Check out our 2026 Travel Guide and see why Turin, Italy needs to be on your travel list! Learn all the best things to do here.
If you're planning a trip to Turin, be sure to also check out my travel guides to Milan and Aosta Valley, both easy to combine with Turin and perfect for seeing more of northern Italy.
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Jump To
- Is Turin worth visiting?
- The Best 17 Things to Do in Turin, Italy
- What is Turin famous for?
- Is Turin expensive to visit?
- Is Turin safe?
- Weather in Turin, Italy
- How many days should I spend in Turin?
- 2-3 Days in Turin: A Quick Itinerary
- What can you do in Turin in one day?
- The Best Guided Tours in Turin
- The Best Hotels in Turin, Italy
- The Best Restaurants in Turin, Italy
- FAQs (frequently asked questions about Turin)
Is Turin worth visiting?
Yes, Turin is worth a visit! Plenty of history, culture, and natural beauty are all to be found here. As Italy's first capital, it has stunning architecture like the Royal Palace and Mole Antonelliana, marvelous museums (eg. the Egyptian Museum and the National Museum of Cinema).
Foodies will love Turin's local dishes like agnolotti and vitello tonnato, plus its chocolate and coffee. Being close to the Alps, it offers breathtaking views and outdoor activities such as hiking in Gran Paradiso National Park. Turin is also very chill without as many crowds as Italy's more tourist cities making it a perfect spot for a relaxing trip.
Mini Turin Travel Guide Summary
Best Restaurants
Things to do
- Visit Museo Egizio
- Stroll Through Piazza San Carlo
- Visit Mole Antonelliana
The Best 17 Things to Do in Turin, Italy
Check out the top attractions and must-see spots in Turin with this quick guide to the city's top 17 experiences.
1. Visit Museo Egizio
Check out Museo Egizio. It's packed with Egyptian artifacts. Dive deep into ancient Egyptian history and culture here.
2. Check Out Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile
Love cars? Visit Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile. It showcases vintage and modern cars, highlighting automotive design and innovation.
3. Visit Museo Nazionale del Cinema
Swing by Museo Nazionale del Cinema in the iconic Mole Antonelliana. This museum offers an interactive look at cinema history.
4. Stroll Through Piazza San Carlo
Walk through Piazza San Carlo, Turin's "drawing room." The square is surrounded by elegant buildings and features the statue of Emanuele Filiberto.
5. Explore Palazzo Reale di Torino
Explore Palazzo Reale di Torino. This royal palace showcases the lavish lifestyle of Italy's past rulers with its opulent rooms and art collections.
6. Tour Juventus Stadium
Tour Juventus Stadium, the home of Juventus football team. This modern arena includes a museum and offers exciting stadium tours.
7. Visit Mole Antonelliana
Visit Mole Antonelliana, Turin's iconic tower. It houses the Museo Nazionale del Cinema and offers spectacular views from the top.
8. Relax in Parco del Valentino
Chill out in Parco del Valentino. This vast park features a botanical garden, a castle, and a medieval village replica.
9. Admire Basilica di Superga
Admire Basilica di Superga. This architectural gem offers panoramic views over Turin and is a short trip from the city.
10. Discover Armeria Reale
Discover Armeria Reale, which houses a vast collection of armor and weapons from different centuries and continents.
11. Visit Real Chiesa di San Lorenzo
Visit Real Chiesa di San Lorenzo. It was the first home of the Holy Shroud and features a stunning baroque cupola by Guarino Guarini.
12. Experience La Venaria Reale
Experience La Venaria Reale, a royal residence just outside Turin. Known for its grand architecture and beautiful gardens.
13. Explore Sacra di San Michele
Explore Sacra di San Michele, a historic abbey about 28 km from Turin. It offers breathtaking views and rich history.
14. Visit Zoom Torino
Visit Zoom Torino, a unique zoo about 25 km from the city. It offers immersive experiences with exotic animals and educational exhibits.
