Turin Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, local culture, food scene, transportation options, and nearby destinations in Turin, Italy.


Introduction to Turin

Located in the Piedmont region of northwest Italy, Turin is a stunning city that offers visitors a wealth of experiences. The city has a rich history, culture, and excellent cuisine, which makes it a must-visit destination. It is well-known for its royal landmarks, historical architecture, and conserved art treasures. There are plenty of things to do and see in Turin, including museums, parks, walking tours, and breathtaking views. It’s an ideal city with plenty of activities that cater to everyone’s tastes, and it’s definitely worth visiting.

List of Places to Visit in Turin

When planning a trip to Turin, you must be organized as there are many things to do and sights to see in the city. This list includes some of the can’t-miss attractions in Turin:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Royal Palace of Turin

The Royal Palace of Turin has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. It is the centerpiece of Piazza Castello and was once the residence of the royal family in Turin. The palace features a stunning collection of furniture, paintings, and sculptures that are a testament to the city’s cultural heritage.

Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum in Turin is one of the largest and most comprehensive museums dedicated to Egyptian art and history outside Egypt. The museum boasts an incredible collection of more than 30,000 artifacts, including mummies, sarcophagi, and ancient Egyptian jewelry.

Mole Antonelliana

The Mole Antonelliana is one of the most iconic landmarks in Turin and is a must-see attraction. It is a 167.5-meter-high building that was originally built as a synagogue. Today, it houses the National Museum of Cinema, which has an extensive collection of cinematic history.

Natural Attractions of Turin: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Superga Basilica

Superga Basilica is located at the top of a hill, about 670 meters above sea level, and offers stunning panoramic views of Turin. The basilica is an impressive example of baroque architecture and has been one of the city’s most important landmarks for centuries.

Valentino Park

Valentino Park is a large public park located on the banks of the River Po. It has numerous gardens, fountains, and sculptures, making it one of the most picturesque locations in Turin. It’s also home to the Medieval Village, one of the city’s must-see attractions.

Monte dei Cappuccini

Monte dei Cappuccini is another stunning hill with great views of the city. It’s easily accessible by foot, bus or the characteristic red trams that criss-cross the city. At the top of the hill, there is a church and a panoramic terrace, where visitors can admire beautiful vistas of Turin.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Turin

Turin is also very well known for its bike-friendly environment, which makes it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes that you can explore in Turin:

Parco del Valentino

Parco del Valentino is a vast park that covers over 500,000 square meters and has something for everyone. It has an incredible bike path that runs along the Po River, and its picturesque garden is perfect for an afternoon stroll.

Colle del Lys

Colle del Lys is another popular hiking and biking spot in Turin. It’s a steep hill with an altitude of about 1300 meters above sea level. It offers stunning views of the city, and it’s an excellent location for hiking and mountain biking.

Best Things to Do in Turin: Activities and Tours

Turin boasts a wide range of activities and tours that cater to everyone’s preferences. Here are some of the must-do activities and tours in Turin:

Explore the City on Foot

Turin is a beautiful city, and one of the best ways to explore it is through walking tours. These tours can be tailor-made, and they allow you to discover hidden gems and historical landmarks in Turin.

Visit Turin Piazzas

Turin has plenty of beautiful piazzas, including Piazza Castello, Piazza San Carlo, and Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II. These piazzas are perfect for people watching, exploring local cafes, and shopping.

Eat and Drink Your Way Through the City

Turin has an excellent reputation for its rich culinary tradition. It has a wide range of dishes, from gelato to chocolate, locally-produced wine and cheeses, and rich bicerin coffee. A food tour is a perfect way to sample some of Turin’s best gastronomic delights.

Week-Long Itinerary for Turin

If you’re planning to visit Turin for a week, here is a sample itinerary that you can follow to make the most of your trip:

Day 1

  • Visit the Royal Palace of Turin and explore its rooms

Day 2

  • Have breakfast at Piazza San Carlo
  • Visit the Egyptian Museum
  • Explore the Turin city center

Day 3

  • Explore the Superga Basilica and admire the panoramic views
  • Take a walk around Valentino Park

Day 4

  • Visit the Mole Antonelliana and the National Museum of Cinema

Day 5

  • Take a culinary tour and experience local delicacies
  • Visit Porta Palazzo Market

Day 6

  • Rent a bike and explore the Colle del Lys
  • Visit the Castello del Valentino

Day 7

  • Explore the historic center on foot
  • Go shopping for souvenirs
  • Say goodbye to Turin

Food and Drink Scene of Turin

A trip to Turin is never complete without experiencing its rich culinary scene. The city is known for its specialties of chocolate, coffee, and wine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Turin:

Must-Try Dishes

Bagna Cauda

Bagna Cauda is a traditional Piedmontese dish consisting of garlic, anchovies, olive oil and vegetables that are dipped. This flavorful dish is a perfect complement to any meal.

Tajarin

Tajarin is a long and thin hand-made egg pasta served with a meaty ragù and grated cheese. This dish is a must-try when visiting Turin.

