Best Things to do in Turin: A Complete Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors

Turin is one of Italy’s most elegant yet underrated cities, where royal palaces, grand piazzas, and historic cafés reflect a refined past shaped by the Savoy dynasty. Beneath its arcaded streets, daily life unfolds at an unhurried pace, inviting visitors to slow down and experience the city beyond its landmarks.

Coming from Milan, I’m used to fast mornings and crowded trams, but Turin feels different from the moment I arrive. Conversations linger longer in cafés, aperitivo stretches into the evening, and the Alpine backdrop adds a quiet sense of space that is rare in Italian cities.

From world-class museums and panoramic viewpoints to chocolate traditions and lively aperitivo districts, these are the best things to do in Turin to experience both its elegance and its everyday rhythm.

For a complete overview of neighborhoods, planning tips, and travel advice, explore our Turin travel guide.

What are the best things to do in Turin?

The best things to do in Turin include visiting Piazza Castello and the Royal Palace, exploring the Egyptian Museum, riding the panoramic elevator inside the Mole Antonelliana, enjoying historic cafés and chocolate traditions, walking along the Po River, and experiencing aperitivo in Quadrilatero Romano.

Top highlights:

• Piazza Castello & Royal Palace
• Mole Antonelliana & Cinema Museum
• Egyptian Museum
• Monte dei Cappuccini viewpoint
• Historic cafés & bicerin
• Po River walk & Valentino Park
• Aperitivo in Quadrilatero Romano

Turin rewards slow exploration. Beyond its landmarks, the city’s elegant arcades, café culture, and relaxed rhythm create an atmosphere that feels refined yet deeply authentic.

Must-See Landmarks in Turin

One of the best answers to what to do in Turin is to explore its grand piazzas and architectural landmarks. These sites reveal the city’s Savoy heritage and provide a perfect introduction to its elegance and history.

Piazza Castello

At the heart of Turin, Piazza Castello is the city’s historic and symbolic center. Surrounded by harmonious façades and elegant arcades, the square reflects the order and refinement that define Turin’s urban design. Standing here, it’s easy to understand the city’s past as a royal capital.

Despite its grandeur, the atmosphere feels calm rather than overwhelming. Locals cross the square beneath the porticoes, cafés open their doors, and the rhythm of daily life unfolds with quiet dignity. The symmetry of the buildings and the openness of the space make it an ideal starting point for exploring Turin historic center.

From this central point, many of the city’s most important landmarks radiate outward, making Piazza Castello both a geographical anchor and a powerful first impression.

Royal Palace of Turin

Along the northern edge of the square stands the Royal Palace of Turin, once the official residence of the House of Savoy. Its stately façade communicates authority and restraint rather than excess, reflecting the refined character that distinguishes Turin from other Italian cities.

Visitors can explore opulent halls, royal apartments, and formal gardens that reveal centuries of aristocratic life. Even without entering, stepping into the courtyard offers a sense of scale and history that helps bring Turin’s royal legacy to life.

The palace is more than a historic monument — it is a reminder of the dynasty that shaped the city’s architecture, culture, and enduring elegance.

Palazzo Madama

Standing at the center of Piazza Castello, Palazzo Madama feels like a visual timeline of Turin itself. One side reveals medieval fortifications, while the elegant Baroque façade faces the square with graceful symmetry — a striking contrast that captures centuries of architectural evolution.

I always pause here longer than planned. From the front steps, the view across the piazza feels perfectly balanced, almost theatrical, as if the city were revealing its history in a single frame. Early in the day, the light softens the stone façade, and the square feels calm and dignified.

Even if you don’t enter the museum inside, the exterior alone makes Palazzo Madama one of Turin’s most photogenic landmarks and an essential stop when exploring the historic center.

Mole Antonelliana

Wherever you walk in Turin, the Mole Antonelliana seems to follow you. Its slender spire rises above rooftops and domes, quietly anchoring the skyline. The first time I saw it framed between narrow streets, I stopped instinctively — it felt like discovering the city’s compass point.

Inside, the National Cinema Museum transforms the vast interior into an immersive cultural experience. But what I never skip is the panoramic glass elevator. As it ascends through the towering dome, the city gradually unfolds below: orderly rooftops, church domes, and — on clear days — the Alps stretching across the horizon.

From above, Turin’s symmetry becomes unmistakable. The streets align with quiet precision, the arcades trace elegant lines through the city, and the overall harmony feels deliberate rather than accidental.

Each time I step back outside, the Mole no longer feels monumental — it feels familiar, like a landmark that quietly guides you through the city.

