Turin, or Torino in Italian, is in the central part of Piedmont–Valle d'Aosta, about 80 miles (128 km) west of Milan. It lies along the Po River, close to the Po Plain that stretches towards the Adriatic Sea.
Unlike the hilly and winding streets of southern Italy, Turin has flat terrain and wide, straight, tree-lined streets. The city's architecture and feel show a strong northern European influence.
Here are Turin's top attractions to explore during your visit!
1. Mole Antonelliana
You won't overlook the distinctive square dome and intricate spire of this landmark in Turin, rising above the city's rooftops. Its construction costs soared, leading the city to purchase it instead.
Today, it hosts the National Cinema Museum (Museo Nazionale del Cinema), a must-see for movie enthusiasts. On weekends at specified times, visitors can climb all the way to the top of the dome—an adventure not recommended for young children or the faint-hearted.
Sight Details:
• Museum entrance: €12
• Elevator to panoramic terrace: €9
• Combination ticket (museum + terrace): €17
• Walking tour to the dome: €10
• Closed on Tuesdays
2. Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile
No visit to Turin, known as a motor city, is complete without a trip to this museum. Here, you'll find perfectly preserved Bugattis, Ferraris, and Isotta Fraschinis, showcasing the city's deep connection to the automotive industry, particularly Fiat. The museum features antique cars dating back to 1896 and exhibits illustrating how Turin has evolved due to its automotive influence over the years.
Sight Details:
• Admission rate: €15
• Closed on Mondays; open until 2 PM on other days
3. Museo Egizio
Designed by the Oscar-winning production designer Dante Ferretti, the sculpture gallery is a standout, showcasing notable figures from ancient Egypt. Don't miss the magnificent 13th-century BC statue of Ramses II, discovered intact with furniture, food supplies, clothing, and writing instruments.
Sight Details:
• Admission rate: €18
• Closed on Mondays in the afternoon
4. Pinacoteca Agnelli
This gallery was opened by Gianni Agnelli (1921–2003), who led Fiat and was part of Italy's influential Agnelli family. It opened just four months before his death.
The collection includes four stunning scenes of Venice by Canaletto (1697–1768), two magnificent views of Dresden by Canaletto's nephew, Bernardo Bellotto (1720–1780), as well as works by Manet (1832–1883), Renoir (1841–1919), Matisse (1869–1954), and Picasso (1881–1973).
Sight Details:
• Admission rate: €10
• The sight is closed on Mondays
5. Galleria Civica d'Arte Moderna e Contemporanea (GAM)
In 1863, Turin became the first Italian city to establish a public collection dedicated to contemporary art. This collection is housed in a modern building on the outskirts of downtown. It features a permanent display of over 600 paintings, sculptures, and installations from a larger collection of more than 45,000 works of art.
It offers a remarkable insight into the evolution of Italian contemporary art since the late 1800s, with strong representation from movements like Futurism, Pop Art, neo-Dada, and Arte Povera. Additionally, the gallery boasts a notable collection of art films and videos.
Sight Details:
• Admission rate: €10
• The sight is closed on Mondays
Lykkers, what are your thoughts after learning about Turin's unique charm and attractions? Share your thoughts and experiences with us!
