There’s a common image of Italy many of us hold, a postcard-perfect vision of Renaissance cities, narrow cobbled streets, and iconic art. When I first thought of Italy, that’s exactly what came to mind. But on a recent trip, I discovered that to truly understand this multifaceted country, sometimes you need to venture away from the well-trodden paths and explore its less-hyped, yet equally compelling, regions. Our journey took us north, to a city that surprised me with its elegance and its profound connection to Italy’s very formation: Turin.
Turin A Different Italian Experience
Traveling from Rome, Florence, or Bologna towards Turin felt like stepping into a different Italy. The landscape shifted, and even the architecture began to suggest new influences, with hints of Southern France and historical ties to Austria. Turin, nestled in the northwest, has a unique character shaped by its history as a border region and, crucially, as the heartland of the House of Savoy. This dynasty played a pivotal role in unifying the disparate Italian states, a legacy that’s etched into the city’s very fabric.
The Savoy Dynasty’s Lasting Legacy
The House of Savoy, though perhaps not as widely celebrated as some other European royal families, ruled for an astonishingly long period, from the early 11th century right up to 1946. Their influence on Turin is undeniable. From the 16th century onwards, they used architecture as a powerful statement of their ambition and authority. This era of building resulted in a spectacular array of royal residences scattered throughout Turin and the surrounding Piedmont region.
One of the most striking examples of this is the Palazzo Reale, the Royal Palace. Its interiors are astonishingly opulent, a testament to the wealth and power of the Savoy court. Beyond the Palazzo Reale, the city itself boasts four other palaces, and the wider metropolitan area is dotted with countless castles, villas, and hunting lodges, each telling a story of royal life and ambition.
A particular highlight for me was the Reggia di Venaria Reale, a 17th-century palace often compared to the Palace of Versailles. After falling into disrepair and serving as military barracks, it has been beautifully restored. Walking through its grand galleria, with its distinctive chequerboard floor and abundant natural light, felt like stepping back in time. The vast formal gardens and the surrounding streets were all part of a meticulously planned urban vision, designed to impress and to project the power of the princes and kings who called it home.
Even in death, the Savoy presence is felt. The Basilica of Superga, perched on a hilltop overlooking the city, offers sweeping views of Turin and the Alps. It’s a place where the royal family’s enduring connection to the land and its people is palpable.
A City of Order and Ambition
Unlike some Italian cities that seem to have organically grown over centuries, Turin was planned with a remarkable degree of precision. Its grid system was laid out to reflect the ambitions of the Savoy rulers, creating a sense of order and symmetry that still characterizes the city today. Visitors from the 18th and 19th centuries noted this exactness; Elizabeth Vigée le Brun admired the perfectly aligned streets and uniform buildings in 1789, while Nikolay Gogol described Turin in 1837 as magnificent, known for its street symmetry, decorum, regularity, and cleanliness.
This careful planning is evident as you explore. The city is famous for its elegant arcades, like those along the Via Po, which historically allowed royalty to traverse the city sheltered from the elements. Many of the charming squares are adorned with equestrian statues of generals, silent sentinels of battles long past.
As I wandered along the Via Roma, I noticed the striking Fascist-era architecture at the beginning of the street, a stark contrast to the more ornate Baroque and Neoclassical styles found elsewhere. It’s a reminder that Turin’s architectural narrative is complex, encompassing different historical periods and political ideologies, yet still managed with a cohesive style. In the 1930s, this very street was used in promotional posters to highlight Turin’s sophistication and modernity.
The Birthplace of Modern Italy
Turin holds a special place in Italian history as the nation’s first capital. It was here that the foundations of modern Italy were laid, with key figures of the Risorgimento movement deeply connected to the region. The Palazzo Carignano, a distinctive redbrick palace with a unique elliptical façade, is particularly significant. This building was not only a stunning piece of architecture but also the birthplace of Vittorio Emanuele II, the Savoy monarch who became the first ruler of the newly unified Kingdom of Italy in 1861.
