A City of Elegance and Culture: Turin, Italy

HISTORY & CULTURE

Turin, Italy was the first capital of Italy. It has seen Roman activity and has been occupied by various nations and empires. Places such as the Royal Palace of Turin, Palazzo Madama and the Duomo di Torino are a must visit for anyone wanting to learn about the rich culture of Turin.

To learn more about the fascinating history of Turin, visit Porta Palatina, the most well preserved Roman Gateway in the world from the 1st century.

You could spend a day museum hopping by visiting the Turin Egyptian Museum featuring a large collection of Egyptian artifacts. Then, the incredibly unique Mole Antonelliana houses the National Museum of Cinema. Round out the day at the Risorgimento National Museum to learn about Italy's modern history.

DIGGING DEEPER & CLIMBING HIGHER

For a unique experience, explore the underground tunnels and cellars of Turin. Then hike or take the rack tramway up the Superga mountain range to find Basilica di Superga for breathtaking views of Turin and the countryside.

ALBA

If you only do a one day trip from Turin, this is the one. Alba is a charming medieval town famous for its local culinary delicacies. It's best known as the birthplace of Nutella and the unofficial home of white truffles. Alba can be explored on foot in a day. At its center, you'll find Piazza Duomo and the 11th century Cathedral of San Lorenzo. You can climb the San Lorenzo's 40 meter tower for views of the historic center or descend into the basement of the Centro Culturale San Giuseppe to see ancient Roman archeological remains.

MILAN

Known for fashion and design, Milan is home to many iconic landmarks such as the Gothic cathedral, Sforza Castle, and Via Monte Napoleone.

LAKE MAGGIORE

A picturesque lake that is located on the border between Italy and Switzerland. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens, villas and castles. You can take a boat tour around the lake or visit one of the many islands.

AOSTA

A charming town in the heart of the Italian Alps. Aosta is known for its Roman ruins and many castles.

ASTI

A small, medieval town with towers and palaces. Asti is known for its sparkling wine called Asti Spumante. There are many wineries in the area to visit.

SUSA

A charming town in a valley surrounded by mountains. Susa has a rich history dating back to Roman times and has many ruins and museums.

LOCAL DELICACIES

Agnolotti, plin and tajarin are just some of the Piedmontese pasta you have to try.

Casa Broglia is a great place for dinner to try the local pasta.

If you're visiting in truffle season, you have to sample the black and white truffles. This region is famous for this delicacy. Visit the town of Alba in October and November to attend the truffle festival.

In Torino, Solferino, one of the city's top restaurants, serves local truffle dishes during truffle season.

Head to Turin's oldest cafe, Caffe Al Bicerin, to order the most famous drink in Turin. The Bicerin, a combination of espresso, chocolate and cream or whole milk, has been served at this cafe since the 18th century. You can also find this local drink on many menus across the city.

LUNCH

Turin has a multitude of restaurants that offer a set menu for 10 EUR. This can get you a pasta dish, a main course with bread, water and a coffee. Try Trattoria Caprese for one of these set menus.

For pizza, head to Ristorante Sicomoro, because you can't visit Italy without having pizza.

APERITIVO

Turin is famous for its aperitivo scene. In Turin, many bars offer a drink plus buffet access for a set price. Head over to Caffe Lobelix or Tre Galli to experience this bit of Turin's culture that can't be missed.