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15 Best Things to Do in Turin (Italy)

Turin actually served as the first capital of Italy and has been a major cultural and economic centre for the country for many years. Located in the north westerly part of Italy , Turin is the capital of the Piedmont region and sits on the river Po. The city of Turin has a population of 892,000 and the greater metropolitan area has an estimated 2.2 million inhabitants.

As with many regions of Italy, Turin saw Roman activity and a military camp was held here. Once the Roman Empire had collapsed in Western Europe, Turin was occupied by various different nations and empires subsequently. During the 1300-1600’s the city saw great growth and gained much of its fantastic architecture and cultural buildings during this period.

In the modern era, Turin was rapidly rebuilt after WWII and its automotive industry became one of the defining influences in the Italian economic revival. The city is now a fantastic blend of old and new and provides a brilliant array of attractions.

Lets explore the best things to do in Turin :

1. Palazzo Reale

The Royal Palace of Turin is a magnificent building that was created in the 16th century.

Residing in the Piazza Castello, the Palace holds a central position in Turin and has stood as a symbol of power for hundreds of years.

A simple design was chosen featuring a square layout and a central courtyard – The front façade features white stonework and many small ornate windows creating a building that feels stately and official.

Inside is a myriad of richly decorated rooms with a style and elegance you would expect from an Italian Royal Palace.

Guided tours are available of the interior and allow you to admire such rooms as the Room of the Throne and the Daniel Gallery.

2. Palazzo Madama

Turin is packed full of extravagant palaces and historical buildings and the Palazzo Madama is the second palace to be located in the Piazza Castello.

Created in the first century BC, the original palace has stood for hundreds of years during the Roman Empire and was modified and built upon heavily during subsequent years.

Originally serving as a defensive fortification, it was not until the 13th century that the building became a palace.

Standing in the Castello square, the front façade of the palace features a row of ornate columns and a palisade decked with sculptures.

Inside the palace you can walk up the richly decorated stairways and admire the sublime decadence of the various rooms and hallways.

3. Mole Antonelliana

Possibly the most distinct building in the whole of Turin, the Mole Antonelliana towers above the surrounding skyline and its huge pointed basilica is an icon of the city.

Mole in Italian actually means a monumental building and this particular mole was created in 1889 although it looks much older.

Originally a Jewish Synagogue, the building now houses the National Cinema Museum and is actually the tallest museum in the world.

At night the basilica of the building is lit up and acts as a beacon that is visible from many points in the city.

A trip to Turin is no complete without viewing the Antonelliana and also the museum held within.

4. Turin Egyptian Museum

This fantastic and informative museum is located between the Piazza San Carlo and the Piazza Castello in the centre of Turin.

Dedicated to ancient Egyptian archaeology and history, this museum is a history buffs dream and contains a huge amount of artefacts and displays.

Created in 1833, the original collection was imported from other museums and has been expanded greatly over the years.

Notable items within the collection include various statues of Sekhmet, Seti II and Ramesses, a Sarcophagus of Ibi, scripts of detailed Papyrus full of hieroglyphics and different everyday earthenware jugs etc.

Guided tours are available to gain a great insight into the individual items or for those who wish to work at their own pace, an audio guide can be bought.

Skip-the-Line tickets available : Egyptian Museum Tickets and Guided Tour (This is a must-do)

5. Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista

Built on the site of three previous churches, the Duomo di Torino is a fine example of Renaissance architecture that was created in 1491. Located next to the Royal Palace this church is dedicated to the patron saint of Turin – Giovanni Battista.

The front façade is created from white marble and is simple but effective and the inviting steps thrust out into the Piazza san Giovanni.

Inside the cathedral is a myriad of design features including some fantastic frescos and marble statues of famous religious figures.

A free standing bell tower actually stands next to the cathedral unconnected and this can be climbed for unbelievable views of the city of Turin.

6. Explore the underground tunnels and cellars

Below the surface of Turin there’s a lot more to discover.

Learn about past times and experience the tunnels and cellars lying beneath the city.

Book online: Unique 3-Hour Underground Walking Tour of Turin

7. National Cinema Museum

Located in the impressive Mole Antonelliana tower, this is one of the most visited museums in Italy due to its fantastic exhibitions and stunning building.

For all things cinema and movie related, this is the place to be! This gigantic collection includes historical cinematic devices such as magic lanterns to a large stock of film posters, movie reels, books and cinematic props and objects.

Spread across five different floors, the museum is split into different genres including sci-fi and horror.

For any film and cinema buff this is a brilliant venue to visit and will provide hours of fun and exploration.

8. Basilica di Superga

If you climb to the heights of the Superga mountain range to the east of Turin you will find the beautiful Basilica di Superga.

When stood in the city Centre of Turin, you can look towards the mountain and see the Basilica perched on top.

Constructed in 1731 and designed by Filipo Juvarra, the basilica features a baroque style and has a beautiful orange and white design with many columns and ornate decoration.

The main basilica towers above the church and is flanked by two beautiful towers whilst the interior is highly decorated with a dome that lets in a great deal of light through a series of arched windows.

Don’t forget to take a look at the breathtaking views down into Turin and the surrounding countryside.

9. Parco Valentino

Located on the banks of the river Po, the Parco Valentina is the second largest public park in Turin and covers an area of 500,000 m2. Created in 1856, it serves as the cities first public garden and has gone from strength to strength.

Inside the park you can find a magnificent Botanical garden, the Valentino Castle, and a replica medieval village.

Furthermore there is a myriad of footpaths and cycle routes, open pastures and a great walk by the river.

If you are looking for refreshment or food, you can also find several fine cafes and restaurants within the grounds of the park.

10. Porta Palatina

One of the many Roman ruins that still stands today in modern Turin, the Porta Palatina serves as the best preserved Roman Gateway in the world from the 1st century.

Originally, this immense gateway would have served as an access point to the inner city centre through the city walls that once surrounded ancient Turin.

Two large circular towers flank the gateway and are adorned with crenulations and a central wall section contains many individual arches.

Standing at 30m and 26m high respectively the gateway and towers dominate the surrounding area.

Sitting in a pleasant public park, the Porta Palatina and ruins are a great piece of history to explore.

11. Santuario di Santa Maria Consolatrice

Also known as the Church of our Lady of Consolation, this basilica stands as one of the oldest places of worship in the city and has stood in some form since the early 11th century.

Located in the Piazza della Consolata approximately 5 minutes walk to the west of the Piazza della Repubblica, this small church has a great deal of character and charm.

A triangular pediment adorns the front entrance and is held in place by four large stone columns.

Inside the basilica there is a great deal of red marble, gold and religious iconography.

The main altar features several religious frescos and detailed paintings whilst the smaller altar and shrine feature a gold relief of the virgin Mary.

12. Piazza San Carlo

A baroque style square, the Piazza San Carlo was established and developed in the 16th and 17th centuries and pays tribute to Charles Borromeo who was an influential Cardinal and Archbishop.

In the centre of this square stands a bronze statue of the Duke of Savoy, whilst at the edges sit the churches of Santa Cristina and San Carlo Borromeo.

The square is framed by a series of archways and marble faced buildings that give it a beautiful symmetry.

If you are looking for a quite place to enjoy a coffee or a meal, this square offers the perfect choice due to the many cafes and restaurants that nestle under the archways.

13. Piazza Castello

This square is undoubtedly the most important and famous Piazzas in Turin and houses many iconic buildings.

Located in the centre of the old city, the Piazza Castello is a huge public space that is the life of the city.

Here you can find both the Palazzo Reale and the Palazzo Madama together with the Royal Armoury and the Royal Theatre.

Furthermore there is a host of cafes and restaurants and also some beautiful fountains and statues to admire.

When visiting Turin, this square is undoubtedly one of the best places to start a walking tour and take in the sights of the fantastic architecture and historical buildings found here.

14. GAM Museum

For art lovers, the GAM (Gallery of Modern Art) is a wonderful place that features a host of fine artwork and exhibits.

Turin was actually one of the first cities to open a museum for modern art and this particular establishment was first created in 1895. Containing over 5500 paintings, sculptures, installations and drawings, the collection is extensive.

Modern artists featured include Modigliani, Carra, Guttuso, Renoir and Chagall and this eclectic display of contemporary art is truly intriguing.

Located in the Crocetta district of Turin, the museum can be reached via the Porta Nuova line on the underground system.

15. Juventus Stadium

Possibly one of the most well-known football stadiums in the world, and home to the most decorated Italian club, the Juventus stadium is a true feat of engineering genius.

With a capacity of 41,000 it might not be the largest, but it has a huge amount of character and is a fantastic sporting venue.

Stadium tours are available on a daily basis and there is also a museum dedicated to Juventus football team.

If you are visiting Turin and happen to be a football fan, you should not pass up to visit the home of the iconic Juventus Football club.

15 Best Things to Do in Turin (Italy):

• Palazzo Reale
• Palazzo Madama
• Mole Antonelliana
• Turin Egyptian Museum
• Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista
• Explore the underground tunnels and cellars
• National Cinema Museum
• Basilica di Superga
• Parco Valentino
• Porta Palatina
• Santuario di Santa Maria Consolatrice
• Piazza San Carlo
• Piazza Castello
• Juventus Stadium

36 Hours in Turin, Italy

By Seth Sherwood Updated Feb. 1, 2024

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With the Alps as a background, Turin, Italy’s fourth-largest city, is elegant, photogenic and rich with history. Grand squares and former royal palaces abound in this northern Italian crossroads, nicknamed Little Paris, which was briefly Italy’s first capital after the country’s unification in 1861. And despite housing one of Christianity’s most solemn relics — a shroud believed by some to be the burial cloth of Jesus — the city is awash in earthly pleasures. Both gianduja chocolate and vermouth were invented there, and can be sampled among the historic coffeehouses, chocolate shops and aperitivo bars that line the city’s arcaded shopping boulevards. And especially important in the winter, an ever-expanding buffet of galleries and museums — including one of the world’s largest collections of Egyptian antiquities , a museum of fake fruit and a new contemporary art hub on a rooftop racetrack — offer respite from the cold and food for the spirit.

Recommendations

• Gallerie d’Italia , a museum that opened in 2022 in a renovated Baroque palazzo, has a collection ranging from medieval panel paintings to contemporary video art.
• Magazzino 52 offers contemporary takes on Piedmontese cuisine — like a silky veal tartare — and a wine list featuring hundreds of bottles, along with by-the-glass options.
• Caffè Fiorio , a former haunt of Friedrich Nietzsche, serves excellent hot chocolate in plush rooms of chandeliers and gilded mirrors.
• La Pista 500 , an oval walkway that was once a rooftop test track for a Fiat factory, offers plants, art installations and Alpine vistas.
• Piazza San Giovanni , a public square, is adjacent to several historic sites, including Roman ruins, a royal collection of art at Galleria Sabauda and the cathedral housing the Shroud of Turin.
• Monte dei Cappuccini , a hill with a Baroque church on top, offers photo-perfect views of the cityscape and Alps.
• Scannabue serves classic Piedmontese comfort food, like tajarin, a local type of pasta, and wines in a homey, lively environment.
• Fondoo specializes in, yes, fondue (and raclette) in a Scandinavian-minimalist room.
• Pasticceria Ghigo dal 1870 , an old-fashioned pastry shop, pours thick hot chocolate to drink at the counter.
• Isola is a bar that displays shelves of vinyl albums and bottles of natural wines, all of which are for sale to enjoy on site or at home.
• La Cuite is a cozy bar in which to try regional wines next to a wood-burning fireplace.
• Nikkei , a bar half hidden at the back of Azotea restaurant, serves some of the city’s finest cocktails.
• Mercato di Porta Palazzo , an amalgam of markets in Piazza della Repubblica, is a lively, fun spot to pick up produce, inexpensive clothing, Italian delicacies, street food and more.
• Il Balon , near the Mercato di Porta Palazzo, is an outdoor market known for its vintage treasures, from military surplus to cinema seats.
• Danpol is a contemporary store with elegant, mostly Italian-made clothing.
• San Carlo dal 1973 seeks out edgy and avant-garde designers of women’s wear and accessories.
• Agora Boutique Stays , a newcomer from last year, offers nine stylish, individually designed apartments on the atrium-like ground floor of a 17th-century palazzo next to Piazza San Carlo. Apartments in February start at 185 euros, or about $200.
• Hotel Victoria , also in the center, has an old-world British feel — pale hues, floral-print fabrics, antique knickknacks — and offers two cozy winter amenities: a lobby fireplace and a spa with a sauna and a heated swimming pool. Rooms in February start at €161.
• Combo is a hostel in a former firehouse. The soaring industrial-chic lobby contains a coffee shop, a cocktail bar and a concert stage, while the mixed private and dorm-style rooms convey a minimalist Zen aesthetic. Private rooms in February start at around €53.
• For short-term rentals , the Centro, or city center, is your most practical base for historical sites, museums, cafes and shopping. Nearby, to the east, the classy Vanchiglia residential district runs alongside the Po River and offers refined dining and drinking options. Historically working-class San Salvario, south of the center and close to the main train station, is now filled with trattorias, wine bars, cocktail bars and coffee shops.
• The central neighborhoods, clustered together, are easily walkable. The southern districts like San Salvario and Lingotto are along the city’s lone metro line, which only skirts the periphery of the central historic and commercial areas, making it somewhat impractical. Buses and trams connect much of the city, while taxis can be hired at designated stands or via the app Freenow .

The Chocolate Lover’s Guide

Indulge for a moment or two by learning more about this most delectable treat..

You may have heard about chocolate’s potential health benefits. But is it really good for you ?

A recent report found high concentrations of cadmium and lead in dark chocolate. There’s no reason to panic, experts say — but it’s worth a closer look .

What is it like to work with chocolate? A chocolate maker in California spoke of his fascination with cacao beans and the tastes he looks for in his products .

Convenience is only one reason to love chocolate chips. They also hold their shape better than bars and deliver more flavor in baked goods, Genevieve Ko writes .

Hungry yet? Try these make-ahead desserts , an unfussy mousse  or one of our most popular chocolate recipes .

Not in the mood for baking? Wirecutter has selected for you the best boxed chocolates .

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A Quick Guide to the Best Things to do in Turin

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 19th August 2023

Categories Italy

Last Updated on 19th August 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

Located in Northern Italy and capital of the Piedmont region, Turin’s a city that’s best known for its chocolate and Fiat production. As Italy’s first capital , the beautiful city is characterised by its stunning architecture, industrial present, and royal past. What’s more, is that the entire city is set against the backdrop of breathtaking snow-capped peaks. Here’s a quick guide to the very best things to do in Turin !

If you’re thinking about seeing a lot of attractions and monuments while in Marseille, Consider booking the  Torino+Piemonte Card: 2 days , which includes museums, monuments, exhibitions, fortresses, castles and royal residences.

To work out whether or not the pass is worth it for you or not, add up the cost of the individual attractions you wish to visit and see if you’ll save money.   Find more details here.

Turin is less touristy than other Northern Italian cities

There’s plenty of history (the turin shroud, basilica di superga), torino is unified italy’s first capital city and a former royal city, turin is where the aperitivo began , #1 mole antonelliana & cinema museum, #2 palazzo reale (royal palace), #3 turin shroud & duomo di san giovanni, #4 museo egizio (egypt museum), #5 palazzo madama, #6 take a trip to the basilica of superga, #7 fetta di polenta (slice of polenta), #8 piazza castello, #9 piazza san carlo, #10 via roma, #11 enjoy coffee in a historic café, #12 get a little lost…, #13 sample some local food and drink, #14 turin arcades, #15 borgo medievale torino (medieval village of turin), #16 palazzo carignano, #17 go out in search of amazing chocolate, #18 take a day trip to a nearby vineyard, #19 search for secret spots, how to visit turin, things to know before visiting turin for the first time, enjoyed reading this guide to the best things to do in turin pin it now, read it again later:, why you must visit turin on your next italy trip.

Please note that Turin is called Torino in Italian. A little off the beaten tourist path with oodles of history, as well as great food and drink options on offer, many visitors to Northern Italy often miss out on a visit to Torino in lieu of more famous nearby cities such as Milan or Genoa.

However, if you’re planning a trip to Northern Italy, then missing out on this European gem would be your first mistake. If you’re looking for even more inspiration about the boot-shaped country, then be sure to check out our best travel  quotes about Italy . And if you need to know more information before heading to the South of Europe, check out our  top Italy travel tips.

When it comes to the North of Italy, the region is full of breathtakingly beautiful towns and cities. And Torino is no exception. Nestled on a fairly flat plateau and set against a backdrop of snow-capped Alps, it would be a mistake to miss out on a trip to Turin in lieu of a more popular city.

If you enjoy your city breaks served with a side of culture, then Turin couldn’t be a better location to visit. After all the  Basilica di Superga  is an easy day trip from the city.

The 17th-century built ecclesiastical building is now home to the family crypt of the Savoy Family and offers stunning panoramic views onto the city of Torino below, and the snow-capped Alps beyond.

Elsewhere in Turin itself, the Duomo di San Giovanni houses the Turin Shroud. This Chrisitan artifact is alleged to bear the negative of an image of a man, said to be Jesus of Nazareth.

Other historical highlights of Turin include a 19th-century built fake medieval village, and a collection of Ancient Egyptian artifacts to rival those of major capital cities.

Once upon a time, when Italy was not yet formed and the now-country was split into many small city-states (much like the Vatican remains so to this day) , and nearby  Lombardy was a kingdom in its own right, Turin was the seat of incredible power.

Today, Torino is twinned with Glasgow, Scotland, and traces of the city’s royal past can be found in the many palaces and castles dotted throughout Turin.

Prior to any meal in Italy, you’ll likely be offered a small alcoholic drink. Well, this tradition of the aperitivo really took off right here in Torino, and nearby Milano during the 1920s.

As a result, several famous brands, including Martini Rosso and Gancia, find their roots in the Piedmontese capital. Many even believe that Vermouth was invented right here in Turin during the 18th-century.

Best things to do in Turin

If you’re wondering what to do in Turin , then it’s worth noting that the crown jewel of Torino is the towering Mole Antonelliana, a structure so famous that it is often nicknamed the ‘Eiffel Tower of Italy’ and even appears on one centime coins.

Open daily apart from Tuesdays, the interior of the tower is dedicated to a cinema museum while the top floor offers stunning panoramic views over the city and beyond.

Not far from the impressive Duomo, traces of the city’s royal past can be found in the Palazzo Reale, a neo-classical and baroque building which was the seat of power in Torino for countless centuries.

Once home to the Savoy family, today, the palace now serves as a cultural centre, housing plenty of priceless artworks and other objets d’art. Purchase your entrance ticket and guided tour here.

For those familiar with ecclesiastical history, and more specifically Catholicism, the Turin Shroud will likely need no introduction. For the uninitiated, the shroud is alleged to contain a negative image of a man said to be Jesus of Nazareth.

Today, the veil is housed within the city’s main cathedral, Duomo di San Giovanni and is only put on display to the public every decade or so upon papal decree.

While it will likely not be on show when you visit the city, the rest of the church can be visited for free on a daily basis and is filled with plenty of beautiful carvings and frescoes.

One of the most impressive collections of Egyptian artifacts outside of Cairo is not to be found in London or Paris but in the non-touristic city of Turin! Located in the very heart of town, the Museo Egizio has housed its collection since the museum was first founded in 1824. Today, access to the collections (i.e. over 26,000 objects) are possible for a small fee on a daily basis. Purchase your museum ticket and guided tour here.

The former palace turned museum, Palazzo Madama, was once home to the first Senate of the Italian Kingdom. Now, the Palazzo houses the Turin City Museum of Ancient Art.

However, this is a rather deceptive name considering that the cultural hub houses mainly artwork from the Middle Ages to late 18th-Century. On the top floor, there’s a covered roofing deck offering one of the best views of Turin .

Perched precariously, high above the city, the Basilica di Superga is an easy day trip away from the hustle and bustle of busy modern Italian city life. Constructed during the 18th-century, the easiest way to reach this pretty church is to take the original 1930s tram, right up the side of the mountain! Once there, there’s countless hiking trails into the countryside, as well as the chance to wander inside the Savoy family crypt.

While many may venture to Turin for the sole purpose of seeing the Mole Antonelliana, it’s little-known that architect Alessandro Antonelli was gifted a strangely shaped piece of land in his younger days, years before he embarked on his world-famous project.

Located in the Vanchiglia district of the city, the  Fetta di Polenta  is also referred to as the Casa Scaccabarozzi and was first built over one hundred and fifty years ago. As its name would suggest, it quite literally resembles a slice of polenta cake!

One of the best places to sit, stop, and people watch is in Piazza Castello, a beautiful town square named for its nearby Castle. Within the Piazza itself, you’ll also find plenty of coffee shops, chocolate stores, and places where you can sample the Italian specialty that is gelato .

Often nicknamed ‘Turin’s drawing Room’ (much like the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele I I in nearby Milan) , Piazza San Carlo is populated by coffee shops and was first built in the 16th and 17th-centuries.

Constructed in the Baroque style, highlights of the square include the twin churches of Santa Cristina and San Carlo Borromeo, as well as a statue of one of the Dukes of Savoy.

Slicing its way through the city, Turin’s main street is filled with restaurants, bars, and plenty of shops. If you fancy a spot of shopping while in Torino, then you need to look no further than this expansive street.

Often referred to as Italy’s answer to Oxford Street in the UK, make sure to head to this street if you want to find some of the best food stores and fashion brands the city has to offer!

If you’re a fan of all things caffeine related, then you should most definitely consider a trip to Turin. After all, the city is home to many historic cafés, including some of the oldest coffee establishments in modern day Italy.

Italy is well-known for its coffee culture , and Turin is no exception. One of the very best things to do in Turin is to head to an ancient coffee shop and sip on an espresso while watching the world go by.

Highlights of coffee culture in Torino include visiting the city’s oldest café, Bicerin, which has been open since 1763! So iconic is Bicerin that during its time, it has since been visited by the likes of Nietschze, Puccini, and Alexandre Dumas  (i.e. the author of The Three Musketeers and The Count of Monte Cristo). 

Finally, Torino is like plenty of other Northern Italian towns and cities in that it’s a place best explored on foot. And besides, how else will you discover the best chocolate to be found in the city if you don’t go in search of it?

Torino and its surrounds are well known for Fiat production… as well as that of chocolate and wine. In fact, Turin is the capital of the Piedmont region of Northern Italy, an area which specialises in Italian reds, specifically Barolo and Barbaresco.

While in the city, make sure not to miss out on one of the many chocolate shops on offer. If you’re looking to take a self-guided chocolate tour of the city, then the tourist office in the town centre provides plenty of maps and leaflets.

If you’re a fan of 19th-century architecture, then you simply must walk around some of Turin’s arcades, which are reminiscent of the covered passages of Paris . In fact, should you opt to visit the city, then no doubt you’ll end up walking through one or two anyway.

After all, Torino is home to no less than 18 kilometres worth of arcades. Over 12 kilometres worth of these are connected, meaning that Turin has the largest pedestrian area in Europe.

During a 19th-century world fair, the medievalesque looking Borgo was constructed in the city’s park, Parco del Valentino. Located alongside the River Po, the green space was opened in the 19th-century, thus making it Italy’s first public garden.

The fake medieval village itself is open on a daily basis, free to visit, and comprises of a castle complete with drawbridge, countless narrow streets, and several artisan shops.

Of all the things to do in Turin, learning about history is high on the list. Once the private residence of the princes of Carignano (a branch of the House of Savoy), today the impressive building is now home to the Museum of the Risorgimento.

One of 23 museums in Italy dedicated to the ‘Risorgimento’ (unification of Italy), it’s among one of the larger cultural hubs. The museum was established in 1878, shortly after the unification was completed in 1871.

Wine isn’t the only sustenance that Turin is famous for. Instead, the city is well-known for its master chocolatiers and today one of the greatest sources of industry in the city asides from car manufacturing can be found in chocolate!

If you fancy doing a chocolate tour of the city, then free brochures can be picked up in the Tourist Information Centre in the heart of town.

The Piedmont region of Northern Italy does not only have  its own language, Piedmontese but is well known for its rich reds, specifically Barolo and Barbaresco.

If you have acces s to a car while in Turin ( check here for car rental comparison prices ) , then it’s well worth taking a day trip into the Italian countryside to see some of the many vines which populate this part of the world. Most winemaking in the region happens to the South of Turin, around the towns of Alba and Asti.

Last but not least, Turin is home to plenty of hidden gems which are all worth discovering in their own right. From historical gardens to breathtaking vistas, you certainly won’t regret going out in search of the off the beaten path side of Torino.

With easy train links to Milan, France, and the rest of Europe, visiting Turin couldn’t be simpler. Once there, there’s a fantastic transport system in the form of regular trains, buses, and even trams. And with literal kilometres worth of covered arcades to wander around, Turin is one of Europe’s most pedestrian-friendly cities .

For those who are seeking to go a little off the beaten tourist track when it comes to Northern Italy, Torino is an absolute must. After all, if you’re looking for plenty of churches, a great foodie scene, and plenty of museums, then this Italian city has it all. However, there are a few things you should know before you go.

Firstly, though most people speak English, it’s only polite to learn a few words of the local language. ‘Hello,’ ‘Please,’ ‘Thank you,’ and ‘Sorry’ are great places to start.

As such, I highly recommend bringing along a simple Italian phrasebook like this one to help you on your travels! If you’re planning to see a number of monuments during your visit, then you might want to purchase the Torino + Piemonte Card. More details can be found here.

Turin is an easy city to navigate and you can easily get to all of the main tourist attractions on foot. However, as with many European cities, there are plenty of uneven roads and cobbled stones. Comfortable shoes are an absolute must and it’s not unusual to clock up well over 20,000 steps a day!

Finally, though Turin is certainly not as popular as other Northern Italian cities like Milano or Genoa, it still certainly gets plenty of visitors, especially during peak season (high summer) and during events. In order to secure the best accommodation, you’ll want to book your place to stay ASAP like this one

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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brightnomad

Saturday 12th of May 2018

Thanks for sharing, going to visit Turin later this year and it looks lovely!

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Turin

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Despite its 20th-century history as Italy's industrial center, Turin (Torino) is an elegant and gracious city of wide avenues and squares lined by beautiful arcaded buildings. Long before it was the home of Fiat and Lancia, Turin was the seat of the powerful Savoy dynasty, and they were determined to make their capital city the rival of Paris and Vienna. Their palaces are its centerpiece, and the streetscape is the legacy of 17th-century Baroque architects Guarino Guarini and Filippo Juvarra.

Capital of the north Italian region of Piedmont, Turin traces its geometrical layout to its foundation as a Roman city, and an impressive gate from the time of Emperor Augustus is among its tourist attractions today.

After the French occupation under Napoleon, from 1798 to 1814, Turin became the center of the movement to unify Italy, a period known as the Risorgimento, when its glittering cafés rang with the discussions and plans of these activists.

The city seems to revolve around the broad Piazza Castello, bordered on one side by the Palazzo Reale and with the Palazzo Madama at its center. From here, the broad arcaded Via Po leads to Piazza Vittorio Veneto and the Po River. Find the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Turin.

