Turin consistently surprises people. Most visitors to northern Italy skip it for Milan or head straight to the lakes. That's a mistake.
This is the city of the Savoy dynasty, of the Shroud of Turin, of bicerin and gianduja chocolate. It has more Baroque architecture than almost anywhere in Italy, an Egyptian museum that rivals Cairo's, and Piedmont wine country; Barolo, Barbaresco, and Barbera - just an hour south.
If you're planning a wider northern Italy trip, Milan is 1.5 hours by train and Lake Como is 2 hours.
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Jump To
- Where is Turin?
- How to get to Turin?
- How many days in Turin?
- Best time to visit Turin
- 🌍 Tuin, Italy Map
- What to Do in Turin Italy
- 10 Off the Beaten Path Stuff to Do in Turin Italy
- 10 Best Beaches Near Turin, Italy
- 👫🏽 Best Guided Tours in Turin, Italy
- 💃🏽 Best Night Clubs and Bars in Turin, Italy
- 🚙 Day Trips from Turin Italy
- The Perfect Turin 2-Day Itinerary
- 🍴 The Best Restaurants in Turin Italy
- Where to stay in Turin
- ❓FAQs About Turin, Italy
- 🇮🇹 Explore More of Italy!
Where is Turin?
Turin sits on the western bank of the Po River, at the foot of the Alps in Piedmont. It's Italy's fourth largest city and Piedmont's capital.
From Turin: Milan is about 1.5 hours by train. Genoa is 2 hours. The ski resorts of the Susa Valley are less than an hour by car.
How to get to Turin?
By train: Turin Porta Nuova is the main station, well connected to Milan (1.5 hours), Rome (4.5 hours), and Genoa (2 hours). Trains are fast and frequent.
By plane: Turin Airport (TRN), also called Sandro Pertini Airport, is about 16 kilometers from the center. A bus or train connects to the city in 30 to 40 minutes. Taxis take about 25 minutes.
By car: Turin is on major motorway routes from France (via the Mont Blanc tunnel), Milan, and Genoa. Note that the historic center has ZTL restricted zones - don't drive in without checking first.
How many days in Turin?
Two full days covers the main sights. Three days is better and lets you add a day trip to Alba or Venaria Reale. Add a fourth if you're going to the Langhe wine region.
Best time to visit Turin
Spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October) are the best times. Mild weather, manageable crowds, and the city's outdoor café culture is at its best.
Summer (June to August) is warm and lively, with festivals and outdoor events. July can be hot (above 30°C). August quiets down as locals leave for the coast.
Winter (December to February) is cold and sometimes foggy, but beautiful for the Christmas markets, Turin's historic cafés, and the Carnival season in February.
🌍 Tuin, Italy Map
What to Do in Turin Italy
1. Egyptian Museum
The second most important Egyptian collection in the world after Cairo's, and the oldest Egyptian museum on the planet. Over 37,000 artifacts, from Paleolithic times through the Coptic period.
The highlights are the intact Tomb of Kha and Merit (untouched since it was sealed in 1400 BC), the Kings Assembly hall, and the extraordinary nuragic statues from Monte Prama. Allow at least 2 to 3 hours. Book tickets in advance - the queues are real.
2. Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist Turin Italy
Turin's cathedral, built in 1498, is the home of the Shroud of Turin - the linen cloth believed by many to be Christ's burial shroud. The Shroud itself is rarely displayed, but a full-scale replica is always on view inside.
The Cathedral's Chapel of the Holy Shroud, designed by Guarino Guarini and finished in 1694, is one of the most extraordinary Baroque interiors in Italy.
3. Piazza San Carlo
Turin's finest square. Two 17th-century churches frame a pedestrian-only piazza lined with elegant arcades. The equestrian statue of Emmanuel Philibert anchors the center.
This is where Torinesi come to promenade and where you go for aperitivo. The historic cafés under the arcades - Caffè Torino, San Carlo - are among the oldest in Italy.
4. Palazzo Madama and Museo Civico d'Arte Antica
The most beautiful building in Turin. Palazzo Madama sits in Piazza Castello and combines a Roman gate, a medieval castle, and a Baroque façade by Juvara into one extraordinary structure. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Inside, the museum covers art from the Roman period through the 18th century, including an outstanding medieval collection.
