Santa Maria al Monte Church
A stunning baroque church atop a hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Turin and the Alps.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, stunning views
Santa Maria al Monte Church
Best Time
Magical light, stunning views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning baroque church atop a hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Turin and the Alps.
"The view to die for!"
🚗 Drive Carefully
The road is steep & winding. Small cars/motorcycles are best. Larger vehicles may find it challenging. :car:
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The panoramic views at sunset are absolutely breathtaking and worth the trip. :cityscape:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Turin Views
From the church grounds
Breathtaking baroque church offering unparalleled panoramic views of Turin and the Alps.
Baroque Architecture
Church exterior and interior
Admire the stunning 16th-century baroque architecture of this peaceful Capuchin friar sanctuary.
Sunset Spectacle
Church grounds
Witness the city transform as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Ascent
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Carefully
The road is steep & winding. Small cars/motorcycles are best. Larger vehicles may find it challenging. :car:
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The panoramic views at sunset are absolutely breathtaking and worth the trip.
🔔 Check Hours
The church may be closed at times, so verify opening hours before your visit. :clock:
🚶♀️ Start of Trails
A good starting point for hiking trails, like the CAI 501 to Mount Epomeo. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Carefully
The road is steep & winding. Small cars/motorcycles are best. Larger vehicles may find it challenging. :car:
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The panoramic views at sunset are absolutely breathtaking and worth the trip.
🔔 Check Hours
The church may be closed at times, so verify opening hours before your visit. :clock:
🚶♀️ Start of Trails
A good starting point for hiking trails, like the CAI 501 to Mount Epomeo. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the absolutely breathtaking panoramic views of Turin and the Alps from Santa Maria al Monte Church. The baroque architecture is also a highlight, offering a peaceful and charming experience. However, some travelers have encountered issues with the church being closed and the challenging, narrow road leading up to it, especially for larger vehicles.
"Wonderful place very windy road to get there but well worth it once there. Also the view to die for."
Scott Wild
"Beautiful panoramic view. We're there at the right time and saw how the church bells were rung by hand."
Tom van Tana
"It’s closed"
Daniel Kołodziejczak
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located on a hill overlooking Turin. Access is via a secondary road that can be steep and winding. It's recommended to use smaller vehicles like cars or motorcycles, as larger vehicles may encounter difficulties navigating the narrow sections.
While the views are incredible, the road is described as dangerous for larger cars due to tight turns and limited space for maneuvering. Smaller vehicles are strongly advised.
While not explicitly detailed in all sources, the church is a starting point for hiking trails, suggesting walking is an option, especially for those who enjoy a scenic trek.
Travelers suggest using smaller cars or motorcycles. If you have a larger vehicle, be prepared for challenging maneuvers and consider parking lower down if possible.
Information on direct public transport is limited, but given its elevated location, it's likely that a combination of public transport to a nearby point and then walking or a short taxi ride would be necessary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, access to the church grounds and exterior for viewing the panorama is free. Specific entry requirements for the interior may vary, and it's advisable to check in advance.
Opening hours can be inconsistent, and the church may be closed at certain times. It's crucial to verify the current operating hours before planning your visit to avoid disappointment.
While the primary draw is the view, which is free, there isn't a widely advertised entrance fee for the church itself. However, it's always good practice to confirm on-site or via official channels.
It's best to visit during daylight hours, especially for the panoramic views. Sunset is highly recommended, but be mindful of closing times.
Beyond potential closure times, there are no widely reported specific restrictions for general visitors. However, respectful behavior is always expected in a religious site.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire area surrounding the church offers incredible vantage points for photographing Turin and the Alps. The church's facade itself is also a beautiful subject.
Photography rules inside religious buildings can vary. It's best to observe any signage or ask for permission if you wish to take photos inside the church.
Sunset provides dramatic lighting and stunning colors for capturing the cityscape and surrounding mountains. Golden hour before sunset is also excellent.
There are no specific mentions of drone usage. However, drone regulations can be strict in urban areas and near historical sites, so it's advisable to check local laws.
Expect sweeping panoramic shots of Turin, the Po River, and the distant Alps. You can also capture the architectural details of the baroque church.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🚗 Drivers & Road Trip Enthusiasts
Consider checking the road conditions beforehand, especially if you're traveling during adverse weather. If you're in a larger vehicle, you might consider parking lower down and walking or taking a taxi for the final stretch to avoid potential difficulties.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
Pack appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy shoes and water, especially if you plan to tackle longer trails. The elevated location means you'll be treated to beautiful vistas throughout your trek.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey Up: Navigating the Road
For those who prefer to avoid driving the challenging route, walking is an option, especially as the church serves as a trailhead for hiking paths. This can be a more immersive way to appreciate the surroundings. If driving, be prepared for tight turns and narrow passages.
Alternative Access
While direct public transport information is scarce, it's plausible that a combination of buses or trams to a point closer to the hill, followed by a walk or a short taxi ride, could be feasible. However, the most commonly shared advice revolves around personal vehicle access and the associated challenges.
Capturing the View: Photography at Santa Maria al Monte
+1 The baroque architecture of the church itself also provides a beautiful foreground or subject for your shots. The golden hour, particularly around sunset, is the most magical time for photography here. The changing light casts a warm glow over the city and mountains, creating dramatic and memorable images.
Be sure to experiment with different angles to capture the vastness of the landscape and the intricate details of the church. While photography inside the church may have restrictions, the exterior and the surrounding viewpoints offer endless opportunities. When planning your photo session, consider bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the expansive views. A tripod can also be beneficial for capturing sharp images during the lower light conditions of sunset. Remember to check for any local regulations regarding drone usage if you're considering aerial shots, as these can be restricted in urban and historical areas.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit