Torino: The Hidden Gem for New Residents (Low Cost, Alps Views) and Our Secret to Passing Italian A2/B1

When we made the decision to leave the US permanently and establish our new life in Italy, we weren't just looking for a temporary adventure. We were looking for a home. A place where we could truly plant roots, build a business, and thrive for the long term.

We wanted a city that offered history, stunning natural beauty, and a sustainable quality of life. We found all that and more in the captivating city of Torino (Turin).

Torino vs. Turin: Clearing Up the Name Confusion

First, let's clear up the name confusion! The city’s official Italian name is Torino. The name Turin is the historical anglicized version, still widely used by English speakers globally. Both refer to the same magnificent city. Since we live here and are focused on integrating, we primarily use the local Torino!

A City of Grandeur: History and Culture in Piedmont

Torino's history is a fascinating journey. As the former first capital of unified Italy, its regal heritage is evident in every elegant piazza and grand Baroque palace. The architecture is stunning, with wide, tree-lined avenues that rival any major European city.

Imagine strolling through Piazza Castello, surrounded by iconic buildings like the Palazzo Reale. This is a city that breathes history and offers a quiet dignity that perfectly frames our experience of establishing a life in the Piedmont region.

Education, English Speakers, and Easing the Transition

Since we have teenagers, high-quality education was essential for us. Torino is home to excellent schools and some of Italy's most prestigious universities, offering world-class options for late teens preparing for their future.

Another key advantage we discovered was the helpful presence of English speakers in administrative and community settings. While we are committed to learning Italian (and necessary for long-term residency), having a community where English is commonly spoken made navigating the initial bureaucratic hurdles... the residency applications and paperwork... significantly easier than anticipated.

Alpine Beauty and Sustainable Life in Italy

One of the most breathtaking aspects of Torino is its stunning natural setting. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Alps, the city offers unparalleled access to spectacular mountain landscapes. The snow-capped peaks framing the city skyline are a daily reminder of the natural wonders surrounding us.

The view of the Alps from our apartment balcony in Torino is a stunner.

And let's talk budget: The cost of living in Turin truly shines. Compared to many other major Italian and European cities, Torino offers an incredibly high quality of life at a much more accessible price point. This affordability is crucial for establishing a relaxed and sustainable long-term life in Italy.

Torino: The Gateway to Europe

Torino's strategic location makes it an absolute travel hub. With excellent train connections, you can be in Milan in under an hour, or exploring the French Riviera or Switerzerland in just a few. This incredible connectivity means we can easily explore the wider European landscape.

Ready to Root Your Life in Italy? Get Language Certified Efficiently!

Establishing roots in Italy requires commitment, and critically, the necessary language certifications for permanent residency and citizenship.

At Ready Set Italia, we understand that language acquisition can be the biggest hurdle. We focus on making the process as easy and quick as possible to pass the official A2 and B1 Italian language certifications. Getting these exams passed is a necessary step in securing your long-term permesso di soggiorno or pursuing citizenship application.