5. National Cinema Museum
Inside the Mole Antonelliana - Turin's most iconic building, the tower that appears on the Italian €0.02 coin. The museum is one of the most inventive film museums in the world, with an immersive layout that traces cinema history from magic lanterns to the present.
The panoramic lift to the top of the Mole is worth doing for the views over the city and Alps.
6. Museo dell'Automobile
One of the finest car museums in the world. About 200 cars spanning 120 years of automotive history, from the first petrol-powered vehicles to contemporary concept cars. Fiat's home is Turin, and the collection reflects that heritage.
Allow 2 hours. It's further south than the other main sights - combine with a visit to Eataly on Via Nizza nearby.
7. Basilica di Superga
A monumental Baroque basilica on the Superga hilltop east of the city, designed by Filippo Juvara in the 18th century. It's the royal mausoleum of the Savoy dynasty and offers panoramic views over Turin, the Po plain, and the Alps.
Take the Sassi-Superga rack tramway from the city - one of Turin's most fun and unusual rides.
8. Parco Valentino
Turin's main park, running along the Po River for several kilometers. It has a botanical garden, the Valentino Castle (a 17th-century royal residence), and a reconstructed medieval village built for the 1884 Exhibition.
The riverside path is where locals run, cycle, and take the evening passeggiata. It's best at sunset when the light reflects off the water.
9. Porta Palatina
One of the world's best-preserved Roman city gates, dating to the 1st century AD. Two large towers and an arch that once marked the northern entrance to Roman Augusta Taurinorum. It sits just north of Porta Palazzo market and is entirely free to visit.
10. Reggia di Venaria Reale
A 17th-century royal palace just outside Turin, part of the UNESCO Residences of the Royal House of Savoy. The palace is one of the largest in Europe, with a great gallery designed by Juvara and formal gardens stretching for over a kilometer.
Less crowded than Versailles and arguably more beautiful in places.
10 Off the Beaten Path Stuff to Do in Turin Italy
Traveling to Turin means you have the opportunity to also do non-touristy things and really get into local life and traditions. Here's how to do it right:
- Local Markets: Start at Mercato di Porta Palazzo. It's huge and full of fresh produce, crafts, and local foods. A real cultural spot to chat with locals and learn Italian phrases.
- Cooking Class: Get hands-on with Piedmontese cooking. Learn to make classic dishes and enjoy them with others.
- Biking Along River Po: Rent a bike, ride along the river. It's peaceful with parks and historic spots.
- Contemporary Art in San Salvario: Explore this artsy district. It's filled with modern galleries and artist studios.
- Coffee Culture: Try a Bicerin at Caffè Elena. It's a Turin specialty - espresso, chocolate, and milk.
- Quadrilatero Romano at Night: Check out this ancient area for nightlife. Great food, bars, and local wines.
- Local Events and Festivals: Join in neighborhood celebrations for true local vibes.
- Hiking in the Alps: A short trip from Turin. Hike for incredible views and nature experiences.
- Local Vineyards: Must-do in Piedmont. Learn about winemaking and taste superb wines.
- Borgo Medievale: Visit this reconstructed medieval village for a historical walk. It's quieter than other tourist spots.
10 Best Beaches Near Turin, Italy
Looking for beaches near Turin, Italy? Here are the top picks:
- Spiaggia di Spotorno: Pebble beach, two hours from Turin. Rentable chairs, dining options. Great for weekends.
- Explora Beach, Lago d'Orta: Family-friendly, 1.5 hours from Turin. Nature views, swimming, water sports. Sun loungers available.
- Spiaggia del Malpasso: Fine pebbles, clear water, two hours from Turin. Near resorts, restaurants, and bars.
- Spiaggia di Varigotti: Soft sand, urban area, two hours from Turin. Shopping and dining nearby.
- Lido di Gozzano, also at Lago d'Orta: Sandy beach, 1.5 hours from Turin. Clear waters, sunbathing, beach bar, and restaurant.
- Ligurian Riviera: Traditional seaside, 2-3 hours south. Sandy beaches, popular in summer.
- Savona: Sandy beaches, 1.5 hours from Turin. Free access, promenade with shops and restaurants.