World-Class Museums in Turin

Beyond its royal piazzas and architectural elegance, some of the most important tourist attractions in Turin are its museums. The city’s cultural institutions rank among the finest in Europe, offering experiences that span ancient civilizations, cinematic innovation, and Italian design.

Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum is one of the most remarkable cultural attractions in Turin, housing one of the world’s most significant collections of Egyptian antiquities outside Cairo. Walking through its galleries reveals monumental statues, intricately carved sarcophagi, and everyday objects that offer a vivid glimpse into ancient life.

What I appreciate most is how thoughtfully the exhibits are presented. Rather than feeling overwhelming, the museum invites slow exploration. I usually focus on a few key rooms and allow time to absorb the atmosphere — a strategy that makes the experience both manageable and memorable.

National Cinema Museum

Located inside the Mole Antonelliana, the National Cinema Museum offers one of the most unique cultural experiences in Europe. Interactive installations, film memorabilia, and immersive displays trace the evolution of cinema from its earliest experiments to modern filmmaking.

What makes the visit unforgettable is the setting itself. Moving through the vast interior space beneath the Mole’s soaring dome adds a sense of scale and drama rarely found in museums. Screens flicker above, soundscapes echo through the hall, and the exhibits create an atmosphere that feels dynamic rather than traditional.

Even visitors with only a casual interest in film often leave impressed by how engaging the experience is.

Automobile Museum (Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile)

For travelers interested in design, innovation, or Italian engineering, the Automobile Museum provides a fascinating look at the evolution of mobility and style. Sleek vintage models, concept cars, and interactive displays highlight Italy’s contribution to automotive design and industrial creativity.

What surprised me during my visit was how the exhibits tell a broader story — not just about cars, but about technology, society, and changing lifestyles over time.

Why Turin’s museums stand out

Together, these institutions reveal the intellectual depth and cultural curiosity that define the city. They transform a visit into more than sightseeing, offering insight into history, creativity, and innovation.

For many travelers, exploring these museums becomes one of the most memorable parts of discovering the finest Turin attractions.

Experience Turin’s Café & Chocolate Culture

Beyond its museums and royal landmarks, one of the most authentic things to do in Turin is to slow down and experience its historic café culture. These elegant spaces have been social hubs for centuries, where intellectuals, artists, and locals gather beneath chandeliers and mirrored walls to converse, read, and linger over coffee.

Stepping inside one of these cafés feels like entering another era. Marble tables, polished wood, and soft lighting create an atmosphere that invites you to pause rather than rush.

Visit Historic Cafés

Turin’s historic cafés are an essential part of the city’s identity. Many date back to the 18th and 19th centuries and retain their refined interiors and timeless atmosphere.

I like to pause mid-morning or mid-afternoon, when the pace slows, and the experience feels most authentic. Sitting near the window, watching the rhythm of the street outside, becomes as memorable as any monument.

Even a short stop offers insight into the rituals that shape daily life in the city.

Get our FREE Italy
Travel Guide
E-Book

This printable guide is your ultimate companion for exploring Italy, with insider tips, detailed itineraries, transportation advice, must-see attractions, and more.

Name*

Email*

Sign up

Try Bicerin & Turin’s Chocolate Tradition

No visit is complete without tasting bicerin, Turin’s iconic layered drink made with espresso, chocolate, and cream. Served in a small glass, it perfectly reflects the city’s love of refinement and indulgence.

Turin is also the birthplace of gianduja, the chocolate-hazelnut blend that originated during Napoleonic cocoa shortages and later became a regional specialty. Chocolate shops throughout the city display pralines and confections crafted with Piedmont hazelnuts, making them difficult to resist.

The first time I tasted bicerin on a cold morning, I understood why locals treat it as more than a drink — it’s a ritual, a comfort, and a small moment of pleasure woven into daily life.

Local tip: Stand at the bar for your espresso like locals do — table service costs more, and the experience feels less authentic. Visit historic cafés in the late morning or mid-afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter atmosphere. If you order bicerin, don’t stir it; the layered flavors are meant to be enjoyed as served.

Enjoy the Best Views of Turin

Among the most memorable Turin attractions are the viewpoints and scenic spaces that reveal the city from new perspectives. From hilltop terraces to riverside walks, these vantage points showcase Turin’s remarkable symmetry, elegant skyline, and dramatic Alpine backdrop. Taking time to see the city from above adds depth to your visit and highlights the harmony between architecture and landscape.

