For many, this city is synonymous with the Turin Shroud, a deeply controversial relic, said to be the burial fabric of Jesus of Nazareth. The cloth, which has been subject to many tests and debates is now in the Duomo of Torino, only available for viewing on very rare occasions. Indeed Turin is packed with atmospheric historic places and settings; Baroque, Rococo, Neo-classical, and Art Nouveau architecture is all around, providing a sense of grandeur and romance. It’s close to the Alps, so can be combined with a winter ski holiday, or visited in summer for a hot weather city break.
Principi di Piemonte
Located in Turin’s downtown, close to museums and points of interest, this five-star hotel dates back to 1937, an era mirrored in the property’s decor. The public rooms are ostentatious – a Salon Delle Feste and ballroom displaying huge chandeliers made with Murano glass and original mosaics. A blissful basement spa is, by contrast, modern in style and there’s a bar and Italian restaurant above ground. Some of the Principi di Piemonte’s bedrooms provide mountain views and interconnecting spaces for the whole family, while all are soundproofed with blackout drapes to cocoon guests from the city outside.
NH Lingotto Congress
This used to be a Fiat factory – the car testing area that once featured in The Italian Job is now a jogging track – but the warehouse building has since been reimagined as a trendy hotel. In the Lingotto district, the NH branded property is right beside an entertainment complex and a short ride via metro to Turin’s centre. 240 modern rooms with high ceilings and workspaces are light and bright. Some have Alpine views and others come with kids’ toys. Pets are welcome too. The Turtle bar, Torpedo restaurant and tropical garden are the hotel’s food and drink outlets and those staying have free access to the Pinacoteca Giovanni e Marella Agnelli gallery.
Hotel NH Torino Santo Stefano
Another from the international NH brand, this property is found in the Quadrilatero Romano neighbourhood, surrounded by restaurants and bars. Torino Santo Stefano exudes rustic chic, blending style and comfort. 134 minimal, elegant bedrooms have wooden flooring, satellite TV, high-quality toiletries, soundproofing and minibars. The restaurant specialises in traditional Piedmont dishes, with an alfresco inner courtyard and a lounge bar, serving local wines. It’s an eco-conscious choice too, with stellar environmental certification and provides epic views from higher floors.
Turin Palace Hotel
Dating back to 1870, this palatial establishment has been completely remodelled to ensure plush, contemporary luxury within. Bedrooms come with Simmons pillow-top mattresses, anti-allergy pillows, 100% cotton and linen towels, free drinks in the minibar, bathrobes and slippers as standard, while high-end suites have French beds, large baths and terraces. Les Petite Madeleines is the Turin Palace’s glamorous restaurant and there’s an intimate spa area with hydrotherapy, a sensory shower, Kneipp Course, Turkish baths, a whirlpool and treatment rooms. Due to its centrality, this is a great choice if you want to experience the city on foot, without the need for public transport.