- Noli: Sand and pebble mix, near Spotorno. Great for swimming, snorkeling, historic town.
- Finale Ligure: Wide sandy beaches, family-friendly, 2 hours from Turin. Near Baia dei Saraceni for snorkeling.
- Gozzano (Lago d'Orta) and Arona (Lago Maggiore): Lake beaches, 1.5-2 hours from Turin. Scenic, historical attractions.
👫🏽 Best Guided Tours in Turin, Italy
Here are some of our top picks for Turin's guided tours.
Be sure to also check these 5 tours!:
- Egyptian Museum Small Group Tour: See the Egyptian Museum's collection, including the tomb of Kha and ancient papyrus. It's a journey through Egyptian history.
- Royal Palace Skip-the-Line Tour: Get quick access to the Royal Palace. Learn about the Savoy family and see the Chapel of the Holy Shroud.
- Magic Turin® Tour: Explore Turin's dark side, focusing on black magic and mystical history.
- Baroque Guided Walking Tour: Discover Turin's Baroque sites, including the Royal Palace, Palazzo Madama, and the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist.
- Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour: A general tour of top spots like Mole Antonelliana, Piazza Castello, and the National Museum of Cinema.
💃🏽 Best Night Clubs and Bars in Turin, Italy
Turin's nightlife is vibrant and varied. Here are top spots:
- Bar Cavour: Fancy bar at Piazza Carignano, 2, known for cocktails. Pricey but elegant.
- La Drogheria: At Piazza Vittorio Veneto, 18/D, it's great for aperitivo. Best in summer with outdoor seating.
- Affini: Cocktail bar at Via Belfiore, 16C. Known for vermouth and diverse drinks.
- Smile Tree: Creative cocktail bar in the Roman Quarter at Piazza della Consolata, 9.
- The Mad Dog Social Club: Speakeasy at Via Maria Vittoria 35A. Classic cocktails with a twist. Requires a password from their website.
- Caffè Mulassano: Historic café at P.za Castello, 15. Famous for sandwiches and Bicerin.
- La Darsena: On Po River banks, offers sunset views, beers, and wines.
- Bar Cavalli: Chic bar in Quadrilatero Romano. Stylish crowd.
- Blu 59: Trendy bar with inventive cocktails.
- Sky Bar Torino: Top-floor bar with city views.
- Bottega del Vino: Cozy wine bar in the center, wide Italian wine selection.
- Disco Volante: Popular club with a large dance floor, diverse music.
- La Festa: Lively club with two floors for music and dancing.
- Club 21: Large club in the business district, varied music including hip hop.
🚙 Day Trips from Turin Italy
Ivrea
Its old town is a history lesson. Don't miss the Museo Civico Pier Alessandro Garda. Treat yourself to Torta 900 at Pasticceria Balla. Reachable by train from Torino Porta Nuova or by car on A5.
Milan
Architectural wonder, home to the Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Art lovers, see Leonardo's "The Last Supper" and Castello Sforzesco. Easily accessible by train.
Chieri
Quiet town with pedestrian streets and the Santa Maria della Scala church. Visit the Martini & Rossi Vermouth house. A train ride from Porta Susa station.
Gran Paradiso National Park
Alpine paradise for hiking, climbing, biking, skiing. Each season offers new adventures.
Aosta
Alpine town with Roman and medieval heritage. Skiers' delight and thermal spas. Known as the 'Rome of the Alps.
Canavese
Beautiful towns and vineyards, gateway to Gran Paradiso National Park. Great for outdoor activities and cultural explorations.
Lake Como
Stunning landscapes, boat rides, Bellagio village. Historical villas and lakeside dining.
Alba
Gourmet haven for truffle and hazelnut gelato lovers. Beautiful architecture. Reachable by train or car from Turin.
The Perfect Turin 2-Day Itinerary
Turin, Italy - two days in this hidden gem. Here's your playbook.
Day 1:
- Start at Turin Cathedral. Check out the Holy Shroud, the one linked to Jesus. Controversial and captivating.
- Walk to Palazzo Madama, just four minutes away. It's a UNESCO site loaded with ancient art. History comes alive here.