See also: Where to Stay in Turin

1. Museo Egizio (Egyptian Museum)

2. mole antonelliana (museo nazionale del cinema), 3. juventus stadium, 4. museo nazionale dell'automobile, 5. palazzo reale and armeria reale (royal armory), 6. piazza san carlo, 7. borgo medioevale and parco del valentino, 8. the cathedral and the holy shroud, 9. palazzo madama and museo civico d'arte antica, 10. san lorenzo, 11. santuario di santa maria consolatrice (la consolata), 12. day trip to reggia di venaria reale, 13. museo nazionale del risorgimento italiano (risorgimento museum), 14. galleria sabauda, 15. galleria d'arte moderna, 16. porta palatina, where to stay in turin for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions and things to do in turin.

Looking at Egyptian mummies and art may seem like one of the more unusual things to do in Turin, Italy, but, you won't find a better collection anywhere outside of Cairo, and it is Turin's most visited attraction. The Palazzo dell'Accademia delle Scienze houses the Egyptian Museum, whose collections began in 1824 when King Carlo Felice acquired 5,268 artifacts excavated in Egypt.

These were supplemented by later expeditions, and today, the collections contain statues of various gods and of pharaohs of the New Kingdom, including Rameses II and King Thutmose III, along with papyruses, painted linens, a group of Shawabti figures and a Shawabti box, canopic vessels, mummies and sarcophagi, and two tomb chambers from Thebes.

Address: Via Accademia delle Scienze 6, Turin

Official site: www.museoegizio.org

From Piazza Castello , the arcaded Via Po runs to the Piazza Vittorio Veneto and the Po River. Just north of Via Po rises the huge Mole Antonelliana, begun by Alessandro Antonelli in 1863 as a synagogue, with a 168-meter-tall spire added in 1878 to 1880. Not only is this the most recognizable landmark on Turin's skyline, but the tower offers spectacular 360-degree views across the city to the surrounding hills and the Savoy Alps.

The ride to the top in the glass elevator is an experience you won't forget, as it provides a dizzying and dramatic look at the National Museum of Cinema , which occupies the interior of the building. The museum is perhaps best described by its designer, François Confino: "A full-immersion plunge into the world of images in motion and fiction." Even those with little interest in motion pictures will enjoy this museum, but you can also ride the lift to the top for a separate fee from the museum admission.

Address: Via Montebello 20, Turin

Strictly for football (soccer) fans and a must-see for followers of Turin's Juventus, the stadium is officially called the Allianz Stadium, but in Turin it's simply known as The Stadium. You can visit to see the museum and take a guided tour through the facilities, visiting the locker rooms, press box, and the pitch itself (but not a chance to sit in the stands).

Tours are offered in English, and exhibits in the museum are labeled in English, as well. In it you can see the trophy room, uniforms, memorabilia, and a film about the team and its fans. The shop is filled with Juv souvenirs. Note that the museum and stadium tour require separate tickets; one does not include the other.

Address: Corso Gaetano Scirea 50, Turin

The National Automobile Museum provides a comprehensive survey of the development of the motor car, with special attention to the Turin auto manufacturers, but by no means limited to them. The collection of antique and classic cars is outstanding, and multimedia exhibits tell their stories and put automobiles in a social and cultural context as well.

Among the cars you'll see here are multiple models of FIAT and Alfa Romeo, plus Italian makers Ferrari, Lancia, Maserati, Auto Bianchi, and Bugati. But you'll also find examples of Jaguar, Rolls Royce, Mercedes Benz, even a Packard Super 8 and a BMW Isetta.

Address: Corso Unità d'Italia 40, Turin

Filling an entire side of the large Piazza Castello in the center of Turin, the former Royal Palace is a relatively plain 17th-century building, at least on the outside. But step inside to be dazzled by the Appartamento di Madama Felicità and 26 sumptuously decorated state apartments ( Reali Appartamenti ).

In the right wing, the former Royal Armory (Armeria Reale) contains one of the largest collections of arms and armor in Europe, with complete suits of armor and other items dating from the 15th to 19th centuries. The library, which has a separate entrance to the far left, is one of Italy's most impressive.

Beyond the Palazzo Reale are the beautiful Royal Gardens (Giardini Reali) at the corner of which (the entrance is on Corso Regina Margherita) is the Museo d'Antichità, filled with archaeological finds dating from prehistoric times through the late Roman era.

Address: Piazzetta Reale, Turin

Turin is a city of beautiful squares and avenues, but no place is lovelier than the arcaded Piazza San Carlo, surrounded by arcaded buildings and punctuated at one end by the matching facades of the churches of Santa Cristina and San Carlo . Beneath the arcades are some of Turin's most stylish shops and the historic cafés where Italy's Risorgimento was plotted in the mid-1800s.

In the center of the square stands an imposing equestrian statue of Duke Emmanuel Philibert (1838), who seems to be choreographing the activity below. Look on the pavement under the arcades for the works - often in progress - of Turin's talented chalk artists. Also under the piazza's arcades (as well as those along nearby Via Po) are some of the favorite places for shopping in Turin.

When you need a break from sumptuous palaces and grand architecture or are looking for free things to do in Turin, stroll toward the river and into the long green Parco Valentino. Here, you'll find Turin's own "folly" - a complete "medieval" village, an imaginative view of what one might have looked like, complete with its own castle, artisans' studios, and shops. Built for an exhibition in 1884, the borgo became such a local favorite that it has been maintained as part of the park.

Craftspeople sell and demonstrate period skills (if your suit of armor needs repairs, this is the place), and on weekends there are often hands-on activities, making this one of the city's favorite places to visit for families.

The park's lovely riverside setting so close to the historic and business center and its other attractions - the 1729 Botanic Gardens and the Savoys' fine Renaissance Castello del Valentino (1630-60) - make the park popular with locals and tourists. It's also a good place if you're looking for active things to do; the vehicle-free Viale Virgilio runs the entire length of the park, past restaurants overlooking the river. There's a boat landing where you can board the glass-enclosed boats for a river cruise.

Address: Corso Massimo d'Azeglio, Turin

Adjoining the Palazzo Reale, the Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista was Turin's first example of Renaissance architecture, built between 1492 and 1498. The cathedral's main attraction to tourists is the Santa Sindone, Holy Shroud, which although only rarely on view is kept in a bulletproof, fireproof, and climate controlled vault behind the altar in the left transept.

A full-size replica hangs in the north aisle of the cathedral. The Holy Shroud is quite possibly the world's most studied and controversial artifact, but despite the studies and the research, it has never been proven or disproven to be the shroud of the crucified Christ.

Address: Piazza San Giovanni, Turin

The large Palazzo Madama is the centerpiece of Piazza Castello , standing alone in its center. At its core is a 13th-century castle built on the remains of the Roman east gate. The castle was enlarged in the 15th century and embellished by Filippo Juvarra in 1718 with the handsome west front - a fine example of Piedmontese Baroque architecture - and the magnificent double staircase.

Inside is the Museo Civico d'Arte Antica (Civic Museum of Ancient Art) , where you can discover Turin's history and artistic legacy from the ground up - literally. Begin in the Roman foundations with the collection of medieval stone work, sculptures, and jewelry; on the ground floor discover the 15th-century castle and art of the Middle Ages and Renaissance, along with the grand staircase and medieval courtyard.

On the first floor, the richly appointed 17th- and 18th-century state apartments hold collections of paintings and period furniture, and on the top floor are decorative arts, including ceramics, ivories, jewelry, fabrics, and glasswork from various eras.

Address: Piazza Castello, Turin

Don't judge the church of San Lorenzo, next to the Palazzo Reale, from the outside - step inside this Baroque (1668-80) masterpiece by Guarini and look upward for a surprise. Architecturally, San Lorenzo is considered one of the world's great churches for its unusual and boldly designed dome and lantern.

The round domed center is surrounded by eight curved bays and supported by intersecting ribs that support the lantern. Standing directly under its center, the symmetry and pattern of light from the windows makes it appear almost as a kaleidoscope. Notice the exuberant Baroque altar, too.

The Madonna was honored on this site as early as the fourth century, but the oldest part remaining is the Romanesque campanile, which was built sometime around AD 1000. When Guarini rebuilt the church in 1678 as a sanctuary dedicated to Mary, he retained the early tower.

His Baroque pilgrimage church is a feast for the eyes inside, lavishly decorated in colored marble inlay; pilgrims have added ex votos ever since its completion. In 1729, Filippo Juvarra added the oval chapel.

Address: Piazza della Consolata, Turin

Although it's only about 14 kilometers from central Turin, you'll need a day to see one of the world's largest royal residences. Designed as a hunting lodge for the Duke of Savoy, Carlo Emanuele II, in 1675, its Baroque grandeur and ostentation fit in with the Savoy's determination to make Turin "The Paris South of the Alps."

Although listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the palace is not well known. Combined with its size, this means that it is rarely crowded, and you can explore its grand galleries, residential apartments, and extensive formal gardens at leisure.

Highlights are the impressive Grand Gallery, the elegant Hall of Diana, and the Capella di Sant'Uberto and soaring Royal Stables, the latter two designed by Filippo Juvarra in the early 1700s. At the choreographed fountain shows in the Water Theater, 100 jets send water as high as 12 meters, while colored lights play through them.

Buses run regularly to the palace from Piazza Castello and Piazza Vittorio Veneto.

Address: Viale Carlo Emanuele II, Turin

Official site: https://www.lavenaria.it/en/visit

Near Piazza Castello, Palazzo Carignano (by Guarini, 1679-85) was the meeting place of the Italian parliament from 1861 to 1864, and it was here that the establishment of the Kingdom of Italy was proclaimed on March 14th, 1861. It's appropriate that this should now be the home of the Museum of the Risorgimento, which commemorates the movement that made unification possible and in which Turin played such an important role.

This is the largest museum of its kind, with mementos and relics of the campaign for Italian unity and of the two world wars displayed in 30 rooms. While this might sound overwhelming, the museum is so well organized and its displays so well presented with interactive exhibits, films, and audio tours that it creates a fascinating story even for those not well versed in Italian history.

Conveniently, you can choose an audio tour route based on your level of interest and time available, from 45 minutes to two hours.

Address: Via Accademia delle Scienze 5, I-10100, Turin

Inside the Palazzo dell'Accademia delle Scienze is the Galleria Sabauda, an art museum containing some of Turin's greatest treasures. The collection includes pictures by the Piedmontese artists and by the Venetians Mantegna ( Madonna with Saints ), Paolo Veronese, Tintoretto, Tiepolo, and Canaletto, as well as notable works of Tuscan artists including Beato Angelico's Angels in Adoration .

The extensive collection of Dutch and Flemish paintings includes works by Jan van Eyck; Rogier van der Weyden; Hans Memling; Van Dyck; and Rembrandt, who is represented by an early painting, Old Man Asleep . One room is devoted to the Gualino Collection, with pictures by Botticelli and Veronese.

Address: Via Accademia delle Scienze 6 (enter from Via XX Settembre 86), Turin

The Galleria d'Arte Moderna contains one of the finest collections of modern art in Italy, with about 45,000 works in its collections. The concentration is on Italian artists such as Modigliani, De Chirico, Carrà, De Pisis, and Guttuso, but the collections have a number of works by Renoir, Utrillo, Paul Klee, Max Ernst, Chagall, and others.

The museum's slogan "All Art Has Been Contemporary" reminds viewers that works considered unconventional in their day (or brushed aside as inconsequential) are now staples of fine arts sought by the world's leading museums.

Address: Via Magenta 31, Turin

Official site: www.gamtorino.it/en/

Via Garibaldi was the Decimus Maximus, the main street of the Roman city of Augusta Taurinorum. Near the cathedral, you'll see the imposing first-century gate, Porta Palatina, the only remaining of the four entrances to the Roman city. One of the best-preserved Roman gates in the world, Porta Palatina's three-story wall is constructed of brick and connects a pair of polygonal brick towers.

According to legend, Charlemagne camped below the gate in 773. Beside the cathedral are the remains of a Roman theater, also from the first century AD. Only part of it is visible, the rest of it having been covered over by the royal palace buildings.

Address: Via Aosta, Turin

We recommend these hotels in Turin, all with easy access to the city's top tourist attractions:

• The location of the luxury NH Collection Torino Piazza Carlina is convenient for sightseeing, a short walk away from Piazza Castello and Piazza San Carlo. The restored old building has a lovely courtyard and a rooftop terrace; rooms offer minimalistic charm.
• Turin Palace Hotel also has a rooftop terrace with city views, as well as a spa with a Turkish bath and sauna. The mid-range rates include a breakfast buffet.
• Residence Sacchi offers modern apartments with kitchenettes at budget-friendly rates. It is close to the train station.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Where to Go from Turin : Several appealing cities are nearby, some close enough for a day trip from Turin. If a look at Turin's palaces whets your appetite for more, you'll find a number of them in Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Genoa & Easy Day Trips . Or you can visit Milan with the help of our article on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Milan .

Finding the Best Alpine Skiing : Turin, which was the venue for the 2006 Winter Olympics, is a good base for skiers and winter sports enthusiasts. Several of Italy's best-known ski mountains are close to the city. Two of these, Courmayeur and Breuil-Cervinia, both north of Turin in the Val d'Aosta, are among the top ski resorts in Europe .

More on Italy

Visit Turin: Top 20 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in turin: the 20 best places to visit + highlights.

Turin, in Italy , is a former industrial city that was completely redesigned for the 2006 Olympics. It’s now one of the most pleasant Italian cities to visit!

Just like other more visited Italian cities such as Rome or Venice , Turin clearly deserves to be visited for a weekend or a few more days.

With its world-class museums such as the National Cinema Museum and National Automobile Museums, royal residences , magnificent squares and churches you will find in Turin everything that makes Italy charming.

In order to help you plan your stay , I have created this guide of the best things to do in Turin. You will find all the activities and points of interest you need to see during your stay in town!

And at the end of the article, I will give you itineraries to visit Turin in 1, 2, 3 or 4 days as well as a list of the best accommodations in town depending on your budget.

So, what are the best places to visit in Turin? Where to stay? Let’s find out!

1. Piazza Castello

2. palazzo reale, 3. palazzo madama, 4. the cinema museum / mole antonelliana, 5. palazzo carignano, 6. museo egizio (egyptian museum), 7. piazza san carlo, 8. museo dell’automobile, 9. cattedrale di san giovanni battista, 10. porta palatina, 11. mercato di porta palazzo, 12. santuario della consolata, 13. parco del valentino, 14. borgo medievale de torino, 15. castello del valentino, 16. piazza vittorio veneto, 17. chiesa della gran madre di dio, 18. monte dei capuccini, 19. villa della regina, 20. basilica of superga, 1 day in turin, 2 days in turin, 3 days in turin, 4 days in turin, where to stay in turin, where to eat in turin, my impressions of turin, you’re traveling in italy these articles will help you, visit turin: the 20 must-see attractions.

Before starting my list of the top things to see in Turin, I’ll give you THE best tip to visit the city and save money: purchase the Torino + Piemonte card.

Depending on the duration of your stay in Turin, you can choose the 1, 2, 3 or 5 days version. They will grant you access to almost all cultural sites free of charge and to promotional offers for some of them.

it costed me 35€ for 3 days. As museum entrance fees are all around 10€, it was really worth it, as I didn’t have to pay a single euro for all the visits I did!

The card’s validity time will begin the first time you will use it.

If you visit your first museum on Monday at 2 pm., you can use the card until 2pm on Thursday for a 3-day card. This card isn’t a “skip the line” ticket.

You can buy the 2 days card here   and the 3 days card there .

Let’s start with the famous Piazza Castello square and the historical monuments surrounding it. You simply can’t miss it during your stay in Turin, as it’s where some of the must-see monuments like the palazzo Madama or the Palazzo Reale are located.

In summer, this square is also popular for its refreshing water jets or as a great place to enjoy a good Italian ice cream. There are numerous gelateria (ice cream shops) around the square and in the nearby streets.

On the other side of Piazza Castello , where the towers of the Palazzo Madama are located, you can see the First World War mermorial , in tribute to Emanuele Filiberto, 2nd Duke of Aosta.

The main entrance of the Palazzo Reale is on Piazza Castello. Built in 1646, it served as a royal residence until 1865. Today, you can visit various sections of the palace:

• The king’s apartments, with gilded luxurious decoration everywhere.
• The Royal Library and its 200,000 books, including masterpieces such as the self-portrait or the Codex on the Flight of Birds by Leonardo da Vinci.
• The Royal Armory and its impressive collection of stuffed horses with their armored riders.
• The galleria Sabauda, which exhibits paintings from the 14th century to the 20th century
• The Royal gardens (free entrance)

This magnificent palace is clearly a must-see during your stay in Turin. I really loved the Royal Armory, it’s the most impressive I have seen to date.

Another palace located on Piazza Castello is the palazzo Madama, a building with an atypical architecture. It was first a medieval castle before becoming a palace with a baroque façade!

Inside, there is the  Turin City Museum of Ancient Art, housing a nice collection of ceramics, drawings and sculptures. During the visit, you can go in the small garden to admire the walls and towers of the palace from the inside .

In addition to the museum, the highlight of the visit is for sure the stunning view from the top of the towers!

By taking the elevator or the stairs, you will reach the top of the tower and will be able to admire a very nice panorama of the city of Turin and its iconic monument: the Mole Antonelliana. I tell you more about it just below!

Located in the Mole Antonelliana , the National Museum of Cinema is for many the best museum of the city. Very few people know this: Turin is the birthplace of Italian cinema! It’s no wonder that the city needed to have an amazing museum dedicated to the 7th art.

The exhibitions are very well done and retrace the history of cinema with all kinds of objects, from the first cameras to the helmets of the Star Wars saga.

In the huge main room, cinema seats are even arranged to watch movies displayed on 2 giant screens on the ceiling.

But if so many people visit the museum, it’s above all for its unique attraction: the panoramic elevator with transparent walls that will take you to the Mole platform. The perfect place to enjoy a 360° view of Turin.

Be patient because the waiting line is often several hours long! But it’s really a unique experience to live during a stay in Italy.

if you want to take the elevator, you will need to pay an additional fee to the museum entrance. The Torino card gives you a discount.

All the information about Turin Cinema museum is on the official site.

If you don’t take the Torino Card, I recommend you to buy the Skip the line tickets for the Cinema Museum + panoramic elevator . You will save a lot of time!

The Carignan Palace is the third palace-museum to visit, after the Palazzo Reale and the palazzo Madama. It houses the Italian Risorgimento Museum and presents the history of Italy through numerous texts, documents, films and superb paintings.

Don’t miss the hall where the first Italian parliament met.

Just behind the Carignan Palace , at the entrance of the Risorgimento museum , you can also see the Carlo Alberto square , with the equestrian statue of Charles Albert of Sardinia . This square is very photogenic thanks to the beautiful facade of the museum in the background.

As in every squares of Turin, you will also find food and drinks there.

You’re going to Turin?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Turin on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Turin.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Turin, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Turin!

Not far from the Carignan Palace is one of Turin’s greatest museums. With its 4 floors and numerous exposition rooms, this recently renovated Egyptian museum is the second largest in the world, after the one in Cairo!

The collection includes statues, sarcophagi and mummies, so you can immerse yourself in ancient Egypt for at least 2 hours.

If you don’t purchase the Torino Card and want to visit the museum, you should buy skip the line tickets in advance by clicking here .

And if you want to learn everything aout Ancient Egypt, you should definitely book this guided tour in English. It’s just perfect!

To book it, simply click on the button below:

Piazza San Carlo (San Carlo Square) is one of Turin’s main squares. This large and elegant square is my favorite in the city.

With its arcades, its 2 twin churches (the church of Santa Cristina and the San Carlo Borromeo church) and the equestrian statue of Emmanuel Philibert, Duke of Savoy, it’s extremely photogenic! Under the arcades, you can go shopping or have a coffee in one of the peaceful coffee shops. No noise, it’s a pedestrian only area.

The Piazza San Carlo also often hosts cultural events.

The Automobile Museum is the other famous museum in Turin. According to The Times magazine, it’s one of the 50 best museums in the world.

With nearly 200 cars from 80 different brands ranging from steam cars to the latest models, the museum presents one of the world’s finest collections of rare vehicles.

The Cattedrale di San Giovanni Battista is the main church of Turin. It’s especially famous for housing the holy shroud, that is said to have enveloped the body of Christ. Its authenticity is of course questioned, but this does not prevent visitors from rushing into the cathedral.

It should be noted, however, that the relic rests under a watertight seal and is covered by a sheet, so you won’t have the pleasure to admire it.

Porta palatina, located not far from the cathedral and the palazzo Reale , was one of the 4 entrances of Turin during the Roman period.

The building is composed of a central door with 2 entrances for chariots, 2 pedestrian entrances dating from the Roman period and 2 towers with battlements added during the medieval period.

It’s one of Turin’s oldest monuments.

The Porta Palazzo market is located close to the Porta Palatina and occupies almost all the piazza della Repubblica, which is almost 50,000 square meters. It’s the largest open-air market in Europe.

With about 1,000 stalls, you can find everything: fruit and vegetable, deli meats, cheese, but also clothes, pots, pans and all sorts of household items. And all this at very attractive prices, especially for food!

The Santuario della Consolata ( Church of the Virgin of the Consolation ) , a masterpiece of Baroque art, is one of the oldest churches in Turin.

In its bell tower, you can find the largest bell in Piedmont and a saint is buried there. The sanctuary is especially devoted to the worship of the Virgin Mary, with a procession and ceremony dedicated to her every year in June.

Spreading over 42 hectares, the Valentino Park is a popular picnic or stroll spot for Turinese families. For you it will be an opportunity for a nice walk in the shades , or along the Po river. Perfect to enjoy a bit of freshness!

Don’t miss the Fontana di Dodici Mesi (Fountain of the Twelve Months) and the Arco del Valentino there.

The medieval village of Turin is located in the heart of Valentino Park. It was created in 1884 for the general Italian exhibition that took place in Turin. It recreates the atmosphere of a typical 15th century Piedmontese town: you can see a drawbridge, craft shops and even a chapel.

You can also visit the fortress , a reconstruction of a Seigneurial residence. Inside, you can see the weapons room, the dining room, the kitchens and undergrounds housing the prison.

Built in 1620 by Duke Emmanuel Philibert of Savoy, the Valentino castle today houses the University of Architecture and isn’t open to visitors.

When walking in the park, you will however be able to admire the outside facade and walk around it. The facade on the city’s side is inspired from French castles while the one overlooking the river, all in red bricks, is Italian style architecture.

Another beautiful place to see in Turin: the Vittorio Veneto square . It offers a very nice view of the river, the Gran Madre di Dio church and Turin surrounding hills.

It’s also the ideal place for an ”aperitivo” or a meal in one of the good restaurants located on the square.

The Gran Madre di Dio Church was built in tribute to Victor Emmanuel I, for his victory over Napoleon in 1814.

It was built in neoclassical style , directly inspired from the pantheon of Rome. The interior is entirely dedicated to the Virgin Mary, with bas-reliefs depicting her life.

Anecdote : the Holy Grail would be buried outside the church, between the two statues representing Faith and Religion.

On the right side of the Gran Madre di Dio church, you can take the road leading to the Monte dei Capuccini. The hill’s name comes from the fact it was given to the Capuchins by the house of Savoy to build a church and a convent.

At the top, you will find the most famous view of Turin and enjoy a beautiful scenery overlooking the city and the Alps on the horizon. You can also enter the Santa Maria Church, and visit the recently renovated Museo della Montagna .

Don’t hesitate to do it, especially if you have the Torino card: you will not pay anything and you will have access to the roof panoramic terrace for an even better view of the city.

The Villa della Regina (Queen’s villa in english) is worth a visit, especially for its great location on a hill overlooking the city and the Po river. A great place to admire a beautiful view of Turin

It was built in 1615, following the Roman model, to serve as a residence for Savoyan queens .

To see inside: the magnificent Chinese cabinet and the main living room featuring frescoes and paintings. It’s also famous for its amphitheatre-shaped garden with a beautiful fountain, small waterfalls, the vineyard (still in activity) and the panorama of the city.

You can see it from afar when walking in Turin: the 670m heigh hill with the basilica di Superga built at the top catches the eye. From there, the view over the city and the Alps is breathtaking!

To get there, I advise you to go by car or by funicular for a more typical experience. If you want to go up there on foot, no problem, but I’m warning you, the climb will not be easy!

The basilica is remarkable for its huge circular facade with a dome . Inside there is the crypt with the House of Savoy king’s tombs as well as those of princes and princesses.

You can also go up a narrow spiral staircase to access the balcony at the top of the dome and enjoy a view of the surrounding hill.

The basilica is also sadly famous for the tragedy that took place there in 1949. The plane that carried the Turin football team (Torino football club), crashed on the hill, demolishing a part of the convent.

Since then, a funerary monument has been erected and Turinese people come to visit it every year on the anniversary of the tragedy.

If you only have one day in Turin,   you have 2 options:

Take a stroll through the city and admire the monuments from the outside:

• Discover the historical centre, from San Carlo Square to Castello Square , around the palazzo Reale and the palazzo Madama .
• Then head to the the Vittorio Veneto square to cross the bridge, passing in front of the church of Gran Madre di Dio and climbing the Monte dei Capuccini for a panoramic view of Turin.
• Stroll in the Valentino park, the medieval village and along the Po river.

Focus on the 2 or 3 main attractions of Turin. I would suggest:

• Palazzo Reale
• The cinema museum  and the  Mole Antonelliana
• Or the Museo dell’Automobile if you are a car lover.
• When you arrive in Turin or on your departure, you should go to the basilica of Superga and at the Monte dei Capuccini to enjoy the view of the city.

If you will be in Turin for 2 days, it is worth taking the Torino Card. Here is my suggested itinerary.

• Start with Piazza San Carlo and its 2 twin churches, go up to Piazza Castello , stopping at the San Federico gallery on the left of Via Roma.
• Visit the Palazzo Reale with its armoury and royal library
• Lunch break
• Visit the Cinema Museum located in the Mole Antonelliana . You will have the possibility to take the panoramic elevator.
• Go to Piazza Vittorio Veneto, cross the Emanuele I bridge and admire the church of the Gran Madre di Dio,  go up the hill to the Monte dei Capuccini.

Second day:

• Start the day by going to the Catedrale di San Giovanni Battista, where the Shroud of Turin is located.
• Go through Porta Palatina to reach the piazza della repubblica and the market . It’s open every morning.
• End the morning with a visit to the Consolata sanctuary
• Visit the Palazzo Carignano and its Risorgimento museum
• Visit Turin’s Egyptian museum and immerse yourself in the Egyptian civilization.

For the beginning of your 3 days stay in Turin, take the program of the first 2 days.

• Visit the Museo dell’Automobile
• Relaxing afternoon in the Valentino park with a walk along the river and the visit of Turin medieval village.
• Climb up to the basilica of  Superga, a jewel of baroque architecture.

In 3 days in Turin, you’ve had time to discover the main points of interest.

For this fourth day, you can visit the other museums of the city as it has no less than 40 museums. 4 days in Turin can also be a good choice if you travel with your family, as the pace will necessarily be slower.

An excellent idea for this 4th day can be to go on a day trip to Milan , less than 1 hour away by express train. One day in Milan is enough to see the 3 main attractions of the city: the cathedral of Milan, the Vittorio Emanuel II gallery and the Sforza castle.

If you plan to visit Milan, you should read my article: The 10 best things to do in Milan .

