Torino: The Hidden Gem of Italy

Welcome to Torino

Where is it located? Nestled in northwestern Italy near the Alps, Torino is the capital of the Piedmont region and lies close to the French border, making it a city of unique character and beauty.

A Brief History of Torino With roots going back to the 1st century BC, Torino has been shaped by Roman influence and the legacy of the Italian unification. It even served as the first capital of Italy in 1861.

Geography and Climate Set along the Po River and near alpine landscapes, the city offers pleasant summers and cool winters — perfect for enjoying both urban life and nearby nature.

Culture and Heritage

Art, Museums, and Events Torino is a vibrant destination for those who appreciate art, history, and cultural experiences. The city hosts galleries, theaters, and various festivals throughout the year.

Highlights: Museo Egizio & Mole Antonelliana Museo Egizio features one of the world’s finest collections of Ancient Egyptian artifacts, while Mole Antonelliana, Torino’s architectural icon, houses the National Cinema Museum.

Torino Film Festival This annual event celebrates independent film and draws filmmakers and cinephiles from across Europe.

Must-See Attractions

Historic Landmarks Every street in Torino reveals a new layer of the city’s past and architectural charm.

Royal Palace of Torino Once the residence of the House of Savoy, the Royal Palace is listed by UNESCO and impresses visitors with its grand halls and curated art.

Piazza Castello The central square is surrounded by significant buildings and is a lovely place to relax and take in the atmosphere.

Local Flavors

Traditional Food and Treats The city is known for its refined take on Northern Italian cuisine. Rich flavors and seasonal ingredients define its dishes.

Famous Sweets Torino is the birthplace of Gianduja, a hazelnut chocolate that paved the way for Nutella. It’s a must-try for chocolate lovers.

Piedmontese Specialties Try agnolotti, a delicious meat-filled pasta, and bagna cauda, a savory dip made with garlic and anchovies.

Shopping and Style

Where to Explore From high-end fashion to local artisan goods, Torino offers diverse shopping experiences.

Popular Spots Via Roma is known for its elegant shops, while Porta Palazzo is one of Europe’s largest open-air markets — great for food lovers and bargain hunters alike.

Student Life: Politecnico di Torino

Why Study Here? Torino is home to one of Italy’s top technical universities: Politecnico di Torino. The city combines academic excellence with a welcoming environment for students from around the world.For a unique education in Italy, master all the details with Preptest!

What Makes Politecnico Stand Out? This leading institution specializes in engineering and architecture and ranks highly in global education charts.For information about the exams, you can check out our TIL-I Exam blog post.

Getting Around

Public Transport Getting around is easy, thanks to Torino’s efficient transport system. Whether you're using the metro, bus, or tram, the network is well-connected and affordable.

Eco-Friendly Travel Cycling is also popular, with various bike-sharing services available across the city.

Staying in Torino

Accommodation Options From budget hostels to boutique hotels and student housing, there’s a place for everyone in Torino.

Daily Life and Activities

Living Costs Compared to other Italian cities like Milan, Torino is more affordable, especially in terms of food, housing, and transport.

Social Scene The city has a lively mix of cafes, music venues, and cultural events, offering a fun and friendly lifestyle, especially for young people.

Industry and Innovation

A City of Makers Fiat was founded in Torino, and the automotive industry continues to be a pillar of its economy. The city also thrives in fashion, tech, and gourmet food sectors.

Quick Answers: FAQs

• Is Torino safe? Yes, it’s generally a safe city.

• Is English spoken? In tourist areas, yes — though Italian is more common among locals.

• Best time to visit? Spring and autumn offer the best weather and fewer crowds.

• Close to the Alps? Very! You can reach them easily by train or car.

• Costly? More affordable than many other major Italian cities.

• Student life? Very active — full of campuses, libraries, and cultural spots.

Final Thoughts

Torino may not always make the headlines, but it offers everything you’d want in a study destination: rich culture, outstanding education, and a dynamic city life. If you're thinking about studying abroad in Italy, put Torino at the top of your list.