros (preferential - 3.20). A single ticket "museum + sightseeing lift" costs 8 euros, reduced - 4.50.

Skyscraper Intesa Sanpaolo

Glass, steel and green oases. Mayor Fassino: "It will become another symbol of the city."

The skyscraper Intesa Sanpaolo, designed by the architect Renzo Piano, opened in the city center, between Corso Vittorio and Corso Ingilterra. The skyscraper, which will house more than 2,000 employees of Italy's first banking group, will be the new headquarters of Intesa Sanpaolo in Turin. The skyscraper is made in the style of eco-building: double cladding of the facade, geothermal power supply, LED lighting.

The chief architect of the project, Renzo Piano, emphasized two important characteristics of his own work in Turin: "The skyscraper is self-contained (Energy Intelligence system) and open to the city, two key elements that are today the essence of modern architecture". Some floors of the skyscraper are really open to the public, especially the last three floors, which are home to a greenhouse with a restaurant and cafe. As the mayor of Turin, Fassino, said, "the skyscraper will become a symbol of the city and real modern innovations."

Address: Corso Inghilterra n°3

Piazza Castello

This area can be considered a real "foothold" of Turin: since the ancient Roman era, city life has always been seething here. The most important buildings of Turin overlook the square: the Royal Palace, the Royal Theater built in 1700, the building of the regional government, the Government Palace (currently the seat of the prefecture), the Armory and Royal Library, which contains, among other things, the works of Leonardo da Vinci.

Piazza Castello. Royal Palace. Photo industriadelturismo.com

The four main streets of Turin originate from here: Via Roma, Via Pietro Micca, Via Po and Via Garibaldi, which, by the way, is one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe.

In the center of the square rises Madama's palace. Piazza Castello was designed in 1584 by Ascanio Vitozzi, when there was already a castle of the 13th century, which fit perfectly into the new project and was later decorated by Filippo Juvarra with a baroque facade.

Madama Palace (Palazzo Madama) and Museum of Ancient Art

It is located in the center of Piazza Castello, and its magnificent facade of the 18th century is perfectly visible from Garibaldi Street. The palace got its name in the 17th century, when the mother of Charles Emmanuel II, Maria Christina of France, who at that time ruled the country, chose the palace as her residence in 1637.

View of Madama Palace from above. Photo museionline.it

Currently, there is a museum of ancient art. The collections are located on four floors, traveling along which you can see a collection of works of art from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, a collection of paintings from the 17th-18th centuries, see the famous "Portrait of a Man" by Antonello da Messina, stored in the Treasure Tower, and also admire unique ivory products , ceramics, glass, fabrics and precious stones.

One of the halls of the museum of ancient art. Photo torinomia.com

The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10.00 to 18.00, on Sunday - from 10.00 to 20.00. Day off - Monday. Price full ticket 7.5 euros. The first Tuesday of each month, admission to the museum is free.

Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist (Duomo di San Giovanni)

The cathedral is dedicated to the heavenly patron of Turin - St. John the Baptist. It was built between 1491 and 1498 at the behest of Cardinal Domenico della Rovere and designed by the Tuscan architect Meo del Caprina. In the 17th century, the Chapel of the Holy Shroud, designed by the architect Guarino Guarini, was added to the building.

Cathedral of John the Baptist and the Chapel of the Holy Shroud. Photo comune.torino.it

This chapel houses the famous canvas, in which, according to legend, the body of Jesus Christ was wrapped after he was taken down from the cross, and on which the imprint of his image remained. Numerous pilgrims flock here to see the holy relic with their own eyes. Despite a strong fire on the night of April 11-12, 1997, which severely damaged a significant part of the chapel, the Holy Shroud was saved from the fire. Restoration work is still ongoing in the chapel itself, and the sacred canvas has since been stored in a special container in which certain atmospheric conditions are maintained.

Shroud of Turin. Photo deviaggio.info

In the lower church of the cathedral, the "Museum of Sacred Art" is open to visitors.

