1. Overview
GAM – Galleria Civica d’Arte Moderna e Contemporanea is Italy’s oldest modern art museum, established in 1863. Located in central Turin, this museum houses a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, photographs, and installations from the 19th and 20th centuries. With over 47,000 works, it provides insight into key artistic movements such as Divisionism, Futurism, Abstract Art, Arte Povera, and Pop Art. GAM is a central hub for contemporary art lovers, offering thematic exhibitions and interactive experiences that connect past and present.
Location – Google Maps Link
2. History
- Founded in 1863, it was the first Italian civic museum to collect modern art.
- Originally located near the Mole Antonelliana in the 19th century.
- Relocated to a pavilion on Corso Siccardi in 1895.
- The previous pavilion was destroyed during WWII bombings in 1942.
- A new building was constructed and inaugurated in 1959, designed by Bassi and Boschetti.
- Closed during the 1980s for renovations, it reopened to the public in 1993.
- The museum reorganized its layout thematically in 2009.
- In 2013, the layout was enhanced with themes like Speed, Nature, and Ethics.
- It is managed by Fondazione Torino Musei, along with MAO and Palazzo Madama.
- It houses works by Modigliani, De Chirico, Fontana, Warhol, and many more.
3. What Makes GAM Popular?
GAM is highly regarded for its rich, multidisciplinary collection and modern curatorial approach. Visitors are drawn to its thematic galleries, which provide an engaging way to experience both classic and avant-garde art. With exhibitions that frequently rotate and address modern societal themes, the museum remains a dynamic space for reflection and cultural dialogue.
4. Overall Ratings (1 to 5 Stars)
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Cultural Significance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Authenticity: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Atmosphere & Environment: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
Tourist Friendliness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
5. Weather
Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to October
Temperature Range: 13°C to 25°C
As an indoor museum, it’s ideal for visiting year-round. Spring and autumn are best for pairing your visit with a walk in nearby parks.
6. Nearest Five Hotels
- Hotel Victoria – Elegant boutique hotel with spa, 10 minutes walk
- Grand Hotel Sitea – Luxury and comfort, near Via Roma
- NH Collection Torino Piazza Carlina – Modern amenities in a historic building
- Starhotels Majestic – Stylish rooms near Porta Nuova
- Hotel Roma e Rocca Cavour – Historic charm, 15-minute walk
7. Timings
Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Monday: Closed
Note: Last admission is at 5:00 PM
8. Time Required to Visit
Visit Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Extended time recommended for special exhibitions, guided tours, or workshops
9. Entry Fees & Ticket Booking Details
General Admission: €10
Reduced Admission: €8 (visitors aged 19–25, seniors 65+)
Children under 18: Free
Free Days: First Tuesday of each month (if not a public holiday) – currently suspended
Booking: Tickets available on-site or via the official GAM website
10. Things to See & Do
- Explore paintings and sculptures from Italian and international modern masters
- Visit thematic rooms with unique artistic concepts (e.g., Speed, Infinity)
- Enjoy temporary contemporary exhibitions and new media installations
- Browse the museum’s video art archive and reference library
- Relax at the museum café and explore the gift shop for art books
11. Best Time to Visit
Season: Spring and autumn for the most enjoyable city weather
Time of Day: Mid-morning or early afternoon for quieter halls
Day of Week: Mid-week (Tuesday to Thursday) for fewer crowds
12. Nearest Parking Spots
Parcheggio Magenta – Closest parking facility, just 3 minutes walk
Parcheggio Porta Nuova – 10 minutes away, near the train station
Parcheggio Vittorio Veneto – 15 minutes by foot, near the riverfront
Note: Paid street parking available on Via Magenta and nearby streets
13. Tips for Visitors
- Use the multilingual audio guide or join a guided tour
- Perfect for solo travelers, students, and contemporary art enthusiasts
- Check the museum calendar for rotating exhibits and public programs
- Combine your visit with other cultural spots like Palazzo Madama or MAO
- Photography is allowed in most areas (without flash)
14. How to Reach the Place
By Foot: A 15-minute walk from Porta Nuova station or Via Roma
By Metro: Porta Nuova (M1 Line), followed by a 10-minute walk
By Tram: Lines 4 and 9 have nearby stops
By Bus: Several city buses stop along Corso Galileo Ferraris and Via Magenta
By Taxi: Easily accessible from anywhere in central Turin
15. Nearby Attractions to Combine for the Visit
- Palazzo Madama – Art and history museum in Piazza Castello
- MAO – Museum of Oriental Art, 15 minutes away
- Parco del Valentino – Turin’s central green oasis, perfect for a post-visit walk
- Mole Antonelliana – Iconic tower housing the National Cinema Museum
- Via Roma – Great for shopping and cafés