• Attic Hostel Torino : Youth hostel located about 15 minutes walk from the Palazzo Reale. Bed in dormitory from 24€. Strong points: welcoming managers, location, cleanliness and comfort of the rooms.
• Torino 1854 Affittacamere : Located 700 meters away from the Egyptian museum, this hotel is brand new. Colorful and comfortable double room from 65€ per night. Strong points: its excellent location, quiet and close to the city centre, the modernity of the hotel. It’s the best value for money in Turin!
• Matteotti 25 : Located at 10 minutes on foot from the Egyptian Museum. Large modern and bright room from 95€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: its location, the copious breakfast.
• NH Collection Torino Piazza Carlina: Located in the historical center of Turin. Elegant and comfortable double room from 200€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: The friendly abd very helpful staff, the interior design, the perfect quietness, the amazing breakfast and the ideal location to visit Turin on foot. The view from the terrace is also amazing! It’s the best choice for a luxury stay in Turin!

If you prefer to rent a full apartment to get more space and be able to cook a bit, I highly suggest you to have a look at Apart Hôtel Torino . They are located at 500 meters from Valentino Park. The apartments are modern, well equipped and the interior design is amazing. Starting at only 100€ per night. The best apartments in town!

• Porto di Savona : Located on the Vittorio Veneto square, this restaurant offers typical Piedmontese cuisine at an affordable price. I had a great time and I highly recommend the gorgonzola gnocchi, they melts in the mouth and are just delicious. Everything is home made, pasta and desserts. Booking is strongly recommended.
• La Taverna dei Mercanti : Located in a street adjacent to the Consolata sanctuary, amazing typical Piedmontese dishes. Very warm welcome from the boss. After diner drink offered at the end of the meal.
• Pescheria Ristorante Gallina : Located in front of the market, on the piazza della Repubblica. This fish shop-restaurant offers dishes based on fresh and succulent fish. Fixed menu for lunch at 15€ including dish + bottle of water + glass of wine + service. Reservations are not possible.

Visiting Turin was a beautiful discovery and a nice surprise. The museums have all been recently renovated, so they are modern, very well done and impressive.

The royal residences are also magnificent and very well maintained.

We can see that the city of Turin has invested in tourism while respecting as much as possible its history and highlighting its cultural heritage.

And, of course, as everywhere in Italy, the food is super good!

And you, what do you plan to visit during your stay in Turin?

Italy travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Italy guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the Rick Steves Italy guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Italy : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Italy are listed there.

• The 20 Best Things to do in Italy – All the must-see places!
• Cinque Terre: The definitive guide to plan your visit
• Florence: The 27 best things to do and must-see attractions
• Milan: The Top 15 things to do in the city and around
• Pisa: Top 21 must-see attractions + Tips
• Rome: The 25 best things to do and see
• Siena: Top 20 best places to visit
• Turin: The 20 must-see attractions
• Venice: The 31 best things to do (+ Tips)
• 2 days in Florence
• 3 days in Florence
• 4 days in Florence
• 5 days in Florence
• 2 days in Milan
• 3 days in Milan
• 4 days in Milan
• 2 Days in Rome – How to visit Rome in 48h
• 3 Days in Rome – The best itinerary to visit Rome in 72h
• 4 Days in Rome – The best places to visit in 4 days
• 5 Days in Rome – How to spend 5 days in Rome
• 6 Days in Rome – The ultimate Itinerary + Where to stay
• One week in Rome – The perfect 7-day itinerary
• 2 Days in Venice – An Epic 48h itinerary
• 3 Days in Venice – The perfect 72h itinerary
• 4 Days in Venice – Itinerary + Best Things to do + Tips
• Where to stay in Milan? My guide to the best areas and hotels for a perfect stay
• Where to stay in Rome? – The definitive guide of the best areas!
• Where to stay in Venice? My selection of the best hotels and districts for an epic stay
• Omnia Card: The definitive guide
• Colosseum: The 7 best skip the line tickets
• Trevi Fountain: History, Secrets and Facts
• Rome’s Hidden Gems : The Definitive Guide with 17 secret spots!
• The 20 Best museums in Rome – With all my best tips!
• Rome in May: The definitive guide to plan your visit: weather, things to do, itineraries and more!
• Rome in June: Guide + All my best tips

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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4 days in Milan: the perfect Itinerary (first time visit)

Discussion 2 comments.

Hi Vincent,

First of all, thank you for your city guide, it’s very detailed and will allow me to easily prepare my stay in Turin.

However, there is something I am still not sure about: I will be in Italy for 3 weeks in September and I am hesitating between staying 3 days in Turin and 2 in Milan or the contrary.

What would you recommend?

You’re welcome, I am very happy my guide of Turin is helping you to prepare your trip!

About Turin and Milan, it’s a question I hear quite often, and the answer can be a bit surprising to some people: There is actually more things to do in Turin than in Milan. Thus, my suggestion would be to spend 3 days in Turin and 2 in Milan. It would be the perfect duration to see each city’s best places to visit.

Enjoy your stay in Italy!

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The Best of Turin

14 Fun Things to do in Turin, Italy – Points of Interest & Attractions

The Italian city of Turin is a cultural and business hub that is loved and revered for its mind-blowing architecture and delectable cuisine. As the capital city of Piedmont in northern Italy, the things to see in Turin are plentiful

And the good news is that Turin is out of the radar of many international tourists, making it a genuinely Italian gem to be discovered. 

But with so many exciting moments to create, where do you begin? Here’s a compilation of some of the most incredible sights, attractions, and things to do in Turin, Italy. From exploring the historical buildings, indulging in delicious food, and rubbing shoulders with the locals in the public park – here’s a few must-do activities. 

Turin, Italy, Points of Interest

There are a couple of iconic Turin attractions that are essential to include on your northern Italy itinerary. These sights play a crucial role in the history and culture of the city.  

– Royal Palace of Turin and Royal Armory

You can visit two UNESCO heritage sites in only one place and be awed by the history and the beauty of this royal complex. The Palazzo Reale Torino (Royal Palace of Turin) was built by the House of Savoy in the 16th century and houses many important attractions whiting its walls.

You will probably need more than two hours to wander around the Royal Apartments, admire the throne hall, and explore the Royal Library and the Royal Armory, and relax at the gardens. 

The Armeria Reale (Royal Armory) is considered one of the most important weapon museums in the world and the rooms where the artifacts are displayed are a work of art worth visiting. Read more about Turin Royal Palace and Armory here .  

– Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10 am – 7 pm Closed on Mondays Note that there are different opening times for the Royal Library – Monday – Friday, 8 am – 7 pm and Saturday, 8am – 2pm.

– Cost to visit the Royal Palace of Turin and Royal Armory Full: €15 Reduced: €2 Free for minors 

– Palazzo Madama

Palazzo Madama is the first of many beautiful buildings in Turin. As the city’s museum of ancient art, it is home to collections of the Museo Civico d’Arte Antica. While you can very easily marvel at the building and move on, the true glory lies in venturing inside. 

The building consists of four floors and lush grounds that are full of historical art and influence. From Medieval stonework, the art of the Middle Ages and of the Renaissance, the experience offers a nostalgic glimpse into the past. Palazzo Madama is only of one the many outstanding royal residences and palaces to visit in Turin .

You can organize guided tours, purchase an audio guide (€4) or browse the temporary exhibitions. 

– Opening hours: Wednesday – Monday, 10 am – 6 pm Closed on Tuesdays

– Cost to visit Palazzo Madama Full: €10 Reduced: €8 Free for minors 

– Turin Cathedral and the Holy Shroud

The Shroud of Turin is a length of linen cloth that outlines the image of a man who many claim to be Jesus of Nazareth. The tale goes that the linen sheet, which has a herringbone pattern woven in, was made in ancient Egypt before Christ. 

The shroud is a major attraction in Turin and countless visitors flock to marvel at the ancient relic. It is housed in Turin Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist. Built from 1491 – 1498, the building itself is a relic and an essential stop during your Turin travels. Click here to read more about Turin Shroud and why you should visit it.

– Opening hours: Daily from 7 am – 12 pm, and 3 pm – 7 pm 

– Cost: Free

Top tip: for most of the Turin attractions mentioned in this guide you can use the Turin + Piedmont Card . The card gives free access to many museums, palaces and points of interest in Turin and discounts on events and services. So if you are planning to visit more than 3 museums/attractions in Turin, it’s a money-saving option. You can choose the card from 2 up to 5 days. Click here to buy the Turin + Piedmont Card in advance . 

– Piazza San Carlo

As one of the main city squares in Turin, the area buzzes with activity on a daily basis. Laid out in the 16th and 17th century, the Baroque style square has earned a reputation for being a stage for historical and social events. 

Previously known as Piazza Reale, the square was renamed as an homage to Charles Borromeo, a former Latin archbishop of Milan. In the center of the square is an equestrian statue of Emmanuel Philibert, Duke of Savoy. The square is flanked by twin churches of Santa Cristina and San Carlo Borromeo, historical cafés, and other beautiful buildings.

– Opening hours: 24 hours daily

• San Lorenzo Church

Also known as the Royal Church of Saint Lawrence, San Lorenzo is a Baroque-style church that sits adjacent to the Royal Palace of Turin. Known for its breathtakingly adorned cupola, the sanctuary is an architectural gem. 

Built by architect Guarino Guarini from 1668 to 1687, the seemingly plain façade leads to a gorgeous interior. The beauty inside has been described as an organic “deconstruction” of the expected order of column and entablature. Walking inside the church offers a finely balanced atmosphere of reverence and playful optical illusion. 

– Opening hours: Weekdays 7:30 am – 12 pm, 3:30 pm – 7 pm Holidays 9 am – 7:30 pm

• Juventus Stadium

Moving away from the historical architecture and more towards the world of sport, Juventus Stadium is a key point of interest in the stunning city of Turin. The all-seater football stadium, known as Allianz Stadium (since July 2017), is an architectural symbol of contemporary Turin. 

The open environment and multifunctional design mean that it can be used for viewing sport as well as hosting entertainment events. There is also a Juventus shop for die-hard football fans to purchase a memento commemorating their experience. Click here to discover how to visit the Juventus Stadium and Museum.

– Opening hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 10:30 am – 6 pm Saturday, Sunday, festivities 10:30 am – 7:30 pm Closed on Tuesdays

– Cost of the museum: From €12

Top tip : If you’re looking for a local guide to walk you through all of these iconic attractions (and more) then you can book a private tour of Turin .

What to do in Turin, Italy in Winter

Turin’s climate isn’t particularly freezing in the winter months, but it’s still comforting to have a couple of indoor activities to keep you entertained for when the nip is in the air. 

• Turin Underground Tour

The underground tunnels and cellars of Turin are a unique part of the city’s history. Above ground, you can explore the baroque, neoclassical architecture, and 15-meters below the surface you can find the mysteries that lie below these buildings. 

The nighttime tour is an incredible experience and booking for this underground activity is essential. Explore Turin from below the ground as you navigate through the dark tunnels that lie underneath the city. 

Expect to come across the sites of murders from the past, and the famous Royal ice depots underneath Porta Palazzo.

– Duration: 3 hours – Cost: Approximately €30 – Take note: Not suitable for people who struggle with claustrophobia

• Turin Local Food Tour 

Give your tastebuds an experience to remember with a gastronomy tour of the decadent Piedmont cuisine. A foodie walking tour is a fantastic way to sample the goods of the area while discovering the city’s beauty.

While you can quite easily put together your own list of must-visit Italian restaurants, you can also book a guided food tour in Turin. A guide will navigate you to the best spots to sample traditional dishes, all the while learning about the history of the flavors.

From gianduiotto, bicerin, a variety of local cheeses, and other traditional tastes – you’ll have a hard time picking your favorite culinary experience. 

– Duration: 3 hours – Cost: Approximately €60 – Take note: Come with an empty belly!

And if you traveling to Turin between late November and early April, you can add skiing or snowboarding to your list of things to do. There are some amazing ski resorts near Turin , you can even plan a ski day trip from Turin using public transportation and train.

What to do in Turin in Summer

The lively Italian city is incredibly festive during the summer months when the sun is shining, the wine is flowing and the galleries are bustling. You’ll have no shortage of activities to choose from, but you can begin here. 

• Tour the Wine Region

The Barolo wine region offers rolling green hills, iconic Italian buildings, and world-class wine tastings. Organizing a day trip to the Barolo wine region (click here for it) is a fantastic way to spend a summer day when visiting Turin.

There’s little that can compare to sipping wine and enjoying a gourmet lunch with an unparalleled view. The wine tastings don’t only offer your palette a distinguished experience, but also give you insight into the centuries-old winemaking techniques of the region. 

When booking an organized tour, you can expect all transport to be arranged and the fuss of logistics ironed out for you.

– Duration: Full day – Cost: Approximately €640 – Take note: The organized experience is not suitable for children under the age of 18

• Bike Tour in Turin

If you’re an active traveler who enjoys moving and shaking when visiting a new destination, then a bike tour is a great way to enjoy Turin on a sunny day. Rent a bike and pedal your way through the historic streets, stopping at the attractions that tickle your fancy. 

You can also book with a guide who will add golden nuggets of information about the history, culture, and lifestyle of the city. From iconic landmarks to quaint cafés, this experience will add weight to the saying “time flies when you’re having fun”. 

– Duration: 3.5 hours – Cost: Approximately €41 – Take note: If cycling on a particularly hot day, make sure that you pack enough water

• Parco del Valentino

Parco del Valentino is a public park in Turin, located along the west bank of the Po river, and offers a relaxing experience. Whether you’re looking for a quick break from the bustle of the city or planning a dedicated outing to the grounds, the lush natural beauty is a treat. 

As Turin’s second-largest park, the impressive botanical garden is also home to a castle and a medieval village. Wander the paths and absorb the natural beauty, or find a shady spot and relax with a book. Either way – the park is yours to enjoy.  

– Cost to visit the park: Free

• Porta Palazzo

If you fancy fresh sweet peaches, carnation red tomatoes and the frenzy of a good food market, then you must visit Porta Palazzo during a summer morning. Portal Palazzo is the biggest open-air market in Turin and one of the biggest in Europe. 

The area is divided into segments. On one side are the stalls selling the best fruits and veggies and you can find in Italy. On the other side of the square are the clothing, footwear and houseware sellers. 

The buildings that surround the open-air market are dedicated to a specific type of food. There is the fish market, the meat, cold cuts and bakery market, dry food and grains market, and a modern building called the Central Market.

Torino Central Market is the perfect palace to try zero km food and some of the traditional dishes from the Piedmont region. 

– Opening hours: Monday to Friday 7 am – 2 pm Saturday – 7am – 7pm Closed on Sundays

– Cost to visit: Free

Things to do in Turin, Italy, as a Solo Traveller

If you’re a solo traveler visiting Turin, then there are a few notable experiences that offer a memorable way to make friends, immerse yourself in crowds, and enjoy a day out in the city.

• Combo – Turin Cinema Museum, Mole Antonelliana, and Bus Tour

Each of these sights and experiences is on the top of the list of things to do in Turin. Booking a combo tour allows you to do all three in a comfortable and social way. 

The National Museum of Cinema is a world-renowned motion picture museum that showcases a rich heritage and diversity with its exhibition set-up. The Mole Antonelliana is an iconic landmark that was named after the architect who designed it, and a key feature in the Turin skyline.

The bus tour of the city includes these two attractions on a long list of sightseeing stops. There’s no better way to learn about the history of the city and experience it first hand than with a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour. 

– Duration: Valid for 24 hours – Cost: Approximately €32 – Take note: Skip-the-line admission is valid for different times depending on the option that you select

• Embark on a Magic Turin Tour

As an ancient city, Turin is clouded in mystery and stories. In fact, the city has a magical history that goes back in time. There are plenty of magical mystery tours of the city , offering an unforgettable way to meet people as you discover the two souls of Turin. 

Expect to learn about ancient burial sites, the relationship between white and black magic, and the sinister architecture that remains present in the city today. 

– Duration: 2 hours – Cost: Approximately €25 – Take note: This is a small group activity that is limited to 10 people

– Explore the streets of Quadrilatero Romano

The Quadrilatero Romano is one of Turin’s oldest areas, where you can find from Roman ruins to the most beautiful palaces and churches in the city. The narrow streets are a labyrinth filled with local restaurants, cozy cafés, ice cream shops and local designs.

The area is busy day and night. After 5 pm most of the cafes and bars start serving the traditional aperitivo, the perfect opportunity to try the local vermouth paired with local finger food, cheese, cold cuts and chips and meet locals. 

– Cost to visit the area: Free

Family Things to Do in Turin, Italy

With such a diverse selection of activities to do in Turin, it’s no wonder that it is a popular family destination for those visiting Italy. There are a couple of family-specific activities that promise fun times for all. 

• Turin Egyptian Museum

Turin is home to the world’s oldest Egyptian museum and is full of ancient collections amounting to over 26,000 artifacts. After entering the museum, you are transported back into a time of Pharaohs, mummies, and statues.  

Visiting the museum is a wonderful learning experience for kids and an informative experience for adults. From collections of beautiful artifacts to mummies and papyri, the Egyptian Museum offers an unparalleled journey into the ancient civilization.

Top tip: You can also book your tickets in advance , giving you the opportunity to skip-the-line and enjoy more of what’s on offer. 

– Opening hours: Monday 9 am – 2 pm Tuesday – Sunday 9 am – 6:30 pm

– Cost of the museum: From €9 for adults From €1 for children

• Chocolate Tour in Turin

Everyone knows that one of the best ways to keep children entertained is to give them something to eat. A walking chocolate tour in Turin is a fun activity for the whole family by adding historical context to the indulgent flavors and then walking off the calories in between stops. 

Turin is known and loved for its delectable chocolate , and a local guide will add a whole new dimension to the tasting experience. Simply put, it is a fun way to discover Turin as a family.

– Duration: 2 hours – Cost: Approximately €36 – Take note: Make sure that you bring comfortable walking shoes

• Basilica of Superga

Located on the top of a hill overlooking Turin, the Basilica of Superga is one of the top places to visit in Turin that is perfect for families, as you can combine history, nature and a lovely ride on a vintage tram.

Open to service in 1731, the Basilica of Superga is a great example of Baroque-Classicism architecture. You can take a bus, hike for a couple of hours through a natural park or take the vintage tram to reach the Basilica. 

The tram journey is great fun and sets the mood to visit the church, climb to the Dome, and explore the Royal Apartments and Royal Tombs. But the best part of this experience is the breathtaking views you can have from Turin. 

– Opening hours: The opening hours change according to the seasons, so it’s recommended to check the official website before planning your visit. 

– Cost of the Basilica of Superga: To visit the Basilica is free.

To visit the Royal Apartments and Royal Tombs: Full: €5 Reduced: €4

To visit the Dome: Full: €5 Reduced: €4

More top things to do in Turin

Let’s Explore “Torino”, Italy. This list of what to do in Turin is just a scratch on the surface. There are so many more things to do in Turin, that you will need to stay here for a month or so, and even better plan a second trip. 

If you’re a fan of architecture, history, and cultural immersion – then Torino (as it’s locally known) is a fantastic destination to explore. Whether you’re spending a short weekend in the city or extending your stay for longer, there are plenty of wonderful things to do in Torino. 

Turin promises unforgettable memories and unique cultural encounters. It’s time to let your feet hit the cobblestone pavement! 

Top Things To Do In Turin (Italy Travel Guide)

From tucking into incredible food and drink (including truffles and Barolo), to enjoying stunning orange-roofed cityscapes, and exploring historic palaces and museums, there are plenty of things to do in Turin, Italy.

Fanfare please! Lonely Planet crowned Italy’s Piedmont region as its No.1 Best In Travel region.

Despite Italy being one of my favourite countries, I’d never been to this region. I had three days in Turin, and couldn’t wait to explore all that the city had to offer.

Where Is Turin, Italy?

Turin, or Torino to the natives, is in a unique location, at the base of the Alps in the northwestern corner of Italy. The Swiss and French borders are close by, and it’s a few hours from the coast at Genoa.

Being so close to the borders, Turin has experienced some interesting relationships with its neighbours, as well as its southern Italian counterparts. On this map I’ve marked all the spots I’d recommend visiting, so save this link and treat me as your personal tour guide once you arrive in the city!

When Is The Best Time To Visit Turin?

Turin makes a great city break all year round. Winters are reasonably dry but chilly with average temperatures around 3 degrees. Summers are lovely, but can get pretty warm, with highs around 27 degrees. Usually I’d recommend springtime or early summer, but it’s worth noting that May tends to be the rainiest month, followed by August. I’d recommend visiting Turin in June or September.

I visited in September and the weather was lovely. It’s one of the driest months and temperatures still tend to be between 18-21 degrees. As you’ll see from my photos, it was warm enough to walk around without a jacket during the daytime, and there was plenty of sunshine and blue skies.

While I could go into tonnes of detail about all the amazing and unusual things to do in Turin, I wanted to help by giving an overview of my favourite experiences from my time there.

Lots of people visit Turin for 24 or 48 hours, so in this Turin guide I’ll show you where to go to uncover the city’s history and art, where to sample the local cuisine, where to go shopping in Turin, plus show you the best views and teach you about the all-important aperitivo!

So come with me as I show all the exciting things to do in Turin!

Enjoy The Best View Of Turin At Mont Des Capucins  

Before visiting Turin I’d seen beautiful photos of the city with the snowy Alps in the background. While many travel guides will suggest you take the lift up Mole Antonelliana, I’d recommend heading to Mont Des Capucins. Just the other side of the River Po, this is THE spot to get the view of the entire city (Mole Antonelliana included) with that stunning mountain backdrop.

Tuck Into The Local Pasta I n  Turin, Italy

There are plenty of Piedmontese delicacies to sample, but you absolutely HAVE to try the city’s fresh pasta. On my first night I enjoyed a delicious bowl of agnolotti – a Piedmontese style of ravioli filled with roasted meat and served in a sauce called sugo d’arrosto (similar to a tasty gravy).

You’ll also see ‘plin’ on menus across Turin, which is a smaller type of ravioli, in a pinched shape. Plus there’s tajarin – delicate ribbons of fresh egg pasta, similar to tagliatelle.

Try it at Casa Broglia , Via Torquato Tasso, 13, 10122 Torino.  

Sample Black And White Truffles In Truffle Season  In Turin, Italy

The Piedmont region is famous for this delicacy! Not far away is Alba, a town synonymous with truffles. In fact there’s a whole festival dedicated to the indulgent delicacy every October and November. I was desperate to squeeze some truffle eating into my Turin trip, but I knew that this would come at a price.

Solferino, one of the city’s top restaurants, serves a tasty ravioli del plin topped with grated black truffle for 15 EUR. For those visiting during white truffle season, you can order off their special menu, with dishes starting at 30 EUR that include a generous table side grating of white truffle!

Try it at Risorante Solferino , Piazza Solferino, 3/B, 10121 Torino.

Learn About Egyptian History At Museo Egezio (Egyptian Museum Turin)

This museum is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Turin, and showcases the largest collection of Egyptian artefacts outside of Cairo. With 24 human mummies, an important statue of Ramses II and the intact tomb of Kha and Merit, it’s a fascinating place to learn about ancient civilisations.

Address: Museo Egizio , Via Accademia delle Scienze, 6, 10123 Torino  

TOP TIP There are sometimes long queues at Museo Egezio, so I’d 100% recommend booking a skip-the-line ticket in advance. Click here to check latest prices. 

Try Bicerin – Turin’s Most Famous Drink

Looking for a sweet pick me up after a busy day of exploring? Then head to Turin’s oldest cafe, Caffe Al Bicerin, and order the drink of the same name. Bicerin is a combination of espresso, chocolate and cream or whole milk. While you’ll find the drink on menus across Turin, they’ve been serving them here since the 18 th Century.

Stepping foot in the historic café is just like going back in time, with flicking candles on the tables and wood panelling adorning the walls. One glass will set you back over 6 EUR but you have to try it so you know what the fuss is about!

Try it at Caffe Al Bicerin , Piazza della Consolata, 5, 10122 Torino.  

Admire The Baroque Architecture Of Palazzo Real And Palazzo Madama  I n  Turin, Italy

I loved wandering through Turin’s beautiful skinny streets, getting lost in the maze of archways, tiny restaurants and boutiques. Every now and then I emerged at a beautiful piazza like Piazza San Carlo. One of the most striking was Piazza Castello, home to some of the city’s most impressive and important historic buildings.

Palazzo Reale is the former royal palace, constructed in the 16 th Century, and now preserved as a museum and gallery of ancient art. Meanwhile, moments away is Palazzo Madama, a design of Italian architect Filippo Juvarra, and where you’ll now find the Turin City Museum of Ancient Art.

Also close by is the famous Chapel of the Holy Shroud, where you’ll find the Shroud of Turin – a piece of linen bearing an image of a man, which some believe is Jesus of Nazareth.

Explore Italy’s Liberty Architecture  

As a total contrast, around twenty minutes away from Piazza Castello you’ll reach a part of the city with some incredible Art Nouveau architecture (known as The Liberty Style in Italy). I discovered this part of the city on a free Turin walking tour with local Daniele, who was full of interesting information.

Eat Like A King For Under 10 Euros

A few of you have asked me “Is Turin expensive to visit?” Well… no! It can be if you dine at gourmet restaurants night after night, but this is a city you can enjoy on a budget too.

It turns out this is a city that LOVES a set lunch! Most restaurants offer a set menu for 10 EUR, or single courses for 5-6 EUR. It was amazing value, and a great opportunity to try items I might not have thought of ordering otherwise. So what does 10 EUR get you? A pasta dish, a main course plus bread, water and a coffee.

Try it at Fiori e Caffe, Via Milano, 16, 10122 Torino and Trattoria Caprese, Via del Carmine, 2, 10122 Torino

Shop For Fresh Produce At Porta Palazzo Market

Turin’s main market happens to also be the biggest open-air market in the whole of Europe. I LOVED it! It was so much fun weaving in and out of the stalls and looking at the local produce, which included everything from fennel and colourful tomatoes, to herbs, green veg and citrus fruits straight from Sicily.

There was also cheese, ham, raw meat, clothes, flowers, and a whole heap of random things too! It was a really fun place to spend the morning, and it’s definitely one of my top free things to do in Turin. It’s also a short walk from Porta Palatina – Turin’s famous city gates.

Address: Porta Palazzo Market , Piazza della Repubblica, 10152 Torino. Open til 2pm.

Marvel At Mole Antonelliana

What an incredible building! The tower of Mole Antonelliana is visible all over Turin, and has become the landmark of the city. It was initially designed as a synagogue, but was later updated as a monument to national unity. For a small fee you can take the lift up to the 85m platform for views of the city. Just next to it, you’ll find the National Cinema Museum.

Address: Mole Antonelliana, 10124 Turin, Torino  

Enjoy Turin’s Modern Art Scene  

Turin is a really arty, cultural city, so I’d definitely add a gallery or two to your list if you have time. GAM is the modern and contemporary art gallery in the city. There were a few exhibitions on when we visited, one showing Turin’s artists over the decades, while another highlighted artists throughout the last few hundred years, with some of the most fun pieces by Andy Warhol and Lichtenstein.  

