Turin City Breaks

A guide to Turin

Turin is arguably the most underrated weekend destinations in Italy, and its grand aristocratic boulevards, charming shopping streets and leafy suburbs offer a more relaxed sightseeing experience, without the constant throng of tourists. The city is known as the European capital of Baroque architecture, and there are some outstanding mansion houses, ornate squares and a couple of lovely ornamental parks. In addition to its visually arresting historic cityscape, Turin has a vast choice of over 40 museums and galleries to explore, and is home to the National Museum of Cinema, the Motor Car Museum and a fascinating Modern Art Museum - all definitely worth a detailed visit.

Fascinating religious history

Turin can lay claim to one of the holiest relics in Christendom, the famous Shroud of Turin, displayed in the city’s San Giovanni cathedral. In fact, a Turin sees a city filled with elaborate churches, convents and religious monuments. One of the best is the attractive baroque Santuario Della Consolata church, with an interior embellished with gold and precious stones, and containing some eccentric, but captivating artwork. Turin can boast over 18 kilometres of covered arcades that criss cross the city centre, all devoted to elegant fashions, gift boutiques and fine dining.

An indulgent haven for foodies

Across all of Italy, Turin is generally regarded as the capital of fine food and wine. Home to the famous Piedmont wineries, the city is also noted for its truffles and chocolate. Believe it or not, this city of one million people has more chocolatiers than the whole of France and Belgium combined, and this along with its wonderful array of restaurants, delis, cake shops and coffee houses, helps to make Turin a truly tempting destination for a weekend away.