15. Discover Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi
Discover Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi, a stunning hunting lodge and museum showcasing beautiful baroque architecture and lavish interiors.
16. Ride the Skyway Monte Bianco
Ride the Skyway Monte Bianco for a breathtaking journey up Mont Blanc. This cable car offers stunning panoramic views and is a must-do for nature lovers.
17. Explore Forte di Fenestrelle
Explore Forte di Fenestrelle, a vast military fortress about 50 km from Turin. It offers a fascinating glimpse into military history.
What is Turin famous for?
Turin in the north-west of Italy is famous for boasting a distinctly cultural atmosphere, being the home of the Shroud of Turin, kept in the Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista, and well known for the Mole Antonelliana housing the National Cinema Museum, and various royal sites, such as Palazzo Reale. Turinese are car-mad, too, and are the home of Fiat. And the food is excellent, with chocolates and wines from the surrounding areas.
Is Turin expensive to visit?
Visiting Turin can be a bit pricey, but it's worth it for the culture and history. Expect to spend about $169 per day for accommodation, food, sightseeing, and transport. Hotel prices range from €60-100 per night for budget options to €150-200 for upscale places.
You can eat well at mid-range spots for €15-20 per meal. Must-visit spots like the Mole Antonelliana and the Egyptian Museum cost between €5-15. Stick to a budget and check out free or cheap activities to enjoy Turin without blowing your wallet.
Exploring Turin can be awesome and affordable. Here are some quick tips to help you plan:
General Costs
A week in Turin costs about $1,184 per person. For two, it's around $2,369.
Accommodation
Turin has a range of hotel options:
- Five-star hotels: Average $111 per night.
- Four-star hotels: Around $79 per night.
- Three-star hotels: About $73 per night.
Food and Drink
Turin's food scene is varied and fits different budgets:
- Street food: Pizza slices are around €2.5 each. Panini cost between €5-6.
- Affordable dining: Pre-set lunch menus cost about €10, including a main dish, water, and coffee.
- Apericena: Many cafes offer a buffet-style aperitivo for around €10, including a drink and unlimited buffet.
Sightseeing and Activities
Turin has many free or low-cost attractions:
- Free attractions: Visit Piazza Castello, Piazza San Carlo, Valentino Park, and hike Monte dei Cappuccini for city views.
- Paid attractions: Museums like the Egyptian Museum (€18), National Cinema Museum (€11), and National Automobile Museum (€10). Consider the Torino+Piemonte Card for discounts.
Transportation
Public transportation is cheap. Buses and trams cost less than taxis. A bus ticket from the airport to the city center is about €7.
Seasonal Tips
- Spring and Fall: Ideal times to visit with nice weather.
- Summer: Northern Italy, including Turin, is cooler than other European spots.
Is Turin safe?
As for Turin, life there is mostly safe and good for the residents of this Italian city - as well as for tourists, who thoroughly enjoy its incredible atmosphere, rich history, and fascinating culture. Overall, crime is low compared to other big European cities. Violent crime? Rare. Those coming to Turin don't really have to worry about anything, as long as they use a bit of common sense.
Please stick to the city center like Piazza Castello and Piazza San Carlo; they're well-patrolled and safe. But avoid neighborhoods like Vallette and Barriera di Milano, especially at night.
Watch out for pickpockets in crowded places and on public transit. Despite these spots, don't let that hold you back from visiting Turin, which still remains a very worthy destination for those keen on seeing one of Europe's most historically and culturally rich places.
Weather in Turin, Italy
Spring in Turin
Spring in Turin is awesome. March starts mild with highs around 56°F and lows about 37°F. April gets nicer, hitting highs of 62°F and lows of 42°F. May warms up to daytime highs of 69°F and nighttime lows of 51°F. The moderate rain makes everything green and lush. Perfect for outdoor activities and checking out parks and gardens.
Summer in Turin
Summers in Turin are warm and sunny. June kicks off with highs around 77°F and lows of 57°F. July, the hottest month, hits 82°F during the day and 62°F at night. August stays warm with similar temps. Summer heat can be intense, but thunderstorms cool things down. Long days are perfect for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor cafes.
