I returned to Torino for business again this year. After the tiny hotel room of my last stay, I opted for the AC Hotel Torino so at least I could earn some points, and hopefully have a more predictable experience. Thankfully, that worked out well.
Location
After my previous visit to Torino, I knew there was an AC hotel very close to the location I would be working. Italy has a few hotels for my preferred brands, but not in Torino. This AC would have to do, and at least I would earn Marriott points, and can transfer them over to Starwood. Thanks to merger, I have Marriott Platinum Elite status, which I matched from my Starwood account. This didn’t make a huge difference, in terms of benefits. I think all guests receive free breakfast, and apparently I received faster internet. One nice feature given my schedule was the ability to use late checkout. On my last day I used some free time as a tourist before taking the Frecciarossa train to Trieste.
The AC Hotel Torino is a relatively new hotel, in an old pasta factory. It is in the Lingotto area of Torino, the former location of a Fiat factory. AC Hotels is a brand acquired by Marriott some years ago, mostly in Europe. They have modern European design, in the mid-market range. In addition to being close to my work location, it is on the same block as the original Eataly location. I’m not much of a chef, and staying in a hotel, I had no way to take advantage of too much of the awesomeness there. That said, I certainly can appreciate good food, and the options offered there are great. There are various areas where food and drink can be had. Not that there is much bad food anywhere in ITaly, but I visited Eataly a few times during my stay.
The AC Hotel Torino
The AC Hotel Torino was a huge improvement compared to the last place I stayed in Torino. Sure, it was more of an American style hotel, larger than the more typical European place I stayed before, but I appreciated a little extra space, and actual King sized bed. My platinum status didn’t provide anything too exciting. Wifi is free for all guests, although apparently I was able to use premium wifi. Breakfast seemed to be included in most rates, but if not, a typical European breakfast with a few hot options is available for €14.
My room was on the top floor, apparently that was a benefit of my status, as a coworker was on a lower floor. The room was fine, with large windows, modern enough amenities, and adequate power ports, including USB near the bed, which was nice.
The room had basic amenities, including the usual safe plus a nice radio, although I never used it.
Each room also has an espresso machine. I’m not much of a coffee drinker, but when in Italy, I certainly make exceptions for that. Since great coffee is available at cafes on nearly every block for €1, I never used the maker in the room.
The bathroom was standard. AC hotels have a signature soap that is like a golf ball. I find this kind of annoying, as it rolls around, and isn’t particularly easy to wash with. Eventually I learned to keep the box and using that as a soap dish. Also, as a tall man, I often struggle to get the adjustable shower head high enough to shower without ducking, but
For my needs, the room was perfectly adequate. The larger bed, and more modern design is an improvement compared to my last visit to Torino.
AC Hotel Torino Public Areas
The hotel website advertises Turkish bath and whirlpool. I didn’t use either, but I did visit the “fully equipped fitness center” a few times during my stay. Not sure what standard that is, but there are multiple machines at least? A treadmill, a recumbent and an upright exercise bike, plus a weight bench and a small set of dumbbells is pretty minimal, but maybe I’m spoiled by gyms in some US hotels.
The lobby level has a bar and the restaurant behind it. Lots of seating areas here, and a nice enough gathering place.
More Time Exploring Torino
Torino is a nice spot, and while I usually would prefer to visit new locations, I enjoyed being here again. The food is great, and the weather was nice. I met a local colleague for dinner one night, which was excellent. I had a little time to explore during most evenings, and for a few hours before departing.
A symbol of the city is the Mole Antonelliana, originally built in 1863 as a synagogue. It is now home to the National Museum of Cinema. It was built during the brief period where Torino was capital of the new Italian state. Other bits of trivia include the fact that this is the tallest unreinforced brick building and tallest museum in the world. (source: Wikipedia) The museum was worth a stop, and the structure itself is stunning. Views from the top of the tower are nice as well, with the mountains to the north and west and the city all around.
While moving around Torino, I did a lot of walking, but I took the subway a few times. This might be the cleanest subway I’ve ever taken. Originally built for the winter olympics, it is still in great shape. Conveniently, there is a station just steps from the AC Hotel, and I rode to some of the tourist spots I visited.
Final Thoughts on the AC Hotel Torino
I enjoyed my time in Torino. The AC Hotel was a big improvement after my last stay in a tiny orange room. The hotel is nothing fancy, but perfectly nice for those working or visiting Torino.