Egyptian Museum (Museo delle Antichità Egizie)

It has existed in Turin for almost two centuries and is considered second in importance after a similar museum in Cairo. The museum originates in 1826 from the collection of Carlo Felice, acquired from the French consul in Egypt, Bernardino Drovetti. Subsequently, the collection was significantly expanded largely thanks to the efforts of the Egyptologist Ernesto Schiaparelli, who headed the museum in 1894 and organized the first Italian expedition to Egypt. Among the most interesting exhibits museum - the Turin papyrus (or royal canon), which helps to understand the succession of successive rulers of Egypt, the papyrus of the gold mines, the untouched tomb of the architect Kha and his wife Merit. One of the latest significant acquisitions is the rocky temple of Ellisius, donated to Italy by the Egyptian government for its contribution to the preservation cultural heritage Egypt.

Museum exhibits. Photo sallyfischerpr.com

The Egyptian Museum is located in a 17th-century palace, which is also the seat of the Academy of Sciences. The cost of a full entrance ticket is 7.5 euros, a reduced ticket is 3.5 euros (including for young people aged 18-25), free of charge for those under 18 years of age, military and disabled people. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 8.30 to 19.30.

Basilica of Superga

Also known as the Royal Basilica of Superga, it rises above the hill of the same name in the east of Turin, overlooking great view over the city and the Alps. The basilica was built by King Vittorio Amedeo II (designed by the Messinian Filippo Juvarra) as a gratitude to the Virgin Mary for the victory over the French, who besieged Turin in 1706, and is a true masterpiece of 18th century Baroque architecture.

Basilica of Superga. Photo abbeytravel.it

By the will of Vittorio Amedeo III, a crypt in the form of a Latin cross was built in the underground part of the basilica, in which the remains of representatives of the Savoy dynasty are located.

The Basilica is open to the public from 9.00 to 12.00 and from 15.00 to 17.00 in winter and until 18.00 in summer.

Valentino Castle and Park (Castello e Parco del Valentino)

And the park of the same name is located in the city center, on the banks of the Po River. It is assumed that the name of the castle was named after St. Valentine, whose remains are kept in a crystal casket in the Church of St. Vitus, located on a hill overlooking the Valentino Park. According to another version, the opening of this park took place on February 14 - a holiday when every lady called her gentleman Valentine.

The castle itself was built at the beginning of the 13th century as a fortification, and in 1564 it was acquired by Emmanuel Philibert of Savoy. In 1620, Maria Christina of France ordered the castle to be rebuilt in french style to remind her of the castles of the Loire. It is said that the duchess chose this castle specifically for meetings with her lovers, whom she then disposed of by throwing them to the bottom of the well...

The castle has a horseshoe shape with four towers and a courtyard with a marble floor. Today it is used for various exhibitions.

Castle Valentino. Photo visitporiver.it

Valentino castle surrounds beautiful park in which Turintians like to spend time. In the past, flower exhibitions were held in this park, including Flor 1961 - from this exhibition in the park there were "Rocky Garden" and "Mountain Garden", rich in small waterfalls, streams and fountains. One of the most beautiful fountains park in the Rococo style - the fountain "Twelve months".

Fountain "Twelve months". Photo skyscrapercity.com

Palatine Gate (Porta Palatina)

It is the best preserved Roman gate of the 1st century BC, which served as the northern entrance to the ancient Roman settlement of Julia Augusta Taurinorum, on the site of which modern Turin arose. At the bottom of the imposing ancient structure, you can still see the furrows left by passing wagons. Two polygonal towers on both sides of the gate were built much later, in the Middle Ages. The name of the gate comes from the Latin Porta Palatii - "Palace Gate".

Palatine gate. Photo panoramio.com

How to get there

And it is best to go to the discovery of the sights of charming Turin by private car. For travelers, such an option is available as car rental in Turin. By ordering a car in advance, while still at home, you can save a lot. "Italy in Russian" advises you to turn to the services of the popular rentalcars gigantic service, multifunctional and simple, which will allow you to choose the most suitable car at home and receive it immediately upon arrival in Italy.

For those who are accustomed to convenience, we recommend ordering a taxi in Turin with a Russian-speaking driver. It is possible to pick up and order a taxi through the convenient Kiwitaxi service: You just need to choose where and where you need to get from. At the specified time, at the specified place, your personal driver will be waiting for you with a sign with your name.