
Church of Santa Maria al Monte
Iconic 16th-century church offering breathtaking panoramic views of Turin and the Alps, especially magical at sunset.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Golden hour magic

Church of Santa Maria al Monte
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 16th-century church offering breathtaking panoramic views of Turin and the Alps, especially magical at sunset.
"The moment you reach the elevated terrace in front of the Church you're overwhelmed with absolute best views of entire Turin with the Alps in the background."

🌅 Catch the Sunset
Sunset offers the most stunning views, but expect crowds. Arrive early!
🚶♀️ Steep but Rewarding Walk
The walk up can be steep. Consider comfortable shoes and pace yourself.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Turin Views
Terrace in front of the church
Breathtaking, sweeping vistas of Turin city and the Alps. Absolutely spectacular!

Baroque Church Interior
Inside the church
A surprisingly appealing Baroque interior, offering a peaceful and calming atmosphere.

Sunset Spectacle
Terrace
Witness the city transform as the sun dips below the horizon. Unforgettable.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Accessibility and Getting There
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Torino dal Monte dei Cappuccini
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Sunset offers the most stunning views, but expect crowds. Arrive early!
🚶♀️ Steep but Rewarding Walk
The walk up can be steep. Consider comfortable shoes and pace yourself.
Lunedi a Torino - what to do?
4 days in turin ¿what is a must?
🚗 Limited Handicapped Parking
Dedicated parking is available for disabled visitors at the top.
🚌 Bus Availability Varies
Buses can be a good option, but check schedules as they aren't always consistent.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Sunset offers the most stunning views, but expect crowds. Arrive early!
🚶♀️ Steep but Rewarding Walk
The walk up can be steep. Consider comfortable shoes and pace yourself.
🚗 Limited Handicapped Parking
Dedicated parking is available for disabled visitors at the top.
🚌 Bus Availability Varies
Buses can be a good option, but check schedules as they aren't always consistent.
🧺 Bring Snacks & Enjoy
Pack some snacks to enjoy while taking in the magnificent views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors overwhelmingly praise the Church of Santa Maria al Monte for its absolutely stunning panoramic views of Turin and the Alps, especially at sunset. While the church itself is noted as a peaceful Baroque interior, the primary draw is the breathtaking vista. Some find the walk up steep, and crowds can be significant during peak times.
"This is a beautiful view point of the city with the mountains in the back. Of course sun set and sun down are always the best time.
There is a cute little church as well to visit while there. Just pop in for a look inside it is very small.
But you go there as it is the best view point of the whole Turin city. It was no crowded when we went.
Handicapped people can drive all the way to the top and park in front of the church. ( there are about 5 places) Otherwise the main parking is a little lower and you have a 5 mins walk up but a very steep hill."
carine
"Visiting this Church is your best intro with Turin. It's located just across the city center, on the other side of Po river.
Chiesa Santa Maria del Monte dei Cappuccini is a Baroque Church dating back to 16c with more appealing interiors than exterior.
However, the moment you reach the elevated terrace in front of the Church you're overwhelmed with absolute best views of entire Turin with the Alps in the background.
Have in mind most reviews here are for the views, not the Church. The Church I'd rate 3 (average), but the views are outstanding."
Dejan Braki
"Its good place to visit during good weather.. just its always full of people.. a lot of cars up there. In my opinion they should not allow the cars until the last stop... (until its for disabled persons).. beautiful view of Turin. U can bring up snacks and enjoy there"
Elisabeth Udzilauri
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the church by car, bus, or on foot. The walk from the city center involves a steep uphill climb, offering scenic views along the way. Handicapped parking is available at the top, while general parking is located lower down. Bus routes are available but check their schedules as they can be inconsistent.
Yes, there is parking available. Handicapped visitors can drive directly to the top and park in front of the church (limited spots). For others, parking is located a little lower down, requiring a 5-minute steep walk up to the church.
Buses are an option for reaching the church, but their availability can vary. It's advisable to check local bus schedules beforehand to ensure convenient travel.
The walk up to the church can be steep and challenging for some. It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for an uphill trek.
For individuals with mobility issues, driving directly to the top and utilizing the limited handicapped parking spots in front of the church is the most accessible option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Church of Santa Maria al Monte and its viewing terrace is completely free of charge.
The church is generally open for visitors, though specific hours can vary. It's best to check locally or visit during daylight hours for the best experience of the views.
The spectacular viewpoint in front of the church is free to access, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
While the church itself has interior visiting times, the panoramic views from the terrace are accessible for longer periods, especially during daylight and sunset.
Generally, there are no major restrictions, but it's a place of worship, so respectful behavior is expected. During peak sunset times, it can get crowded.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hour around sunset provides the most dramatic lighting for photographing the city and the Alps. However, daytime offers clear views, and sunrise can be a peaceful alternative with fewer people.
You can capture stunning panoramic shots of Turin, including its skyline, the Po River, and the majestic Alps in the background. The church's Baroque architecture also offers interesting photographic opportunities.
During peak sunset times, crowds can make it challenging to get unobstructed shots. Visiting earlier in the day or on a weekday can help.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to be mindful of other visitors when using tripods, especially during busy periods.
The main terrace offers the most comprehensive view. Experiment with different focal lengths to capture both the wide cityscape and details.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there aren't dining facilities directly at the church, you can bring snacks and drinks to enjoy on the terrace. More extensive dining options are available in the city center across the river.
Yes, many visitors bring snacks and drinks to enjoy a picnic while taking in the views. It's a great way to extend your visit.
Turin is known for its rich cuisine, including agnolotti, tajarin pasta, and delicious chocolate. Exploring the city center will offer many trattorias and cafes.
You'll find cafes and restaurants once you descend back into the city center. The church itself is more of a viewpoint and a place for quiet contemplation.
It's generally recommended to eat before or after your visit, as the church and viewpoint are primarily about the scenery and the spiritual experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with very young children or those with strollers, the handicapped parking at the very top is the most convenient option if available. Otherwise, be prepared for the uphill walk from the lower parking area. The church interior itself is small and peaceful, offering a brief moment of quiet for families. It's a great spot for kids to learn about geography by identifying landmarks in the city below.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To keep costs even lower, pack your own snacks and water. Instead of relying on potentially inconsistent bus services or paid transport, consider it a rewarding hike from the city center. The effort involved in the walk is part of the experience and saves you money. It's a perfect activity for a sunny day when you want to soak in the atmosphere of Turin without breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Church Itself: More Than Just a View
Originally built by the Capuchin friars, the church has undergone several renovations over the centuries. Its architectural style reflects the Baroque period, characterized by ornate decorations and a sense of grandeur. While it may not be as vast or elaborate as some of Turin's more famous cathedrals, its intimate scale and historical significance make it a worthwhile stop for those interested in religious architecture. It serves as a beautiful complement to the breathtaking vistas, offering a moment of reflection before or after soaking in the scenery.
Maximizing Your Visit: Timing and Crowds
To avoid the peak crowds, consider visiting on a weekday morning or a bit earlier in the afternoon. This will allow you to enjoy the spectacular views with a more serene and less congested experience. If sunset is a must, arriving at least an hour before the actual sunset can give you a better chance to find a good spot and truly savor the moment. Remember that while the views are free, the experience can be enhanced by planning your visit strategically to align with your crowd tolerance.
Social
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