Where to stay in Turin

The Centro is the heart of Turin, featuring beautiful baroque buildings, historic cafes, and upscale shopping. It's an excellent choice for first-time visitors wanting to be in the thick of things and those who appreciate architecture and history. Upmarket and convenient, the Centro is generally safe and well-policed, but it comes with a higher price tag. It can be crowded with tourists, which might diminish the feeling of discovering 'hidden' Italy.

The Quadrilatero Romano is the ancient heart of the city, characterized by its narrow alleys and historic charm. The neighborhood retains a medieval layout and has boutiques, small restaurants, and lively nightspots. It's perfect for immersing oneself in history and local culture. However, like many historic centers, it can be noisy at night and may not offer the same modern amenities as newer areas.

San Salvario is a dynamic and multicultural neighborhood known for its lively atmosphere and cultural diversity. This area is great for food lovers, featuring many restaurants serving international cuisine, and is also home to a bustling nightlife scene. However, the energetic ambiance can become a con for those who prefer a quieter, more serene environment at night. The neighborhood is arguably less polished than others, which may not be to everyone's taste.

Crocetta is known as an affluent neighborhood with a reputation for being well-maintained and safe. It houses elegant villas and refined apartment buildings, making it a preferred area for the well-to-do. Quite residential, Crocetta has a more laid-back atmosphere and is less visited by tourists, offering a peaceful side of Turin living. Its upmarket nature means that accommodation might be pricier.

Vanchiglia is an artsy and chic neighborhood known for its Bohemian vibe and vibrant nightlife. Lined with cafes, small boutiques, and artist workshops, it has an intimate yet lively atmosphere. This area is very popular with students and young professionals, which means it can get quite lively, for better or worse, depending on what you're looking for. Some areas can be noisy at night, so if peace is a top criterion for your stay, this may not be the best fit.

Lingotto, once an industrial area dominated by the Fiat car factory, has been transformed into a commercial and business hub. It has a more modern feel to it, with attractions like a shopping mall and convention center, as well as the Eataly food emporium. While it provides good amenities and has easy access to public transportation, it lacks the charm of more historic neighborhoods and may not provide as authentic an Italian experience.

Aurora is a neighborhood in flux, with an ongoing process of gentrification. It offers some of the more affordable accommodation options in Turin. While it boasts diversity and the up-and-coming Dora park, some streets in Aurora still retain a gritty feel and travellers should be aware that some parts might not feel as safe at night when compared to other areas in the city.

Borgo San Secondo is not as well-known compared to other areas, which means it can offer a more tranquil, authentic Italian living experience. Primarily residential and a bit removed from the hustle and bustle, this neighborhood is great for those seeking a quiet retreat. However, this also means there are fewer tourist amenities and entertainment options within immediate walking distance.

Borgo Nuovo is somewhat off the beaten path regarding typical tourist itineraries. A residential neighborhood with a more local feel is ideal for those wishing to experience day-to-day life in Turin. It lacks major attractions and nightlife, which could be a downside for some but a bonus for those seeking tranquility.