Welcome to the city of 100 palaces! If there aren't actually a hundred, there are plenty of them in Turin, prestigious witnesses to various sumptuous eras. It's no coincidence that Turin is one of the top 10 most beautiful cities to visit in Italy, so go for it! The historic heart of the city reveals its treasures of yesteryear. From the Royal Palace to the Mole Antonelliana, not forgetting the city's superb museums, discover the 15 must-sees in Turin, for an extended weekend or during your next summer vacation in Latin Italy.
1. The historic heart of Turin
The historic heart of a city is always a memorable place to visit. A visit to the historic center includes a cultural stop at the Palazzo Reale, while you tour the district. La Mole and Palazzo Madama are two other must-see attractions in Turin. Discover them in between strolls around Piazza Castello and Piazza Vittorio Veneto, making them ideal for a coffee break or lunch.
Our tips : try theaperitivo cena, a local tradition. For shopping, head for via Roma, Turin's main shopping street.
Click here to book your multi-stop bus tour of Turin , which will take you to all the city's must-see places.
2. La Mole Antonelliana, the museum-work of art
The Mole Antonelliana was originally intended to be a synagogue, but history proved otherwise! Abandoned, the original project never saw the light of day. Instead, Turin's most emblematic building became home to the Museo del Risorgimento, which eventually relocated to be replaced by the Museo del Cinema. Still present today, it offers an incredible immersion in the 7th Art. 167 meters high, the Mole invites you to climb aboard its panoramic elevator. An incredible view of the city awaits you!
Click here to book your guided tour of the Cinema Museum, including a panoramic elevator ride to the top of the Mole Antonelliana, with a panoramic view of the city.
3. The Palazzo Reale, a crowned tour of Turin
Sitting majestically in Piazza Castello, the Palazzo Reale is Turin's must-see Royal Museum. Its artistic, architectural and historical wealth leaves visitors speechless. The residence of the Savoys since 1563, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. While its galleries are superb, its greatest treasure is undoubtedly its magnificent armory. The palace library, too, is as superb as it is gigantic! From the tapestry collections to the furniture and works of art, wonder is everywhere. The visit continues with the royal gardens, including the splendid Jardin des Arts.
Useful tips as with all museums in France, admission to the Palais Royal is free on the first Sunday of the month! And if you're planning several visits, we recommend buying the Torino and Piemonte 2-Day Travel Card right here , which will give you free or reduced-price entry to monuments in Turin and Piedmont.
4. The charm of the church of Santa-Maria del Monte dei Cappuccini
Santa-Maria del Monte dei Cappuccini church, perched atop Monte dei Cappuccini, offers a panoramic view of Turin. A must-see, even if you're not a fan of religious buildings!
If you are, you'll be enchanted by the beauty of the site. Built from 1584 onwards, the church has a Greek cross floor plan topped by an octagonal dome. Its magnificent high altar completes the picture. Once a monastery, the church was later transformed into a residence for Capuchin monks. Today, it provides access to a belvedere 283 meters above sea level. Enjoy a breathtaking view of Turin, while discovering the history and architecture of this remarkable religious building.
5. Piazza San Carlo and the twin churches
Discover one of Turin's largest squares, the Piazza San Carlo, where the statue of Emmanuel-Philibert of Savoy proudly stands. While the square is very inviting, with its period buildings and Italian cafés, it is most notable for its twin churches.
Built in 1639, the Baroque-style Santa Cristina church dazzles with its nave topped by a vaulted ceiling featuring superb frescoes. Gilded details everywhere are pure splendor. TheSan Carlo Borromeo church has a nave and 4 chapels. The whole is equally adorned with beautiful paintings and gilding.
6. Parco del Valentino, a romantic haven of peace in Turin
The Parco del Valentino is a must for weekend lovers in Turin. On foot or by bike, discover the lush green alleys of one of the world's most beautiful urban parks, offering bucolic walks. Accessible via the monumental Arco all'Artigliere, Turin's green lung covers no less than 550,000 m². Your stroll takes you to the Botanical Garden, dating from 1729. Here you'll find a beautiful orangery, as well as a greenhouse and a herb museum.
7. The Lavazza Museum, an unusual and sensory journey through coffee country
For lovers of good coffee, the Lavazza Museum is the place to be. Get ready for an immersion in coffee culture! The history of the Lavazza family and 20th-century Italian industry will hold no secrets for you! This unusual museum is organized into five galleries, covering 120 years of the brand's history and coffee production. For fans of contemporary tours, the museum also offers virtual tours, via audioguide on Instagram.
