A little time in Turin
Stylish, beautiful, eclectic and famous, of course, it can only be Turin. Well known for being the location of one of the greatest British films, ‘The Italian Job’, Turin is bursting with an energy that is exciting yet at the same time oozes a chic simplicity that creates a relaxed vibe throughout the city. With so much on offer exploring Turin is sure to be enjoyable and most of all memorable.
Turin, the capital city of Piedmont in Northern Italy, has an eclectic presence due to the stylish combination of city and the natural beauty of the Alps to the Northeast that create a stunning backdrop to the impressive city skyline. With a varied mix of architectural styles from Rocco, Neo-Classical, Art Nouveau, Renaissance to Baroque and contemporary the city has a unique feel that entices you in to wander the boulevards and discover the squares that create focal points for daily life and relaxation. After all, Turin is one of the most pedestrianised cities in Europe.
Below you will find a few ideas to tempt your time in Turin…
Piazza Castello is a dramatic square with a varied mix of architectural styles, in the warmer month’s fountains and street artists add even more character to the already active square that is lined with theatres, museums, cafes and the Royal Palace. The square is a central part of Turin and many of the well-known streets and boulevards lead off from this area.
Palazzo Reale di Torino (Royal Palace of Turin) is the historical palace of the house of Savoy, built in the 16th century. With a vast scale and beautiful Baroque architecture by Filippo Juvarra, the building features stunning statues of the mythical twins Pollux and Caster who stand guard at the entrance. Full of beautiful design details throughout and an impressive collection of artefacts and furnishings that are opulent and luxurious, this is definitely an interesting place to explore. Consider timings and pre-booking prior to visiting as to explore fully you will need a few hours.
Palazzo Madama e Casaforte degli Acaja with its immense historical architectural presence it is now home to the principal museum of ancient art. A Palace of epic proportions and scale with beautiful symmetry in the arched windows and details, this is a building that is not only dramatic but delicate and elegant too. Designed by Juvarra this Baroque masterpiece is brimming with architectural delights both inside and out and again has so much to see and discover within.
Mole Antonelliana can only be described in one way…impressive. In Italian ‘Mole’ is a building of epic proportions and this wonder of architecture was named after the architect Alessandro Antonelliana. The skyline of Turin is dominated by this towering landmark and the city landscape wouldn’t be Turin without it. Home to the National Cinema Museum and a panoramic lift that soars 85 meters high to provide breathtaking views of the city this is definitely an experience not for the faint-hearted but one if brave enough is immensely rewarding. To see Turin from the skies is a wonderful way to capture the beauty of the city and create a memory that will last a lifetime. As one of the most popular experiences on offer in Turin book a specific viewing time slot in advance to save waiting in long queues.
However you choose to spend your time in this wonderful part of Italy select your comfiest walking shoes and let the city unfold around you as you explore and immerse yourself in the beauty of Turin.