- Now, chocolate at Guido Gobino. This isn't just eating chocolate; it's an experience. Turin's the chocolate king of Italy.
- Aperitivo time. Try La Drogheria or Farmacia del Cambio. It's where locals go to unwind. Drink, eat, and feel the city's pulse.
Day 2:
- Museo Egizio is up. It's an Egyptian wonder in Italy's heart. Strange and stunning.
- Don't miss Palazzo Carignano and Palazzo Madama. They tell stories in stone. Polo Reale too, packed with museums including royal armory and library.
Fancy a side trip? Head to Langhe. Short drive from Turin. Hike, wine-taste, and devour Piedmontese cuisine. It's unpretentious and delicious.
Tips: Stay central. NH Torino Santo Stefano is a good bet. Walk around Turin. Best way to discover the city is on foot. Lose yourself in its streets.
🍴 The Best Restaurants in Turin Italy
The following is a list of 5 of our favorite places to eat in Turin. It's a great start, but if you want to find more places, be sure to check out Trip Advisor for a much larger selection and real reviews:
- Il Discorante: Famous for Italian cuisine and pizza. It's cozy and welcoming.
- El Dorado Grill: Stands out with Peruvian and Deli dishes. A culinary adventure.
- Ovino: Hits the mark with Italian dishes and pizza. Tasty and well-priced.
- Dolce Stil Novo Alla Reggia: In Venaria Reale, this spot serves top-notch Italian and seafood.
- Pizzeria 150: Known for mouthwatering pizza, blending cheese, meat, and olives perfectly.
Where to stay in Turin
NH Torino Santo Stefano - Boutique luxury, city center. A beautifully located hotel near Piazza San Carlo, walking distance from the main museums and the Cathedral. One of the best-positioned hotels in Turin. 👉 Book here
Best Western Genio - Mid-range, near Porta Nuova station. Close to the Egyptian Museum, Royal Palace, and Mole Antonelliana. Free WiFi, good breakfast, fitness center, and sauna. Staff consistently praised for helpfulness. 👉 Book here
Art Hotel Boston - Boutique mid-range, central. Art-themed interiors, garden, bar, buffet breakfast included. Pet-friendly and eco-certified. Close to restaurants and walking distance from the main sights. 👉 Book here
AC Hotel Torino - Modern, business district. 5 minutes from Lingotto Fiere and Eataly, 10 minutes by metro to the city center. Spa area with hot tub, AC Lounge restaurant with Mediterranean cuisine. Good for travelers who want a quieter location. 👉 Book here
Hotel Victoria - Boutique mid-range, city center. A charming, highly rated small hotel between Piazza San Carlo and Porta Nuova. One of the best value options in central Turin. 👉 Book here
❓FAQs About Turin, Italy
The following are some of the most frequently asked questions about Turin:
Yes! Turin, one of Italy's most elegant cities, is a must-visit in 2024. It boasts grand palaces, regal piazzas, and fewer tourists.
If you thrive in a never-sleeping city, Milan's your go-to. Prefer a relaxed, quiet atmosphere? Turin's laid-back vibe suits you.
In Turin, locals love eating Tajarin, Agnolotti, Brasato al Barolo, La panissa vercellese, Fritto misto alla Piemontese, Lumache, Bagna càuda, and Bollito misto.
Yes, Turin is great for walking. Most attractions, like the Royal Palace, Carignano Palace, and Palazzo Madama, are downtown.
Stay away from Aurora and Barriera di Milano in the north. Turin is safe, but those areas aren't great. Stick to the Center, Crocetta, Campidoglio, Vanchiglia, or Oltrepo'. Santa Rita and San Donato? Safe, but dull.
Turin is safe for night walks. Friendly vibe, low crime rate. Watch out for pickpockets in crowds. Streets are well-lit, police often patrol busy areas.
🇮🇹 Explore More of Italy!
Turin is just the start of Italy's grand feast. There's more magic ahead in the articles below. 'Buon Viaggio'!
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- Gole dell'Alcantara: Sicily's Spectacular Natural Phenomenon
- The Ultimate Guide to the Best Beaches in Catania
- Our Picks for the Best Carbonara in Rome
- Discover Filicudi: The Sicilian Island Time Forgot
- The Best Time to Visit Piedmont Italy:
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