Address: Galleria Civica d’Arte Moderna e Contemporanea , Via Magenta, 31, 10128 Torino

Experience Turin’s Aperitivo Scene  

Looking for fun things to do in Turin? Well, in Turin, an aperitivo isn’t just a drink, it’s a social occasion! As with Milan, ‘appy hour’ is big in Turin, with many bars offering a drink plus buffet access for a set price. Some are better than others, so it’s definitely worth having a look around until you find one serving things you fancy.

One of the best we found was at Caffe Lobelix where we paid 12 EUR for a cocktail and unlimited access to an enormous constantly-replenishing buffet, that included tasty meatballs, broccoli, roast aubergine, cod with peppers, fried potatoes, mozzarella and tomato salad and plenty more. If you fill up somewhere like this, you can save your Euros to spend on chocolate to take home! If you only have one night in Turin – this is an experience you just have to have!

Try it at Caffe Lobelix, Piazza Savoia, 4, 10122 Torino

Visit Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile

Cars and Turin go hand in hand – in fact the T in FIAT is for Turin! So if you’re a petrol head, definitely find time to visit Turin’s famous automobile museum. It has a collection of around 200 cars from 80 different car brands, so there’s plenty to look at!

Enjoy Turin’s Shopping Scene  

In terms of shopping in Turin, the city has a mix of everything. Wander along pedestrianised Via Garibaldi (the city’s most famous shopping street) and you’ll find brands you know and love. Then there are the picturesque gallerias – elegant covered shopping streets, generally housing high-end brands. Personally I loved venturing off the beaten track and exploring the independent boutiques on Turin’s tiny side streets. That was when I discovered Muta – a jewellery store run by two talented jewellery makers, who use interesting materials and geometric shapes in their work.

Address: Muta, Via San Domenico, 18/e, 10122 Torino

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth

Chocolate and Turin go way back! Along with bicerin, the city has made a name for itself with its delicious hazelnut chocolates called gianduja. You’ll see the chocolates for sale across the city, but THE place to go is Guido Gobino. In fact, you can’t travel to Turin and not try it!

That choc-hazelnut combo might sound more familiar in its form as the spread, Nutella, and interestingly the history of Nutella also starts nearby. Invented in nearby Alba by Pietro Ferrero, it started off with the name Giandujot, before being renamed Nutella by the mid-1960s. I’ve heard you can still visit the original factory, and some of the surrounding area smells like Nutella too – sounds like a reason to take a day trip from Turin!

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, add GROM to your list too. It’s where you’ll find the best gelato in the city, and with several branches across Turin, you’re never far away from your next ice cream.

Enjoy Pizza In Turin Where The Locals Eat

Well, you can’t come to Italy and not have a pizza! I booked a lovely little apartment in the city centre and asked the owner where to eat in Turin. The owner recommended Ristorante Sicomoro , saying it’s where she goes every Sunday for a big family lunch. Well, when a local recommends a pizza place, you know it must be the real deal!

I enjoyed lunch there on my final day in Turin, and can confirm that the pizza was absolutely incredible!! I can’t say whether it’s the best pizza in Turin as I didn’t try any others… but I’d return in a heartbeat to eat it again!

Address: Ristorante Sicomoro, Via Stampatori, 6, 10122 Torino

Check out what happened when I went to Seville – Lonely Planet’s Best In Travel No.1 City for 2018.

Where to stay in turin.

There are plenty of hotels in Turin, but personally I preferred the charm and character of the city’s apartments.

I stayed at Suite Bellezia , a beautifully decorated one-bedroom apartment in a historic building, right in the heart of the city. It was moments from all the main Turin attractions, and was a really comfortable base for my time in the city. Plus, host Carlotta gave me lots of recommendations for the best things to do in Turin, places to eat and plenty of real local tips!

I hope you’ve enjoyed my Turin travel blog. A big thanks to Lonely Planet for introducing me to the gorgeous region of Piedmont. As always, all opinions are my own.

Looking to travel around the region? How about travelling from Milan to Turin, or adding Turin to a road trip through northern Italy ? 

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

9 thoughts on “Top Things To Do In Turin (Italy Travel Guide)”

Fantastic guide, thanks so much for sharing! I’m really hoping to get to Turin this year…I’ve travelled to so many places in Italy but this one region has remained elusive. And I am always up for a set lunch too 🙂

Thanks Kristen – it’s such a gorgeous city. I hope you have a lovely time if you make it there. And yes, I’m a sucker for a great set lunch too!

Thank You SO MUCH! My kids and I will be traveling to Italy in 2 weeks, and Turin was not in our itinerary until today. I do not know much about Turin except the soccer team Juventus through my son. YES, we are going there because of the Juventus match on August 14. We have only one full day to tour the city. Now I have your tips to go by.

Hi Agnes – so happy you found my blog! There’s tonnes to do in Turin so I’m sire you’ll have a great day out there. Try some truffle if you get the chance!

Great guide and info. Definitely going …!!!!

Thanks Cloe I am an original “turineis” (local native) living now abroad Italy and appreciated very much your local guide that brought me back to the place I belonging. Grazie, thanks well done.

Hi I enjoyed the article What airport would you recommend that’s near Turin

You can fly into Turin-Caselle Airport, which is just outside the city centre.

Grazie for this! Leaving in a few days to vacation in Turin – we live in Aix-en-Provence, France. Thanks for this guide, Chloe!!

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Best things to do in Turin – a Royal, Industrial, and Reborn city

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Often overlooked by tourists, Turin is one of Italy’s hidden treasures. In this guide we share the best things to do in Turin,  the country’s 4 th largest city and capital of the Piedmont region. But first, a little background.

Turin combines a rich and fascinating history with undeniable vitality.

• A royal city – capital of the Duchy, later Kingdom, of Savoy beginning in the 1500s, their patronage endowed the city with stunning palazzi and piazze
• An industrial powerhouse – Fiat, owned by the Agnelli family , was part of the engine that helped rebuild Italy after WWII
• A dynamic metropolis  – after winning the bid to host the 2006 Winter Olympics, the city underwent a dramatic rebirth, updating infrastructure and enhancing the beauty of its historical city centre

I fell in love with Turin many years ago, as I was falling in love with my husband. Turin is his hometown and I still remember getting horribly lost on its wide boulevards as I was driving to meet him for our first date.

We were married in one of its many churches, and held our reception at a beautiful restaurant in the hills overlooking the city.

Even without the personal history, I recommend Turin to everyone I know when they ask about places that aren’t to be missed when visiting Italy.

ⓘ PRO TIP:  don’t attempt driving in Turin. Twenty years later and equipped with a navigator, I still get lost

Piazze e passeggiate – a stroll around the sight’s of Turin

The best way to discover Turin is to simply take a stroll ( una passeggiata ). The city’s squares are some of the most beautiful in the world.

Piazza San Carlo

Start at Piazza San Carlo, known as Turin’s “parlour”, with its twin churches dedicated to San Carlo Borromeo and Santa Cristina.

It may seem hard to believe now, but prior to the 2006 Olympics this square was a used as a parking lot, crowded day and night with cars.

The piazza has been returned to its original elegance, perfect for enjoying a coffee and watching the Torinesi as they bustle to work and return to socialise in the evening.

Piazza Castello

Just a 5-minute walk lands you in Piazza Castello, the “heart” of Turin. The square is surrounded by Baroque masterpieces and royal residences, including the:

• Palazzo Reale  – 16th century palace of the House of Savoy
• Palazzo Madama  – the residence of 2 Savoy queens and the first seat of the Italian Senate after unification in the 1860s, and
• Teatro Regio  – Turin’s famous opera house.

Four large boulevards originate from this square – Via Po, Via Pietro Micca, Via Roma (a magnet for fashionistas), and Via Garibaldi, one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe.

Piazza Vittorio

Next, walk the short distance down Via Po to Piazza Vittorio. It was first named for Vittorio Emanuele I, but changed its name after WWI to celebrate Italy’s defeat of the Austrians at Vittorio Veneto .

When the architect Giuseppe Frizzi was commissioned to build the square in 1825 as part of a project to expand the city to the banks of the Po River, he had to resolve a tricky problem – a decline of 7.2 meters between the entrance from Via Po and the river side of the piazza.

In order to create the illusion that the piazza was level with Via Po, he divided the square into sections using small cross streets and brought some of the facades forward, making the buildings appear equal in height. But as you walk through the porticos toward the river, you will notice they get taller.

Wander through the portici (porticos)

Turin is not the only Italian city with porticos, but they are unique in being a deliberate part of urban planning, as the Savoys wanted to be protected from rain and snow in the winter and the hot sun of summer. As a result, they are incredibly graceful, wide and well lit, extending for a total of 18 kilometres.

The material and decoration vary. In Via Po they are made of grey stone, while those along Via Roma are made of marble, and are lined with shops, cafes and food stalls.

One of my family’s traditions during our visits to Turin for the Christmas holidays is to enjoy the installations of “ Luci d’Artista ”, or “Artist’s Lights”, when the streets and porticos are embellished with a stunning light display.It usually extends from 31 October to 6 January.

Piazza Castello features a gigantic Christmas tree made entirely of lights and a large, illuminated Advent calendar, with a window opened each night.

Una pausa – what and where to eat in Turin

Take a break, you’ve earned it! If there is one thing that will strike you during your walk, it is that Turin is a city of cafes as well as the home of the famous Lavazza brand of coffee.

Try a bicerin , the local specialty featuring layers of espresso, hot chocolate and foamy milk. Stop at a Tourist Information Centre to purchase the “Torino Coffee Card”. You can use the card to enjoy an espresso at 5 of the city’s most historic cafes, including 250 year old Al Bicerin (pictured above) for EUR 4.50.

If you fancy something a bit stronger, remember that a distiller first created vermouth in Turin , and it is home to the famous Martini and Cinzano brands.

Wines of the region

The Piedmont region is considered one of the best wine-producing regions in the world, known for the “Three B’s” – Barolo, Barberesco, and Barbera.

Or try a Nebbiolo, which takes its name from the Italian word for fog, nebbia , common in the mild autumns that help this region create such delicious wines.

Turin has a well-known food culture and was the birthplace of the Slow Food Movement . Some of the local delicacies include bagna cauda , which translates as “hot bath”, and is a sauce made of olive oil, anchovies, and garlic, for dipping raw or cooked vegetables.

Agnolotti are another local specialty, basically pasta parcels stuffed with meat and vegetables. Grissini are the famous breadsticks you will see in every restaurant.

Restaurant suggestions

Tre Galline  [via G. Bellezia, 37] – this popular restaurant offers “neo-classical Torinese” cuisine, a fresh take on traditional techniques and local ingredients.

The “boutique/laboratory of taste”, Michelin-starred Del Cambio   [Piazza Carignana, 2], is one of the oldest in the city, combining elegant 19th century furnishings with works from contemporary artists, and is located in Piazza Carignana, on your way from Piazza San Carlo to Piazza Castello.

After your meal, don’t forget that Turin has been home to master chocolatiers for centuries. When the Savoys moved their capital from Chambéry to Turin in 1560, they celebrated by symbolically offering a cup of hot chocolate to their new city.

Gianduiotti was discovered during the Napoleonic wars, when cocoa was scarce, so local chocolate makers had to get creative, adding ground hazelnuts to their recipes.

If you are bringing back gifts for loved ones, consider some of the famous local brands of chocolate – Peyrano, Baratti & Milano, Streglio, and Caffarel.

Andiamo avanti – more sights of Turin

Florence may have Brunelleschi’s dome, but Turin has the Mole Antonelliana, and it is just as emblematic of its city. You can take the elevator up to get a stunning panorama of the city.

It also contains the National Museum of Cinema , which takes visitors on an interactive journey through the history of film, with special areas dedicated to westerns, musicals and sci-fi. Address

National Museum of Cinema – Via Montebello, 20 Torino – more information

Turin is also famous for its Egyptian Museum , featuring the largest collection of antiquities outside Cairo.

Egyptian Museum – Via Accademia delle Scienze, 6 Torino –   more information

The Shroud of Turin and Cathedral

The Cathedral of Turin, dedicated to the city’s patron saint, John the Baptist, is adjacent to the Royal Palace and contains the Chapel of the Holy Shroud.

I wrote this article about the 30-year restoration project after a fire that nearly destroyed it. The Shroud is now only occasionally on display, typically every ten years, with the next viewing expected in 2020.

Royal residences of Turin

There are several royal residences in the city and surrounding areas that, together, are listed as a World Heritage Site. Consider visiting the sumptuous apartments in Palazzo Madama and the Royal Palace in Piazza Castello.

Or take the shuttle from Porta Susa station to Venaria Reale , used as a hunting lodge for the royal family. Its stunning gardens and Great Gallery have earned it the nickname “Little Versailles”.

Industria – modern Turin attractions

If you’ve had your fill of Baroque architecture, why not check out some of Turin’s more modern marvels?

Lingotto was one of Fiat’s historic plants and, at one time, the largest car factory in the world. It closed in the early 1980s but was recently refurbished. The building now contains shops, a hotel, and a concert hall.

Don’t miss a quick trip up to the roof, which still contains the track used to test the 80 different models of car produced below.

As part of the refurbishment, the architect Renzo Piano (famous for the Pompidou Centre in Paris and The Shard in London) designed a suspended glass “treasure chest” to hold the impressive art collection of Giovanni and Marella Agnelli.

Pinacoteca Agnelli art gallery – Via Nizza, 230/103, Torino – more information

Eataly , the food emporium dedicated to Italian cuisine, has opened locations all over the world, but the first was built in Turin and is not far from Lingotto. There is something for everyone – from artisanal gelato, pizzas straight out of a wood-fired oven, or amazing rare cheeses.

Eataly – Via Nizza 230, 14, Torino

ⓘ TIP:  Car enthusiasts will enjoy two museums in this district of Turin. Visit the  Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile  and view 200 vintage cars from around the world. Centro Storico Fiat is dedicated to the city’s famous car company. It is free, though only open on Sundays at Via Gabriele Chiabrera, 20,  Torino

Buona notte – where to stay in Turin

Luxury hotel recommendation.

Turin Palace Hotel – ranked 3rd in the 2017 Traveler’s Choice Award for best hotels in the world,  has everything you would expect from a luxury hotel and more. The hotel provides bathrobes and slippers plus free soft drinks to guests. On site services include a rooftop terrace and day spa – click here to book

Recommended boutique hotel

Budget accommodation in turin.

In this sharing economy, you can easily find lodgings online. But let me offer two suggestions.

Torino Sweet Home is a business started by two local women, Loredana and Lavinia, passionate about their city and travel. Their site offers accommodation in homes, similar to AirBnB.

For a less expensive option with a convenient location, Tomato is a backpackers’ hotel that offers economical and eco-sustainable accommodations in the heart of the city.

Let’s go to Turin!

I hope I’ve convinced you that Turin is one of Italy’s unique gems that merits a visit on your next trip to Italy. It truly is a royal, industrial, and reborn city. 

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ⓘ TIP:  Want to see a football match in Turin? Check out this guide to buying tickets for Juventus games.

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16 Must-Visit Attractions in Turin, Italy

Turin, the capital of Piedmont , is a refined, elegant city of great historical interest – with added contemporary, cosmopolitan buzz. Admire its baroque architecture, sample Italy’s finest chocolate at a historic coffee house, or take in experimental art, plus much more, in our guide to the best things to see in Turin .

1. mole antonelliana.

Building, Cinema, Museum, Synagogue

2. Palazzo Reale and Palazzo Madama

Historical Landmark

In the heart of the historic centre of Turin is Piazza Castello, which hosts two major Baroque structures designed by architect Filippo Juvarra – Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace) and Palazzo Madama. The latter was so admired by Napoleon that he made it his Turin residence. Juvarra is celebrated for his weightless details and dignified simplicity, and these two buildings stand in testament to his mastery of majesty without pomp. Palazzo Reale was originally built in the 16th century, but underwent modification by the architect at the request of princess Christine Marie of France in the late 17th century. The ochre palace seems infinite, stretching out on three sides of a rectangle with an elegantly arched but simple frontage. Palazzo Madama dates from 1003 and the façade was added by Juvarra in 1718. The rear of the castle remains in its medieval form so it is an incredibly unusual structure for this reason alone. Juvarra’s façade is a true baroque masterpiece, but the interior is perhaps even more spectacular – the monumental and lofty double stairway has been replicated around the world. Palazzo Madama is also home to the Museo Civico d’Arte Antica , which has a remarkable collection of paintings from the medieval, Renaissance and baroque periods.

3. Historic coffee houses

Bakery, Bar, Cafe, Restaurant, Italian

4. Parco del Valentino

5. Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo

Established in 1995 by major patron and Art Review Power 100 regular, Patrizia Sandretto Re Rebaudengo, this foundation supports young Italian and international artists with particular focus on commissions and the production of new work. The museum space in Turin is at the centre of the foundations activities and is one of the premier destinations for viewing experimental contemporary art in the city . Artists on view have included Isa Genzken, Hiroshi Sugimoto and Gerhard Richter. If you have time to explore beyond Turin you can also visit Palazzo Re Rebaudengo in Guarene d’Alba, an 18th-century manor on the Roero hills.

6. Castello di Rivoli

Building, Museum

7. Quadrilatero Romano

8. Balon Flea Market

Every Saturday morning and every second Sunday of the month (on Sundays there is more on offer), this famous flea market draws visitors from all over Italy. A maze of more than 250 stalls stand alongside long-standing antique shops and appealing cafés. You can find everything at Balon – antique and retro furniture, collectable toys, local lace and vintage clothing, contemporary crafts. It is located just behind Porta Palazzo in the newly fashionable Aurora neighbourhood. The market opens at 8am, and if you want to beat the crowds it is advisable to arrive early.

9. Cortile del Maglio

Market, Italian

10. Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile

11. Museo Egizio

12. basilica di superga, 13. enotecas and wineries.

Wine Bar, Wine Seller, Italian

The vineyard-covered landscapes of Piedmont’s Langhe-Roero and Monferatto regions have been recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites , which should give some indication of how much respect the wine has garnered. The protected landscape covers five distinct wine-growing regions with centuries-old grape varieties popular the world over. So, why not visit one of the city’s many enotecas , and with the help of knowledgable barmen learn the difference between Barolo and Barbaresco, or discover if you prefer Asti Spumante or Moscato d’Asti. Basically it’s daytime drinking, but the sophisticated Italian way. Vinarium Enoteca and Enoteca Botz come recommended.

14. Teatro Regio Torino

Opera House

Located in the heart of the city in Piazza Castello, Teatro Regio Torino is the city’s main opera house that stages concerts, ballets and operas between October and June. It hosts internationally-prestigious touring companies and artists, so there is bound to be something spectacular showing when you visit. You can purchase tickets online or at two box office sales points: Via Garibaldi on the corner of Piazza Castello or Via Rossini 8. Typically evening shows sell out, but matinées are always less popular so it is worth trying your luck. In addition, one hour before the performance begins, any remaining tickets or returned tickets are put on sale the price reduced by about 20 per cent.

15. Gelateria Popolare

Galeteria, Ice Cream

Take a break at the cozy Gelateria Popolare in the heart of Borgo Dora. Customers are welcomed in a colorful environment by friendly gelatai and can choose from a fair variety of flavors, among which, of course, is gianduja, a traditional type of chocolate made with local hazelnuts from Piedmont. Requesting their delicious whipped cream on top of the ice-cream is highly recommended! Recommended by Carlotta Bosi.

16. Porta Palazzo

Architectural Landmark

Hop off cable car number four at Piazza della Repubblica, best known as Porta Palazzo, to visit one of Turin‘s most beautiful squares, along with Piazza San Carlo, just steps away from the City Hall. As the name suggests, this was once a very rich neighborhood. Now the plaza hosts a huge and folsky permanent market, where travelers can find pretty much anything at very reasonable prices! Recommended by Carlotta Bosi.

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59 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Turin

It’s best known for a certain sacred shroud, but there are more amazing things to do in Turin than you could possibly imagine!

As one of Northern Italy’s most acclaimed cities, the pride of Piedmont has an endless assortment of architecture, food, art, and unique regional experiences (truffle hunting, anyone?).

Soak up the beauty and nuance of its aged streets, or head out into the beautiful landscapes nearby to get a full dose of rural splendor – maybe even with a castle or two thrown in.

There’s plenty to see and do, so let’s get started!

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• Turin tours

1 – See the awe-inspiring interiors of the Turin Royal Palace

There’s nothing quite like wandering around a dazzling luxury residence, and the Turin Royal Palace certainly provides! In the 19th and early 20th centuries, this glitzy building was home to the renowned Savoys, one of the most powerful regal families in Italian history.

But the building itself dates back to the 1500s, which has given its various tenants plenty of time to fill it with magnificent details! Along with the spectacular gardens and the bookworm’s paradise of a library, the complex is filled with some of the city’s best museums… not to mention some pretty spectacular pieces from the olden days!

Admire the lavishly decorated rooms, authentic suits of armor, and the splendid chapel that once held the famous Shroud itself. It’s a wonderful introduction to some of Italy’s most notable nobles!

• Turin Royal Palace tours

2 – Get flexible with your sightseeing on a hop on hop off bus tour

Do you want to make the most of your sightseeing, at your own pace? Then a hop on hop off bus tour may be just the thing for you!

On the surface, these vehicles operate much like a regular tour bus; you’ll be ferried to all of the coolest sites in town, with helpful audio commentary to bring each destination to life.

But what really makes them unique is the “hop off” part!

There are numerous stops throughout the route, and if you see something that interests you, get out and take some time to explore.

Then, when you’re ready to keep moving, just “hop on” the next bus, and carry on to the next adventure!

• bus tours in Turin

3 – Make friends with some mummies at the Egyptian Museum

While this town certainly has its fair share of Italian culture, it also features a great institution celebrating another renowned civilization – and this collection will knock your socks off!

The Turin Egyptian Museum is certainly a triumph of archaeology, its halls packed with statues, jewelry, and ancient papyrus scrolls with the original hieroglyphics still intact.

And that’s not even counting the mummies; after all, it isn’t every day that you can look directly at the actual people you’ve read about in history books!

With such a massive array of artifacts, we’d recommend booking a guided tour to get a feel for it all.

And as you browse through the magnificent collection – said to be rivaled only by the one in Cairo -, you’ll be able to really delve into the beauty and complexity of this incredible society!

• Turin Egyptian Museum tickets & tours

Read more about Turin Egyptian Museum tickets price

4 – Amble around the best piazzas

Sometimes, just wandering around a town is half the fun… and that’s certainly the case when you stop by Turin’s many piazzas! These public squares all boast their own distinct aesthetics and charms, with monuments, great scenery, and, of course, plenty of great people-watching.

Stroll the historic streets of Piazza San Carlo, a Baroque masterpiece that has borne witness to everything from political gatherings to Olympic events.

Or admire the monuments of Piazza Solferino, which pay tribute to noble families, activists, and mysterious art movements.

Piazza Castello provides a smorgasbord for culture fans, with many of the city’s finest cafes, theaters, and educational institutions surrounding its pathways.

And as you wander around Piazza Statuto, you’ll be able to absorb some of the more tragic aspects of the city’s history; don’t miss the beautiful fountain built in honor of the completion of the Frejus Tunnel, with rocks excavated from the mountains during its construction.

There are also some fantastic walking tours to provide even more information on the many wonders of these various squares!

• walking tours in Turin

5 – Soak up the beauty of Villa della Regina

Another jewel in the Savoy family’s crown, Villa Della Regina is the picture of opulence, and well worth strolling around! Bedecked in frescoes and elaborate furniture pieces, it showcases years of collecting and decorating, funded by one of the family’s various members, and guided by their unique individual interests.

Since the 1600s, the space has housed plenty of wealthy elites – including the Queen of Spain! -, and later became part of the public commons, before becoming a UNESCO site. Be sure to leave time to explore the outside as well, where splendid gardens and a full vineyard showcase the horticultural right alongside the architectural offerings.

In fact, this may be one of the only places where you can get a full winery experience right in the middle of a bustling city!

6 – Absorb the works at Palazzo Madama

Sure, the outside’s impressive… but just wait until you step through the doors and see the treasures within ! This is a true delight for fans of ancient art, with a jaw-dropping 70,000 pieces in its inventory.

And those works span an amazing array of eras; you can easily see the transition in creative styles and priorities from the Early Middle Ages all the way through the Baroque era.

From paintings and sculptures to home decor and rare manuscripts, you can find every sort of piece imaginable here – and the building is a work of art in itself!

Climb the spectacular staircase designed by Filippo Juvarra to the top of the tower, and enjoy a breathtaking view of the city below – it’s a canvas of a very different sort!

7 – Soak up the ambience and legacies of the local churches

No matter your religious preference, you’ll find plenty of aesthetic inspiration in the city’s many marvelous churches!

The Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, better known as Duomo, is soaked in history, built over the remains of an Ancient Roman site, and with its own historic bell tower.

And in Chiesa di Santa Maria del Monte dei Cappuccini, you’ll find remarkable Renaissance designs and a fantastic hilltop location perfect for admiring the details of the town below.

Chiesa Parrocchiale della Gran Madre di Dio provides stunning Neoclassic architecture and some marvelous statues to match, all built as part of a victory celebration when Napoleon was defeated and the Savoys resumed power.

And Santuario della Consolata boasts a fascinating mashup of designs and a distinguished history as a final resting place for various local religious figures.

And of course, you can’t miss out on Basilica di Maria Ausiliatrice , with its gorgeous chapels and a crypt filled with religious artifacts.

Check them all out on your own, or as part of the many fabulous city tours in Turin!

• city tours in Turin

8 – Use a food tour to find new perspectives (and flavors)

Lip-smacking, eye-opening, and belly-filling… there’s nothing quite like a food tour! With the same flair that has made the country as a whole world-famous for its cuisine, Turin offers up some phenomenal tastes for you to enjoy – from the sweet to the savory, and everything in between.

Freshly made pasta, steak tartare, breadsticks, and gourmet chocolates are just a few of the delights on the menu – plus wine, of course!

And while the meals themselves are delightful, it’s the cultural enrichment that really puts it over the top; each bite comes with a great crash course on the ways in which food and society intertwine.

After all, knowledge is the perfect seasoning to a good meal!

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9 – Make your way around (and up) the Mole Antonelliana

Of all the amazing things to do in Turin, few are more iconic than a visit to Mole Antonelliana – a masterpiece inside and out! Towering over the city, its magnificent dome and spire have long been an iconic part of the skyline; and it’s even better when you go to the top and enjoy an incredible view of the city and the mountains beyond!

When the tower first opened in 1889, it was actually the highest brick building on the continent; and while it has been surpassed since then, there’s still nothing quite like the experience of gliding to the top and admiring the scenery.

As an added bonus, you can explore the extensive exhibits inside, which make up the National Museum of Cinema.

• Mole Antonelliana tours

10 – Wander through the olden days at Borgo Medievale

For a totally different (but still amazing) architectural experience, swing by the Borgo Medievale , which showcases two historical eras in one!

While this gorgeous complex may look exactly like the ones constructed throughout the medieval era – specifically, the 1400s -, it was actually built in the 1800s, as part of the Italian General Exhibition, which celebrated the country’s many different eras and triumphs.

Wandering down its streets, you’ll have no trouble believing that you’ve traveled back in time; the little houses and garden areas perfectly recreate a standard village of the era.

