Living in Turin, Piedmont
Turin, known as Torino in Italian, is the capital city of the Piedmont region in northwestern Italy. Located about 125 kilometers (78 miles) west of Milan and 150 kilometers (93 miles) southeast of the French border, Turin sits at the foot of the Alps. With a population of around 870,000, Turin is Italy’s fourth-largest city, offering an elegant, understated urban environment mostly undiscovered by foreigners.
The city has a rich cultural heritage, with a history dating back to Roman times. While it attracts tourists, Turin is not as overwhelmed by visitors as cities like Rome or Florence, allowing for a more authentic Italian experience. English is not as widely spoken as in more touristy areas, so learning some Italian can be beneficial for daily life.
Turin experiences a temperate climate with warm summers and cool winters. Summer temperatures average around 25°C (77°F), while winter temperatures hover around 2°C (36°F). The city enjoys about 2,000 hours of sunshine per year, with July and August being the sunniest months.
The city boasts numerous parks and green spaces, with the expansive Parco del Valentino along the Po River being a popular spot for recreation. The nearby Alps offer opportunities for hiking and skiing, with resorts accessible within a 1-2 hour drive.
Turin’s economy is diverse, with a strong automotive industry (FIAT’s headquarters are here), aerospace, and technology sectors. The city is also known for its food and wine production, as well as its growing startup scene.
Pros of moving to Turin include its rich cultural offerings, proximity to nature, and lower cost of living compared to other major Italian cities. Cons include the language barrier for non-Italian speakers and potentially limited job opportunities for foreigners, depending on the field.
Housing in Turin
According to My Dolce Casa’s Italy Rent Report 2024, the average monthly rent in Turin is €860 (approximately $940) for a two-bedroom apartment. This is lower than the national average and significantly more affordable than cities like Milan or Rome.
For those looking to buy, the average price of a property in Turin is around €1,850 per square meter ($188 per square foot), based on My Dolce Casa’s latest Italy Real Estate Market Report. This would put the price of a two-bedroom apartment at approximately €140,000 ($150,000) and a house at around €370,000 ($375,000). Again, these prices are more affordable compared to other major Italian cities.
Some popular neighborhoods for expats include Crocetta, known for its elegant architecture and proximity to the city center, and San Salvario, a vibrant area with a multicultural atmosphere and bustling nightlife. Vanchiglia is another up-and-coming neighborhood, appreciated for its artistic vibe and affordable housing options.
Shopping in Turin
Turin offers a variety of shopping experiences. The city center, particularly around Via Roma and Via Garibaldi, is home to many high-end and international brands. For a more local shopping experience, the Quadrilatero Romano area features artisanal shops and boutiques.
Major shopping centers include Le Gru, one of the largest in Italy, and 8 Gallery, housed in the iconic Lingotto building, a former Fiat factory. For groceries, chains like Coop, Carrefour, and Pam are common throughout the city.
The Porta Palazzo market, Europe’s largest open-air market, is a must-visit for fresh produce, local specialties, and a vibrant atmosphere. The Balon flea market, held every Saturday, is popular for antiques and curiosities.
Transportation in Turin
Turin has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a metro line. The GTT (Gruppo Torinese Trasporti) operates these services, and their app provides real-time information and ticketing options.
The metro line connects the city center to outlying areas, while trams and buses cover most of the city. For regional travel, Turin is well-connected to other major cities by train, with high-speed services to Milan, Rome, and Venice.
The nearest airport is Turin Airport, located about 16 kilometers (10 miles) north of the city center, offering both domestic and international flights.
Healthcare in Turin
Turin boasts several well-regarded hospitals. The Molinette Hospital is the largest in Piedmont and one of the most important in Italy, known for its advanced medical research. The Regina Margherita Children’s Hospital is a leading pediatric facility. Most hospitals in Turin have emergency services and various specialties.
Education in Turin
For international education, the International School of Turin offers an IB curriculum in English. The Liceo Francese Jean Giono provides education in French.
Notable public schools include the Liceo Classico Vittorio Alfieri and the Liceo Scientifico Galileo Ferraris, both known for their rigorous academic programs.
The University of Turin, founded in 1404, is one of Italy’s oldest and most prestigious universities, known for its research in various fields including medicine, physics, and humanities.
Dining and entertainment in Turin
Turin hosts several major events throughout the year, including the Turin Film Festival and the Turin International Book Fair. The city is also famous for its connections to the Slow Food movement, celebrating local and traditional cuisine.
The city’s museum scene is impressive, with highlights including the Egyptian Museum (second only to Cairo in its collection) and the National Cinema Museum housed in the iconic Mole Antonelliana.
Turin’s culinary scene is diverse, ranging from traditional Piedmontese restaurants to international cuisines. The city is famous for its chocolate, particularly the gianduja, and its aperitivo culture, where pre-dinner drinks are accompanied by substantial buffets.
