When people think of Italy, names like Milan, Rome or Venice usually come to mind. But let me tell you something, Turin might not be the first city you think of, but it’s definitely the one you won’t stop talking about once you live there.
If you’re preparing to start your journey with ESCP Business School in Turin, whether it’s for a semester or a full year, here are four things to know before you start your Italian adventure.
Monte dei Cappuccini – perfect spot to enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Alps.
From left to right: Sophie Pedà³, Maximilien Granier, Astrid Lapeyre, Francesco Spangaro,
Christian Smaira, Roy Baaklini, Elliot De Charnacé, Nicolas Mohr, Alexandra Broasca
1) A perfect balance: calm city, vibrant life
Whether you’re a person who likes going out, doing chill stuff or a bit of both, Turin is your city. It isn’t your typical chaotic Italian city and that is part of its charm. Life there moves at a gentle rhythm, people aren’t in a rush and you will quickly find yourself slowing down too by enjoying quiet walks under elegant arcaded streets, sipping an espresso at the bar (always at the bar, never to-go) or simply relaxing in a piazza. However, you will also find plenty of stuff to do at night with countless wine, aperitivo spots and bars.
Viewpoint of the city from Monte Dei Cappuccini
2) A campus in the heart of the city
Turin is a big city, but its city center has everything you need so you don’t need to go too far! And the new ESCP Turin Campus is situated in the heart of it, which will make your life easier in every aspect and make you feel like a true local, not just a visitor. Whether you want to grab a quick lunch, explore some museums, chill by the park or the Po River, everything is within walking distance.
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New ESCP Turin Campus
3) A strategic location
One of the best things about living in Turin is how well connected it is. Located in northern Italy, it’s just a short train ride from Milan and right next to the Alps, perfect for weekend ski trips or mountain hikes. Also, in just a couple of hours, you can be exploring the sunny beaches of Liguria or the French Riviera. So, whatever you’re in to, Turin gives you access to it all. With great train connections and nearby airports, it’s the perfect base for discovering Italy and Europe during your time abroad.
4) Be prepared to have amazing food (and drinks!)
It’s not a cliché… food is the best part of living in Italy and you are lucky because Turin is a great place to discover the amazing Italian cuisine.
From breakfast to dinner, get ready to discover a gastronomy culture like no other. Starting with coffee culture, don’t be surprised when you see Italians drinking their coffee in one shot at the bar. But whatever you do, do not order a cappuccino after 11 am, it is a no-no in Italy!
Then, aperitivo, a word you won’t take long to learn as it is a sacred ritual. For a few euros only you get a drink (spritz of course!) and snacks or mini dishes.
Last but not least, the countless trattoria and pizzeria where you can have melt-in-your-mouth food paired with one of the world-famous wines from the Piedmont region.
Moving to a new country is exciting, and moving to Italy is a once in a lifetime experience. So come with curiosity and a big appetite because you’re about to live a truly unforgettable adventure, enjoy every second of it!
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Roy Baaklini holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from ESA Business School in Beirut. He is currently pursuing an MSc in International Food and Beverage Management at ESCP Business School. After completing two terms in Turin, he is now continuing his studies at the Paris campus.