And that’s not even counting the church, pilgrim’s hotel, and, of course, the castle… every good town needs one!

Take your time and explore the different aspects of this marvelous history project writ large.

11 – Savor the delightful charms of candlelight concerts

The stage is set, the instruments are tuned, the musicians are ready… time to start a few (controlled) fires! That’s what makes the candlelight concert series so memorable – and utterly delightful!

After all, it’s not every day that you can enjoy stirring ensemble pieces, piano recitals, and symphonic gems, with hundreds of candles creating a perfectly tranquil aesthetic.

Depending on the season, you might even get to enjoy a holiday program, or catch the strains of some familiar music from films and pop culture reimagined.

And because the shows are held in various venues around town, you can also experience some of the city’s famously gorgeous architecture… talk about a perfect evening!

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12 – Meet the many critters at Zoom Torino

Sure, the local landscape is great… but how about taking a field trip to a few of the planet’s most gorgeous ecosystems? Zoom Torino is certainly one of the best animal parks around; with more than 80 species on display, its lush grounds are the perfect place for animal lovers to meet their favorite creatures – and maybe even some that they’ve never seen before!

From penguins to giraffes and everything in between, you’ll be able to watch these lively creatures going about their day; and the use of natural barriers makes the whole experience feel that much more authentic! And there are lots of extra adventures to undertake here as well; you can even get a taste of life on safari with an evening of glamping at the Savanna Terrace!

It’s a walk on the wild side you won’t soon forget!

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13 – See a bit of everything on a bike tour

And if you want to go even further… how about booking some of the fabulous bike tours in Turin? These cycling excursions are a wonderful way to absorb the rhythms of daily life at a leisurely pace, while also covering more ground than you could by walking.

And trust us – the sights are well worth it!

Whether you’re rolling past massive churches or through tree-shaded parks, past UNESCO World Heritage Sites and settlements that still bear traces of the medieval era in which they were built, you’ll find wonder with every push of the pedal.

Best of all, these are all-ages journeys, so no matter what your age or ability level, you can roll into an amazing adventure!

• bike tours in Turin

14 – Try all the flavors of a wine tour

Raise your glass and rejoice; the wine tours in Turin are truly top-notch! Each of the area’s many vineyards provides its own specialties and amazing stories, which can be sampled in equal measure during your excursion.

Learn from the best sommeliers as you admire the luxurious grounds, and learn all about how each type of vino is carefully developed in this fertile climate.

But there’s more here than just flavors; each winery has its own distinct personalities and processes, which you’ll get to learn all about as you sip. Best of all, there’s a designated driver, so you can sip to your heart’s content!

• wine tours in Turin

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A Night of Light and Melodies at Turin’s Palace

Dive into the magic of Turin’s Palace of Light, where Eonarium merges Vivaldi’s iconic Four Seasons with a dazzling light show. This event transforms the historic monument into a canvas of sound and color, offering a unique visual and auditory journey through the seasons. An enchanting evening not to be missed!

15 – Enjoy the splendor of the Basilica of Superga

High above town, the Basilica of Superga isn’t just nice to look at; it’s also a crucial part of local history!

In 1706, as French troops invaded the town, Turin’s top military officials used this lofty vantage point to see the dangers before them.

While they were there, the Duke of Savoy, one of the leaders, prayed for victory in the small church, and swore that he would create a larger and more magnificent tribute if their armies succeeded.

The resulting structure is truly a sight to behold, with a stunning Main Altar bedecked in marble and filled with statues, plus four smaller altars and six chapels.

Along with all of these great decorations, the space can still be used for religious services and events, fulfilling the dream of those long-ago residents.

16 – See the stories behind the cameras at the National Cinema Museum

Housed inside the Mole Antonelliana, the National Cinema Museum is a fantastic tribute to a truly spectacular medium! With thousands of books, film strips, posters, and other pieces, it’s one of the best places in the world to dive into the complex history of film… and there are some pretty famous faces showcased there too!

You’ll find some of the most iconic artifacts in film history, from Marilyn Monroe’s outfits to Darth Vader’s helmet. And it also provides a great crash course into the story of movies and the people that make them possible, exploring the medium from its very earliest innovations to the present.

As if all of that weren’t cool enough, you can even stop by some recreated sets and pretend that you’re a star yourself!

• National Cinema Museum tours

17 – Wander the luxurious halls of Venaria Royal Palace

While it started as a getaway and hunting lodge, Venaria Royal Palace has since grown into an expansive monument to art and architecture – it’s an HGTV special come to life! This fine specimen came on the scene in 1675, originally developed as a hunting lodge; it took full advantage of the surrounding hills.

But from the start, it was also an aesthetic gem. It’s a terrific example of Baroque designs on a grand scale, with its lavish rooms and hallways designed to impress.

From the pensive Church of St. Hubert to the astounding Great Gallery and the lavish gardens (complete with charming water features), every inch of the space is devoted to beauty for beauty’s sake, making it a rewarding jaunt for visitors. Take some time to stroll around and feel like a big shot!

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18 – Learn how legends are made at Casa Martini

With a name like Casa Martini , you know you’re in for a good time! With a name like Casa Martini, you know you’re in for a good time! Turin has long been known for producing the high-quality vermouth that goes into this famous cocktail, and you can tour the factory where it is still made to this very day.

As you explore each step of production, you can also learn all about the rich history of this classic beverage, and how it ascended to worldwide fame.

Delve into stories of brewers and businessmen, and how their collaborations led to the eventual development of the company’s trademark drink in 1863. And of course, you’ll get to do some tastings at the end!

It’s the ultimate experience for fans of the drink – shaken, stirred, or otherwise!

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19 – Enjoy the full sensation of flight whilst paragliding

Any vacation will make you feel like you’re walking on air, but paragliding will make that dream (almost) a reality! The nearby mountain ranges are perfect launchpads for your adventure; team up with your instructor, take a running start, and enjoy the breathtaking views and unforgettable sensation of flight!

Gaze down at the world below, laid in detail at once mammoth and miniature; then be sure to look back up at the horizon around you – it’s a rare view to experience! And best of all, you’ll have a wonderful instructor right next to you to point out all of the great landmarks… and keep you on the proper path, of course.

Even when you’re back on solid ground, your head may still be in the clouds!

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20 – Pop over to Grinzane Cavour Castle

Just an hour outside of town, Grinzane Cavour Castle boasts a millennium’s worth of wonders and stories, housed in a spectacular setting.

Heroic figures, royal families, and plenty of other prominent figures have called the castle home over the years, and its hilltop location has long made it both a strategic outpost and a symbol of the surrounding area.

It’s also home to the Museo della Langhe, which is packed with keepsakes and exhibits celebrating the rich culture of the Piedmont region.

And when you’re done admiring blacksmith demonstrations or learning about traditional culinary methods, you can taste some of the finest wines and truffles of the region – a perfectly decadent finale to the visit!

21 – Satisfy your inner sugar-fiend with a Chocolate tasting

For a scrumptious treat with a story to match, indulge in some of the fantastic local chocolate tours! While these treats are all over the world, there are some particular delicacies that Turin has to offer.

But these are no mere candy bars; the desserts that you’ll be tasting here are decadent, delightful, and of course, delicious! Take a bite of Pinguino, where rich gelato comes with a dark chocolate coating; then nibble on Gianduiotti, a creamy treat made of hazelnut and cocoa.

There are even some drinkable options that take the concept of hot chocolate to a whole new level! It’s truly one of the sweetest things to do in Turin!

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22 – Enjoy some urban creativity on a street art tour

Not all of the masterpieces here are in galleries, as the local street art tours demonstrate! On various walls and buildings throughout town, you’ll see stunning murals, each showcasing different creative and political aspects of the city.

Lose yourself in the imaginative wonderlands woven right into the fabric of daily life, and ponder the power of these different pieces.

Not only do they show off the different values and motifs of their artists, but they also capture some of the sensibility of the neighborhoods surrounding them, as well as the city’s connection to wider international issues.

There’s even an entire series of works inspired by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development goals!

With a well-earned reputation as one of the best places for the medium in Italy, you’ll find beauty in every one of Turin’s unorthodox canvases!

• street art tours in Turin

23 – Discover the charms of the Stupinigi Royal Hunting Lodge

Much like Venaria Royal Palace, Stupinigi Palace got its start as a vacation home for the city’s elite; and it’s so well preserved that you can easily imagine yourself at one of those parties!

Another former hunting lodge turned party spot, this residence features some of the best decor of the era, from Venetian-inspired interiors to a bronze deer statue crowning the entrance.

But it wasn’t all fun and games in this palatial space, which was built by the legendary Filippo Juvarra in 1729; it also hosted several weddings, and even served for a time as the official residence of Napoleon!

Tour the opulent apartments where the royals lived, then stop by the museum to learn even more about the building and its residents. It’s a perfect showcase for the last decadent days of the Savoy era!

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24 – Get a panorama like no other with a hot air balloon ride

If you crave more time amongst the clouds, there’s nothing quite like a hot air balloon ride! As the dawn breaks, climb into your vessel and slowly rise over the landscape, watching vineyards, cities, and the incredible outlines of the Alps taking shape below you.

Drift along at a gentle speed, enjoying the fresh air and breathtaking views of the world below.

At the end of your journey, you can raise a glass of bubbly to celebrate an unforgettable journey through the sky!

• hot air balloon rides in Turin

25 – Unwind in the Piano 35 Bar at the Intesa Sanpaolo tower

The only thing more enchanting than the soaring visage of the Intesa Sanpaolo Tower is the atmosphere inside! While it’s a relatively recent addition to the skyline (it debuted in 2014), it quickly became a beloved local staple, filled with elegant places to enjoy the best the town has to offer.

Piano 35 provides a truly world-class experience with views to match, from its Michelin-starred cuisine to its perfectly stirred cocktails.

You can even enjoy some upscale twists on the city’s various street foods!

And the building itself is well worth exploring at length; with its vibrant greenhouse and terrific panoramas of the surrounding mountains, it’s a truly unforgettable piece of architecture.

26 – Check out the marvelous machines at the National Automobile Museum

Get revved up for some fun, car fans! The National Automobile Museum has every type of car you’ve ever dreamed of – plus a few that may surprise you! While there are plenty of exhibits covering the extensive history of the car industry in Turin, it also celebrates the wider world of motorized delights – with plenty of real-life versions to admire, of course!

Take a peek at over 200 top-of-the-line cars, from the luxurious to the bizarre and everywhere in between.

Along the way, you’ll also get to dive into the nuances of the manufacturing industry itself – how cars are made, what works, what doesn’t -, and the powerful impact they have on culture as a whole.

Get behind the wheel and under the hood, and see what it’s all about!

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27 – Take a day trip to Sacra di San Michele

Looking like it was ripped straight out of a fantasy novel, Sacra di San Michele has actually inspired at least one literary masterpiece – and it’s easy to see why!

Umberto Eco was inspired to write his classic, The Name of The Rose , after visiting this incredible abbey, and with its spectacular mountain location and remarkable designs, it’s easy to see why!

All throughout the space, you’ll see gorgeous religious art, as well as unique designs that speak to the different influences in the building, such as the Doorway of the Zodiac, with its intricate carvings and great views of the valley below.

It’s little wonder that this place has inspired and touched residents and visitors for nearly 1,000 years!

• Sacra di San Michele tours from Turin

28 – Take a quick tour of Asia at the Museum of Eastern Art

Much like the Egyptian Museum, the Museum of Eastern Art celebrates a remarkable range of cultures that stretch far beyond the ones found in Turin.

And the results are truly stunning!

Every step in these galleries will take you through another part of the rich creative traditions of Asian regions, from the Himalayas to the Middle East and everywhere in between.

Velvet pieces, Buddhist statues, prehistoric relics… there’s no telling what kind of treasures you’ll encounter!

And because these thousands of pieces are all presented in conjunction with each other, you can also gain a better understanding of some of the larger trends in art and culture – and as an added bonus, they’re all beautiful to behold!

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29 – Get hands-on in the best way with a cooking class

When you want to get even more into the amazing food here, you can enjoy some mouthwatering cooking classes – and the best part is that you get to be the chef! Team up with some experienced locals and visit the local markets for some culinary inspiration… not to mention the ingredients for your next masterpiece!

Then it’s off to the kitchen, where you’ll learn the finer points of crafting pasta, sauces, meat dishes, and more. With each slice and saute’, you’ll get another perspective on the amazing history of food here, and the ways in which individual chefs can put their own spin on it.

And when you’re done, you get all the joy of eating the results – it’s the best reward of all!

• cooking classes in Turin

30 – Take in the splendid views of Acaja Castle

If you head to the neighboring town of Fossano, you’ll quickly come across the stately beauty of Acaja Castle, which has been watching over the citizens since the 1300s.

Like most of its contemporaries, it was originally built as a defensive structure, but also served as a domestic residence for the local elite.

But what really makes it stand out is the level of preservation; roam through the towers, hallways, and rooms that represent a mixture of several centuries in one flowing space.

And of course, there are plenty of cool details still intact, from unusual statues and a scenic viewing tower to an actual moat!

Today, the castle is more artistic than political, hosting the town’s library and tons of cultural programming to enjoy.

31 – Enjoy the masterpieces of GAM – Galleria Civica d’Arte Moderna e Contemporanea

Hurtling forward into the modern era, you can explore the boundless creativity at the Galleria Civica d’Arte Moderna e Contemporanea , one of the hippest things to do in Turin.

Ironically, this hyper-modern space is actually the oldest institution of its kind in Italy, having hosted remarkable pieces and the people that love them since 1863.

The majority of the works here do, in fact, come from the modernist movements of the 1800s and 1900s; but you’ll be amazed just how cutting-edge many of these works seem!

From domestic heroes like Fontanesi and De Pisis to global phenomenons like Paul Klee and Marx Ernst, you’ll be perpetually surrounded by thought-provoking pieces – prepare to be inspired!

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32 – Have a unique dining experience at a local’s home

Ok, you’ve tasted, you’ve cooked… what’s next? How about a dining experience with some actual Torinese folks? Indulging in cultural immersion at its finest, these meals combine fantastic flavors with the unique opportunity to really bond on a deeper level with community members – using the all-important tool of food to help foster connections!

The best part is the setting itself; skip the fancy restaurants and enjoy phenomenal meals in the very kitchens where your local hosts cook day to day!

Learn all about unique family recipes and fun city lore as you chitchat in a relaxed manner, soaking up the stories and sauces in equal measure.

There’s true joy in every bite!

• dining experiences in Turin

33 – Dive into the story of the nation at the Museum of the Risorgimento

You may not recognize it just by the name, but the term “Risorgimento” actually refers to one of the most important events in Italian history: the unification of various independent states and entities into one nation, which took place throughout the mid-1800s.

And the Museum of the Risorgimento is one of the biggest and best tributes to that age, with all of the amazing items and exhibits such a space entails.

Packed with historical documents, weaponry, and interactive displays, it offers a thorough look into the fascinating, sometimes complex unification process – not just the movement itself, but also the political and creative responses to it.

There are few better places to get a real sense of Italy’s origins!

34 – See it all from the Best Viewpoints in Turin

There’s no shortage of places to admire the sights in the city… but these are truly some of the best of the best! After all, the higher up you go, the more you can take in; and these stylish buildings will certainly provide some amazing backgrounds!

From the broad paths of the aptly named Itineraria Panoramico to the bustling delights of Palazzo Madama, many of the city’s best public spots also offer some premium scenery.

And of course, the fabulous Basilica di Superga and Mole Antonelliana boast some breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps and the city all in one go… plus plenty of their own amenities!

35 – Try your luck with truffle hunting

It’s not just the city and surrounding towns that offer up some treasures; the nearby woods have a very specific treat for you to enjoy… and it involves some scavenging!

The truffle hunting near Turin is among the best in the country, with a bountiful supply of the fantastic fungus making each search a thrill.

Meet up with a professional hunter (and the trusty tracking dogs that help with the process) and head out into the forest, peeking through the leaf litter and into the soil in search of these prized pieces.

As you learn the stories of the crop and the tricks of the hunting trade, you can also enjoy a lovely walk in nature – and the very real possibility of some delicious victory snacks at the end!

• truffle hunting near Turin

36 – Take a glamorous walk through Galleria Umberto I

When you step inside this epic mall, you’d be forgiven for thinking that you’d wandered into another elegant palace; but this place is geared less towards history and more towards shopping!

From its earliest days as a hospital, the space evolved into the Art nouveau knockout you see today, and it’s a wonderful place to stroll around and browse through some of the city’s famous fashionable offerings.

And if you’re craving even more retail therapy, try out the many shopping tours in Turin, which will guide you to the hippest stores and coolest underrated gems – you can come away with some amazing souvenirs!

It’s also got some of the best eateries and snack shops in town, so you can fuel up on cheese, chocolates, or even a bit of rich gelato!

• shopping tours in Turin

37 – Dive into the town’s classic java at the Lavazza Museum

This is the kind of tour that will energize you with every step… and not just because of the coffee! True, the Lavazza Museum has an endless array of samples of the company’s world-famous java; but it’s also the amazing stories behind the beverages and their role in culture that will really get you going.

Start at the beginning with the original recipes and prototypes of the earliest brewing machines, then make your way through an interactive timeline that stretches all the way up to the present day… and even into outer space!

And of course, we can’t forget the drinks themselves; settle in with a little cup of something fresh, inhaling the distinct aromas and relishing the smooth taste of one of Italy’s best exports!

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38 – Keep an eye out for I toretti

These popular fountains may take a minute to find… but trust us, they’re worth looking for! The simple green structures are famed for the carved bull heads that the water cascades through, which are mascots of the city as a whole; but they’re more than just pretty sights!

Since the 19th century, they have offered up a particular form of public good, with a little bit of art thrown in.

You can actually drink from the spouts, and it’s totally free to do so; best of all, you’ll get to soak up a little bit of history as you hydrate!

39 – See what all the fuss is about with a glass of Bicerin

You could easily spend a whole trip here just trying the different local beverages – and this is one of the best!

When it comes to bicerin coffee, the presentation is part of the appeal; served in a tall glass with a side of butter cookies, the frothy, flavorful beverage looks made for a photoshoot – and it’s even better to drink!

The unique textures and palates of the beverage make it a delight with every sip, and luckily, there are plenty of great places to enjoy it!

Of course, Caffe Al Bicerin , where the beverage was invented in 1763, is a great place to start; but you can also try the many unique mixes at Caffe Mulassano and Gelateria Pepino , enjoy the classic surroundings of Caffe Torino , or pair your beverage with an excellent pastry at Pasticceria Stratta .

Better yet, visit a few of them, and enjoy an extended coffee break, Torino style!

40 – Explore the regal rooms of Palazzo Carignano

When you’re done enjoying the wonders of Museum of the Risorgimento, be sure to take some time to admire the equally impressive space that houses it! Palazzo Carignano was already leading a distinguished life long before this current iteration; it actually got its name from one of its earliest residents, the Princess of Carignano.

Over the years, it hosted many other members of the various royal families in the region, and even served as the birthplace of Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of Italy as a unified nation!

On top of all of that, it boasts a distinctive, gorgeous aesthetic that incorporates some of the best of Baroque architecture, from the massive frescoes to the wedding cake-style decor out front.

41 – Discover the darker side of history at Museo del Carcere Le Nuove

While it may be one of the more morbid things to do in Turin, a visit to Museo del Carcere Le Nuove is also deeply valuable if you want to explore the human cost of rebellion and progress.

For decades, this jail housed a steady succession of prisoners from many of the 19th and 20th centuries’ largest political struggles, and the exhibits cover everything from racism and anti-facism to the impact of the two World Wars.

Step into the cells where many rebels and freedom fighters spent their final days, and learn all about the heart-wrenching tales of executions, political clashes, and more.

Then head deep underground and explore the dense tunnels of the anti-aircraft shelter, which was rumored to have held the most important and influential convicts.

These stories may be hard to hear, but they’re a crucial part of the town’s history, as is the jail itself; so take plenty of time to absorb the reality of life behind bars.

42 – Get out and about in the local parks

On the lighter side of things, you can get outside and relax like a local at the many glorious green spaces around town! Stroll through the riverside realm of Parco del Valentino, whose fantastic gardens and historical buildings have earned it a reputation as one of the best parks in the country.

Or enjoy the picturesque canopy of trees in Parco della Pellerina , with its stunning sculptures, 15th century farmhouse, and massive grounds.

Giardini Reali di Torino offers beauty as regal as the palace surrounding it, with its mythological statues and colorful flower beds.

And in Parco Ruffini, you’ll find every sort of sporting venue imaginable, from tennis courts to skateboard ramps. They’re the perfect places for a leisurely afternoon of fun!

43 – Browse for hours at Porta Palazzo open market

When you’re looking for an authentic shopping experience on a grand scale, you can step into the wondrous maze of this extravagant spot, where every stall has its own special treats to offer up.

After all, it is one of the largest open-air markets on the continent!

The browsing here is really the best part; not only will you find a whole food pyramid’s worth of fresh produce and various treats, but you can also find furniture, home goods, and the sort of delightful oddities that flourish in big public markets.

And it’s all part of a larger tradition that stretches back to the days of the Ancient Roman empire, when it was one of the main hubs of transit and activity – a trend that continues to this day!

44 – Learn all about Juventus and watch a football game (or two)

Sports fans, rejoice! There are not one, but two amazing football teams to watch while you’re in town – and one of them just happens to be among the most popular in all of Europe!

For 126 years, the Juventus team has been busily representing the city on both the national and global stage, and their matches are always lively events!

You can even stop by the Juventus Museum to learn all about the team’s origins, greatest victories, and evolution into the icons we know and love.

And as an added bonus, you can also see FC Torino play while you’re in town; as the long-running rival to Juventus, their faceoffs offer plenty of excitement for visitors… no matter which side of the stands you’re sitting on!

45 – Pay a visit to the stately halls and grounds of the Castle of Racconigi

While it was first built all the way back in the 1000s, the Castle of Racconigi mostly resembles its 19th-century form -and luckily, said form is spectacular!

After centuries of different styles and residents, it settled into a gorgeous, decorative form that exists today; and after some time as a high-end getaway in the 1900s, it was opened up for the public to enjoy at length.

But it’s the surrounding nature that really puts it over the top!

The adjacent Royal Park has long been known for its abundance of stunning plants, as well as frequent appearances by local wildlife, and with its luscious pathways, charming caverns, and picturesque lake (complete with its own island), it’s worth a visit in and of itself!

46 – Get a little artsy at Galleria Sabauda

For almost 200 years, Galleria Sabauda has been a home to fantastic regional art, as well as the equally notable locals! Founded in 1832 by King Carlo Alberto, it features an incredible collection of royal portraits, paintings, and more, all showcasing the evolution of the form.

Although sculptures and paintings are the main items here, the entire inventory shows off a truly staggering lineage of art and beauty. With 800 pieces that stretch from the Renaissance all the way to the 1800s, it’s the perfect place to admire some of Europe’s finest masterpieces, including pieces by Bellotto, Rubens, and more.

And of course, it’s a great place to learn more about the rich cultural traditions of the Savoy family and their contemporaries!

47 – Walk through the past at the Palatine Gate

Back in the Roman days, this imposing gate was one of the main passageways in and out of the city; and you can still walk through its arches in the footsteps of thousands of other travelers!

While the city is no longer fortified, the gate itself remains a visual gem, and one of the finest examples of such structures still standing.

It’s also one of the very few spots in town where you can really see the influence of the one-great empire’s building methods, and its presence in the midst of town is a triumph of archeological conservation.

You’ll almost feel like you’ve stepped back through the ages as you explore it!

48 – Browse the unique offerings of Pinacoteca Giovanni e Marella Agnelli

There’s art, there’s creativity, there are thought-provoking moments around every corner… you must be at Pinacoteca Giovanni e Marella Agnelli ! The museum itself is part of the creative project, hovering above the Ligotto building like a post-modern blimp; and it’s no surprise that the pieces inside are equally impressive!

One of the particularly charming aspects of the works here is the personal touch; they were chosen by curators based on their own interests and ideas, rather than one set governing theme.

The result is a wonderfully diverse catalog spanning roughly 200 years, where abstract paintings rub elbows with statues carved in classical style.

It’s a true paradise for fans of aesthetic beauty!

49 – Feel the power of performance at Teatro Regio Torino

Alright, it’s time for a show… and what a place to see one! Teatro Regio Torino has a long history as a forum for the arts, and it has a history every bit as impressive as the productions it hosts.

Its primary focus is opera, and has been since it opened in 1740; but it also hosts musicals, ballet performances, and many other cultural events.

And while the original theater was tragically destroyed by a fire, the current space, which was built in 1973, pays tribute to the elegant past while also showcasing the best contemporary norms.

Come dressed to the nines (or in casual wear, if you prefer), and enjoy the sheer beauty of live art!

50 – Take a look around the historic collections of Valentino Castle

Another UNESCO gem with charm to spare, the Valentino Castle shows off the city’s scenic side like few places can. Maybe it’s the riverside location, which ensures that the city and its natural wonders are interconnected.

Or maybe it’s the remarkable floor plans throughout the space, which feature clever, creative touches from the floors to the towers. And it might also be the remarkable archives throughout the space, proving that preservation is an art in its own right.

Or maybe, just maybe, it’s all of the above – which certainly makes it an irresistible destination!

Amble through nearly 500 years of noble history, check out the many fine architectural details, and learn about the many hats it’s worn over the years, from military barracks to veterinary school!

51 – Discover the unique stories of Castello di Moncalieri

While all of the Savoy homes were models of elegance, Castello di Moncalieri was one of the most renowned; it’s no wonder that it has been nicknamed the “Crown of Delights”!

Since the 1600s, this hilltop charmer has hosted scores of noble residents, not to mention their many guests and visitors.

And along with all of the joys of daily living, the rooms also hosted several significant political events, including the signing of several peace treaties.

Nowadays, it still gets to be involved in the action, hosting all kinds of artistic and cultural events. Perfectly inserted into the hillside, its stunning facade is as much a part of the natural scenery as the social landscape.

It’s all part of a rich tradition in one of the city’s most spectacular residences!

52 – Delve into the stories of the Shroud at Museo della Sindone

Even before getting to Turin, you’ve probably heard plenty about its famous Shroud; and luckily, there’s a fantastic institution where you can learn all about it! The Museo della Sindone (Museum of the Shroud) is no mere historical spot; it’s also a world-class research establishment, exploring the mysterious cloth from every academic angle.

The story of the Shroud itself is a fascinating one: according to legend, this ancient piece of linen bears the outline of a corpse, and is rumored to have been the very same cloth that was wrapped around Jesus Christ during his burial!

And while you may not be able to see the iconic garment in person due to its fragility, this is a rare opportunity to explore the different legends and theories surrounding it in-depth.

53 – Poke around (and underneath) Museo Pietro Micca

Alright, time to see a place that’s a little more underground… literally! While the  Museo Pietro Micca has tons of awesome exhibits, the centerpiece is undoubtedly its system of catacombs, which were once a crucial part of military operations in the city.

As you walk through these winding tunnels, you can easily imagine yourself in those strange, secretive days, keeping an eye out for invaders, and maybe even setting off an explosion or two!

And there’s no better way to explore this urban labyrinth than with some of the underground tours in Turin !