Autumn in Turin
Autumn cools down gradually. September is still warm with highs around 73°F and lows of 55°F. By October, temps drop to highs of 63°F and lows of 45°F. November gets cooler with highs of 52°F and lows dipping to 35°F. Rain picks up, especially in October. The city's events and festivals make it a great time to visit.
Winter in Turin
Winter in Turin is cold and often cloudy. December starts with highs of 46°F and lows around 29°F. January is the coldest, with daytime temps averaging 44°F and nighttime lows around 28°F. February warms slightly to highs of 48°F and lows of 31°F. Snow is common, adding charm to the city. The holiday season brings festive vibes, perfect for museums and cafes.
Best Time to Visit
Visit Turin in spring or autumn. From April to June and September to October, the weather is mild and pleasant. It's great for sightseeing and outdoor activities. These times offer comfortable temps and fewer crowds. Plus, the city's events and festivals are in full swing, making your visit even more exciting.
How many days should I spend in Turin?
Spend 2-3 days in Turin to make the most of it. Two days lets you cover the main attractions including the Egyptian Museum, Mole Antonelliana, and Palazzo Reale, and fit in some chocolate tasting, as well as traditional Italian aperitivo.
With an additional day, visit the Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile and Monte dei Cappuccini for fantastic views of the city, stroll through Parco del Valentino, and hopefully take the cable car up to the beautiful Basilica di Superga.
2-3 Days in Turin: A Quick Itinerary
Spend 2-3 days here to soak it all in. Here's a tight plan to make the most of your trip.
Day 1: Dive into History and Culture
Morning:
- Piazza Castello and Palazzo Reale: Kick off at Piazza Castello, the city's hub. Check out the Royal Palace with its lush rooms and gardens. It's also home to museums like the Royal Armoury and Galleria Sabauda.
Afternoon:
- Egyptian Museum (Museo Egizio): Just a short walk away. This place has one of the biggest collections of Egyptian artifacts outside Cairo. Plan for 2-3 hours to see it all.
Evening:
- Quadrilatero Romano: Grab dinner in this historic spot. Try Tre Galline for classic Piedmont dishes or Fassoneria for top-notch burgers. End the night with aperitivo at Piazza Vittorio Veneto with a view of the River Po.
Day 2: Museums and Views
Morning:
- Mole Antonelliana and National Cinema Museum: Start at Mole Antonelliana, Turin's iconic tower. Inside is the National Cinema Museum. Take the lift up for awesome city views.
Afternoon:
- Palazzo Madama and Porta Palatina: Head to Palazzo Madama in Piazza Castello. It mixes medieval and baroque styles. Then, walk to Porta Palatina, an ancient Roman gate.
Evening:
- Monte dei Cappuccini: Go here for epic sunset views. It's a bit of a hike, but totally worth it.
Day 3: Parks and More
Morning:
- Parco del Valentino: Chill in this park along the Po River. Visit the Borgo Medievale, a faux medieval village, and the Castello del Valentino.
Afternoon:
- Basilica di Superga: Take a quick trip out of town to this hilltop basilica. The views over Turin and the Alps are breathtaking. A scenic tram ride gets you there.
Evening:
- Lavazza Museum and Eataly: If there's time, hit up the Lavazza Museum to learn about the coffee giant. Then, head to Eataly, a massive market celebrating Italian food and wine.
Quick Tips:
- Torino+Piemonte Card: Get this card for free or discounted entry to many spots in Turin.
- Public Transport: Turin's trams and buses are super easy to use.
- Local Eats: Don't miss local goodies like gianduiotto chocolate, agnolotti pasta, and bicerin coffee.
What can you do in Turin in one day?
A day in Turin is fun and full of culture, history, and good food. Start your morning with the Egyptian Museum (il Museo Egizio) to view beautiful artifacts from ancient Egypt. Next, head towards the Duomo di Torino, the cathedral in Piazza Castello where you can admire the Shroud of Turin replica.
