Turin (Torino), a city at the foot of the Italian Alps, is a blend of the grandeur of Italy's first capital with a buzzing contemporary life. With hot summers, autumn leaves, and winter snow dusting the Baroque streets, Turin offers a lifetime of beauty.

Known as Torinesi, the locals in Turin live a sophisticated yet laid-back lifestyle. It involves relaxing aperitivo sessions, fiery soccer debates, and evening strolls under the city's historic porticoes. Turin's renowned café culture is worth experiencing. You'll find the historic coffee shops serving bicerin, a layered drink of coffee, chocolate, and cream native to this city.

What sets Turin apart is its French-influenced architecture, influential automotive history as the birthplace of FIAT, and reputation as Italy's chocolate capital. Despite its size and the grid layout—uncommon for Italian cities—travelers find it surprisingly easy to navigate the city strewn with art nouveau buildings and royal palaces.

Gastronomes will relish Turin's passion for Slow Food movement. The city is home to the well-known Porta Palazzo market that offers varieties of local Piedmontese specialties. While you'r there, don't miss out on tajarin pasta, creamy gianduja chocolate, and the ritual of aperitivo that features a hearty food buffet.

While exploring Turin, don't skip visiting attractions like the iconic Mole Antonelliana housing the National Cinema Museum, the Egyptian Museum (which competes with Cairo's), and the Royal Palace complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site exhibiting the opulence of the House of Savoy.