Then it’s off to explore the rest of the museum, which is mostly focused around the remains of a 500-year-old fortress that once helped bolster the town’s defenses.

54 – Indulge in some fine dining at the best Italian restaurants

With meals this fantastic, you’ll want to leave plenty of time to chow down in between all of the other amazing things to do in Turin! And it’s all the better when you consider how many Michelin-starred restaurants there are within the city, each offering their own fantastic take on classic Italian food.

Stop by the Grand Hotel Sitea to try Carignano Pop , or head to Del Cambio for a bit of Piedmont on every plate.

Enjoy a relaxed setting with top-of-the-line pastas, stews, and more at Consorzio , or try the dynamic flavors at Razzo , which adds creative, contemporary twists to beloved regional dishes.

And for a more intimate experience, don’t miss Vintage 1997 , where you can pair your world-class fish and meat dishes with some local wines, all in a charming, velvet-accented spot.

And of course, the views at Piano 35 – not to mention the food itself – are to die for!

55 – Treat your body like a temple at QC Termetorino

There are few more relaxing things to do in Turin than a trip to QC Termetorino , a glamorous spa whose beauty is only rivaled by the diversity of its treatments. The sense of luxury starts with the setting itself; housed in Abegg Palace, the whole complex is filled with the beauty you’d expect from such a regal residence.

And once you step into the many different rooms, you’ll feel your tensions easing by the second! Cool off while heating things up in the steam baths and saunas, or get some fresh air in the outdoor pools.

And don’t forget about the evening options, where you can enjoy light drinks and appetizers – as pleasing for the palate as the body!

• spas in Turin

56 – Practice your piloting skills in a flight simulator

Maybe you took a plane to get here… but how about trying to pilot one of your own? No need for licenses or tests; just hop into a flight simulator and set off on an unforgettable journey around the world… virtually, that is!

State-of-the-art technology and innovative scenarios give you the full sensation of operating a plane, right down to the detailed control panels before you.

And of course, you can set your destination, trying some of the most challenging routes and popular airports on Earth! Choose between 30, 60, or 90 minute excursions, then get ready for takeoff!

57 – Take on all the delightful attractions at Blu Paradise and  Adventure Three Oaks Park

Fasten your seatbelts and get ready to scream with joy, because the local theme parks won’t let you waste a second! Whether you want a splashy taste of the tropical or a hearty dose of forest-filled fun, you’ll find plenty of rides, action, and all-ages excitement!

Blu Paradise is the place to go for water-based diversions, with a whole range of slides filled with drops, loops, and surprises, plus some pools for splashing around and a whole lavish structure for kids.

And at Adventure Three Oaks Park , you’ll get plenty of adventures in and around the treetops, from ropes courses to zip lines. Better yet, go to both, and get your fill of wacky thrills!

58 – Put your driving skills to the test at Cerrina Race Track

Time for another shot of action, where you can get behind the wheel! True, this may not be a professional racetrack, but in a way, it’s better; even kids and casual drivers can get in on the fun with these lively go-karts !

With the lovely woodlands as your backdrop, you can zip around each turn with ease, stepping on the gas and checking your times… just like a real race car driver! But rest assured, there’s stuff for non-motorheads to do too!

Keep the competitive fires stoked with a round of paintball or beach volleyball, then grab a chair at the on-site pizzeria to fill up on delicious goodies!

59 – Sleep at the Royal Palace Hotel

After spending so much time touring all those noble residences, you may feel like getting a bit of the elite treatment yourself; and where better to do that than an actual palace?

True to its name, the Royal Palace Hotel has a remarkable pedigree as a former home for the city’s well-to-do, with glamorous decor and service to match!

And as if all of that weren’t great enough, it’s also perfectly located right in the middle of town.

You can saunter out the door and immediately find yourself surrounded by monuments, train stations, and more, then retreat back to the sauna, onsite restaurant, and other luxury delights.

You’ll feel like a million bucks – and you don’t even have to spend that much!

• see price & reviews

How to get to Turin?

With heaps of domestic and international flights, the city is easier than ever to access; and the many airport transfers in Turin will surely start your trip out right!

These private services are easy, fast, and professional, letting you focus less on logistics and more on the upcoming trip!

Where to stay in Turin?

Principi di Piemonte may be right in the middle of town (the Egyptian Museum is practically next door), but its gorgeous designs and extensive wellness center (including massage rooms!) make it feel like a world all its own.

And at NH Collection Torino Piazza Carlina , you can be sure of a great stay, whether you’re breaking a sweat in the gym or kicking back on the terraces.

Turin Palace Hotel is another great place to feel like royalty, with a pool, fantastic restaurant, and easy access to public squares and museums – perfect for a day out on the town!

And at Residenza Dell’ Opera , you can pair a convenient location with comfortable, understated rooms, making a perfect home away from home.

Meanwhile, Piazza Castello Suite offers you the chance to wander around palaces, the Mole Antonelliana, and more, as well as a cozy, apartment-like setting that still doesn’t skimp on the luxury.

• best hotels in Turin

Visiting Turin on a budget?

Whether you’re looking for a twist on a traditional tour or just want to see as much as you can without breaking the bank, there are plenty of great options available!

For starters, the many free walking tours in Turin will get you in touch with the city’s personal side, as locals provide unique perspectives on the community’s history and culture.

Be sure to bring a little bit of extra cash to tip your guide!

And if you’re the type that wants to see and do it all, you can purchase the Torino + Piemonte Card , a combo pass that offers discounted entry to many of the area’s best attractions.

Hop between castles, museums, and cultural events with ease, enjoying discounts on many of the big events and activities – all included in one great package!

Where to go next?

Of course, you’ll have to leave the city at some point, but never fear; you can just head out to some of the other best places to visit in Italy ! From world-famous attractions (think Pompeii and Pisa) to underrated gems (vineyards, volcanoes, and more), it’s little wonder that this country has such a devoted fanbase!

If you’re more on the outdoorsy side, you can also head straight into the neighboring Alps, where the iconic ski resorts combine thrilling sports with incredible views and a lively culture that will turn you into a snow bunny in no time.

You can also soak up the fashion and fabulous shopping that rank among the best things to do in Milan , or try an artsy, charming port city as you delve into the things to do in Genoa .

Want to head to some neighboring countries?

Indulge in the high-end things to do in Monaco , the very definition of glitz, with its gorgeous beaches, thriving nightlife, and many playgrounds for the rich and famous.

Or head over to France, where you can enjoy cinematic vibes and visual splendor as you sample the things to do in Cannes , or the many cultural amenities and terrific seasides of an aptly named town as you enjoy the things to do in Nice .

Final thoughts

As beautiful and mysterious as its most famous monuments, this city is forever surprising and rewarding visitors.

But for every bit of seriousness, it also offers ample chances to relax, whether you’re enjoying fine wine, soaring through the air, or settling in for a truly amazing meal.

So as you try all of the fantastic things to do in Turin, be prepared to find more surprises at each turn!

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A local’s guide to Turin: five great things to do

Slow food expert Silvia Ceriani celebrates the industrial past and sustainable future of ‘Italy’s Detroit’, with gourmet markets, grand palazzos and kitsch cocktail bars

Silvia Ceriani lives in Turin and works for the Slow Food movement on events such as Terra Madre , Slow Cheese and the Slow Wine Fair

Nothing in Turin compares to the spectacle put on each Saturday at Porta Palazzo market . Out in the main square, outside the two covered markets, are raucous fishmongers and the cheapest fruit and vegetables stalls. My advice is to forget the modern Mercato Centrale – it’s more a trumped-up restaurant mall trying to look like Barcelona’s famous Boqueria – and head for the Antica Tettoia dell’Orologio , perfect for cheeses, salami and even white truffles. Then carry on out the back for the outdoor farmers’ market, where contadini sell incredible vegetables and wild herbs.

Turin is terrific for discovering Piedmont cuisine. My two favourite restaurants are in the centre. Consorzio is for adventurous offal enthusiasts: veal sweetbreads and heart roasted with cherries and wild herbs, and ravioli filled with Turin’s classic finanziera – a sweet-and-sour stew which includes veal brain and rooster crests among other scary ingredients.

Vegetarians needn’t despair though – at Antonio Chiodi Latini the chef cooks sublimely creative vegan fare: even the simplest dish, insalata mista , is a stupendous mix of ingredients, colours and aromas.

Green space

Turin has many green spaces, from huge parks to romantic squares. But during lockdowns I found a signposted walk from Isabella Bridge over the Po, following Corso Moncalieri on the right bank into Parco Leopardi, then winding up to the Faro della Vittoria – a bronze statue at the highest point. The views over Turin are wonderful. The statue is a first world war memorial and the path is lined with tributes to fallen soldiers. I found it quite emotional during the Covid period.

Inspiration

Far from the crowds that visit our most famous cultural spots – the Egyptian Museum and the avant garde OGR arts hub – my inspiring place is the Museo dell’Uomo on Corso Massimo d’Azeglio. It’s actually three 19th-century museums in an immense palazzo, dedicated to, respectively, the weird and wonderful worlds of human anatomy , criminal anthropology and exotic wax fruits . They immerse me in the ambience of 19th-century Turin – a dark, macabre city of fanatical collectors, and a perfect contrast with the outside world, where everyone is glued to their smartphones.

Neighbourhood

To get a feel for Turin’s unique industrial history – we were the Detroit of Italy – take the metro to Lingotto. It’s 10 minutes from the grandiose city centre, but feels like another world, created around early-20th-century factories. The former Fiat factory that gives the neighbourhood its name is forging a new identity, with the Agnelli collection art gallery, and its mythical rooftop – a colossal racetrack where cars were tested – is about to open to the public, filled with flowers, plants and herbs. The factory that used to make Carpano vermouth now houses Eataly , showcasing Slow Food produce, and next door is the newly opened Green Pea , a futuristic, 100%-sustainable mall. Lingotto is quiet at night, but don’t miss a cocktail at my favourite watering hole, the utterly kitsch Il Coguaro (Cougar) bar.

Turin is the home of the aperitvo. Unfortunately, this has mushroomed into the trend of apericena (formed by adding cena – dinner – to aperitivo), where the price of the drink rises to about €10, accompanied by a buffet of pasta, salads and pizza. It sounds great but I avoid it as the quality of the food is poor, and not even that cheap as you inevitably order a second drink. Much better is a genuine bar with great music like Lanificio San Salvatore , where they make their own vermouth – a big trend here – inspired by a recipe invented in India by an eccentric 19th-century Piedmontese entrepreneur.

Near the Porta Palazzo market, the hip rooms of the 1820 San Giors hotel (doubles from €84 room-only) are all decorated by local artists.

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Everything you need to know before visiting Turin: 12 burning questions, 12 honest answers

May 9, 2022 • 6 min read

A man walks along a riverside stone wall in Turin during the late afternoon with his partner, a woman, holding his hand as he looks towards her.

Set in the shadow of the Alps in the northwestern region of Piedmont, Turin (Torino) is ideal for an alternative city break. It has a fascinating historic center and a long list of monuments, galleries, and world-class museums. 

Its historic cafes serve Italy’s most lavish aperitifs and its nightlife is varied and energetic. Learn where to go and you’ll find there’s always something going on in Italy’s fourth-largest city. Here’s everything you need to know before you visit Turin.

What’s Turin best known for?

Turin has many claims to fame. For centuries it was the seat of the royal Savoy family and from 1861 to 1865 it was Italy’s first capital. It’s home to the Turin shroud (a linen cloth purported to be the burial shroud of Jesus Christ is housed at Cattedrale di San Giovanni Battista but rarely on display; learn all about it at Museo della Sindone ) and the birthplace of many iconic Italian brands, including Fiat cars, Lavazza coffee, and Juventus football club. Nowadays, it’s best known for its princely baroque architecture, stately art-nouveau cafes, sumptuous aperitifs, and decadent food and wine.

How many days do I need for Turin?

Two to three days is enough to cover the key sights, including the Egyptian treasures of Museo Egizio , the sumptuous 17th-century palace Palazzo Reale , the city's iconic landmark  Mole Antonelliana , and the collection of 200-or-so cars at Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile . It will also give you time to explore the historic center and enjoy an aperitif or two. 

With a couple more days you could strike out further afield, possibly out to see artworks by Modigliani, Manet, and Matisse at Pinacoteca Giovanni e Marella Agnelli , or the vast assemblage of contemporary art at Castello di Rivoli . You could even head to  Reggia di Venaria , some 14km northwest of Turin, one of the world's largest royal palaces.

Do I need to learn some Italian before visiting Turin?

You’ll get by fine with English. Sure, efforts to speak Italian will be appreciated and it’s always good to have a few phrases up your sleeve. But it’s not essential. You’ll have no problems communicating at hotels, cafes, restaurants, and visitor sights, particularly in the center where you’ll likely spend most of your time. Greeting those you meet with an enthusiastic "b uongiorno" ( or "buonasera" in the evening )  will be much appreciated, as will an " arrivederci " as you bid them farewell. " Grazie " is usable in both formal and informal settings to express gratitude.

Which neighborhood should I stay in?

To be in the heart of the action, go for the historic center where you’ll have pretty much everything on your doorstep. For a more youthful, multi-cultural vibe, try the party-loving San Salvario district to the southeast of the center, or hip Vanchiglia and Aurora to the north. Families after a more peaceful atmosphere could try Crocetta, an elegant and well-connected residential district, or leafy Borgo Po over the river.

How much money will I need for Turin?

Reckon on €100-200 (US$105-210) for a daily budget. This would cover staying in a mid-range hotel or B&B, eating out (€25-30 (US$26-32) for a restaurant meal), and taking in the main sights (museum entry ranges from around €5-15 (US$5-16)).

To keep costs down, many restaurants and trattorias offer fixed-price lunch menus. Similarly, you can save by dining on an apericena (a meal-sized aperitivo buffet) rather than having a formal restaurant meal. 

For sightseeing, the Torino + Piemonte Card provides free and discounted admission to many sights as well as savings on city transport.

Pack right for the time of year

You’ll need heavy coats, hats, and scarves for winter (December through February) when it can get bitterly cold, sometimes even snowy. Rain is a risk in spring and autumn, so make sure to bring an umbrella and light rain jacket. Summer (June through August) means hot weather so come prepared with light, loose-fitting clothes. Comfortable, worn-in walking shoes are a must whatever the season. Locals also like to dress smart casual when dining out.

Book museum tickets in advance

You’ll need to plan ahead for some sights. It’s now obligatory to pre-purchase tickets for the Museo Egizio on the museum’s website . This means picking a date and choosing an entry time. Similarly, the Reggia di Venaria Reale requires pre-booking. You’d also do well to book tickets for the panoramic lift at the Museo Nazionale del Cinema , especially if you’re planning to visit on a weekend.

Know the soccer score

Turin is a top city to catch a soccer game. Local allegiances are split between the city’s two teams: Juventus , aka la Vecchia Signora (the Old Lady), an aristocrat of the European game and serial winner of Italy’s Serie A; and Torino , a scrappy mid-table team known locally as il Toro (the Bull). Check the clubs’ websites for ticketing information and details of the football season, which runs from late August to May.

Get to grips with public transport

You can easily explore Turin’s center on foot. For more outlying districts, you’ll find no shortage of buses and trams. Turin’s public transport system is a breeze to use once you’ve got the hang of it. First up, always buy your ticket before you board a bus or tram. Do this at an authorized newsstand or bar, at an automatic vending machine, or through the To Move app . Once onboard, you should validate your ticket, either by inserting it into the validating machine or holding it up to the contactless reader.

Join the locals for an aperitivo

Nowhere does aperitivo better than Turin. Vermouth was invented here in 1786 and today an early evening aperitif is still a cherished local rite. Head to a cafe between 6pm and 8pm, order a drink – perhaps a Campari, Aperol, or Vermouth-based cocktail – and dive into the complimentary food buffet.

Recent years have also given rise to the apericena , a beefed-up aperitif whose lavish food offering effectively substitutes dinner ( cena ). Reckon on around €7-15 (US$7-16) for an apericena in a city center cafe. Bars we like include Pastis , an evergreen favorite on Piazza Emanuele Filiberto, and Affini San Salvario a stalwart in the hip San Salvario district.

Take in sunset views on Monte dei Cappuccini

For the best free views in town, head up to Monte dei Cappuccini above the Chiesa della Gran Madre di Dio . After a 10-minute uphill hike, you’ll be rewarded with fabulous views over the city’s rooftops to the Alps on the horizon. For maximum romance, head up at sunset.

Is Turin safe for tourists?

In a word, yes. However, it still pays to be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas. Use your common sense and watch your valuables. At night, be particularly vigilant in the area around Stazione Porta Nuova and Porta Palazzo market.

You might also like: The 13 best things to do in Turin when you’re not at Eurovision 15 free things to do in Turin Piedmont’s top dishes and where to try them

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Turin Travel Tips: 15 Essential Things to Know to Visit Turin Like a Pro

Looking for some Turin travel tips that will help you make the most of your trip? I think I can help as I explored it thoroughly on more than one occasion.

The northern Italian city is a visit-worthy underrated destination that anyone would love, famous for its cool museums, Art Nouveau and Baroque architecture, exquisite culinary and chocolate scenes, and UNESCO-listed royal palaces that remind us that it was the capital city of several kingdoms ruled by the House of Savoy.

To experience this city to the fullest, here are some must-know tips for visiting Turin.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

*As a partner of the Get Your Guide affiliate program, I got a 15% discount when I purchased my Torino+Piemonte Card . That said, I always share my honest opinions.

My favorite carb in Turin: The pastries and desserts of Farmacia del Cambio are a must-try, though you need to get there early as they’re very popular.

Want to explore Turin with a guide? Book this free walking tour !

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Trip-Planning Turin Travel Tips

Where to stay in turin.

While you’ll have things to do in various neighborhoods, there’s no doubt that the number one area to stay in Turin is the  Historic Center  (Centro Storico).

It’s where you’ll find many of the city’s sites and museums, and of course, it is also packed with restaurants, cafes, and shops. I stayed there at an amazing apartment called Emozione Torino .

A few other highly-rated places to stay in the Historic Center include Attic Hostel Torino (budget), Casa della Contessa B&B (mid-range), Savoia Suites Torino (mid-range), and Corte Realdi Luxury Rooms Torino (luxury), but you can browse more hotels here .

That said, you’ll find accommodations for all budgets all around the city. I also stayed in the quiet (yet central enough) neighborhood of  Crocetta  at the lovely  Hotel Liberty , which was cozy, clean, and comfortable, and the owners offered incredible service.

To choose the perfect neighborhood for you, you can also read my travel guide to the best areas to stay in Turin .

Torino+Piemonte Card – Worth It or Not?

There are quite a few things to consider before purchasing a city card, like:

• Does it offer free entrance to sites and museums or just a small discount?
• Can you visit these places for free without a card (on weekends, for example)?
• How much does it cost in comparison to the admission you’ll pay at these sites and museums?

That’s why I can safely say that the  Torino+Piemonte Card , which offers  FREE  entrance to dozens of points of interest in Turin, is 100% worth it. It is available for 1,2,3, or 5 days (note that the one-day card only offers free entrance to 3 sites).

Unlike other city cards, it doesn’t offer unlimited use of public transport (only a discount).

BUT when there are so many must-see landmarks and museums in Turin, each costing 10-18 euros to visit, it’ll surely save you money, even if you have just a couple of days in the city and only visit 3-4 sites (the 3-day card can easily save you 20-30 euros) .

The card also includes free entrance to landmarks in the entire region of Piedmont , so the 5-day Torino+Piemonte Card can be very useful if you’re taking day trips or a road trip from Turin.

See the full list of discounts here and buy your Torino+Piemonte Card here (you can easily pick it up at the information center at the central Piazza Castello).

Alternatively, you can purchase the Royal Pass (€30) , valid for 4 days and offering FREE entrance solely to the palaces and castles of the House of Savoy in Turin and Piedmont (and the Basilica of Superga), as well as discounts on a few museums and public transport.

Getting to Turin

International flights arrive daily at Caselle Airport, but you can also get to Turin by train or bus from Milan, Genoa, or Bologna.

To find the cheapest or the fastest way to get to the city,  compare bus, train, and flight prices in one place on Omio  (former GoEuro). You’d be surprised, but sometimes flights can be cheaper than trains.

Getting From the Airport to the City Center

Turin’s Caselle Airport is located about 17 km (10.5 miles) away from the city center.

The cheapest way to get to the center is by bus 268, which leaves the airport every 15-20 minutes ( browse its timetable here ). A ticket costs 7 euros, and the ride should take about an hour.

Not so budget-friendly (unless you’re a group of 3-4 travelers) but very convenient, a taxi will take you to the city center in about half an hour and should cost 35-40 euros.

Getting Around

As someone who loves to explore every nook and cranny of a city and discover its hidden gems, I think nothing compares to getting around on foot (but be sure to pack comfortable sneakers ).

That said, almost every neighborhood in Turin offers interesting and fun things to do and see, so you’ll need to use public transportation to move around the different parts of the city.

While Turin’s metro lines only pass through certain areas, trams and buses are an extremely convenient way to get around the city. You can purchase tickets at metro stations, newsstands, or tobacco shops (look for  Tabaccheria/Tabacchi ).

The basic ticket costs €1.70 and is valid for a single journey on the metro or 100 minutes on buses/trams (starting from the first validation). You can also purchase a daily ticket or a multi-day ticket, which is valid for all three transportation modes.

Weather in Turin

After visiting Turin in both October and December and loving it (super proud of myself for handling that cold weather), I can only imagine how amazing it is in spring and summer (though keep in mind that there could be rainy days in every season).

Turin in winter :  In December and January, average highs are 3°C-10°C (37.5°F-50°F), and lows are 0°C-2°C (32°F-35.5°F), and some days are cold yet sunny with a clear sky (that’s what I got to enjoy 90% of the time) while others are rainy or snowy. In February, temperatures start to get a bit higher and more pleasant (though some days can still be rainy).

It’s also good to know that Turin hosts a few Christmas markets, and even though it’s not heavily decorated like cities such as Vienna or London, it still feels festive and cheerful.

Turin in spring:  March is quite similar to February in terms of temperatures and rainy days, while in April and May, average highs are 15°C-23°C (59°F-73.5°F), and lows are 8°C-12°C (46.5°F-53.5°F).

Turin in summer:  In June-August, average highs are 23°C-30°C (73.5°F-86°F), and lows are 15°C-20°C (59°F-68°F). It’s good to keep in mind that due to its location, northern Italy in summer is a lot more pleasant to wander around than other European destinations that can be unbearably hot.

Turin in fall:  September offers similar temperatures to June and the beginning of July, while October is slightly cooler and wetter (though I had perfect weather at the beginning of October), and November is usually the wettest month.

Essentially, each season has its advantages and disadvantages, so it all comes down to your personal travel preferences.

How Many Days to Spend in Turin

Taking into consideration everything Turin and its surroundings have to offer, you can plan a 2-week trip in this area alone.

If you really have no choice, then sure, you can book a long weekend getaway to Turin , but I highly recommend spending at least 4-5 days in the city (in fact, you can easily fill up a one-week Turin itinerary). One day in Turin is not enough.

If you also want to see some places nearby, you’ll need at least 1-2 extra days, though I can think of at least five towns and cities around Turin you can visit.

Some Attractions Must Be Booked in Advance

You need to book tickets to some of Turin’s museums and palaces in advance as you must pick the exact time you’ll visit them.

These include the Egyptian Museum, the nearby Reggia di Venaria Reale, and the lift to the viewpoint of the National Museum of Cinema (though you should also get your ticket to the museum itself since the lines can be long).

Get your tickets on each attraction’s official website, and note that you can mark that you have purchased the Torino+Piemonte Card .

Top Landmarks and Museums to Visit if You’re Short on Time

There are literally dozens of things to do in Turin , so if you can only spend 1-3 days in the city, you have to plan your itinerary wisely. Here are some absolute must-sees that you cannot skip out on:

Musei Reali (Royal Museums):  A group of sites and museums (situated in Piazza Castello) connected to Turin’s history and the Savoy family. Their number one highlight is the Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace), the most important royal residence of the House of Savoy in the Piedmont region. The ticket costs €15, but you can visit them for free with the Torino+Piemonte Card or Royal Pass .

Egyptian Museum (Museo Egizio):  Houses the world’s second-largest collection of Egyptian antiquities (after the museum in Cairo). The ticket costs €18, but you can visit it for free with the Torino+Piemonte Card . You need to purchase your ticket in advance .

National Museum of Cinema:  Housed in the gorgeous Mole Antonelliana building (Turin’s most emblematic landmark), it is the tallest museum in the world. The basic ticket costs €11, but you can visit it for free with the Torino+Piemonte Card . You can also take the lift to the building’s viewpoint, but you must purchase your ticket in advance .

National Automobile Museum:  A super cool museum showcasing vehicles from the 19th century to the present day. The ticket costs €10, but you can visit it for free with the Torino+Piemonte Card .

Valentino Park:  It is the city’s most famous park, home to a few beautiful landmarks like Valentino Castle and the Medieval Village.

Porta Palazzo:  Europe’s biggest open-air market.

Villa della Regina:  A gorgeous Savoy residence overlooking the city from the eastern side of the Po River. The ticket costs €7, but you can visit it for free with the Torino+Piemonte Card or Royal Pass .

Other visit-worthy spots include the Palazzo Madama and Lavazza Museum, but if you only have one day in Turin, pick 2-3 of these places.

Take Day Trips (Or a Road Trip)

As if Turin isn’t fascinating enough, there’s a lot more to experience in Piedmont. I would have loved to take a good old Italian road trip to explore the region properly, but I did manage to see a bit of the city’s surrounding area.

That said, I did take a road trip from Turin to the Aosta Valley , which I highly recommend.

An easy half-day trip is to the town of Venaria (reachable by bus number 11), where you’ll find another Savoy royal residence called Reggia di Venaria Reale .

With its alpine backdrop and beautiful architecture on the inside and out, it is a must-visit. It is also free to visit with the Torino+Piemonte Card or Royal Pass (otherwise, a ticket can cost up to 20 euros!).

Other towns and cities in the area you can add to your itinerary are Rivoli, Moncalieri, Stupinigi, Cuneo, Alessandria, and Ivrea, but the list goes on and on. You can also book a half-day tour of the medieval abbey of Sacra di San Michele .

Food-Related Travel Tips for Visiting Turin

Bring an extra suitcase just for chocolates.

Throughout the centuries, Turin has become a chocolate empire, and a shortage in cocoa supplies also led it to invent the genius combo of chocolate and hazelnuts, so there’s no better place in Italy to satisfy your sweet addiction than Turin.

You’ll find delicious treats to try, like  gianduiotto  and  cremino , and you won’t be able to stop shopping at Turin’s chocolate stores. To get to know this aspect of the city better, read my Turin chocolate guide .

WHAT TO EAT & DRINK

I hope you agree that Italian food is the best, and I’m sure the mountains of carbs you’ll eat in Turin will make you want to stay there forever. From pasta to risotto to gnocchi, Piedmontese cuisine doesn’t disappoint.

Northern Italian dishes are the definition of comfort food, so I know you’ll love trying agnolotti (a type of ravioli), risotto al Barolo, and gnocchi al Castelmegano (a Piedmontese hard cheese).

