Torino is completely underrated, offbeat, and way less touristy than many other Italian cities like Milan, Venice, Rome among others.
The city has been called the Paris of Italy, and you certainly feel that. When you walk through Torino’s grand boulevards, taking in the beautiful historical architecture, old-school tramways and intricately designed churches – it almost feels reminiscent of something that you would see elsewhere in France – but still in a truly Italian way.
Here you can really uncover an offbeat Italian experience without all the crazy crowds that the most famous cities in Italy hold.
Turin has a long history of chocolate and it is actually the city that pioneered making milk chocolate with hazelnuts – also called gianduja. Walking through its streets, you will notice a plethora of chocolatiers highlighting artisanal flavours and techniques to these drool-worthy creations.
If you’re a chocolate AND coffee lover, this drink is for you. It mixes espresso, milk and chocolate into one tasty cup. The best place to try this out is the historic Caffe Al Bicerin.
In Torino you can really taste the best of the best of Italian cuisine, all at an affordable price, encompassing dishes like agnolotti, finanziera, bagna cauda and the holy grail – truffle.
Aside from this, Turin is home to some of the best cafes, where you can get a simple cup of coffee for a reasonable price but be seated at the most luxurious and historical coffee houses you have ever seen like Baratti & Milano and Caffè Mulassano.
Another foodie fact is that the Gelato cone originated in Torino in a place called Caffè Fiorio, which dates back to 1780. These gelatos are absolutely divine.
Wine is also very well known in the Piedmont region, which Torino is the centre of. It’s a world-renowned wine region with some of the best grapes and red wines in the country. The city offers delicious wine in various restaurants for tasting. You can also go on a dedicated food and wine walking tour.
If you want a more personalized experience, there are a lot of day trip options for wine tasting from Torino to the Langhe.
Being at the foot of the Alps, you will get to witness some beautiful views of the mountains as you walk around the city, especially when taking in the view from Santa Maria di Monte dei Cappuccini.
Going back into history, Turin was actually the first capital of Italy and the home of the royal house to Savoy. As a result, you’ll see a diversity of palaces, buildings, and churches which were originally built for and by the royals.
The Residence of the Royal House of Savoy or Palazzo Reale, for example, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is simply teeming with historical and cultural touches that will make you enjoy walking around its streets.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
https://www.lonelyplanet.com/italy/liguria-piedmont-and-valle-daosta/turin
https://www.italia.it/en/piedmont/turin/guide-history-facts