Good to know : you can visit the Lavazza Museum via the City Sightseeing Torino green line. Board one of its panoramic coaches and book your bus tour , including admission to the Lavazza Museum, right here .
8. Turin's Duomo, a superb Renaissance vestige
Turin's Duomo, or Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, is one of the city's earliest examples of Renaissance architecture. The Duomo di San Giovanni Battista was built on the site of three former medieval churches. During your visit, you'll notice the Chapel of the Holy Shroud, added by Guarino Guarini, linking the cathedral to the Palazzo Reale. Kill two birds with one stone! With its three-portal white marble façade and basilica-like interior, the Cathedral is a great place to visit in Turin.
9. Turin Automobile Museum, for car enthusiasts
From Fiat to Ferrari, from yesterday to today, the Museo Nazionale dell'automobile is a must-see in Turin, the automotive capital. Located on the left bank of the River Po, it reveals to mechanical enthusiasts emblematic models from the history of the automobile, including :
- the "steam car" (1854),
- the first Peugeot model to run in Italy,
- the first Benz car (1893),
- the Pecori, the country's first three-wheeled car.
From vintage cars to dream cars and prototypes, embark on a cultural journey to discover the history of the car! If you're passionate about the subject, we recommend this guided tour of the Automobile Museum.
10. The Palais Carignan, baroque art in the spotlight
The Palazzo Carignano, built in 1679 for the Princes of Carignan, reveals the splendor of its red-brick façade. Add to this a double-staircase atrium, and you've got one of the most impressive buildings of the period! Designed by Guarino Guarini, it was enlarged in the XIXᵉ century to house the Italian Parliament. For once, the Carignan Palace is emblematic of the history of the Kingdom of Savoy and the Italian Risorgimento.
Did you know that? Since 1938, it has housed the National Museum of the Risorgimento, offering tours of the princes' apartments.
11. The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, a journey through the world
You're not in Cairo, you're in Turin!Egyptology enthusiasts will marvel at the Museo Egizio's breathtaking Egyptian collections, spanning 4,000 years of history. Richly decorated sarcophagi , ancient papyri and everyday objects plunge visitors into the life of a fascinating civilization. From Ka's tomb to the Galerie des Rois, via the various floors rich in artifacts, you visit the second largest museum of Egyptology in the world.
Click here to book your guided tour ofthe Museum of Egyptian Antiquities.
12. The "Porta Palazzo" market in Turin
Discover local Piedmontese produce at Turin's Porta Palazzo market. Located in the Piazza della Republica, it immerses onlookers in an enchantment of colors and scents. At the heart of the market is "Turin's belly". These halls are home to local producers and their exceptional Mediterranean products. This gourmet market, which also features clothing and fabric vendors, is open Monday to Friday mornings, and all day Saturday.
13. Superga, from basilica to panorama
It's so beautiful, you'd almost think it was a mansion or a small palace. We named it: the Basilica of Superga, perched on its hill whose name is derived from serrapergia, meaning "mountain between hills". The basilica embodies the freedom of the people of Turin, commemorating the defeat of Louis XIV and the end of the siege of Turin. Dominating the Piedmontese landscape at 672 metres, the hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of Turin and the Alps. It would be a shame to miss out on it (warning to compulsive Instagrammers)!
A little anecdote : the view from Superga even inspired Jean-Jacques Rousseau. He described it as "the most beautiful spectacle that can affect the human eye".
Let yourself be drawn into the serenity of this haven of peace, emblematic of Piedmont's history and nature.
14. The Palatine Gate, between the Middle Ages and Roman times
The Porta Palatina is simply sumptuous! Although it dates back to Roman times, it bears no resemblance to Roman stone entrance gates such as those in Nîmes. Dressed all in red, it stands majestically in Piazza Cesare Augusto. Originally, it served as the northern entrance to the city of Julia Augusta Taurinorum. These superb remains include two angular towers over thirty meters high, as well as a central body with arcades. Get ready to be dizzied! Copies of bronze statues of Caesar and Augustus proudly stand guard.
15. Enjoy Italian cuisine!
Your taste buds are awakened by the richness of Piedmontese cuisine. Fresh or stuffed pasta, rice from the Po plain and soups are a must. Start your meal with Insalata Russa, a salad once served at the Savoy court. Veal is often accompanied by sauces such as bagnet vert or salsa rubla. Among the best veal dishes, we invite you to try Vitello Tonnato, made with tuna, eggs, capers and anchovies. In the pasta department, try Tajarin, a long egg pasta typical of the area.