Good to know:  Note that many restaurants are  not  open from morning to evening, so plan your days accordingly. Many of them are open from 12 PM – 3 PM and 7 PM – 11 PM.

You’ll also see almost every cafe, bar, and restaurant offering an aperitif, a cocktail (alongside some snacks) meant to stimulate your appetite before dinner. This tradition was actually born in Turin, not too long after the vermouth (a type of aromatized wine) was invented in the city.

As the Italian capital of chocolate, hot chocolate and a local drink called Bicerin (made of coffee, chocolate, and milk) are also must-tries.

Last but not least, let’s not forget about  pasticcerias  (pastry shops/bakeries) selling the most scrumptious Italian pastries and desserts.

Should You Pay for Hotel Breakfast?

Especially when going on a city break, it’s not always worth paying for hotel breakfast. It can be very overpriced sometimes, and it’s also much nicer to start your morning at a local cafe.

Since a typical Italian breakfast consists of coffee and a pastry, you’d want to consider a few things, including what kind of breakfast you expect/want to get at your hotel and what your hotel actually offers.

If Italian breakfast is enough for you, you can have coffee and a croissant in many cafes in Turin , and you’ll probably pay less (unless it’s a historic cafe which can be pricey).

If you’re looking for an offbeat girls’ trip destination in Europe , Turin could be a great choice!

Other Turin Tips

English is not that much of an issue.

Let me start by saying that I always love to learn some words and sentences in my destination’s local language, not only to technically communicate with the locals but also because I know they’ll appreciate it.

Language brings people together, and travelers should make a bit of effort to learn at least a few useful everyday phrases.

Moreover, it’s not uncommon to travel through areas in Italy where the locals don’t speak English at all. However, it’s good to know that you probably won’t have that kind of problem in Turin as many (but not all) people do know at least a bit of English.

Visit Turin Before It Gets Touristy

Even though it’s the fourth-largest city in Italy, Turin is often overlooked by international travelers, and that’s one of the reasons it’s so charming and fun to explore .

But since it makes such a fantastic city break destination and as people look for alternative places to visit, I have a feeling it will not stay underrated for too long, so don’t hesitate and book your flight right now!

OTHER TURIN & ITALY GUIDES

Are these Turin travel tips helpful? Read more about northern Italy:

• Hidden gems in Turin
• Northern Italy road trip itinerary
• Things to do in Vicenza
• Best places in Lombardy to visit
• Hidden gems in the north of Italy
• Road trips from Milan
• Turin or Milan
• Best places to visit in northern Italy in October

Read more about Italy:

• Italy travel quotes
• Gifts for Italy lovers
• Best places to see in Italy in winter
• Romantic novels set in Italy
• Beautiful piazzas in Italy

About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

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Travel Guide To Turin

Known as 'Torino' in Italian, Turin rests beside a scenic stretch of the River Po in the Piedmont region of northern Italy. Although it is the birthplace and centre of Italian industry, mostly closely associated with giants such as FIAT, it is nevertheless a graceful city of wide boulevards, elegant arcades and grand public buildings. Seen as Europe's capital of Baroque, the city has a diverse choice of museums, restaurants and lovely public gardens.

Where to stay in Turin

AI SAVOIA Via del Carmine 1b (00 339 125 7711; fax: 011 662 3318; www.aisavoia.it ): Quadrilatero area. This charming three-room B&B is housed inside the 18th-century Palazzo Saluzzo di Paesana, one of the city's most impressive aristocratic townhouses. (It was too impressive for Vittorio Amedeo II, who ordered one of the two entrances to be bricked up, claiming that double gates were a Savoy privilege.) The courtly elegance of the exterior continues inside in a delightfully restrained mood, with Empire-style furniture, padded and gilded bedheads, and Murano chandeliers hanging from exposed beams. The three rooms are named after Savoy queens (no doubt to pacify the spirit of Vittorio Amedeo II), and Sr Armando (uncle of owners Roberto and Matilde Pavone) is a helpful and knowledgeable host. Breakfast, served in a lovely, antique-strewn salotto, is usually enlivened by one of Roberto's homemade cakes. There is a small library of guidebooks available for use by guests, plus a good selection of freebie maps, brochures and leaflets. ££ GRAND HOTEL SITEA Via Carlo Alberto 35 (00 39 011 517 0171; fax: 548 090; www.grandhotelsitea.it ). Porta Nuova area. The best of the traditional four-stars is probably the 120-room Grand Hotel Sitea, which is efficiently run, well placed and entirely unremarkable. Rooms are panelled, carpeted and cosy, though some might find the low ceilings oppressive. On the upside, the Sitea has the Carignano, a Piedmontese restaurant that is good enough to attract plenty of outside custom. £££££ HOTEL BOSTON Via Massena 70 (00 39 011 500359; fax: 599358; www.hotelbostontorino.it ): Porta Nuova area. The Hotel Boston also stands out from the unimaginative Turin pack, in this case because of its single-minded devotion to modern art and contemporary design. Housed in a building with a striking façade in Liberty style (the Italian equivalent of Art Nouveau), the hotel boasts a collection of original artworks and prints by artists from Warhol via Lichtenstein to Boetti. The lobby and communal spaces are peppered with the kind of design-classic furniture that you might find in a Taschen coffee-table book. But the sum is not quite as good as the parts: most of the bedrooms go for a bright, ethnic look, space is not a strong point and single travellers should book a double unless they like to be very cosy. ££££ HOTEL VICTORIA Via Nino Costa 4 (00 39 011 561 1909; fax: 561 1806; www.hotelvictoria.com ): Castello area. A bright and pleasant three-star in a cul-de-sac halfway between via Po and Porta Nuova train station. The Victoria is a charming, eclectic mix of English country cottage, Oriental teahouse and Mediterranean villa, with English-style antiques, Japanese screens and a profusion of floral motifs on wallpaper, fabrics and murals. The verdant theme continues in the breakfast room, with its conservatory windows and garden view. There are 100 bedrooms classified as Standard and Deluxe. By the end of 2005, the hotel should have its own pool, sauna and Turkish bath, and probably higher room rates. £££££ NH LINGOTTO NH Lingotto, via Nizza 262 (00 39 011 664 2000; fax: 664 2001; http://www.nh-hotels.com ) South area. NH Lingotto is the only hotel in the world whose guests get to use a former car-testing track as a jogging path. What's more, it's on the roof. Fiat's banked track was built as the crowning flourish of the company's main assembly line in the Lingotto complex, south of the city centre. Today, Fiat has moved out and the trade fairs have moved in, backed up by a shopping centre, the Giovanni and Marella Agnelli Art Gallery (which is suspended like a futuristic James Bond penthouse pad above the test track), and NH Lingotto. What's really lacking in Turin is a good upscale option in the city centre. ££ PRINCIPE DI PIEMONTE Via Gobetti, 15 - 10123 Torino, Italy (00 39 011 55151; fax: 011 5185870; www.atahotels.it ). Built by the Agnelli family in 1930, the Principi di Piemonte is located in Via Gobetti, close to the shops of Via Roma. Refurbished before the 2006 Olympic Winter Games, there are now 99 modern, spacious rooms on the top eight floors of the building, all with state-of-the-art technology, and views over the city. The hotel restaurant, Casa Savoia, serves refined local cuisine, the sumptuous Salone delle Feste has 1930s Murano chandeliers and mosaics. Primarily a business hotel, every room and meeting facility is Internet, A/V equipment including IP cameras for internet streaming purposes and overhead projectors. ££££ THE GOLDEN PALACE Via dell'Arcivescovado 18 (00 39 011 55 12 111; fax: 011 55 12 800; www.thi.it ). Central Turin's first true five-star hotel opened just in time for the Winter Olympic Games in 2006. Housed in two geometric buildings, Golden One and Golden Two, the décor is contemporary yet luxurious. One hundred and ninety-five rooms feature sophisticated wooden furniture with details in burnished brass and black lacquer. Rooms have huge plasma TVs, electrically-controlled curtains, exclusive reproductions of works by the painter Giovanni Lombardini and marble bathrooms. There are 15 suites and a 90sq-metre Presidential Apartment. Winner restaurant is under the guidance of chef Giuseppe Zuccaro. The Golden Spa has a pool, Turkish bath and sauna. There is also a Personal Shopper service. ££££ TOWN HOUSE 70 Via XX Settembre, 70 (09 39 11 19700003; fax: 11 19700188; www.townhouse.it ). The Town House hotel group have four boutique hotels, three in Milan and one in Turin, all located in the city centres. Town House 70 is situated in Turin's historic centre, behind Piazza Castello and close to Via Roma. There are 16 double rooms, 4 single rooms and 27 suites. Rooms have workspaces, modern seating areas and bathrooms. All have high-speed internet access, air conditioning and climate control, and LCD screen TV with Video on Demand. There is no restaurant, instead a complimentary breakfast is laid out on a long table and snacks are available throughout the day. £££

B&B VIA STAMPATORI A real gem housed in a 16th-century palazzo, but with each room an enchanting realm of modern Italian design; you can take breakfast on a private terrace overlooking the frescoed courtyard.Via Stampatori 4 (00 39 339 258 1330; www.viastampatori.com ). ££

Where to eat out in Turin

BARRIQUE Corso Dante 53 (00 39 011 657900). Opened in 1999 by Stefano Gallo, this formal restaurant with striped wall coverings of taupe and cream incorporates raw ingredients in its dishes. Hand-chopped Langhe veal with crunchy vegetables in curry and egg sauce, dried salted cod cooked in two different ways with chickpea cream and turnip tops with tarragon-flavoured pesto sauce, Ligurian 'Besugo' fish with calamari and saffron and an unbelievably tasty rabbit, plump and with perfectly crisp skin. COMBAL.O Castello di Rivoli (00 39 011 956 5225): 12km west of Turin. Don't be put off by the pretentious name, pronounced 'Combal zero': this is a serious restaurant in a cool, modern setting. Chef Davide Scabin is fast becoming the Ferran Adrià of the Italian restaurant scene, forcing carefully sourced ingredients into unusual and sometimes bizarre combinations, such as lobster carpaccio with Gorgonzola and sea lettuce. Scabin's most famous creation is the 'cyberegg', a cellophane sphere containing a cocktail of egg yolk, vodka, caviar, shallots and black pepper. Guests are provided with a scalpel - not to attack the chef with but to cut the top off the cyberegg and drink the contents in one gulp. This is not a place for a quick business lunch: like the provocative, sometimes over-the-top contemporary art on view in the rest of the castle, Scabin's creations demand considerable attention. Closed Mon, Tues. IL ROSPETTO Piazza Madama Cristina 5 (00 39 011 669 8221): Valentino area. For some reason, via Madama Cristina, an unremarkable suburban street a couple of blocks back from the Parco del Valentino, has become Turin's pizza avenue. The action starts at the north end of the street in piazza Madama Cristina, where Il Rospetto ('the baby toad') serves up thin and crunchy Roman-style pizzas and high-rise Ligurian focaccia (try the stracchino cheese-and-rocket version). Soya-flour pizzas can also be had on request. Book ahead or be prepared to queue, as space is tight. Km5 Via San Domenico 14-16 (00 39 0114310032). This specialises in thick parmesan and porcini mushroom risotto, and offers a huge selection of affettati (slices of handmade salami and lardo). LA MONTAGNA IN VETRINA Piazza Emanuele Filiberto 3a (00 39 011 521 7882): Quadrilatero area. Another favourite Torinese quick stop for lunch or dinner is this eat-in deli that offers a range of gastronomic treats from the Piedmontese Alps and the Valle d'Aosta, to be nibbled tapas-style. Cheeses, cured meats and sott'oli (vegetables preserved in oil) are complemented by a small and daily changing selection of hot dishes: the soups are particularly good. One of the neat things about the place is its dual shop/restaurant function: if you fall in love with the stuffed peppers, you can buy a jar of them to take home. It is wise to book ahead. LA PISTA via Nizza 294 (00 39 011 6313523; fax: 011 6313708; www.lapista.to.it./eng/index_eng.htm ). Situated at the top of the Lingotto building, chef Massimo Guzzone's philosophy is based on raw materials, and seasonal produce. LE VITEL ETONNE Via San Francesco da Paola 4 (00 39 011 812 4621): Po area. The centrally located Le Vitel Etonné is run by three friends who share duties in the kitchen, the wine cellar and front-of-house. The name alludes to a classic Piedmontese dish, vitel tonne (vitello tonnato in standard Italian), which is slices of braised veal served cold with a sauce of mayonnaise, tuna, anchovies and capers. There are generally three antipasti on offer (one of which may or may not be vitel tonné), three pasta dishes and three secondi, all solid, regional dishes done without frills. There's usually at least one gourmet salad and an excellent cheese board. Wine is a strong point and the restaurant's latest finds are posted on the website, www.leviteletonne.com . Open Mon-Sat for lunch and dinner, Sun lunch only. It is wise to book ahead. PASTIS Piazza Emanuele Filiberto 9 (00 39 01 1521 1085). A traditional French-inspired trattoria popular with actors, artists and intellectuals, located in a small pretty pizza, with an outdoor area in summer. Its garlic-steeped l'albese (similar to steak tartare) is typically Piedmontese. PEPINO Piazza Carignano 8 (00 39 011 542 009): Castello area. Open daily, 8am-midnight. When Signor Pepino came up with the idea in 1937, it must have seemed revolutionary: an ice cream on a stick that could be eaten on one's evening walk. The ice lolly's original Italian name was gelato da passeggio, or 'strolling ice cream', but Pepino dubbed his creation il pinguino (the penguin), and it can still be purchased in the elegant bar that bears his name, on piazza Carignano. Vanilla, hazelnut and chocolate are the classic flavours; violet and lemon sorbets are among the more exotic variations. Pepino also does standard gelato, good coffee, a tempting range of cakes and an excellent lunch buffet, which is very popular with la Torino bene, the city's pearls-and-twinset brigade. PIZZERIA DESSI Via Madama Cristina 63 (00 39 011 668 7138): Valentino area. This specialises in farinata, a kind of chick-pea pizza similar to the socca of Nice, which is a legacy of Turin's historical and regal links with Liguria and Sardinia. Dessi also does pizza al padellino and castagnaccio, a dessert-bread made of chestnut flour. PIZZERIA E GELATERIA CECCHI Via Madama Cristina 92 (00 39 011 650 7030): Valentino area. Closed Mon. Further down the street, heading away from the centre, Pizzeria e Gelateria Cecchi specialises in Tuscan-style pizza al padellino, stretched-oval pizzas made from slow-leavened dough, which are fed into the oven on long-handled oars. Cecchi also makes great ice cream. RISTORANTE DEL CAMBIO Piazza Carignano 2 (00 39 011 546 690): Castello area. Closed Sun. In any other Italian city, Ristorante del Cambio would have become a museum by now. But in Turin this venerable establishment, which oozes noblesse oblige from every stuccoed, chandeliered and mirrored pore, is still an essential lifestyle accessory for the local upper class. Counts and marchesas, pearl-draped heiresses and captains of industry pile in here in the evenings to eat in the favourite restaurant of Risorgimento mastermind Count Cavour, whose table commanded a view of Palazzo Carignano opposite - then home to the Savoy parliament. Until recently you could be sure that the high-class comfort food served in the gilded, mirror-lined main salone would be as unremarkable as the waiters were impeccable. But recently the cuisine has become lighter and more creative. Classics such as risotto al Barolo are now flanked by more innovative dishes, for example sottofiletto di fassone (fillet of Piedmontese ox) roasted in juniper with crunchy herbs. The waiters, thank goodness, are still impeccable. While the Cambio has taken a foodie turn, it has a long way to go before it can compete with Combal.0, the gastronomic offshoot of the out-of-town Castello di Rivoli modern-art complex (see What to See). RISTORANTE MINA Via Ellero 86 (00 39 0116963608). This serves a rich truffle-stuffed chicken with deep-fried artichokes. RISTORANTE MORENO Corso Unione Sovietica 244 (00 39 0113179657). Specialises in truffles. The simplest and tastiest way to eat them is grated over pasta. TRE GALLINE Via Bellezia 37d (00 39 011 436 6553; www.3galline.it) . An informal restaurant where you often see politcians and journalists eating lunch. It's still going strong after nearly 450 years and is the spot for traditional Piedmontese fare - delectable truffle dishes, or bollito misto, a meaty boil-up with various sauces. Try the vitello tonnato, a multi-layered dish of veal topped with capers and tuna in home-made mayonnaise. The bue brasato (braised ox) is marinaded in red wine and herbs for several days before being roasted, producing a delicious sauce. In winter, it offers a rich primo piatto of ravioli stuffed with black truffle paste. In season, white truffles, a precious and rare produce of the Piedmont region, are shaved onto undressed pasta and weighed to determine how much to charge. €80 for three courses without wine. VINERIA TRE GALLI Via Sant'Agostino 25 (00 39 011521 6027; www.3galli.com ). It's an offshoot of Tre Galline that attracts a hipper crowd with such new-wave dishes as octopus with stewed spring onions. This upmarket vineria is the place to try wines from all over Italy accompanied by excellent food. Try the bagna calda, a thick garlic, milk and anchovy dip served with raw vegetables and toasted focaccia. €70 for three courses without wine. CAFE CULTURE Francophile Turin has the most deep-rooted café culture of any Italian city. Anyone who wants to go straight to the soul of the place should head for one of the classic establishments that still service the demand for elegant social intercourse over bone-china coffee cups and plates piled high with pasticceria mignon. (Mini-cakes are designed so that respectable matrons can eat lots of them without appearing greedy). Other northern Italian cities - Milan, Padua, Trieste - have a thriving bar and café scene. What marks Turin out is the sheer number of period interiors that have been lovingly preserved. BARATTI & MILANO Piazza Castello 29 (00 39 011 440 7138; www.barattiemilano.it ). Open 8am-9pm, closed Mondays. The delights of this belle-époque bar begin outside, in themed confectionery-filled window displays that are veritable works of art. Inside, there's hardly a square inch which isn't filled with Baratti & Milano's signature pastries and chocolates. Messrs Baratti and Milano applied for permission to open their emporium on the corner of piazza Castello and the then-new Subalpina gallery - a belle-époque shopping mall - in 1874. As the confectionery shop expanded to include a café and tea house, sculptor Edoardo Rubino and architect Giulio Casanova were called in to oversee the decoration, their original design is still in place today. Admire it as you sample the bignoli - glazed pastry cases filled with flavoured cream - or the gianduiotto, soft wedges of chocolate and hazelnut paste. CAFFE AL BICERIN Piazza della Consolata 5 (00 39 011 436 9325; www.bicerin.it ). Open 8.30am-7.30pm, closed Wed and Sat. If the ghost of a Grand Tourist rustled in and squeezed her crinoline onto a red plush bench behind one of Caffè Al Bicerin's marble tables, she wouldn't look out of place. Filled with boiserie panelling, this café opposite the church of La Consolata has changed little since a major makeover in the early-19th century. When it first opened the café was patronised by politicians, philosophers and writers - Alexandre Dumas and Friedrich Nietzsche liked to pen their works here. Nowadays, the crowd is less elite but no less committed to this café's trademark bicerin, a steaming coffee, chocolate and cream concoction guaranteed to stave off the Piedmontese chills. Behind the marble-topped counter, glass jars hold confetti sweets in pastel colours; inside the glass-topped display case beneath the counter are Al Bicerin's exquisite home-made chocolates. CAFFE ELENA Piazza Vittorio Veneto 5 (00 39 011 812 3341). Open 8am-1am, closed Wednesdays. Caffè Elena lacks the lavish trappings of most of Turin's caffè storici but it doesn't lack in atmosphere. Its two rooms do have wood panelling, and its marble-topped tables bear witness to generations of Campari spillage; but there are no gleaming glass cases filled with showy bonbons, and the whole place has a somewhat lived-in feel. Which explains, perhaps, why this is the café of choice for a laid-back, bohemian crowd - crowd being the operative word around seven in the evening. Earnest intellectuals lean their elbows on the same tables at which Nietzsche went extravagantly mad, while the constantly-replenished table laden with delicious - and deliciously free - aperitivo-hour snacks. CAFFE FIORIO Via Po 8 (00 39 011 817 3225). Open daily 7am-midnight. In early-20th-century Turin, snacking on the street was seriously frowned upon. In order to break the taboo, the owner of Fiorio hired a gaggle of beautiful girls to stroll along arcaded via Po eating ice cream from cones - a recent Italian invention launched on a sceptical world at the 1900 Paris Expo. In business since 1780, it had been the political heart of pre-Unification Piedmont, the place where the liberal movers and shakers met, drank and decided the fate of the nation. Fiorio's cone with gianduia ice cream and whipped cream is superb; but all the gelato is good. The recipes are secret, but the owner will reveal that all the eggs he uses are free-range, all the fruit is squeezed on the premises, and that he still uses a 30-year-old Carpigiani Cattabriga gelatiera - the Ferrari of ice-cream machines. CAFFE PLATTI Corso Vittorio Emanuele II 72 (00 39 011 506 9056; www.platti.it/stampa.html). Open daily 7.30am-9pm. A little outside the centre, in the tree-lined Crocetta neighbourhood, Caffè Platti has been the haunt of Turin's alta borghesia since it opened in 1870. The striking shop-front beneath the arcades in corso Vittorio Emanuele II is made from a single cast-iron block, a tribute to Turin's industrial heritage. Inside, Louis XVI-style chairs and marble-topped tables on spindly cast-iron legs blend with gold and cream plaster mouldings and huge mirrors to create an atmosphere of refined opulence. Since it opened, Platti has been most famous for its draguées, chocolate-dipped hazelnuts, coffee beans and candied fruits, and for the Torta Platti - a calorific cylinder of chocolate and gianduia (a creamy mixture of chocolate and hazelnuts). CAFFE SAN CARLO Piazza San Carlo 156 (00 39 011 532 586; www.caffesancarlo.it). Open daily 8am-midnight. An immense chandelier in Murano glass sets the tone in the main room of this Turin institution. With its empire chairs, gilded boiseries and stiffly attentive service, Caffè San Carlo has an elegance which might be almost off-putting were it not for the superb quality of the food and drinks on offer. Much of the San Carlo's sumptuous mid-19th-century decor was destroyed in World War II; but the reconstruction is so faithful that you can't see the joins between old and new. Spread over a main and smaller room, both filled with the obligatory white marble-topped tables, plus a Chinese salon (this last spared by the bombs), the café is well-known for attention to detail, even making its own bread for the delicious sandwiches and rolls on offer in its very popular lunchtime snacks spread. CAFFÈ TORINO Piazza San Carlo 204 (00 39 011 545 118). Open daily 7am-midnight. In the same stately square as the Caffè San Carlo, the Caffè Torino is the neo-baroque fruit of a Fascist-era makeover received after a move from its original site just across the piazza, where it opened in 1903. The ornate cash register by the front door was made in Ohio in the early-20th century but the cakes and chocolates it serves products of today's Piedmontese specialists. Early spring and winter are busy times, with fur-coated matrons jostling for a box of Christmas gianduiotti or a huge Easter egg. In its early years the Torino attracted a clique of writers, among them Italo Calvino's literary guru, Cesare Pavese. The tables outside provide a great spot for observing city life. HAFA CAFÉ 23C Via Sant'Agostino (00 39 011436 7091). Cooler than the city's traditional cafés, the Hafa Café is a trendy place for an aperitif. Set out in endless quantities, you can also eat as many snacks as you like for a small fee. MULASSANO Piazza Castello 15 (00 39 011 547 990). Open daily 7.30am-9pm. This tiny centro storico bar is an exercise in floor-to-ceiling opulence. From its elegant wooden shopfront through a stunningly decadent bar counter in Piedmontese purple marble to the mirror-encrusted boiseries, the Mulassano leaves no square centimetre unadorned. Inaugurated in 1907, this jewel box of a café was painstakingly restored to its original glory in 1978. Its location right across the square from the Teatro Regio makes it a favourite with theatre-goers - who stop off here for a pre-show cocktail. Although it's not the only bar in Italy to advance the claim, Mulassano's boast that it invented the tramezzino (Italian for sandwich) is at least backed up by present-day evidence: the bar's lightly toasted sandwiches are delicious. PASTIS Piazza Emanuele Filiberto 9 (00 39 011 521 1085). The artsy, 1950s-style Pastis which does a roaring aperitivo trade. Though herb-flavoured wines can be traced back as far as Ancient Greece, Italian-style vermouth (a corruption of the German Wermut, which became 'wormwood' in English) was, according to the local tradition, created in the mid-18th century under the arcades of piazza Castello. The creator was a waiter called Benedetto Carpano who used monastic recipes from his native Biella. A huge hit with the Savoy court, vermouth gradually spread to other Italian cities, and the Carpano brand was challenged by a host of arrivistes, from Cinzano to Gancia. But purists can still find Carpano in three forms: Classico, Bianco and Punt e Mes. The latter, a dry version of the blend, means 'a shot and a half' in Torinese dialect. It was first produced in 1870 to a formula suggested by a local banker who liked his Carpano Classico with a dash of quinine. Served liscio - just with ice and a slice of orange - it is still a popular drink in the bars of Turin, and to order it will gain you local kudos. BASSO 30 Via Sant'Agostino 30 (00 39 011 578 8288; www.basso30.it ). The restaurant sources ingredients from surrounding farms for its fine cuisine. €55 for three courses without wine. OSTERIA DELLA CIMA Via Sant'Agostino 6 (00 39 011 436 5091). Osteria della Cima uses its daytime focaccia ovens to make delicious lasagne in the evening. Dishes from €7. LA GASTRONOMIA DEL QUADRILATERO Via San Dalmazzo 7 (00 39 011 547367). A deli-cum-bistro that offers a cheap lunch. Lunch menus between €4-€7. EATALY Via Nizza 230 (00 39 011 1950 6801; www.eataly.it ). A selection of in-house restaurants which sells delicacies from all over Italy. L'ARTE DEL PANE Via Po 25 (00 39 011 885 580). A traditional family bakery with the best fresh grissini. GUIDO GOBINO Via Giuseppe Luigi Lagrange 1 (00 39 011 566 0707; www.guidogobino.it ). Offers chocolate delights, including unusual flavours, such as rosemary.

The best nightlife in Turin

HIROSHIMA MON AMOUR Via Bossoli 83 (00 39 011 317 6636; www.hiroshimamonamour.org ): South area. Hiroshima Mon Amour has been a stalwart of the Turin club scene since 1986. Now in new premises not far from the Lingotto complex (see Where to Stay), this multi-faceted cultural centre organises live concerts, exhibitions, avant-garde theatrical happenings as well as Friday and Saturday club nights. Any given week there might be a Russian performance artist interacting with an old 386Mhz computer, an UK indie-rock group, a gypsy brass band, a poetry slam, a ska and reggae night, an exhibition of fumetti (strip cartoons); pretty much anything goes. Concerts begin at 10.30pm. Open Tues-Sat, 9.30pm-2am. LAB Piazza Vittorio Veneto 13 (00 39 011 817 0669). It serves an especially imaginative selection of titbits for the early-evening aperitivo (when the Torinesi hit the cafés around the Piazza Vittorio Veneto for cocktails and snacks). LA DROGHERIA Piazza Vittorio Veneto 18 (00 39011 812 2414; www.la-drogheria.it ). Comes with indie music and a hip crowd. €7-€9 will cover your first drink and access to the buffet. PASTIS Piazza Emanuele Filiberto 9 (00 39 011 521 1085). With its corner terrace, is a great place for a ringside seat for revels in the Quadrilatero Romano till late. CASA MAD Via Santa Chiara 24 (00 39 011 1970 1970). Attracts a cheerfully bohemian crowd of all ages as the evening draws on.