Take a stroll through the garden (giardino) to the Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale) to explore some royal apartments, the gardens, and the Egyptian Museum annex. Have lunch at Crudo Fa La Pizza just across the street.
In the late afternoon, head to Mole Antonelliana to check out the exhibits about cinema, and grab some epic views from the top of the tower. End the day with a cocktail or an aperitivo in one of the cafés in Piazza San Carlo or by the Po River. If you have time, head to the top of Monte dei Cappuccini to check out the city view.
The Best Guided Tours in Turin
Here's a list of the top tours in Turin, Italy:
Turin: Guided Egyptian Museum Tour
Check out the Egyptian Museum of Turin. It's the oldest museum for Egyptian stuff. You'll see cool collections, papyri, mummies, and pharaoh jewelry. Your guide will share intriguing stories.
Turin: Magic Turin® Tour - Black Magic and Dark Arts
Dive into Turin's magical side. This tour covers both white and black magic. It starts at Piazza Statuto, known as the "heart of darkness." You'll explore eerie architecture and esoteric symbols. The tour ends in the white magic area with legendary tales.
Turin: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour with 24 or 48-Hour Ticket
This bus tour is perfect for seeing Turin. It has three routes: Red Line for the city center, Blue Line for modern sites, and Green Line for royal residences and the Juventus Stadium Museum.
Turin: Underground Turin® Tour - Discover Ancient Tunnels
Get a unique look at Turin's history. This tour takes you through 18th-century tunnels and WWII air raid shelters. It's a wild trip into the underground world that's crucial to Turin's past.
Turin: Egyptian Museum Skip-the-Line Guided Tour
Skip the line at the Egyptian Museum. Explore over 40,000 artifacts with a guide. Highlights include the Ramses II gallery, the tomb of Kha, and the sphinx corridor.
Turin: Torino+Piemonte 24-Hour City Card
Grab this city card for access to loads of attractions in Turin and Piedmont. It includes museums, monuments, castles, and royal residences. Plus, you get discounts on other experiences and three free entries to main cultural sites.
The Best Hotels in Turin, Italy
These top hotels in Turin cater to different budgets and needs, ensuring a comfy and enjoyable stay:
Budget Hotels
Hotel Montevecchio
Hotel Montevecchio sits in a cool 19th-century building in central Turin. Clean rooms and a prime spot right outside the restricted traffic zone. Easy to walk around and explore.
Hotel Torino Porta Susa
Hotel Torino Porta Susa is affordable and right in the historic center. It has a nice terrace and is super close to public transport. Perfect for checking out all the sights.
Family Hotels
NH Collection Torino Santo Stefano
NH Collection Torino Santo Stefano is great for families. Spacious rooms and a rooftop terrace with killer views. It's just steps from Turin's Cathedral. Easy access to top attractions and a friendly vibe.
Hotel Alpi Resort
Hotel Alpi Resort is in the heart of the historic center. Family-friendly with a central spot near big attractions like the Egyptian Museum and Piazza Castello.
Mid-Range Hotels
Best Quality Hotel Gran Mogol
Best Quality Hotel Gran Mogol is located in the historic center. Comfy rooms and easy access to public transport. Travelers love the central location and solid amenities.
Hotel Roma e Rocca Cavour
Hotel Roma e Rocca Cavour is one of the oldest hotels in Turin, right across from Porta Nuova Train Station. Vintage decor and lush gardens make for a unique, comfy stay in the city center.
Luxury Hotels
Turin Palace Hotel
Turin Palace Hotel is elegant and modern, right opposite Porta Nuova Train Station. Luxurious amenities include a top-notch restaurant and spacious, well-designed rooms.
Principi di Piemonte | UNA Esperienze
Principi di Piemonte | UNA Esperienze is high-end with in-room massages, central location, and spacious private terraces. Ideal for those wanting to splurge a bit while visiting Turin.
The Best Restaurants in Turin, Italy
These picks cover all the bases for eating out in Turin.
