Mole Antonelliana travel guide

Dating back to the late 19th century, Mole Antonelliana is a paramount symbol of Turin, Italy, renowned for its stunning architecture and intriguing history. It was originally designed by Alessandro Antonelli as a synagogue for the Jewish community in 1863.

However, due to spiraling costs and Antonelli's relentless ambition to make it the tallest structure in Turin, the Jewish community sold it to the city in 1878. The building then saw a transformation into a monument dedicated to King Victor Emmanuel II.

The Mole Antonelliana was completed in 1889, reaching a height of 167.5 meters and becoming the tallest brick building in the world at that time. Its pinnacle was damaged in 1953 by a tornado, but was later restored, adding an antenna that increased its height to 167 meters. Today, it houses the National Museum of Cinema, and its panoramic lift offers breathtaking views of Turin, making it an essential stop for any visitor to the city.

Mole Antonelliana is an architectural marvel that boasts a host of unique features. Standing tall at 167 meters, it is the tallest museum in the world. The building is characterized by its unique spire which towers over the city of Turin, offering an unrivalled view of the cityscape and surrounding Alps. The structure itself is an architectural hybrid, combining elements of neoclassical and eclectic styles, a testament to the creative vision of its architect, Alessandro Antonelli.

One of the standout features of Mole Antonelliana is its panoramic lift. This glass elevator rises through the centre of the building, providing a breathtaking aerial perspective of its intricate interior architecture. The interior also hosts the National Museum of Cinema, which is fittingly staged within this former synagogue. The museum is a visual spectacle in itself, with its vast, circular layout and multi-storey exhibits. It showcases a rich collection of cinematic history from Italy and around the world, making Mole Antonelliana a must-visit attraction for film enthusiasts.

Located in the dynamic Turin, the popular Mole Antonelliana is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Turin or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Italy.

Turin is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Turin offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Turin and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Egyptian Museum, Parco del Valentino, Basilica of Superga, Borgo Medievale, and Palazzo Madama.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Turin has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Turin, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Italy!

Mole Antonelliana is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Turin, Italy. If you're flying in, Milan–Malpensa Airport is approximately 63.3 miles (101.8 km) away from Turin. From there, you can easily reach Mole Antonelliana by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Turin, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Mole Antonelliana, which is located 0.5 miles (0.8 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Mole Antonelliana, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Via Montebello, 20, 10124 Torino TO, Italy, Italy.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Mole Antonelliana!

The best time to explore Mole Antonelliana is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, Turin experiences mild weather that's ideal for sightseeing, and the Mole Antonelliana is less crowded. Tourists can enjoy their visit without having to navigate through throngs of people and can savor the panoramic views from the tower's observation deck in relative peace. Additionally, these seasons also coincide with Turin's cultural events such as the Turin Jazz Festival in spring and the Torino Film Festival in autumn. These events add an exciting dimension to your visit, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in local culture and festivities. Remember to book your Mole Antonelliana tickets in advance to avoid long lines. Lastly, visiting on a weekday morning can further ensure a tranquil experience as this is typically when the site is least busy. No matter when you choose to visit, Mole Antonelliana's stunning architecture and fascinating museum are sure to captivate you.

To truly enjoy your visit to Mole Antonelliana, joining a tour that features this popular tower in Turin is highly recommended. As one of Italy's most iconic attractions, Mole Antonelliana draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Mole Antonelliana starting at just 19 EUR below.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Mole Antonelliana and Italy's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Milan–Malpensa Airport and the city of Turin, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Italy cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Turin and beyond.

Conveniently explore Mole Antonelliana and plenty more captivating attractions in Turin by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Mole Antonelliana and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Turin has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Mole Antonelliana below.

Aside from Mole Antonelliana, Turin is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Turin, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Egyptian Museum, Parco del Valentino, and Basilica of Superga.

Egyptian Museum is a bucket-list museum and top attraction in Turin, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 48,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Egyptian Museum is Via Accademia delle Scienze, 6, 10123 Torino TO, Italy.

Another appreciated attraction in Turin is Parco del Valentino. Like Egyptian Museum, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars among 42,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this park is Corso Massimo d'Azeglio, 10126 Torino TO, Italy.

Basilica of Superga is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Turin. This church and top attraction in Turin has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Strada Comunale alla Basilica di Superga, 73, 10132 Torino TO, Italy.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Turin below.