Monte dei Cappuccini Viewpoint

Among the most memorable Turin attractions are the scenic viewpoints that reveal the city from entirely new perspectives. From hilltop terraces to riverside walks, these elevated vantage points highlight the harmony between Turin’s elegant architecture and its natural surroundings.

Seeing the skyline from above offers some of the finest Turin panoramic views, where orderly rooftops, church domes, and the silhouette of the Mole Antonelliana stretch toward the Alpine horizon.

Basilica di Superga

Perched high above the city, the Basilica di Superga offers sweeping views that extend across the Po Valley and toward the Alps. The monumental dome rises dramatically against the sky, making it one of the most striking landmarks in the region.

Reaching Superga feels like stepping beyond the city’s refined order into open space and mountain air. From the terrace, Turin stretches below in geometric precision, while distant peaks frame the horizon.

Beyond its scenic appeal, the basilica holds historical significance and a quiet atmosphere that encourages visitors to linger.

Po River & Scenic Perspectives

Back at river level, the Po River provides a calmer way to appreciate Turin’s beauty. Tree-lined paths trace the water’s edge, stone bridges connect neighborhoods, and reflections of historic buildings shimmer across the surface.

Walking here offers a peaceful contrast to the grandeur of the piazzas. Locals cycle, jog, and stroll along the promenade, reinforcing Turin’s reputation as one of Italy’s most livable cities.

At sunset, the atmosphere becomes especially serene. The light softens, the river glows gently, and the city’s pace seems to slow — making this one of the most relaxing experiences in Turin.

Seeing Turin from above and along the river reveals the balance, symmetry, and natural setting that define the city. These perspectives deepen your understanding of its design and atmosphere, showing why Turin feels both elegant and spacious at the same time.

Experience Local Life & Evening Atmospheres

Turin’s elegance does not disappear after sunset — it softens. As the day winds down, locals gather in historic districts, conversations spill onto small piazzas, and the city’s refined rhythm shifts into a relaxed social energy. Experiencing this transition is one of the most authentic things to do in Turin and reveals a side of the city many visitors miss.

Aperitivo in Quadrilatero Romano

Quadrilatero Romano, one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, transforms into a lively social hub each evening. Narrow streets lined with historic buildings open into small squares filled with warm light, conversation, and the clinking of glasses.

This is the perfect place to experience aperitivo in Turin, a cherished ritual rooted in local culture. Order a vermouth — a Turin specialty — or a classic spritz, and enjoy small bites served alongside your drink.

I like arriving just before sunset, when the atmosphere remains relaxed and tables begin to fill. The energy builds gradually, creating a vibrant yet refined setting that defines Quadrilatero Romano nightlife.

Discover San Salvario After Dark

For a more contemporary atmosphere, San Salvario offers a lively contrast to the historic center. Located near Porta Nuova, this neighborhood blends traditional trattorias with wine bars, international cuisine, and a youthful energy.

Walking through San Salvario in the evening reveals a modern side of the city and showcases the diversity of Turin nightlife. The area feels spontaneous and welcoming while maintaining the relaxed pace that characterizes the city.

Whether you choose a cozy enoteca or a casual restaurant, the experience offers insight into everyday life in Turin beyond its historic landmarks.

Why the evening experience matters

Turin reveals itself not only through monuments but through atmosphere. Sharing aperitivo with locals, lingering over dinner, and strolling softly lit streets provides a deeper understanding of the city’s rhythm and character.

Discover Turin’s Hidden Gems

Beyond its grand piazzas and famous landmarks, Turin rewards curious travelers with quieter corners that reveal layers of history, creativity, and everyday life. Exploring these lesser-known places offers a more intimate understanding of the city, where the refined elegance of royal Turin meets its modern and evolving identity.

Porta Palatina Roman Ruins

One of the best-preserved Roman gates in Europe, Porta Palatina stands as a powerful reminder of Turin’s ancient origins. Built during the Roman era, the imposing brick towers once formed part of the city’s defensive walls and marked an important gateway into the settlement of Augusta Taurinorum.

Walking through the site today creates a striking contrast between past and present. Ancient stone structures stand beside modern streets, while nearby green spaces invite visitors to pause and imagine daily life here nearly two thousand years ago. For travelers interested in Roman Turin history, this stop offers a tangible connection to the city’s earliest foundations.

Vanchiglia Creative District

Just east of the historic center, Vanchiglia has transformed into one of Turin’s most vibrant and creative neighborhoods. Independent cafés, small galleries, bookshops, and design studios give the area a youthful energy that contrasts with the formal elegance of the city’s royal core.