Complement your gourmet meals with these emblematic Turin dishes: a new gastronomic discovery for every day! By finding good restaurants in the city, you'll have the opportunity to discover succulent Italian culinary specialties in all their forms.
Where to stay in Turin?
Turin's city center offers some very good hotels at affordable prices. This is the area to avoid using the car or public transport as much as possible. If you look hard enough, you'll come across addresses in quiet side streets, close to interesting sights... but not too close!
- The most contemporary
Sleek elegance reigns in every corner of the J Hotel in Turin. Located close to the stadium, it offers a calm you won't always find in the city center. But it's still close enough to make your visits easier. Click here to to book this modern Turin address.
- The best value for money
Looking for a comfortable, welcoming, upscale hotel in a convenient location? Welcome to theHotel Concorde, which is all this and much more! Located close to the main sights, it's the perfect base for a successful stay in Turin, bookable right here.
- The cheapest
For a cheap family stay in Turin, check out Albergo Albaa simple but efficient establishment. Close to some of the most beautiful sights, it limits the need for long walks if you're traveling with children. Click here to book this interesting Turin address .
What to do in Turin as a couple
Couples will find Turin a real cocoon of softness for a romantic trip. There's nothing quite like contemplating the city's panorama. Embraced on the heights of Turin, you can enjoy the view of the Po, with the Alps in the background. Views from Mont des Capucins, Europa Park, Villa Genero and Superga offer 100% magical, intimate moments.
For astronomy enthusiasts, head for the Turin Planetariumoffers special evenings for couples. On the program: celestial projections and starry sky observation from the terrace, followed by a candlelit dinner. A dream Valentine's weekend, don't you think?
A romantic vacation also means relaxation! So head for the Duparc Oriental Spa and its couples' massages. Offered in a relaxing atmosphere, they can be combined with sauna, whirlpool bath and aromatic showers. And, of course, there's the Valentino Park for a romantic stroll under the famous romantic lampposts.
What to see in Turin in 4 days
Let's set off on a short 4-day tour of Turin. You'll have plenty of time... to take your time (the famous Italian Dolce Vita...).
Day 1: Turin's old town
From Piazza Castello to Piazza San Carlo, let your steps lead you to discover the old town of Turin. Don't forget to visit the Royal Palace of the Savoys and the Cathedral. If you get the chance, we invite you to discover the Porta Nuova, one of Europe's most beautiful railway stations, as well as the pretty Sambuy Park just across the street.
Day 2: Turin's museums
From the Automobile Museum to the Mole Antonelliana, Turin's many museums are well worth a visit: make the most of them!
Day 3: Romantic Turin
On this third day, relax in Valentino Park, then head back up towards the medieval town for a bucolic stroll. The beautiful church of Santa Maria del Monte dei Cappuccini is just waiting to be visited!
Day 4: Turin market, Superga and Egyptological Museum
Your last day in Turin begins at the city's big market. It continues with the beautiful view from Superga Cathedral. On the way down, treat yourself to a trip back in time at the Egyptian Antiquities Museum.
Time to spare? Then set off to discover Piedmont and its incredibly beautiful landscapes.
What can you do in Turin for free?
Good news for those on a budget: you can visit many of Turin's points of interest for free! Your visit begins in Piazza Castello, the city's nerve center. Here you can admire the Palazzo Reale, symbol of the splendor of the Savoy family. Free admission every first Sunday of the month.
Of course, the Porta Palatina is also free to visit during your stroll through Turin. Your free escapade then takes you to the Baroque churches of Santa Cristina and San Carlo Borromeo in Piazza San Carlo, as well as other religious buildings such as the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. Another free activity in Turin is a stroll through the Valentino Park, where you'll find a reconstructed medieval village. Then it's time for a free, bucolic stroll along the banks of the River Po, before ending your free Turin tours with a panoramic view of the city from the Superga Basilica.
After all this cultural sightseeing, perhaps you'll need a little peace and quiet. Discover Italy's most beautiful spots away from the crowds, and experience the authenticity of this beautiful Mediterranean country. Italy is beautiful, and just waiting to be explored. Create your perfect itinerary with our 27 must-do road trip destinations in Italy. This Latin country is one of the best places to take a family vacation, not far from France. You're all set to make some great discoveries!
Book in advance below for the hottest things to do in Turin:
If you're tempted by this selection, take a look at our airfares and book now!
