Immerse yourself in the history and elegance of this magical city where culture, dining, and amazing hotels make for the perfect weekend escape.
A city of charm and sophistication, Torino is Italy’s città magica also called the cradle of Italian liberty. Known for its strikingly refined architecture, like the 19th century Mole Antonelliana, world-class museums, outstanding wines, gourmet cuisine, and center for Italian history and culture, this iconic city situated in the northern region of Piemonte on the River Po makes the ideal setting for the perfect weekend getaway.
With the resplendent Alps rising up to the northwest like the backdrop to a film, Torino, or as it’s called in English Turin, brims with grand piazzas, tree-lined boulevards, baroque architecture, and an enviable array of cultural events, as well as a trending music scene. It is also home to several famous Italian brands such as Fiat and Lavazza and is host to some of the most extraordinary and luxurious hotels.
History of Turin
Its history is remarkable, having been destroyed by Hannibal, rebuilt by Augustus, dominated by the barbarians, and incorporated in the Frankish Empire. It has also played home to the royal House of Savoy, been occupied by the French, served as the intellectual center for the unification of Italy, and sustained heavy damages due to air raids during World War II. This is a city that whispers of the past at every turn while moving boldly toward the future with its thriving business and university cultures.
Visit and See
Spend a few enchanting days exploring all the city has to offer. Visit the largest collection of Egyptian treasures outside of Cairo at the Museo Egizio, wander the halls and gardens of the royal palace at the Reggia di Venaria Reale – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, take in the architecture of the Cathedral of San Giovannni Battista – home to the Shroud of Turin – and the ancient Roman amphitheater next to it. Enjoy a tour around Fiat’s automobile museum or learn about coffee and try a tasting at Lavazza’s coffee museum.
Eat and Drink
Of course, no trip to any Italian city would be complete without trying its delectable foods or sipping on its famous wines. When in Torino be sure to try its prized white truffles, fresh plates of pasta, top-quality beef, and creamy cheeses. A glass of the region’s bold red wines like Barolo and Barbaresco make a perfect pairing, as does its local white wine Gavi or its sparkling Asti.
Buy
Torino offers an abundance of shops for everyone’s tastes from top fashion designers to unparalleled homewares the options are boundless. Buy authentic food and kitchenware at the flagship home of Eataly. Pick up biscuits, cheeses, and oils at the Latteria Brera. Have a box of handmade chocolates made to order at Guido Gobino, or choose a handmade perfume at Via Stampatori.
Where to Stay in Torino
End the days at the perfect retreat in one of the city’s finest hotels.
Royal Palace Luxury Suites
This five-star hotel in the heart of Torino is full of history and charm. Acquired by the Butatti family – already owners and managers of the five-star Grand Hotel Sitea, where the Michelin-starred restaurant Il Carignano led by chef Fabrizio Tesse is located – the new Royal Palace Luxury Suites offers exclusive hospitality with only six suites.
All rooms, located on the main floor of the palace, have balconies with fabulous views and have been renovated with modern antiques, and avant-garde mezzanines, which are integrated with frescoed ceilings and golden frames.
Choose an extra-luxurious stay in the dream setting of the hotel’s Palazzo Luserna Rorengo, formerly of Piossasco di Rivalta, bound by the superintendence of the Fine Arts and marked by evocative frescoed ceilings and period furnishings. The experience is completed with exclusive services such as a butler and a small indoor spa equipped with a sauna, multi-sensory shower, and Turkish bath. Inside the suites it is also possible to use the room service of the Carlo & Camillo bistro and, by reservation, to organize a dinner with show-cooking by Michelin star chef Fabrizio Tesse.
Hotel Principi di Piemonte
Historical emblem of luxury hospitality in Turin, the Hotel Principi di Piemonte of UNA Esperienze is one of the most important examples of the Italian rationalist style of the 1930s, an architectural and hospitality icon that has fascinated divas and politicians, athletes, rock stars, and heads of state.
The jewel in the crown is the Presidential Suite number 811 on the top floor, which dominates the city skyline with spectacular views of Turin and its mountains. A true apartment of 140 square meters, the suite has an entrance hall, two double bedrooms, three luxurious bathrooms, and a dining room where Art Deco style alternates with elements of contemporary design.
Complete with an elegant spa and a modern wellness center, the hotel boasts exquisite dining options, such as the famous Ristorante Casa Savoia by UNA Cucina. Managed by chef Michele Griglio, the menu showcases highly refined cuisine interpreting the perfect combination of traditional Piedmontese and Italian dishes. For a relaxing setting, the Salotto dei Principi Bar offers its guests a large terrace overlooking the city, where they can enjoy a leisurely cocktail accompanied by the finest gourmet delicacies.
Finally, gaze at the highlight of the property, the spectacular Salone delle Feste, with a dedicated entrance, a golden chest set with Venini mosaics, and historic Murano chandeliers.
Allegroitalia Golden Palace
Experience a unique theme-centered getaway in one of Allegroitalia’s singular suites. Sip on bubbly in the Prosecco Bottega Golden Suite, where guests enjoy exclusive tastings of the famously fine bubbles. Surround yourself with an exhibition of the most important works by glassmakers of the historic Murano brand in the Venini Suite. Nibble on chocolates created by local Master Chocolatier Guido Gobino in the Chocolate Suite, or surround yourself with the luxury of Italian sports cars in the Suite for Maserati. Take a journey through the readings, sounds, and images of Chinese culture in the Confucius Civilization Suite, or kick back in the explosion of colors and games in the Superga 2750n Suite created for the Italian icon of design.
This is just a taste of the hospitality offered by the five-star luxury Allegroitalia Golden Palace in Turin, located near Porta Nuova station. Besides the themed suites, the hotel also offers eclectic apartments on its Business Floor. A 1000 square meter spa with a massage center and large outdoor terrace add to this glam location’s chic refinement.
Finish off the day with a stop at the Golden Terrace Restaurant with its varied and constantly evolving menu based on the best quality raw ingredients and sustainable zero-kilometer local products.
By Liana Bicchieri