Wandering its streets reveals murals, artisan workshops, and relaxed piazzas where students and locals gather. The atmosphere feels authentic and lived-in rather than curated for visitors, which is precisely what makes the district rewarding to explore. Vanchiglia is quickly gaining recognition as one of the most interesting neighborhoods in Turin for discovering contemporary culture.

Street Art & Modern Turin

Turin’s industrial past and ongoing reinvention are visible in its expanding street art scene. Murals and urban installations appear in unexpected corners, particularly in former industrial areas and creative districts where artists reinterpret public space.

These artworks provide insight into modern Turin culture, reflecting themes of identity, innovation, and social change. Finding them often feels like a quiet treasure hunt — turning ordinary streets into open-air galleries and offering a different perspective on the city’s evolving character.

Venturing beyond the main sights reveals a more authentic rhythm of daily life. From Roman ruins and creative districts to contemporary art and community spaces, these experiences add depth beyond the typical Turin attractions.

For me, these quieter discoveries are what make Turin memorable. They reveal a city that balances history with creativity and elegance with everyday authenticity.

Best Day Trips from Turin

Turin’s location between the Alps, rolling vineyards, and glacial lakes makes it an exceptional base for exploring northwestern Italy. Within a short journey, you can reach UNESCO-listed wine landscapes, dramatic mountain scenery, historic abbeys, and tranquil lakeside villages. Adding even one of these destinations to your itinerary reveals the diversity of the Piedmont region and the broader landscapes of northern Italy.

Langhe Wine Region

The Langhe hills, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape, are among the most celebrated wine regions in Italy. Vine-covered slopes roll across the countryside, dotted with medieval hill towns and castles overlooking endless rows of vineyards.

This region is world-famous for producing Barolo and Barbaresco wines, making it a dream destination for wine lovers and food enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy tastings at family-run wineries, explore charming villages such as La Morra and Barolo, and savor local specialties including truffle dishes and handmade pasta.

Highlights include scenic drives through vineyard-lined roads, panoramic viewpoints over the hills, and leisurely lunches paired with regional wines — all part of an unforgettable Piedmont wine region experience.

Sacra di San Michele

Perched dramatically atop Mount Pirchiriano, the Sacra di San Michele is one of the most striking religious monuments in Italy. The abbey rises directly from the rock face, creating a powerful silhouette that has inspired legends and even the novel The Name of the Rose.

Reaching the abbey involves a scenic drive followed by a climb up ancient stone steps, where each turn reveals increasingly dramatic views of the Susa Valley below. Inside, Romanesque architecture, quiet chapels, and centuries-old stonework create a deeply atmospheric setting.

This destination is ideal for travelers interested in historic sites near Turin and panoramic mountain scenery.

Aosta Valley & Alpine Castles

Heading north toward the Aosta Valley introduces a dramatic alpine landscape defined by towering peaks, lush valleys, and medieval fortresses perched on rocky outcrops. The region sits beneath some of Europe’s highest mountains, including Mont Blanc.

Visitors can explore fairy-tale castles such as Fénis Castle and Bard Fortress, wander through alpine villages, or enjoy hiking trails surrounded by breathtaking scenery. In winter, the valley transforms into a premier ski destination, while summer offers lush green landscapes and clear mountain air.

This area provides some of the most impressive Alpine scenery near Turin, blending nature, history, and outdoor adventure.

Lake Orta

Smaller and more tranquil than its famous neighbors, Lake Orta offers a peaceful escape defined by timeless charm and serene landscapes. The village of Orta San Giulio features narrow cobbled streets, pastel buildings, and lakefront cafés overlooking still waters.

A short boat ride leads to Isola San Giulio, a tiny island dominated by a historic basilica and a quiet walking path known as the “Way of Silence.” The atmosphere here feels reflective and romantic, ideal for slowing down and enjoying the surroundings.

For travelers seeking a quieter alternative, Lake Orta remains one of the most enchanting lakes near Turin.

Lake Como

If you’re willing to travel a bit farther, Lake Como rewards visitors with dramatic scenery where mountains plunge into deep blue waters. Elegant villas, botanical gardens, and picturesque lakeside towns create one of Italy’s most iconic landscapes.

Villages such as Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio offer waterfront promenades, historic streets, and ferry connections that allow you to explore the lake at a relaxed pace. Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello provide stunning gardens and architectural beauty.

A visit here showcases one of the most famous lake destinations in Italy, combining natural grandeur with refined charm. If you’re planning to continue your trip, discover the top attractions in Lake Como.