Local Beverages

Bicerin

Bicerin is a traditional drink in Turin that consists of layers of espresso, chocolate, and cream. It’s a delicious and calorie-rich drink that will give you the energy you need for sightseeing.

Vermouth

Vermouth in Turin has a long history, and a trip to this beautiful city is never complete without having a traditional vermouth cocktail. It is a fortified wine with a blend of botanicals and herbs, making it a perfect aperitif before any meal in Turin.

Where to Stay in Turin: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Turin has many accommodation options that cater to different travelers’ needs. Here are some of the best places to stay in Turin:

Hotel Victoria

Hotel Victoria is one of the best 4-star hotels located in the city center. It has a fantastic location close to many popular sights and spacious rooms with modern amenities.

Maison Clò

Maison Clò is a beautiful and cozy guesthouse in the heart of Turin, with fantastic food and staff. It offers the perfect ambiance and comfort you need to enjoy a pleasant stay in Turin.

Ostello Torino

Ostello Torino is one of the best hostels in Turin, offering affordable, clean, and cozy accommodation. It’s a great option for solo travelers or groups on a budget.

What to Buy in Turin: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring back home, Turin has plenty of options. Here are some of the must-buy souvenirs and local products in Turin:

Baci di Dama

Baci di Dama are small almond biscuits typical of Piedmontese cuisine. They are a perfect delicacy to bring back home as a souvenir and to enjoy with your family and friends.

Gianduiotti

Gianduiotti is a chocolate delicacy made with hazelnuts that are ground up to blend with high-quality cocoa. It’s a traditional Turin delicacy that’s perfect for gifting or personal enjoyment.

Local Culture and Customs of Turin

Turin has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its many beautiful churches, buildings, museums, and galleries. The people of Turin speak Italian and most speak English as well, making it easy for tourists to get around and communicate.

Best Time to Visit Turin

The best time to visit Turin is between April and June and September and November. This is when the weather is relatively mild, and the crowds have thinned out, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s attractions and landmarks.

Do’s and Don’ts of Turin

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and wine
  • Explore the city on foot or bike
  • Visit the historic landmarks and museums

Don’t:

  • Forget to tip your servers in restaurants
  • Wear inappropriate clothing when visiting religious landmarks
  • Ignore local customs and traditions

Safety and Health

Safety in Turin

Turin is a safe city, and tourists seldom encounter problems. However, it’s advisable to take precautions such as avoiding unlit streets and carrying your valuables securely.

Health in Turin

Turin is considered safe for visitors, but it’s important to maintain good hygiene and take precautions in order to prevent infection, even more so for traveling during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Getting to Turin: Transportation Options and Logistics

Turin is well-connected with many major cities by air, bus, and train. Here are some transportation options that you can use to access the city:

Airports Near Turin

Turin Caselle Airport is the main airport that serves the city, and it’s about 16 km from the city center. Other surrounding airports include Milan Malpensa Airport and Milan Linate Airport, both approximately 125 km from Turin.

Bus Stations Near Turin

The most commonly used bus station in Turin is the Torino-Porta Susa bus station. It is the primary hub for local and international buses, and it offers excellent connectivity for tourists.

Other Options

There are various transport options for getting around Turin, including taxis and car rental services. Alternatively, you can use public transportation such as the city’s tramway, metro, and bus lines.

How to Get Around in Turin

Turin has excellent public transportation that includes buses, trams, and metro services. You can also explore the city on foot or by bike, which offers a more immersive experience.

Where to Go Next from Turin: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Turin is surrounded by beautiful cities, towns, and scenic landscapes that offer plenty of opportunities for exploring. Some of the nearby destinations and excursions from Turin include:

Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore is a stunning lake that straddles the border between Italy and Switzerland. It’s within easy reach of Turin, and it’s a perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

Alps Mountains

The Alps are just a short distance from Turin, and they offer a range of outdoor activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. The stunning landscape and refreshing mountain air make it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Turin is a beautiful city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and gastronomy. It’s a must-visit destination that will leave you awe-inspired with its stunning landmarks, natural wonders, and picturesque landscapes. With this comprehensive tour guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your trip and experience everything that Turin has to offer.

Piazza Vittorio Veneto and Mole Antonelliana Piazza Vittorio Veneto and Mole Antonelliana Turin airport Turin airport Porta Susa Station Porta Susa Station Turin Metro connects ''Eataly'', the centre, and western suburbs Turin Metro connects ''Eataly'', the centre, and western suburbs A ToBike stand A ToBike stand Mole Antonelliana Mole Antonelliana ''Borgo Medievale'' ''Borgo Medievale'' Porta Palatina Porta Palatina Galleria Subalpina Galleria Subalpina Sassi–Superga tramway, Sassi station Sassi–Superga tramway, Sassi station Politecnico di Torino Politecnico di Torino Via Garibaldi Via Garibaldi Two ''gianduiotti'' Two ''gianduiotti'' Lingotto, formerly a Fiat factory and now a hotel and shopping centre Lingotto, formerly a Fiat factory and now a hotel and shopping centre Pickpocket warning sign in Porta Nuova train station Pickpocket warning sign in Porta Nuova train station