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Church of Santa Maria al Monte

4.7
·6k reviews·Torino, Italy

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunset evenings

Golden hour magic

CrowdHigh
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paesaggio torino

Church of Santa Maria al Monte

Best Time

Sunset evenings

Golden hour magic

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.7
(6k reviews)

"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."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Turin Views

Panoramic Turin Views

Terrace in front of the church

Breathtaking, sweeping vistas of Turin city and the Alps. Absolutely spectacular!

Baroque Church Interior

Baroque Church Interior

Inside the church

A surprisingly appealing Baroque interior, offering a peaceful and calming atmosphere.

Sunset Spectacle

Sunset Spectacle

Terrace

Witness the city transform as the sun dips below the horizon. Unforgettable.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Views

The Church of Santa Maria al Monte is renowned for its panoramic city views, especially at sunset. While free to visit, crowds can build up, particularly during peak sunset hours. Consider arriving a bit earlier to secure a good spot or visit on a weekday evening for a more relaxed experience.

Accessibility and Getting There

Reaching the church involves a walk, which can be steep. While handicapped parking is available directly at the top, general parking is lower down, requiring a 5-minute uphill trek. Buses are an option, but their availability can be inconsistent. Plan your transport accordingly.

Best Times

When
Sunset evenings
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Torino dal Monte dei Cappuccini

🌅 Catch the Sunset

Sunset offers the most stunning views, but expect crowds. Arrive early! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Steep but Rewarding Walk

The walk up can be steep. Consider comfortable shoes and pace yourself. Reddit

reddit.com

Lunedi a Torino - what to do?

reddit.com

4 days in turin ¿what is a must?

🚗 Limited Handicapped Parking

Dedicated parking is available for disabled visitors at the top. Reddit

🚌 Bus Availability Varies

Buses can be a good option, but check schedules as they aren't always consistent. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Catch the Sunset

Sunset offers the most stunning views, but expect crowds. Arrive early! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Steep but Rewarding Walk

The walk up can be steep. Consider comfortable shoes and pace yourself. Reddit

🚗 Limited Handicapped Parking

Dedicated parking is available for disabled visitors at the top. Reddit

🚌 Bus Availability Varies

Buses can be a good option, but check schedules as they aren't always consistent. Reddit

🧺 Bring Snacks & Enjoy

Pack some snacks to enjoy while taking in the magnificent views. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(6k reviews)

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

Spectacular city views
Beautiful sunset vistas
Peaceful church interior

What People Dislike

Steep uphill walk
Crowded at sunset

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Church of Santa Maria al Monte and its viewing terrace is completely free of charge. Reddit

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. Reddit

The spectacular viewpoint in front of the church is free to access, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Reddit

While the church itself has interior visiting times, the panoramic views from the terrace are accessible for longer periods, especially during daylight and sunset. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

During peak sunset times, crowds can make it challenging to get unobstructed shots. Visiting earlier in the day or on a weekday can help. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to be mindful of other visitors when using tripods, especially during busy periods. Reddit

The main terrace offers the most comprehensive view. Experiment with different focal lengths to capture both the wide cityscape and details. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Turin is known for its rich cuisine, including agnolotti, tajarin pasta, and delicious chocolate. Exploring the city center will offer many trattorias and cafes. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Church of Santa Maria al Monte offers a fantastic opportunity for families to enjoy a spectacular view of Turin without a hefty price tag. While the walk up can be a bit steep, it's manageable for most families, and the reward of the panoramic vista is well worth the effort. Consider bringing some snacks and drinks for a simple picnic on the terrace, which kids often enjoy. Reddit

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

This is a budget traveler's dream! The Church of Santa Maria al Monte offers one of the most iconic and breathtaking views of Turin completely free of charge. You can spend hours here simply enjoying the scenery without spending a single euro. Reddit

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

While the panoramic views of Turin are undoubtedly the main draw for many visitors to the Church of Santa Maria al Monte, the church itself, officially known as Chiesa Santa Maria del Monte dei Cappuccini, is a significant Baroque structure dating back to the 16th century. Its exterior might be less striking than its surroundings, but stepping inside reveals a surprisingly appealing interior that offers a sense of peace and tranquility. Many reviews highlight the calming effect of sitting inside the church, providing a welcome contrast to the bustling city below. Reddit

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. Reddit

Maximizing Your Visit: Timing and Crowds

The best time to visit the Church of Santa Maria al Monte is often debated, but most agree that sunset offers an unparalleled visual experience. As the sun dips below the horizon, the city lights begin to twinkle, and the sky is painted with vibrant colors, creating a truly magical atmosphere. However, this prime viewing time also attracts the largest crowds. Visitors often report that the area can become quite full, with many people vying for the best vantage points. Reddit

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. Reddit

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