The Dolomites

For travelers drawn to extraordinary mountain landscapes, the Dolomites offer some of the most spectacular scenery in Europe. Jagged limestone peaks rise dramatically above alpine meadows, while winding roads lead to panoramic viewpoints and picturesque mountain villages.

Popular highlights include scenic drives through mountain passes, hiking trails with sweeping views, and destinations such as Cortina d’Ampezzo and Val Gardena. In winter, the region becomes a world-renowned ski destination, while summer brings wildflower meadows and crisp alpine air.

Although best suited for an early start or overnight stay, visiting the Dolomites provides access to unforgettable mountain landscapes in northern Italy and a striking contrast to Turin’s urban elegance. For travel planning tips, scenic routes, and must-see viewpoints, explore our travel guide to the Dolomites.

Why consider a day trip

Exploring beyond the city reveals the remarkable diversity surrounding Turin. From vineyard-covered hills and medieval abbeys to alpine valleys and tranquil lakes, these destinations highlight why northwestern Italy offers some of the most rewarding landscapes in the country.

Local tip: Trains make reaching the Langhe, Aosta Valley, and Lake Orta easy, but renting a car gives you the freedom to explore scenic routes and hilltop villages at your own pace. If visiting Lake Como or the Dolomites, start early to make the most of daylight and avoid return traffic. In autumn, book ahead — truffle season and harvest festivals make the region especially popular.

How Many Days Do You Need in Turin?

Turin can be enjoyed in a short visit, but giving yourself enough time allows you to experience both its landmarks and relaxed rhythm.

Time guide:

• 1 day: major highlights and historic center
• 2 days: ideal for museums, viewpoints, and local life
• 3 days: add hidden gems and a day trip nearby

For most travelers, two days in Turin offers the perfect balance between sightseeing and enjoying the city’s elegant pace.

Best Time to Visit Turin

Turin can be visited year-round, but spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather and atmosphere. Mild temperatures make walking enjoyable, and the city feels lively without peak crowds.

Best seasons:

• April–June: blooming parks & comfortable temperatures
• September–October: crisp air and golden light
• December: festive atmosphere & Alpine views
• Summer: quieter city but can be warm

How to Get Around Turin

Turin is compact and easy to navigate, making it one of Italy’s most walkable cities. Most major sights sit within the historic center.

Getting around:

• Walk beneath the arcaded streets to reach key attractions
• Use trams, buses, or the metro for longer distances
• Bike along the Po River paths in good weather
• Rent a car only for day trips to the Alps or wine regions

If you are planning to rent a car for day trips, read our essential driving tips for Italy.

Where to Stay in Turin

Choosing a central location helps you explore comfortably and enjoy Turin’s relaxed rhythm.

Best areas:

• Centro Storico: ideal for first-time visitors and walkability
• San Salvario: lively atmosphere near Porta Nuova
• Vanchiglia: creative, quieter neighborhood near the river

Practical Tips for Visiting Turin

A few simple tips can make your visit smoother and help you enjoy the city at its relaxed pace.

• Visit museums early: the Egyptian Museum and Mole Antonelliana can get busy by late morning.
• Wear comfortable shoes: Turin’s arcaded streets invite long walks.
• Stand at the bar for coffee: it’s cheaper and more authentic than table service.
• Try vermouth or bicerin: both originated in Turin and are part of local culture.
• Book restaurants for dinner: especially on weekends in popular neighborhoods.
• Check opening hours: many shops close midday and reopen later in the afternoon.

Taking small details into account allows you to experience Turin with less stress and more enjoyment.

FAQs About Things to Do in Turin

Final Thoughts

Turin is a city that reveals itself slowly. Its grand piazzas, royal palaces, and elegant arcades reflect a refined past, yet the true charm emerges in quieter moments — lingering in historic cafés, admiring Turin panoramic views, or strolling along the Po River as the city softens into evening.

Exploring the best things to do in Turin means more than visiting landmarks. From world-class museums and historic cafés to hidden corners and scenic viewpoints, the city offers a balance of culture, atmosphere, and everyday authenticity that rewards those who slow their pace.

Whether you come for a weekend or use it as a base to explore northern Italy, Turin leaves a lasting impression through its elegance, rhythm, and understated beauty — qualities that make it one of the most memorable destinations in Italy.

Get our FREE Italy
Travel Guide
E-Book

This printable guide is your ultimate companion for exploring Italy, with insider tips, detailed itineraries, transportation advice, must-see attractions, and more.

Name*

Email*

Sign up