Travel To Torino
Introduction to Torino
Turin or Torino is the capital of the region of Piedmont and is situated in northern Italy on the right bank of the River Po. The part of history the city is most famous for is the eleventh century when it came under the rule of the Savoy family of Dukes and Kings. This reign of power in particular left its mark on the city both architecturally and culturally. Today the majestic squares and colonnade walkways seem very majestic and refined compared with other Italian cities. Words by Alice Dean
Show/Hide More...The food of Torino is also very different, and seems very influenced by France as well as the kitchens the Savoy household. The city was the driving force behind the unification of Italy in the 1880s and was momentarily the countries capital, although of course today it is Rome. The mountains that lie close to the city boundaries make a natural contrast to its man made and regimented structure, as do the large parks. The mountains hosted the 2006 winter Olympics and the city is renowned for its love of sport, including its beloved football team, Juventus, which remains one of the most successful sides in Italy. Exploring this city relatively straight forward, the traffic is minimal, as is pollution and this make Torino one of the most manageable Italians cities to digest. Although the historical centre and its regal buildings is the main attraction the industry of this city should not be over looked. The dynasty of Fiat is the most successful car manufacturer in Europe and one of the world’s largest corporations. This plays a huge role in the day to day life of the city providing many jobs and stimulating the economy. Torino is an pleasurable and laid back place to visit and provides the Italian experience but makes it comfortable.
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Where to stay in Torino
1. Golden Palace LUSH
This hotel houses the Golden Spa where guests can relax in the heated swimming pool or use the tanning booths. All the bedrooms are equipped with marble bathrooms making the stay even more luxurious. In summer breakfast is served on a beautiful outside terrace.
2. Hotel Principi di Piedmonte LUSH
Located in the heart of the city of Turin, this hotel provides an excellent five star service. The rooms are elegant and contemporary, and the in house restaurant, Casa Savoia offers an excellent menu.
3. Holiday Inn Express Turin REASONABLE
This hotel is excellent for business travellers as well as holiday makers as it is situated near the historical Piazza Castello and the Fiat factory. There is free parking and a shuttle service on request.
4. AC Torino REASONABLE
Modern and stylish rooms are provided at this hotel along with a decent restaurant serving regional dishes. The location is good for accessing business areas.
5. Grand Hotel Sitea REASONABLE
A family run establishment located behind the Piazza San Carlo means that this is an ideal location for exploring the city. All rooms are classically decorated and soundproof, there is also a restaurant.
6. Hotel Fortino REASONABLE
This hotel is close to the railway station and city centre. The rooms are a good standard and there is a conference room available for up to 500 persons.
7. Golden Tulip ATAHOTEL Concord LUSH
This hotel is convenient for accessing the station and other major attractions. The rooms are comfortable and all have wireless internet. There is a complimentary breakfast served each morning.
8. Starhotels Majestic REASONABLE
This hotel was used by officials during the 2006 Winter Olympics and has a traditional styled decoration. The rooms are well equipped and the location is good, being just off the central Via Roma.
9. Hotel Alpi Resort BUDGET
This hotel is centrally located to the centres many restaurants and bars. The staff provide tourist information for guests and a ample breakfast is served each morning.
10. Mercure Torino Crystal Palace REASONABLE
The rooms here have been given a modern and slick design. There is wireless internet throughout the hotel and the location is central. Pets are welcome.
Where to eat in Torino
Spumone piemontese is a Torinese speciality pudding and is a delicious concoction of marscopone cheese with rum. Many of the sweet dishes of the city are said to originate from the Savoy kitchens.
Agnolotti or ‘priests hats’ is a ravioli pasta containing meat or a vegetable filling shaped in a semi circle. Most often in Turin this will be served with a simple tomato and basil sauce.
What to see in Torino
1. Piazza Castello
Piazzo Castello is the main square of Turin and brings together many popular shops, museums and theatres. The old Palazzo Madama castle looms over the square and was built in the thirteenth century and named after a royal widow. The Castello remains grand beginning to the city, even though traffic dominates the area.
2. Palazzo dell Accademia delle Scienze
Two museums here form a double act consisting of the Museo Egizio which contains some of the finest Egyptian treasures in Europe including a linen tunic dated to 2300 BC. The second is the Galleria Sabauda which houses an outstanding art collection belonging to the Savoy family, including artists such as Van Dyck and Hans Memling.
3. Museo d’Arte Conteporanea
Situated on Via Magenta this gallery is one of the best in Italy and Turin itself is famed for its love for modern art, not to mention its revolution in the 1960s. Visitors will be able to view paintings by greats in the field like Warhol, Klee and Otto Dix.
4. Duomo di San Giovanni
The cities cathedral was built between 1491 and 1498 and is home to the famous Shroud of Turin. The shroud is one of the most potent symbols of the Catholic faith and is only ever brought out on special ceremonial occasions. The cloth is said to be that which Jesus’ body was wrapped in after the crucifixion, but visitors will only be able to view a replica on constant display in the church.
5. Parco del Valentino
This park is one of the main green areas of the city to walk or cycle around and it was built to house a chateau for royalty in 1660. The Chateau is today used as a school of architecture but there is also a mock medieval hamlet and castle which was constructed for an exhibition in 1884 and is an intriguing and novel attraction.
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