A Guide to Turin Modern Art: Museums, Galleries & Street Art

Often overshadowed by its more famous Italian counterparts, Turin is a hidden gem for modern art enthusiasts. This vibrant city, nestled in the northern part of Italy, offers a dynamic blend of historical and contemporary art experiences. Turin's art scene is diverse and captivating from grand museums to quaint art galleries and vibrant street art. Whether you are an art aficionado or a casual visitor, Turin’s art offerings will undoubtedly leave an impression. In this guide, we’ll explore the must-visit spots for modern art in Turin and how to make the most of your visit. 

Before you delve into the art scene, it’s essential to ensure that you can explore the city comfortably. If you’re arriving in Turin with luggage in tow, you’ll want to find a convenient place to store your bags. Fortunately, plenty of luggage storage facilities near me offer secure options to stow your bags while you explore. Nannybag luggage storage is one such service, offering a network of storage locations throughout the city. These facilities are conveniently located near popular spots, including train stations, so you can store your luggage and start your art journey without delay. With Nannybag, you can book online and enjoy 24-hour access, making it easy to stow your bags at any time. Whether exploring for a few hours or a full day, knowing your belongings are safe allows you to immerse yourself fully in Turin's artistic offerings. 

Must-Visit Art Museums in Turin 

Turin’s art museums blend classical and modern, offering visitors a comprehensive look at various art forms and periods. Here are some of the must-visit museums in Turin: 

GAM Torino (Galleria Civica d'Arte Moderna e Contemporanea) 

GAM Torino is the cornerstone of Turin’s modern art scene. Founded in 1895, it is Italy’s oldest museum devoted to modern and contemporary art. The museum’s permanent collection features over 45,000 works, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and video art, from the early 20th century to today. The museum is also known for its temporary exhibitions, which frequently showcase the work of contemporary artists from around the globe. 

Address: Via Magenta, 31, 10128 Torino TO, Italy 

Price Range: €10 - €15 

Hours: Monday closed, Tuesday to Sunday: 10 AM - 6 PM 

Museo Egizio 

While primarily known as the world’s second-largest Egyptian museum, Museo Egizio also offers an intriguing perspective on the influence of ancient Egyptian art on modern works. The museum’s collection, which includes over 30,000 artifacts, contrasts the modern pieces you'll encounter elsewhere in the city. Visiting Museo Egizio offers a broader understanding of how ancient and modern art forms intersect. 

Address: Via Accademia delle Scienze, 6, 10123 Torino TO, Italy 

Price Range: €15 

Hours: Monday: 9 AM - 2 PM, Tuesday to Sunday: 9 AM - 6:30 PM 

Museo Nazionale del Cinema 

Housed in the iconic Mole Antonelliana, the Museo Nazionale del Cinema is not just for film buffs but also for those interested in how cinema has influenced modern and contemporary art. The museum explores the art of filmmaking and its intersection with other art forms, featuring an extensive collection of film-related artifacts, including early 20th-century pieces. The panoramic elevator ride to the top of the Mole Antonelliana offers breathtaking views of Turin—a perfect way to appreciate the city's blend of history and modernity. 

Address: Via Montebello, 20, 10124 Torino TO, Italy 

Price Range: €11 - €15 

Hours: Monday closed, Tuesday to Friday: 9 AM - 8 PM, Saturday and Sunday: 9 AM - 11 PM 

Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile 

The Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile offers a unique experience that combines art, design, and history. While it primarily showcases the history of automobiles, the museum's displays include fascinating examples of how car design has evolved into an art form over the decades. The museum also houses a Fiat factory test track, where you can see how early 20th-century automotive engineering meets contemporary design. 

Address: Corso Unità d'Italia, 40, 10126 Torino TO, Italy 

Price Range: €8 - €12 

Hours: Monday closed, Tuesday to Sunday: 10 AM - 7 PM 

Turin’s Vibrant Contemporary Art Scene 

While Turin’s museums offer a deep dive into modern art, the city’s contemporary art scene thrives beyond the walls of these institutions. Here’s a glimpse into the other aspects of Turin’s vibrant art scene. 

Art Galleries and Street Art 

Turin is home to many art galleries that showcase contemporary works by established and emerging artists. These galleries often feature temporary exhibitions, providing a fresh perspective with each visit. One notable gallery is Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo, which is known for its cutting-edge contemporary art exhibitions. 

Street art is another exciting element of Turin’s art scene. The city’s walls are adorned with murals and graffiti, adding a splash of color to the urban landscape. Areas like the Barriera di Milano and San Salvario neighborhoods are particularly known for their vibrant street art, offering an open-air gallery experience that contrasts with the more traditional museum settings. 

Museo Ettore Fico 

Located in the Barriera di Milano district, the Museo Ettore Fico is dedicated to contemporary art. It features a mix of permanent collections and temporary exhibitions, often focusing on avant-garde and experimental art. The museum’s modern architecture and design make it a notable stop for anyone interested in the intersection of art and space. 

Address: Via Francesco Cigna, 114, 10155 Torino TO, Italy 

Price Range: €7 - €10 

Hours: Monday and Tuesday closed, Wednesday to Friday: 2 PM - 7 PM, Saturday and Sunday: 11 AM - 7 PM 

The Iconic Mole Antonelliana 

A visit to Turin would only be complete with a stop at the Mole Antonelliana, an architectural marvel that has become a symbol of the city. Originally conceived as a synagogue, it now houses the Museo Nazionale del Cinema. The building itself is a masterpiece, and the panoramic views from the top are a highlight of any trip to Turin. The Mole perfectly represents how Turin blends the old with the new, making it a must-see for art and architecture lovers. 

Art and History Intersect at the Fiat Factory 

The former Fiat factory, Lingotto, is another site where art, history, and innovation come together. Once the largest in Europe, the factory has been transformed into a multifunctional space that includes a shopping mall, hotels, and the Pinacoteca Giovanni e Marella Agnelli art gallery. The gallery houses a permanent art collection, featuring works from Italian masters and other European artists from the early 20th century. Lingotto also has a rooftop test track, which has been featured in numerous films, making it a unique blend of art, history, and pop culture. 

Address: Via Nizza, 230, 10126 Torino TO, Italy 

Price Range: Free (Test Track), Gallery: €8 - €10 

Hours: Monday closed, Tuesday to Sunday: 10 AM - 7 PM 

Practical Tips for Your Turin Art Adventure 

Exploring Turin’s art scene is a rewarding experience, but planning your visit can make it even better. Here are a few practical tips: 

Store Your Luggage: If you’re visiting multiple locations daily, consider using a storage facility to store your luggage. Nannybag offers convenient, 24-hour luggage storage facilities near me, perfect for travelers on the go. 

Book Online: Many of Turin’s museums and galleries allow you to book tickets online. This is particularly useful during peak tourist seasons when attractions can be crowded. Booking online also sometimes offers a discount. 

Rainy Day Plans: Turin is known for its unpredictable weather. On a rainy day, plan to spend more time in museums like GAM Torino or Museo Egizio, where you can stay dry while immersing yourself in art. 

Convenient Locations: Most of Turin’s major museums are conveniently located near the city center or close to public transportation hubs, such as the train station. This makes it easy to visit multiple sites in one day without spending too much time traveling.