January 25, 2025, 6:11 am | Read time: 5 minutes
Museums, fashion, Milan! Milan is world-famous as a leading cultural and fashion metropolis—which is why it attracts millions of visitors every year. But if you’re in the mood for Italian flair and impressive architecture, you don’t necessarily have to join the masses of tourists. Not far from Milan, the northern Italian capital of Turin awaits fans of Italian culture. TRAVELBOOK presents the less crowded alternative to the famous metropolis.
Be it the cuisine, the rich cultural heritage, or the high fashion scene—there are countless reasons to book a trip to Milan. It’s a well-known fact that the city is a bustling hub, teeming with visitors. What’s more, Milan has been one of the most expensive cities in Europe for years. Yet, a mere hour and a half away, Turin presents an equally enchanting alternative.
Overview
Turin, the Capital of Piedmont
Turin, the capital of the Piedmont region, is located in north-western Italy, around one hundred kilometers south-west of Milan. As the region is very close to the Alps, it is not only possible to visit the city center, but also to go skiing and hiking in the nearby mountains. The ideal time to visit Turin is between March and September. During these months, the winding alleyways and elegant buildings in the city center are best explored without an umbrella.
While renowned for its soccer legacy and automotive industry, Turin’s offerings extend far beyond these well-trodden paths. These include historic buildings from the time of the Italian monarchy, picturesque streets, extraordinary viewpoints, and exciting museums.
The Most Beautiful Places in Turin
Turin Cathedral
Rather simple in comparison to Milan Cathedral but still impressive is Turin Cathedral on Piazza Castello, also known as Cattedrale di San Giovanni Battista. Built in the 15th century, the building with its white marble façade features Baroque and Renaissance elements. The cathedral’s chapel also houses the famous “Shroud of Turin”, Sindone di Torino, which is considered by many pilgrims to be the burial shroud of Jesus.
Even though scientists are still investigating whether Jesus was really wrapped in the linen cloth, a visit to the cathedral is worthwhile for the architecture alone. In addition to historic buildings, Piazza Castello also offers a variety of restaurants and cafés that invite you to linger. In the evening, the numerous students liven up the city center and create a vibrant atmosphere.
Palazzo Reale
The Palazzo Reale is also located in Piazza Castello. Built in the 17th century, the palace served as the residence of the Savoy family, the rulers of the Kingdom of Sardinia, until the 1950s. Today, the baroque-style palace is home to the royal museums, where the magnificent halls and apartments of the monarchs can be admired. Temporary exhibitions are also held here regularly. A spontaneous visit to the museums is usually possible, as even the city’s more famous sights are not too crowded.
Mole Antonelliana
When traveling to Turin, a visit to the city’s most famous landmark is a must. While the Torre Velasca and the buildings in the Porta Nuova district are considered architectural highlights in Milan, the Mole Antonelliana is an impressive rival in Turin with its height of 170 meters.
Originally planned as a synagogue between 1863 and 1889, the building now houses the national film museum. At the same time, the pavilion-like landmark offers a viewing platform with a panoramic view of the city. The ascent itself is an adventure: a glass elevator, seemingly suspended in air, whisks visitors up to the 85-meter-high viewing platform.
Via Roma shopping street
Those who long for the elegant shopping streets of Milan will find a suitable counterpart in Turin, with the Via Roma in the city center. Shoppers will find themselves delighted by the city’s premier shopping and strolling boulevard. In addition to affordable clothing stores, the 12-kilometer-long street is also home to various luxury boutiques. If you need a break from shopping, you can stop off at one of the many cafés along the mile.
Lingotto Building
For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Lingotto beckons with its unique history. This is where the former Fiat factory is located, which was designed by architect Giacomo Mattè-Trucco in 1916. The special feature: A ramp, on which the cars were transported between production stages back then, runs through the entire building. On the roof of the factory is an oval racetrack, which can be visited today. To get to the roof of the former factory, take the elevator in the neighboring Pinacoteca Agnelli art museum.
Vacation in Italy Siena in Tuscany – the best sights and travel tips
On the road in Japan's capital 6 Highlights in Tokyo You Should Not Miss
Overview The 9 Most Charming Places on Lake Garda
Getting to Turin
Turin can be reached from Germany in around four hours by plane. If you have more time, you can also travel by car or train. In this case, the journey takes around nine hours. Cleverly planned, the route will take you past Lake Garda, Lake Como, and Lake Lugano. As Turin is nowhere near as touristy as other Italian cities, the prices are also significantly cheaper than in Milan. You should plan at least three days to explore the city at your leisure.