What to see in Turin

BAROQUE ARCHITECTURE In the seven decades between 1666 and 1736, two court architects left an indelible impression on the fabric of the city and together defined the style referred to as Barocco torinese. Multi-talented Guarino Guarini, whose soaring architectural creations are both geometrically precise and theatrically exuberant, was also a mathematician, astronomer and philosopher. He designed the Cappella della Santa Sindone (finished in 1694 after his death), created to provide a fittingly elaborate showcase for the city's prize relic, the Holy Shroud. Heavily damaged by a fire in 1997, the chapel is still being restored. But Guarini's real masterpiece is an earlier commission, the royal church of San Lorenzo, a tasteful clutter of coloured marble, stucco, fresco, intarsia and canvas, topped by a confectioner's dome. Turin's other baroque genius, Sicilian architect Filippo Juvarra, arrived in the city in 1714 as court architect to Vittorio Amedeo II, and immediately began to provide the freshling king (the Savoys had been mere dukes until the previous year) with the sort of grandiose but elegant palaces that befitted his new title. He left his mark on the huge work-in-progress that was Palazzo Reale, and designed - from scratch - two magnificent out-of-town hunting lodges, the Venaria Reale and Stupinigi, and the votive basilica of Superga. But Juvarra's most audacious and airily Sicilian contribution to Turin's renewed centro storico was his work on the forbidding medieval fortress of Palazzo Madama. Between 1718 and 1721 Juvarrra cloaked this rude military pile in elegant baroque clothes - at least on the western side, which faced the Savoy power hub of piazza Reale. The real treat is just behind the façade: an airy, monumental staircase that makes the swivelling stairs in Harry Potter look positively mundane. CASTELLO DI MASINO (00 39 0125 778 100): 30km north-east of Turin. Take a day out to visit the Castello di Masino, a marvellously preserved stately home that rises above the Canavese plain about 30km north-east of Turin. The castle belonged to the Valperga di Masino family, a local dynasty whose fortune came from the hemp fields that once covered this fertile plain. The wacky weed (which was woven, rather than smoked) even ended up in the family's coat of arms. More a country house than a proper castle, the rooms here are decorated in styles that vary from medieval to rococo. The castle and grounds are now owned by the FAI (Italy's equivalent of the National Trust) and run in exemplary fashion, with the money from admissions and donations ploughed back into restoration. One of the decorative peaks of the castle is the suite of rooms kitted out for Madama Giovanna Battista di Savoia, aka 'Madama Reale'. She was the queen-regent whose love affair in the 1680s with the much younger Carlo Francesco I Valperga di Masino gave the family the foothold (or rather handhold) it needed in the Savoy court. It also provided the pretext for the makeover of what up until then had been a fairly rustic country pad. The castello's second high-water mark, at the end of the 18th century, is most fully represented by the Galleria dei Poeti, a long literary hallway with medallions of illustrious poets frescoed in pastel pinks and yellows. It was the creation of Tommaso Valperga, Abbot of Caluso, an Enlightenment tour de force who spoke six languages and distinguished himself both as mathematician and poet. Masino is most easily reached by car, but is also accessible by public transport, except on Sundays. Take the train to Ivrea from Turin's Porta Nuova station (the 9.25am is the best morning option), then change for the SATTI bus to Caravino; the castle is a pleasant 20-minute walk from here. Open Feb-Sept 10am-1pm, 2pm-5pm; Oct to mid-Dec 10am-noon, 2pm-4pm (times are those of latest permitted entry); closed Mon and mid-Dec to end Jan. CASTELLO DI RIVOLI MUSEO DI ARTE CONTEMPORANEA Piazza Malfalda di Savoia Rivoli (00 39 011 956 5222; www.castellodirivoli.org ): 20km east of Turin, in the castle town of Rivoli. Turin has been engaged in a major image makeover in recent years and much of the effort has gone into stressing the Piedmontese regional capital's vibrant contemporary art scene. Although the city lacks anything with the shock value of the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, it does have a constellation of public and private galleries that together justify Turin's claim to be a major contemporary art hub, in cultural if not commercial terms. Leader of the pack is the Castello di Rivoli Museo di Arte Contemporanea, which occupies a Savoy hunting lodge 20km east of the city centre. Damaged by French troops in 1690 and never rebuilt, this ravaged sovereign residence ­provides a satisfyingly bizarre showcase for a satisfyingly bizarre collection. The finely restored Settecento interior of the main palazzo houses the permanent collection, which includes works by Sol LeWitt, Tony Cragg, Bruce Nauman, Rebecca Horn, local artist Maurizio Cattelan (if you've ever wondered where his notorious dangling horse is stabled, it's here), and others. The complex also includes Davide Scabin's equally contemporary Michelin-starred Combal.0 restaurant (see Where to Eat). Open Tues-Thurs 10am-5pm, Fri-Sun 10am-9pm. CHRISTMAS LIGHTS At the beginning of November every year, Turin's Christmas lights go on. But these are not your common or garden snowflake-and-Santa illuminations. They are part of Luci d'artista, an initiative launched in 1997 by the city council to extend Turin's growing role as a collector and promoter of contemporary art into the ephemeral sphere of winter illuminations. Each year, one or two new artists (most recently Jenny Holzer and Jan Vercruysse) are asked to come up with an installation in the medium of electric light; there are now more than 20 of these. Some, like Rebecca Horn's eerie blue haloes circling the hilltop Cappuccini church on the east bank of the Po, are site-specific; others move location from year to year. The tourist office inside the futuristic new Atrium pavilion in piazza Solferino provides free Luci d'artista maps for those who want to do the rounds of the illuminations; it also organises weekend guided tours. GAM (GALLERIA CIVICA D'ARTE MODERNA E CONTEMPORANEA Via Magenta 31 (00 39 011 4429518; fax: 011 4429550; www.gamtorino.it ). Houses an impressive collection of 19th and 20th century art, with over 15,000 works, including paintings, sculptures, installations and photographs, in addition to a large collection of drawings and engravings. The collections mainly document Italian art, in addition to pieces by Andy Warhol and Antony Gormley. Open Tues-Sun 10am-6pm; €7.50 entry. IL LINGOTTO (FIAT FACTORY) Via Nizza 230. Built in 1920, the enormous Fiat (Fabbrica Italiana di Automobili Torino) factory is a modernist masterpiece. The building itself was designed as a machine - the cars would be pushed upwards floor-by-floor during each stage of assembly, until the finished models arrived on the roof for a test drive. Fiat was owned by the late Gianni Agnelli, seen as the most powerful man in Italy. Il Lingotto has now been remodelled by the architect Renzo Piano into a hotel and leisure complex, with a rooftop restaurant, La Pista (see Where to eat). It also houses the Pinacoteca Giovanni e Marella Agnelli art collection (see below). SANTUARIO DELLA CONSOLATA Piazza della Consolata (00 39 0 11 4363235). This is Turin's most elaborate church and worth a visit, housing a series of paintings known as 'the sorrows', in which parishioners depict life-threatening scenes from which they have been saved. THE BASILICA DI SUPERGA (00 39 011 8997456; www.basilicadisuperga.com/en/index.htm). The Basilica di Superga is the classic Sunday outing from Turin. This mini St Peter's, which stands on a wooded ridge 10km north-east of the centre, was erected by Vittorio Amedeo II after the Madonna had answered his plea for victory in an important battle against the French, during the War of Spanish Succession. Built by court architect Filippo Juvarra between 1716 and 1731, the church lacks the sheer brio and audacity of Juvarra's work on Palazzo Madama, though its refined urbanity is set off to good effect by the dense oak forests that surround it. The classic way of ascending to it is on the tramvia a dentiera (rack tramway) from the Sassi stop in piazza Modena. The restored 1930s electric trams leave every hour on the hour between 9am and 8pm, and until midnight on Tuesdays. THE MOLE ANTONELLIANA Via Montebello 20 (00 39 011 813 8560; www.museocinema.it ): Po area. 'A poem should not mean but be,' said Archibald MacLeish. Turin's most important landmark, the Mole Antonelliana, applies that maxim to architecture. The purpose of this soaring dome and spire, which rises high above the rooftops of the centro storico, and is the tallest brick building in Europe, has always been unclear. But boy, does it have presence. Designed by eccentric engineer-architect Alessandro Antonelli, the Mole (a word that means, among other things, 'big pile') was supposed to be Turin's new synagogue. Structural problems and lack of funds caused work to grind to a halt soon after it began in 1862, and the tower was completed only in 1897. By this time the city's Jewish community had made alternative arrangements and it wasn't until 2000 that the Mole, finally more than an expensive white elephant, was chosen to house Italy's Museo Nazionale del Cinema. This showy but not always rewarding collection of cinema paraphernalia (posters, sets, costumes) is at its most absorbing in the 'archaeology of cinema' section, with its collection of peepshows, optical trickery, magic lanterns and primitive projection equipment. Movie buffs will love the museum's brilliant collection of posters and other memorabilia, including props from films ranging from Cecil B DeMille's The Ten Commandments to Star Wars, the alien from Aliens, Federico Fellini's sketches and the original script from Godfather Part II. The Mole's other function is to support the viewing platform at the base of the spire, reached via a lift that shoots daringly up through the centre of the building. The platform affords a magnificent 360-degree over the city and its surroundings. On clear days the snow-capped Alps seem just an arm's length away. Open Tues-Fri & Sun 9am-8pm, Sat 9am-11pm; museum €7; museum & lift €9. THE MUSEO EGIZIO Via Accademia delle Scienze 6 (00 39 011 561 7776; www.museoegizio.it ): Castello area. The Museo Egizio is the surprise trump card in Turin's sightseeing hand. The Savoy family had been dabbling in Ancient Egyptian knick-knacks since the 16th century when it acquired the Mensa Isiaca, a bronze tablet with hieroglyphic inscriptions that stirred up the Renaissance appetite for mummy lore (though it was later revealed to be a Roman copy). The fledgling collection was given a huge boost in 1824 when Carlo Felice bought up the Egyptian hoard of Bernardino Drovetti, a resourceful piemontese who had used his position as French consul in Cairo to amass the world's biggest private collection of Egyptian artefacts. Later Italian expeditions plumped out the museum's holdings, which today consist of around 30,000 items. It's an atmospheric cultural storehouse, and while some will lament the lack of hands-on 'interactive experiences', the museum's air of fusty studiousness is somehow just right for Turin. Mummies lie sliced into suspended sections, and in the reconstructed tomb of Ini (from 2100BC) clay serfs make beer and bread to keep their master going in the afterlife. An upstairs room houses an entire rock-hewn temple, brought here in blocks to save it from the rising waters of the Aswan Dam. The display - and the labels - may not be as impressive as those in the Egyptian rooms of the British Museum or the Louvre, but for sheer completeness, Turin wins hands down. Open daily 8.30am-7.30pm. Closed Mon. Entry €7.50. THE PARCO DEL VALENTINO Orto Botanico, viale PA Mattioli 25 (00 39 011 661 2447). The Parco del Valentino is Turin's Hyde Park: the place where this most grid-planned and car-dependent of Italian cities comes to sprawl on the grass, canoodle, jog, walk the dog or just get a breath of fresh air. Its centrepiece, the handsome Castello del Valentino, a 16th-century Savoy residence, is off limits to visitors because it now houses the Architecture Faculty of the Politecnico di Torino. But there are plenty of other corners of this riverside park that are worth exploring, from the Orto Botanico, founded by Vittorio Amedeo II in 1729 as a garden of medicinal herbs, to the Giardino Roccioso, a green declivity which in 1961 was turned into an Alpine-style area of rocky rills spanned by little wooden bridges. The park's highlight, if only for its curiosity value, is the bizarre Borgo Medievale. This is a life-size reconstruction of a rural Piedmontese village from the 15th century, complete with drawbridges and crenellated towers, which has provided a wedding-photo backdrop for generations of torinesi. It was built for a long-forgotten Expo in 1884 and houses some surprisingly worthwhile craft workshops. Open Sat, Sun, April-Sept, 9am-1pm, 3pm-7pm. Borgo Medievale, viale Virgilio 107 (011 443 1701). Open 9am-8pm daily. THE PINACOTECA GIOVANNI E MARELLA AGNELLI Via Nizza 230 (00 39 011 0062713; fax: 011 0062712; www.pinacoteca-agnelli.it ). The Fiat Factory now houses this art collection, showcasing the Angelli family's works of art collection. There are only 18 pieces on display, but they include masterpieces by Canaletto, Renoir, Gauguin, Picasso, Matisse and appropriately, Italian futurist Gino Severini, who like the Agnellis, loved machines. Open Tues-Sun 10am-7pm; €4 entry. TURIN'S HOLY SHROUD Museo della Sindone, via San Domenico 28 (00 39 011 436 5832; www.shroud.com ): Quadrilatero area. Beware of getting into an argument with a shroudie. Those who champion the authenticity of the Turin Shroud have all the figures, dates and favourable scientific data at their fingertips, and they trade them with passion and avidity on the Internet. The plain fact of the matter is that Turin's biggest tourist attraction, and the world's most famous linen sheet, can only be traced back as far as the mid-14th century. Radio carbon dating tends to support a medieval origin for the cloth on which this miraculous image of Jesus Christ is supposedly imprinted. The official story has it that the Shroud (la Sacra Sindone in Italian) was brought back from the Holy Land by a crusader and found its way into the hands of a French aristocrat, who donated it to the House of Savoy in the 15th century. It became a sort of Savoy lucky mascot and accompanied the dukes from Chambéry to Turin, their new capital, in 1578. It was given pride of place in the Duomo, in a chapel designed by Guarino Guarini. Today the Holy Shroud is displayed only on special occasions (the last was the Jubilee year of 2000). Those interested in the history and significance of this contested relic can visit the Museo della Sindone, under the church of the Santissimo Sudario. As might be expected in such a setting, the display is heavily believer-oriented. Open daily 9am-11am, 3pm-7pm. MUSEO NAZIONALE DELL'AUTOMOBILE Corso Unita d'Italia 40 (00 39 011 677 666; www.museoauto.it ). After a recent revamp, this museum houses a fascinating collection of cars - from a steam-driven landau to zooty modern racers, often displayed as part of art installations. Open Mon 10am-2pm, Tues 2pm-7pm, Wed, Thurs & Sun 10am-7pm; Fri & Sat 10am-9pm; €8 entry. GALLERIA SABAUDA Via Accademia delle Scienze 6 (00 39 011 440 6903; www.museitorino.it ). The gallery offers centuries of fine art in a collection started by the House of Savoy. Open Tues & Fri-Sun 8.30am-2pm, Wed& Thurs 2pm-7.30pm; €4 entry. FONDAZIONE MERZ Via Limone 24 (00 39 011 1971 9437; www.fondazionemerz.org ). It holds paintings and sculptures by Mario Merz and hosts shows by exciting contemporary artists in a former heating plant for the Lancia factory. Open Tues-Sun 11am-7pm; €5 entry. FONDAZIONE SANDRETTO RE REBAUDENGO A cavernous space with ample room for installations by the very hottest of the avant-garde.Via Modane 16 (00 39 011 379 7600; www.fondsrr.org ). Open Tues, Wed & Fri-Sun 2pm-7pm, Thur 2pm-7.30pm & 8pm-11pm; €5 entry.

Where to shop in Turin

Ask most Italians what they associate with Turin, and after getting Fiat, Juventus and the Mole Antonelliana out of the way, they will almost certainly plump for gianduia (also spelled gianduja). This chocolate-and-hazelnut paste has achieved international commercial outreach in the form of Nutella, a brand owned and marketed by Piedmontese food company Ferrero. But it is at its most exquisitely more-ish in the solid, wedge-shaped gianduiotti handmade by a number of the city's top chocolatiers. A good place to start the search for the perfect gianduiotto is Confetteria Stratta, a historic confectioner in the city centre and a chocolate box in itself. It also does great pralines and candied fruit creations. Another ultra-traditional temple of chocolate is Peyrano, worth a visit on Sunday morning just to see Turin's upper crust stocking up on beautifully wrapped packages to take along to that important lunch party. Among Peyrano's specialities are 'alpine' - cuplets of gianduia filled with a liqueur made to a secret recipe. Confetteria Stratta, piazza San Carlo 191 (011 547920): Castello area. Open Mon 3pm-7.30pm, Tues–Sat 9.30am-7.30pm. Peyrano, corso Vittorio Emanuele II 76 (011 538 765, www.peyrano.com ): Crocetta area. Open Tues-Sat 9.30am-8pm, Sun 9.30am-1pm.

The elegant, arcaded via Roma in the Castello area is the name-brand fashion strip of Turin, lined with all the usual suspects such as Ferragamo, Max Mara and Timberland. You can even take a virtual stroll from shop to shop (much better for the bank balance) by clicking on its website, www.torino-viaroma.com . For something a little different, head for Autopsie Vestimentaire, the atelier-boutique of Torinese designer Alice Capelli, in a small street just east of the Consolata church. Capelli's unstructured dresses, skirts, blouses and coats (each comes in four sizes) are original but also highly wearable. Autopsie Vestimentaire, via Bonelli 6b (00 39 011 436 0641; www.autopsievestimentaire.com ): Quadrilatero area. Open Mon-Sat, 3pm-7.30pm.

THE BORGIATTINO SHOPFRONT

Via Cernaia 32 (00 39 011 535237): Cittadella area. Open daily 8.30am-1pm, 4pm-7.30pm, closed Wed afternoon, Sun. Italian delicatessen window displays are things of great beauty. Take the Borgiattino shopfront in via Cernaia. There's nothing showy or pretentious about the way this venerable family of cheese and wine purveyors set out their stall: it's basically about cramming as many good things to eat and drink as possible into a small space. Soft Alpine toma and robiola cheeses are flanked by a detachment of jams and preserves, and the way they build to grander, more imposing rounds of smoky fontina or tangy parmesan on the top shelves, framed by some serious bottles of Gavi, Barolo and Gattinara. It is the sort of display that makes you want to step inside and let family patriarch Giuseppe Borgiattino assemble a bundle of Piedmontese treats to take home. This, of course, is exactly what you should do.

THE GRAN BALON MARKET

( www.balon.it ). One of Italy's great antique and bric-a-brac markets, the Gran Balôn takes place on the morning of the second Sunday of every month in a warren of streets around via Borgo Dora, north of Porta Palazzo. More than 200 dealers pitch their stalls here; some even make the journey from France. Come early, around 8am, for the cream of the crop. The same streets host the Balôn flea market every Saturday - a less exalted but equally enjoyable version of the Gran Balôn. Via Borgo Dora also has a good scatter of permanent antique shops, most of them friendlier and more bargain-oriented than their often forbidding ring-the-doorbell cousins in the centro storico.

The best way to get around Turin

Driving in Turin is chaotic and parking in the city is to be avoided at all costs. It's quite acceptable to abandon your vehicle in the middle of certain streets or on the pavement. Much quicker and cheaper is to use the city's dense network of buses, trams and a funicular, run by Azienda Torinese Mobilita (ATM; 00 39 800 019 152; email: [email protected] ).

Tourist information for Turin

Visit www.turismotorino.org

Deadly April storm batters Northeast, snarling travel and knocking out power to half a million

A powerful April storm is hitting the Northeast on Thursday, dumping rain and snow with howling tropical force winds, prompting major airport delays and whiteout road conditions, and knocking out power to over half a million customers.

The strong storm system has been crawling across the U.S. since the weekend — and has already led to several weather-related deaths.

In Pennsylvania, two people died in separate incidents in which a tree fell on the car they were in during Wednesday’s storms. An elderly man died in Delaware County, and an elderly woman , described as in her early 80s, was also killed in Collegeville, Pennsylvania, NBC Philadelphia reported.

Another death was reported in Armonk, New York, Wednesday evening after a tree fell onto a car, killing the operator, North Castle police said. 

As of Thursday morning, the system is making its way out of the Northeast, with 5 million people under wind alerts across New England and 8 million under winter alerts.

The system will produce heavy, wet snow over north-central New England and northeast New York and pass through Maine on Thursday, the National Weather Service Prediction Center forecast. An additional 12 inches of snowfall is possible through Friday.

The system will create “significant impacts from heavy snow and wind,” and perilous travel due to whiteout conditions, snow-covered roads, tree damage and power outages, the NWS said.

Disrupted travel, crashes and power outages

Air travel has already been affected, with over 1,200 delays and over 300 cancellations inside, into or out of the U.S. reported, according to Flight Aware data — all amid a week of busy spring break bookings.

The storm system has also wreaked havoc on roads.

In New Hampshire, state troopers responded to three tractor-trailer rollover crashes in less than seven hours by late Wednesday. State police urged locals “to avoid unnecessary travel.” Massachusetts State Police also responded to multiple crashes Wednesday evening, describing road conditions as “poor.”

Powerful winds have whipped through the region since Wednesday, downing power lines and trees.

Nationally, over 500,000 customers are without power — including over 235,000 in Maine, 53,000 in West Virginia and over 51,000 in New York as of 8:30 a.m., according to PowerOutage.us.

By 2:30 p.m. ET, more than 640,000 were without power with over 334,000 out in Maine and over 173,000 out in New Hampshire.

In New Hampshire as of early Thursday, more than 100,000 customers were without power, the state’s division of homeland security and emergency management said. The agency’s State Emergency Operations Center has been activated in response to the storm.

New York State Electric and Gas, which serves the upstate region, said Wednesday’s severe weather led to 180 downed wires and more than 30 broken poles.

“NYSEG pre-staged more than 2,100 additional line workers and tree personnel across its service areas in preparation for the storm and are currently shifting resources to support its hardest hit areas,” the company said.

Utility company National Grid said it was responding to stormy conditions in upstate New York by increasing staffing, extending overnight shifts, bringing in additional resources from other states and Canada, and pre-staging crews in areas anticipated to be “most severely impacted.”

In Brookfield, Connecticut, a mother and her three kids narrowly escaped injury Wednesday when stormy winds caused a tree to fall on their car, completely crushing it.

In Maine, where heavy snow is forecast, Gov. Janet Mills directed all state offices to be closed Thursday and urged locals to “take proper precautions and to prepare for possible power outages.”

More wind, rain and snow

The storm has already drenched much of the Northeast, with a daily record of 1.75 inches recorded at New York City’s LaGuardia Airport on Wednesday, 1.55 inches in Central Park, 1.49 inches in Philadelphia, and 1.84 inches in Newark, New Jersey.

Even Lady Liberty was hit by rumbling thunderstorms, struck by a bolt of lightning Wednesday evening around 6 p.m. in a stunning moment captured by a photographer from Liberty State Park in New Jersey.

The system has also brought with it dangerously high winds, with a gust of 67 mph reported Wednesday in Nantucket, Massachusetts, 64 mph in Stamford, Connecticut, 59 mph in Manhattan and 54 mph in Boston.

Winds are forecast to stay strong through Thursday, with isolated wind gusts of 50-60 mph possible especially for coastal New England.

Alerts for minor to moderate coastal flooding also remain in effect through Thursday evening for 26 million from the Delmarva Peninsula to the Maine coast.

The system will slowly move off the Northeast coast by Saturday.

Breaking News Reporter

Kathryn Prociv is a senior meteorologist and producer for NBC News. 

Eclipse 2024 Countdown: What to know about Vermont traffic on April 8

Pretty soon, itty-bitty Vermont is going to feel much more crowded.

Leading up to the April 8 solar eclipse, nearly a quarter million visitors are expected to swarm the Green Mountain State due to its position within the “path of totality.”

To avoid the heavy traffic and overall chaos of the day, the Vermont Agency of Transportation advises Vermonters to “hunker down” and forego driving on April 8 if they can help it. Many northern Vermont schools and some businesses, for instance, are taking heed and closing for the eclipse.

For residents who still plan to brave the roads, however, here’s what you should know about traffic conditions on April 8.

What might Vermont traffic look like on April 8?

In preparation for the eclipse, the Vermont Agency of Transportation compiled a list of “assumptions” about the motor vehicle traffic expected on April 8.

Although some sources anticipate higher numbers, the agency said it foresees a maximum of 160,000 visitors (or roughly 60,000 additional cars) for the eclipse, with inbound traffic to trickle in over the course of two to three days prior to the event. Most outbound traffic will likely depart immediately once the eclipse concludes, though more than 14,000 vehicles may spend the night.

However, Vermont may end up seeing fewer visitors due to anticipated cloudy and rainy weather and because April 8 falls on a Monday.  

According to the agency, most visitors will likely enter Vermont from the south, particularly from Boston and Worcester in Massachusetts and Hartford, Springfield, New Haven and Bridgeport in Connecticut.

Vermonters should also anticipate fellow drivers pulling off to the side of the road to watch the eclipse.

Which Vermont roads should I avoid?

Based on the above assumptions, the roads with the highest estimated traffic volumes likely include:

• US 4 in Mendon, Bridgewater, and Woodstock
• VT 103 in Ludlow, Clarendon, and Cavendish
• VT 100 in Waterbury
• US 5 in Brattleboro
• I-89 from Exit 10 to U.S. Route 2 and the Champlain Islands
• US 7 in Shelburne, Ferrisburgh, and Pittsford
• Williston I-89 exit ramps, VT 2A, US 2
• Burlington main local roads
• VT 15 in Essex
• US 2 and VT 117 in Richmond
• I-91 in Rockingham
• VT 9 in Brattleboro and Wilmington
• I-89 in Waterbury, Middlesex, Montpelier, and Hartford

However, it should be noted that local and feeder roads may also experience delays and congestion should drivers begin to detour from the main roadways.

For more information about April 8 in Vermont, including traffic and weather, visit the state’s eclipse page .

How is Burlington handling traffic and safety during the eclipse?

Hotel reservations and airport data indicate that Vermont’s biggest city may welcome as many as 35,000 to 50,000 tourists for the eclipse, according to Obscura BTV .

How does Burlington Police plan to maintain traffic flow and safety?

According to last month’s Burlington Police Chief’s Report, there will be up to 40 police officers on duty. This is the same amount as the July 3 Fireworks celebration last year, minus the five additional officers Burlington police hired from adjacent agencies who will be serving in their own communities during the eclipse.

Eight police officers and five community service officers will manage shuttle bus lanes and street closures. One supervisor and four officers will handle non-event-related calls. All other officers are charged with providing security at eclipse events and manning the department’s Emergency Response Vehicle.

However, despite police preparations, Burlington residents should still expect to see traffic delays and potential emergency vehicle delays at minimum and “complete gridlock” at worst, depending on crowd size.

Local police say should crowds exceed 50,000 people, traffic will likely be unmanageable everywhere in the city regardless of their efforts. If crowds surpass 75,000 people, Burlington is likely to become gridlocked, and Interstate 89 and “major arteries” like Route 7 and Route 2 may shut down – making emergency response unguaranteed.

For information on road closures , parking, bus schedules, FAQs and more in Burlington, visit https://loveburlington.org/obscura-burlington/ .

Megan Stewart is a government accountability reporter for the Burlington Free Press. Contact her at [email protected].