Casual Dining
- Piadine in Bianco e Nero - Great spot for a quick, tasty piadina.
- Lobelix Cafè - Perfect for a laid-back aperitivo.
- Crostone.it - Best place for crostini and sandwiches.
Family-Friendly
- Rock Burger Torino - Cool burger joint with a rockin' vibe.
- Master Sandwich - Top-notch sandwiches for the whole family.
- Hambre Burger - Quality burgers in a family-friendly setting.
Mid-Range
- Pizzium - Torino Via Berthollet - Amazing pizza at reasonable prices.
- Ristorante Saluce - Great Italian and seafood with innovative dishes.
- La Taverna dei Mercanti - Authentic local cuisine in a friendly atmosphere.
Fine Dining
- Dolce Stil Novo Alla Reggia - Fine dining with creative Italian seafood.
- Stefano Fanti Al Ristorante Circolo Dei Lettori - Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant setting.
- Condividere - Inventive cuisine with a great vibe.
FAQs (frequently asked questions about Turin)
Is Turin Italy an interesting place to visit for an older university student?
Turin, Italy, is perfect for an older university student. It combines the charm of past years with a contemporary, cosmopolitan flair: the Mole Antonelliana and the Egyptian Museum are unmissable. History lovers will appreciate the Royal Palace and the Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista. Costs are low when it comes to living expenses and students can enjoy fresh and vintage goods at the markets. Public transport is easy to use. The lively nightlife takes place at bars, clubs, and the typically Italian aperitivo culture; this is the case mainly in San Salvario and Murazzi along the Po River.
Why isn't Torino (Turin) as popular as other destinations in Italy such as Rome, Milan, and Naples?
Turin (Torino) is known for being solidly Italian but it doesn't feature on the travel bucket lists associated with Rome, Milan, or Naples, for a few reasons. Rome is ancient history and the capital of a country with a long and proud imperial tradition. Milan happens to be home to the fashion counterculture and to Italy's financial sector. Turin? Made by Fiat.
Milan and Rome are pulsing metropolises, renowned the world over for their nightlife, and shopping, and for being magnets for the arrivals and departures of the international jet set. Turin is the exact opposite: low-key baroque, chilled out, housing a network of broad leafy boulevards and 18th-century royal palaces with architecture dating from the 16th century. The food and parks in Turin might rival those in Naples and Florence for style and substance, but only if you know where to go and what to look for. Such factors will dissuade travelers from including Torino on their official list.
Should I visit Turin, Genoa, or Bologna?
Turin or Genoa or Bologna? It's what you're into… Turin: killer history and culture. The Museo Egizio is one of the best of its genre in the world; the National Cinema Museum is also remarkable. Then there's the Mole Antonelliana and Juventus Stadium - and it's only two hours or so from the Alps. Plus the food markets are crazy with truffles and hazelnuts.
Genoa blends buzzing urban with old-school: the center (the old town and the port) is bustling You'll want to go to the Acquario di Genova. And you're very close to the Italian Cinque Terre and Portofino.
Bologna? Food, old buildings, students, pasta, and tall old medieval towers. A good place to base yourself and do day trips to Florence and Venice.
Every city has its feel. Choose depending on what you like - history, food, discovering.
How does someone who doesn't speak Italian travel well throughout Northern Italy: Turin, Genova, Milano?
Traveling through Northern Italy-Turin, Genoa, and Milan-without speaking Italian can be pretty smooth if you follow a few tips. English is common in tourist spots, hotels, and restaurants, so you shouldn't hit many snags. Download Google Translate or a similar app for those tricky language moments.
Public transport is a breeze; trains connect the big cities with frequent schedules and clear signs. Buy tickets in advance through apps or websites to save time and stress. Major attractions like the Mole Antonelliana in Turin, Cattedrale di San Lorenzo in Genoa, and the Duomo in Milan usually have English guides or audio tours. Learn a few basic Italian phrases, be polite, and embrace local customs to enhance your experience.