It’s fascinating to imagine the Count of Cavour, the first Prime Minister of unified Italy, and even Giuseppe Verdi, who served as a parliamentary deputy, walking these streets and influencing the course of history within these very buildings. The legacy of these figures is still visible today; many streets in Turin are named in their honor, alongside other political luminaries like Giuseppe Mazzini, Giovanni Giolitti, and Antonio Gramsci, all of whom had close ties to Piedmont.
The ubiquitous statues of generals and statesmen throughout the city are more than just decorations; they represent vital individuals who helped forge the modern Italian state. Figures like Giuseppe Garibaldi, Alfonso Ferrero La Marmora, and Massimo D’Azeglio, who famously said, “We have made Italy, now we must make Italians,” are honored with thoroughfares and public spaces.
What’s the best way to experience Turin’s history
To truly appreciate Turin’s foundational role, you need to spend time walking its streets and examining its monuments. The more attention you pay to the details, the more you’ll understand this city’s significance. It’s a place where history is not just in museums but is part of the urban landscape, shaping your experience at every turn.
Exploring Turin reveals that sometimes, the heart of a nation isn’t found in its most famous landmarks, but on its periphery, in cities that have quietly shaped its destiny.
Exploring Turin’s Arcades and Squares
One of the most delightful aspects of exploring Turin is its network of arcades. These covered walkways offer a unique perspective on the city, protecting you from the sun or any unexpected rain showers, and allowing for leisurely strolls even on busier days. Wandering under these elegant arches, peering into shop windows, and observing local life unfold is a quintessential Turin experience.
The city’s squares are equally magnificent, each with its own character. Many are vast and grand, designed by the Savoys to impress and to serve as centers of power and public life. You’ll find yourself drawn to their elegance, often featuring fountains or statues that tell stories of the city’s past. It’s in these spaces that you can really feel the city’s historical grandeur.
Food and Drink in Piedmont
Beyond the historical and architectural marvels, Turin and the wider Piedmont region offer a rich culinary landscape. Known for its rich flavors, hearty dishes, and exceptional wines, it’s a paradise for food lovers. I was particularly eager to try some local specialties. While my husband Michael was busy with photography, I took the kids, Lily and Ethan, to a small café for some pastries, and they were an instant hit.
Piedmont is famous for its chocolate, and Turin itself is considered the chocolate capital. You absolutely must try the Gianduiotto, a small, torpedo-shaped chocolate confection made with hazelnuts, a true local delicacy. Dining here isn’t just about sustenance; it’s an integral part of the cultural experience, a way to connect with the region’s traditions and the quality of its produce.
Naturally, we also indulged in the region’s famous wines. Piedmont is home to some of Italy’s most celebrated red wines, including Barolo and Barbaresco, produced from the Nebbiolo grape. Experiencing these wines, paired with local cuisine, provides a deeper understanding of the region’s agricultural heritage and its commitment to quality.
What should you try from Piedmont’s cuisine
When visiting Turin, be sure to seek out regional specialties. Look for dishes featuring truffles, especially in season, as Piedmont is renowned for its white truffles. Agrigulture is a strong point in this region. Other must-tries include agnolotti del plin, a small pinched ravioli, and Brasato al Barolo, beef braised in Barolo wine. And of course, don’t forget the chocolate!
The culinary scene in Turin is a perfect complement to its historical charm, offering a taste of authentic Italian life at its most refined.
Beyond the Stereotypes
Turin challenges the typical Italian stereotypes, offering a different, yet no less authentic, perspective. It’s a city that rewards those who take the time to explore its layers, to appreciate its deliberate design, and to understand its crucial role in shaping the nation. It’s a place where you can feel the weight of history, from the ambitions of the Savoy dynasty to the architects of Italian unification.
As a visitor in 2026, you’ll find a city that beautifully blends its past with a forward-looking sensibility. It’s an urban environment that encourages thoughtful exploration, whether you’re admiring its Baroque palaces, strolling under its arcades, or savoring its world-class cuisine. Turin isn’t just another Italian city; it’s a key chapter in Italy’s story, waiting to be discovered.
I hope this inspires you to look beyond the usual tourist trails and discover the many faces of Italy. There’s so much more to explore than just what fits on a postcard.