Turin

General presentation

Global presentation

Capital of the Piedmont region, this elegant city in northern Italy bears the traces of a rich historical past. Former capital of the Kingdom of Sardinia and a true cradle of Italian unification, it has forged an international reputation thanks to its exceptional architectural heritage and prestigious cultural institutions. The Egyptian Museum, one of the most important in the world, and the National Cinema Museum testify to its cultural influence. The city also cultivates a refined gastronomic tradition, famous for its chocolate creations like gianduja and local specialties such as bicerin.

Geographical situation

Nestled in the north-west of Italy, the city flourishes in a remarkable natural setting, bordered to the west by the majestic Alps. The Po River gracefully crosses its territory, adding to the beauty of the urban landscape. Perched at about 240 meters above sea level, it extends over an area of 130 km², offering a perfect balance between urban life and proximity to alpine nature.

Atmosphere and character

The atmosphere that emanates from its streets reveals a particular elegance, characterized by wide avenues lined with typical arcades and majestic squares that invite leisurely strolls. The omnipresent Baroque architecture gives the city an aristocratic charm, while historic cafés perpetuate a centuries-old cultural tradition. Despite its industrial dynamism, it retains a remarkable serenity that sometimes evokes the subdued atmosphere of great northern European cities.

Climate

The humid subtropical climate offers contrasting weather conditions depending on the seasons. Winter, which extends from December to March, is characterized by cool but bearable temperatures, with averages around 16°C and relative dryness. The beautiful season, from June to September, brings mild weather with average temperatures nearing 28°C, creating ideal conditions to explore the city.

Best season to visit

The summer period, from June to September, is the ideal time for a visit. These months offer not only pleasant weather conditions but also a particularly rich cultural program, with many events and festivals that enliven the city.

Access

Several options are available for travelers to reach the destination:

• By plane: Caselle International Airport Sandro-Pertini, located 16 km from the city center, welcomes Air France and Blue Air. Transfers are available by bus (€6.50) or taxi (about €35)
• By train: Porta Susa station offers direct connections with many Italian and European cities, including a high-speed train from Paris in 7h40
• By road: The A32 motorway provides direct access, notably from France via the Fréjus tunnel. The road trip from Paris takes about 8 hours

Internal transportation

The city has a well-developed and diverse public transport network:

• Buses: About a hundred lines cover the entire urban territory
• Trams: Eight lines offer a practical and picturesque alternative
• Metro: One line efficiently serves the center and peripheral districts
• Taxis: Widely available in the city center, at train stations, and at the airport
• Car rental: Major international agencies are represented in the city